The Multimodal Evaluation Module: Design and Validation of a Model-Based Tool to Predict Pilot Noticing of Multimodal Information on the Flight Deck

Abstract

Flight decks present a great deal of information to pilots, much of it through the visual modality. As new automation and displays are included on the flight deck, including information such as spacing from a lead aircraft, wake vortex displays, and datalink, a text-based messaging system for communication with air traffic control, there is a real concern that these displays can over-burden a pilot’s already-challenged visual system. Auditory, tactile, or redundant modality displays are potential alternatives to yet another visual display. As design concepts are being developed for these new flight deck systems, it is necessary to identify their predicted effects on pilot performance. This paper describes the development and validation of a model-based tool to assist flight deck automation designers and human performance specialists in selecting information presentation modalities that best support pilot performance.