Heart Rate Averages as Workload/Fatigue Indicators during OT&E

Abstract

The purpose of this methodology is to allow a macro-level assessment of workload during long duration test flights without interfering with aircrew duties or imposing non-mission workload by using subjective methods. Using this method allows an initial analysis of heart rate data, mission profile, and mission tasking to indicate areas of concentration for micro-level workload data collection and analysis. Initial results of this method indicate that this use of cardiovascular data does highlight unanticipated workload areas for further evaluation.