Flight Simulator Evaluation of a Novel Flight Instrument Display to Minimize the Risks of Spatial Disorientation
Braithwaite MG, Durnford SJ, Groh SL, Jones HD, Higdon AA, Estrada A, Alvarez EAAviat Space Environ Med 1998; 69:733-42
Abstract
Background: Spatial disorientation (SD) in flight remains a major source of attrition. Many SD accidents would occur regardless of the instrument display in use, since the aircrew members are simply not looking at the instruments. However, there are a number of accidents that might be amenable to improved instrument displays. In an attempt to improve maintenance and re-attainment of correct orientation with a reduced cognitive workload, a novel instrument display has been developed. This paper describes an assessment of the display in the UH-60 helicopter flight simulator. Hypothesis: This study tested the hypothesis that during instrument flight recovery from unusual attitudes, the novel display permits a more accurate maintenance and re-establishment of flight parameters than the standard flight instruments. Methods: There were 16 male aviators who flew a simulated instrument flight profile and recovery from unusual attitudes using both the standard flight instruments and the novel display. The two display formats were tested both with and without a secondary task. Results: When compared with the standard instruments, control of flight parameters and recovery from unusual attitudes were significantly improved when using the novel display. Analysis of the secondary task scores showed that cognitive workload was reduced when using the novel display compared with the standard instruments. Conclusions: Results from all aspects of the assessment indicated benefits of the new display. Future testing should be carried out during real flight, and the display should be further developed to be used in a head-up or helmet-mounted device.
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Table of Contents for Volume 69, Number 8 of the ASEM journal.