Mauro Marchittoa, , , Simone Benedettob, c, , Thierry Baccinob, c, , José Juan Cañasa

    a Cognitive Ergonomics Group, Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Centre (CIMCYC), University of Granada, Campus de Cartuja s/n, 18071, Granada, Spain
    b Université Paris 8, Vincennes – St. Denis, 2 rue de la Liberté, 93200 Saint-Denis, France
    c CHArt/LUTIN (EA 4004), Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie de la Villette, 30 Avenue Corentin Cariou, 75930 Paris, France

    Received 16 February 2015, Revised 22 April 2016, Accepted 18 May 2016, Available online 30 May 2016

Abstract

The objective of the study was to evaluate effects of complexity on cognitive workload in a simulated air traffic control conflict detection task by means of eye movements recording. We manipulated two complexity factors, convergence angle and aircrafts minimum distance at closest approach, in a multidimensional workload assessment method based on psychophysiological, performance, and subjective measures. Conflict trials resulted more complex and time-consuming than no conflicts, requiring more frequent fixations and saccades. Moreover, large saccades showed reduced burst power with higher task complexity. A motion-based and a ratio-based strategy were suggested for conflicts and no conflicts on the basis of ocular metrics analysis: aircrafts differential speed and distance to convergence point at trial start were considered determinant for strategy adoption.
Relevance to industry

Eye metrics measurement for online workload assessment enhances better identification of workload-inducing scenarios and adopted strategy for traffic management. System design, as well as air traffic control operators training programs, might benefit from on line workload measurement.