Tower Information Display System (TIDS): Human-in-the-loop simulation and evaluation

This paper describes a human-in-the-loop simulation and evaluation of the Tower Information Display System (TIDS) that was conducted in August 2007. The goal was to determine whether radar-like traffic surveillance displays could be used to control airport traffic. TIDS workstations were developed for ground and local controller positions and were integrated in a tower cab simulator. Retired controllers with prior TRACON and Airport Surface Detection Equipment Model X (ASDE-X) were recruited for participation in the simulation. The simulated airport facility was patterned after Tampa International Airport (TPA). Test scenarios were developed to allow for comparison of the performance of TIDS against the out-the-window (OTW) viewing environment, two based on visual flight rules (VFR) and two based on instrument flight rules (IFR). The results showed comparable operational efficiency between the TIDS and OTW conditions in VFR Day scenarios. Efficiency was reduced for the OTW night condition. Efficiency for the OTW condition during IFR operations was reduced, in comparison to TIDS, when visibility was most restrictive. Workload estimates showed a consistent comfortable workload across operational conditions for the TIDS. Similar estimates varied, by position (i.e., ground or local controller) in the OTW conditions depending on operational condition. Analysis of pilot-controller communication provides support for the efficiency and workload results. Ratings by controllers showed a strong preference for the use of TIDS after the completion of all scenarios. A discussion of the results is provided along with consideration of the limitations of the study and possible future development.