Integration of conflict resolution automation and vertical situation display for on-ground air traffic control operations

Trapsilawati, Fitri; Chen, Chun-Hsien; Wickens, Chris; Qu, Xingda · 2021 · Journal of Navigation

DOI: 10.1017/s0373463320000703

archive: archived pipeline: cataloged verified

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Summary

This study evaluates "WHEELIE," a novel display filtering tool designed to assist air traffic controllers (ATCOs) in managing vertical separation. Current Operational Display Systems (ODS) project three-dimensional traffic onto a two-dimensional pane, requiring controllers to mentally process numerical flight level (FL) data to ensure safe separation. WHEELIE addresses this cognitive burden by allowing controllers to highlight aircraft on a specific FL using a mouse wheel, thereby visually distinguishing potential vertical conflicts without masking other traffic. The research aimed to determine if this tool reduces mental workload, improves situation awareness, and enhances safety and efficiency. The methodology involved a human factors experiment conducted by the EUROCONTROL Experimental Centre in collaboration with FH JOANNEUM and BARCO Orthogon. Twelve active Austrian air traffic controllers participated in a within-subject design, comparing a standard ODS condition against the WHEELIE-enabled condition. The study utilized a simulation environment with two operational scenarios, each featuring five ascending task load levels ranging from 80% to 120% of controller capacity. Data collection employed a multi-level approach, including subjective measures (Instantaneous Self-Assessment, NASA-TLX, and post-scenario questionnaires), physiological indicators (heart rate and heart rate variability), behavioral performance metrics (separation losses, wrong entry points, and delays), and post-experiment interviews. Results indicated that the WHEELIE tool significantly reduced perceived mental workload and improved perceived situation awareness compared to the standard display. Controllers reported that the tool facilitated rapid conflict detection and provided a better overview of traffic on specific flight levels, which they associated with enhanced safety. Physiological data supported these subjective findings, showing lower heart rates and improved heart rate variability under the WHEELIE condition, particularly during high task loads. Performance metrics, such as the number of separation losses, did not show statistically significant differences between conditions, though the subjective safety ratings were higher with WHEELIE. Interviews revealed that controllers valued the tool’s ability to quickly identify vertical conflicts, although some noted potential disadvantages regarding the need to constantly adjust the filter. The study concludes that WHEELIE offers a viable solution to reduce the cognitive effort required for vertical separation monitoring. By transforming numerical flight level data into immediate visual cues, the tool positively impacts controller workload and situation awareness. The findings suggest that integrating such advanced display filtering techniques into ATC operations could enhance safety and efficiency, particularly in high-traffic environments. The research highlights the importance of aligning technical support with the mental models of controllers, demonstrating that reducing the need for manual data processing can lead to measurable improvements in human factors performance.

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Topics

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• situation awareness theory