An Experimental Comparison of Two Map Display Modes 1

Abstract

A comparison was made of two methods of displaying map information to image interpreters in a tactical image interpretation context. While viewing each display, interpreters located the boundary of an aerial photograph and then estimated the map coordinates of a designated object on the same photograph. Time taken to achieve correct solutions was compared when map information was displayed on simulated projected maps (map sections were posted against a fixed screen) and on standard map sheets. The latter mode was structured so that adjoining maps were always combined when the photographic area covered two adjoining maps. The map-photograph viewing relationship was varied in two ways: one in which the position of the photograph was fixed and one in which the photograph could be freely oriented to the map display. The following conclusions were derived: (1) Simulated projected maps increase the time an interpreter takes to find a photograph's area on a map and to determine map coordinates of an object on the photograph; the longer time is attributable to the need to view successively two projected maps when the photographic area lies near the boundary of a projected map. (2) Freedom to orient a photograph relative to a map display does not shorten the time taken to find the photographic area on a map or to determine map coordinates of a designated object on the photograph.