Evaluation of Holographic Technology in Close Air Support Mission Planning and Execution
Abstract
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) initiated BAA-05-04-HE with an objective to assess human performance in identifying patterns or subtle targets, comparing the effectiveness of 2D and 3D static visual stimuli based on identical example data sets. The research was tailored to the mission and task of the Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC), and was a joint effort between AFRL/RHA in Mesa, AZ, its on-site support contractors (L-3 Communications and The Boeing Company), and Zebra Imaging of Austin, TX. Nine experienced JTACs participated in the evaluation. They first read through a written scenario similar to ones used both in actual combat and also in training exercises. The JTACs then were shown conventional 2D imagery and 3D holograms relating to the scenario, and participated in a detailed survey interview. During the survey they verbally answered questionnaire questions including comparison ratings of various aspects of the 2D and 3D imagery on a scale of effectiveness ranging from 1 (poorest) to 10 (best). All nine JTACS rated the 3D holograms as more effective than 2D photos for all mission planning and execution tasks and subtasks. The most frequently cited benefits of the holograms were relative height information, enhanced collateral damage estimation (CDE), and determining lines of sight and lines of fire. The 1": 15m scale was considered the most useful for JTAC purposes. The success of this research leads to the primary recommendation that a proof-of-concept field deployment be undertaken. Other recommendations concerning mission applications, formats and night implementations also are cited.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 18, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA486177
Entities
People
- Adam L Smith
- Chin-ki Tam
- John J. Martin
- Joseph Riegler
- Mark Holzbach
Organizations
- Zebra Imaging