Effects of force feedback and distractor location on a CDTI target selection task

New flight deck technologies need to be implemented in order to support the projected rises in traffic levels. Future cockpit displays of traffic information(CDTIs) shall accommodate the altered responsibilities of pilots by facilitating more efficient routes and minimizing conflicts. However, the unstable nature of the cockpit may present challenges when precise inputs are required. The present study investigated the effects of force feedback and distractors on point-and-click movement times in a CDTI environment. Participants performed target selection tasks with multiple levels of force feedback and distractor location. Results implied that force feedback failed to benefit movement times relative to the standard computer mouse. However, substantial interactions between distractor effects, force levels, and other target characteristics are explored. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier B.V.