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 while attempting to maintain constant altitude. All flight information was displayed on one 17-in. (43-cm) CRT monitor. The controlled variables were the map orientation, pilots, presence or absence of crosswinds, presence or absence of wind gusts, and presence or absence of predictor. Error scores were recorded as deviations from the commanded ground track and altitude. 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 work load.