Subject - Actuated Viewer and Data Logger (SAVDL)

Abstract

The Subject-Actuated Viewer and Data Logger (SAVDL) is a compact apparatus capable of remotely recording the viewing time of a display, acquiring the data and synchronizing the operation with a notebook personal computer. In the implementation described in this proposal, the system is configured to measure the time a subject pilot views an instrument approach procedure chart while piloting an aircraft. The SAVDL is composed of an approach chart holder, “push to see” switch, power adapter, and notebook PC. The approach chart holder is an aluminum assembly similar to a picture frame that is sized to hold an approach chart. The holder is basically two parallel rectangular aluminum plates separated by a spacer. The plate on the viewing side has a rectangular cut-out that holds a protective clear plastic sheet and a thin LCD substrate. A slot between the plates and behind the LCD substrate provides for the insertion of the approach chart to be used. Thus the subject pilot must look through the transparent plastic sheet and the LCD substrate to view the approach chart in the holder. A cable from the power adapter applies a voltage to the LCD substrate. When this voltage is not present, the LCD substrate scatters light and the approach chart in the holder cannot be read by the subject pilot. When this voltage is present, the LCD substrate is transparent and the approach chart in the holder can be read by the subject pilot. The subject pilot applies this voltage by pressing a “push-to-see switch”, which is mounted on the control yoke. The notebook PC provides the experimenter's interface, stores the experiment's database, performs the timing function, and generates the experimental results database.