Electronic Map Evaluation in Simulated Visual Meteorological Conditions

Abstract This study examined the effects of planar versus perspective electronic map displays during a simulated visual approach to landing. Thirty pilots were divided into 3 groups of 10 and assigned to 1 of 3 display conditions: 2-dimensional, 3-dimensional, or a 2-dimensional condition augmented with a "wedge" to provide a visual momentum between the display view and that in the forward field of view. Each display condition was manipulated in terms of frame of reference, either rotating track-up or fixed north-up, and assessments were made of the pilots' ability to maintain the flight path and awareness of surrounding terrain. For all display conditions, the track-up format supported the best tracking performance and also reported faster responses to some of the situation awareness tasks. The addition of a wedge onto the 2-dimensional display revealed a benefit in the form of improved lateral tracking with the north-up format. The results are discussed in terms of the costs and benefits associated with varying frame of reference and dimensionality on tasks of local guidance and global situation awareness.