Integrating head-mounted displays into a cockpit

Modern cockpits are some of the most complex systems developed by man. Even relatively simple cockpits require the thoughtful integration of numerous subsystems: structure, controls, avionics, and so on. A review of recent incidents and research shows that modern cockpits have not generally reduced pilot workload during critical flight phases. This has been particularly true as see-through displays (HUDs and HMDs) were added to existing cockpits. Many such ''add-on'' designs are not integrated into the other cockpit systems. Because of the unique characteristics of head-mounted displays, simply duplicating head-down practices will exacerbate any lack of integration. Several cockpit design organizations and their products were also evaluated. Several cockpit display design guides were reviewed and characteristics of good design methodology and philosophy extracted. The keys to a good cockpit design organization are (1) suitable personnel for the team; (2) a structured information requirements study; and (3) early feedback from testing and user evaluation.