Operator Performance as a Function of Type of Display: Conventional versus Perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate operator performance on a perspective tactical display. The distinguishing feature of the perspective display is its visual representation of vertical as well as horizontal craft information. In contrast, current tactical display systems provide only two-dimensional views requiring numerical representation for altitude information. Subjects were required to perform two tasks: detect threats and select the closest interceptor for each detected threat. Errors and response time were recorded for each subject by the computer in a completely within-subjects experimental design. The experiment revealed a significant reduction in errors of detection and interception with the use of a perspective display. Response time for selecting interceptors was greatly reduced. The discussion recommends relevant directions for future research.