Effects of Induced Motion Changes During Task Performance on Pilot Workload
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis study is to investigate through laboratory experiments, whether motion has any effect on workload during compensatory and pursuit tracking tasks. A workload metric is derived as a function of system complexity. We define system complexity as the ratio of RMS(path) to RMS(velocity or control rate error). Thus, the complexity index allows to quantify workload as a function of error attenuation generated by the operator (path control error) and the task (velocity error). Experiments were conducted at four levels of control dynamics (0th, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd order), three levels of orientation (stationary (no motion), motion with damping coefficient 0.85 and 2.0). Two tasks, compensatory and pursuit tracking tasks, were performed. The results obtained show that: (a) Motion does affect error attenuation or the complexity factor and also the workload index. (b) Pursuit tracking generates more error attenuation and workload than compensatory tracking, especially when they are performed in an unstable (motion-induced) orientation. (c) The task dynamics or difficulties defined by the control order (position (zero order), velocity (1st order), acceleration (2nd order), and jerk (3rd order)) do have effects on workload. In statics, load is defined as the pressure placed upon the surface area of a body. This pressure can be caused by wind, fluids, or the weight of an object. In humans, load refers to the amount pressure placed on the worker (Petersen, 1982). Here, pressure is the work and stress that can stem from both the job and home environment. Therefore, load is the physical, physiological, and psychological effects that result from performing a task.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA321212
Entities
People
- Alexandria R. Watson
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology