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Superimposition, symbology, visual attention, and the head-up display
R Martin-Emerson1, C D Wickens
1University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, USA.
Human Factors
|September 7, 2001
Summary
Minimizing head-up display (HUD) scanning between flight instruments and the far domain significantly improves pilot performance. Conformal symbology may enhance attention division, with minimal impact from visual clutter.
Area of Science:
- Human Factors Engineering
- Aviation Psychology
- Display Technology
Background:
- Head-up displays (HUDs) present flight information superimposed on the pilot's forward view.
- Optimizing HUD symbology is crucial for enhancing pilot situational awareness and performance.
- Previous research suggests potential benefits and drawbacks of HUD use, including scanning reduction and visual clutter.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate factors influencing head-up display (HUD) performance.
- To quantify the benefits of reduced scanning and the costs of increased visual elements.
- To compare conformal and traditional instrument landing system (ILS) symbology for attention division.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted comparing superimposed HUDs with head-down displays under varying visibility conditions.
- Conformal symbology was contrasted with traditional ILS symbology to assess attention division.
- Lateral tracking error and performance were measured to evaluate display effectiveness.
Main Results:
- Minimizing scanning between flight instruments and the far domain substantially contributes to the HUD performance advantage.
- Experiment 1 indicated minimal performance cost associated with visual clutter in HUDs.
- Experiment 2 showed that conformal symbology, by integrating with the far domain, supports divided attention, reducing lateral tracking error.
Conclusions:
- Reduced scanning is a primary driver of HUD performance benefits.
- Conformal symbology effectively facilitates divided attention between the HUD and the external environment.
- HUD design, particularly symbology, plays a critical role in optimizing pilot performance and situational awareness.
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