Task and Display Variants of the Workload Buildup Flight Test Technique

Abstract

Abstract: The workload buildup flight test technique is a new test technique in the field of handling qualities. It was introduced by Gray in 2004 and is based on the Boundary Avoidance Tracking (BAT) theory which considers the pilot as someone who tracks away from threatening conditions (boundaries) when they become dominant. The workload buildup flight test technique is basically a modification of conventional head-up display-based tracking tasks. In addition to the target, boundaries are displayed which decrease in regular intervals and must not be exceeded. In addition to the original continuous approach a level-based variant of the workload buildup flight test technique is proposed. Advantages and disadvantages of both approaches as well as associated fields of application are discussed. In the frame of a simulator study with trained test pilots of the German air force several variations of the workload buildup were investigated and their potential for future research was evaluated. These variations include biased or delayed movements of target and boundaries, different representations of the boundary, the possibility to exceed the boundary for a short time as well as visual and aural warnings. This paper summarizes the most important aspects of the task and display variations and provides a starting point for further research in the field of the workload buildup flight test technique.