The Use of 3-D Stereo Display of Tactical Information

This study examined the effects of adding 3-D stereoscopic altitude information to a standard aircraft tactical situation display. In an experiment, displays presenting varying number of hostile aircraft were presented to subjects in either a 2-D or 3-D format via a computer driven real time simulation system. Tests indicate, that for all levels of number of threats, the 2-D displays resulted in faster response times and fewer errors to locate particular classes of targets. Questionnaire and interview results, however, showed that subjects prefer the use of 3-D displays, and felt that their use gave them a competitive edge over their opponents. Implication for the use of this technology in aircraft heads down displays, as well as suggestions for further research are discussed.