Evaluating a CRT Map Predictor for Airborne Use

Abstract

Six airline pilots participated in a fixed-base simulator experiment designed to study the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating a simple horizontal flight path predictor on both fixed and rotating electronic CRT map displays. The pilots were asked to fly a modified ``figure eight'' ground track (similar to right and left procedure turns in sequence) while attempting to maintain constant altitude. The dynamics were representative of a transport aircraft. All flight information was displayed on one 17-in (43-cm) CRT monitor. The controlled variables were 1) map orientation, 2) pilots, 3) presence or absence of crosswinds, 4) presence or absence of wind gusts, and 5) presence or absence of predictor. Error scores were recorded as deviations from the commanded ground track and altitude. Pilot comments and ratings were also obtained. No interaction in performance scores was found between the predictor and the two different map display orientations. It was found that the predictor reduced deviations from the commanded ground track, narrowed performance differences among pilots, narrowed the error differences found with and without crosswinds, and decreased pilot workload.