Pilot workload assessment under different levels of autopilot failure

One of the most interesting topics in the field of human machine interaction is workload. In this paper, using information theory concepts, baud rates generated in all subsystems of a generic simulator of piloting tasks were calculated and then, a unique numerical index presenting an estimation of overall workload was extracted. To examine the effectiveness of offered criteria, three tests with different levels of autopilot failure were designed in which existing workload were labeled based on involving baud rates. A group of subjects performed these tests as the pilots while recording their own idea about perceived workload. Results confirmed that there were statistically significant differences between the averages of scores assigned by subjects to the overall workload for three levels of difficulty. Consequently, the proposed quantitative index is effective enough for determination of workload levels in the simulator environment and facilitates creation of needed scenario noticeably.