Evaluating Options for CRT Display of Process Trend Data

Abstract

Effectiveness of colorgraphics CRT-based process trend display formats was evaluated by manipulating time scale orientation and time directionality. Performance was assessed in terms of reaction time and accuracy in responding to questions representative of process control task scenarios. Reaction time analyses reveal no main effects of time orientation or directionality, but a reliable orientation-directionality interaction effect is present. This interaction supports the conclusion that more rapid interpretation of trend is associated with x-axis time orientation progressing away from the origin and with y-axis time orientation progressing toward the origin. Error rates were nearly equivalent among the format types and supported no further discrimination among them. The findings have implications for the design of trend displays in applications such as nuclear control room, petrochemical processing, and load management.