Performance Evaluvation of a Kinesthetic-Tactual Display

Simulator studies demonstrated the feasibility of using kinesthetic-tactual (KT) displays for providing collective and cyclic command information, and suggested that KT displays may increase pilot workload capability. A dual-axis laboratory tracking task suggested that beyond reduction in visual scanning, there may be additional sensory or cognitive benefits to the use of multiple sensory modalities. Single-axis laboratory tracking tasks revealed performance with a quickened KT display to be equivalent to performance with a quickened visual display for a low frequency sum-of-sinewaves input. The trackers approximated a lag in these tasks. In contrast, an unquickened KT display was inferior to an unquickened visual display. The trackers approximated a proportional element in these tasks. Full scale simulator studies and/or inflight testing are recommended to determine the generality of these results.