The increased usage of new technologies in combat requires measuring tools and guidelines that will enable maximal compatibility between technology and users' needs. Specifically, using video feeds retrieved by dismounted soldiers from different types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) may affect the efficiency level of using such machines. This work follows our previous studies on the type (e.g. size) of displays required by dismounted soldiers to process video feed from UAVs. Twenty two former infantry soldiers with no experience using UAV video feed participated. Three displays were examined using two video feed types (MALE and Mini UAVs) in four different task types (description, direction, orientation, and response). Performance and subjective data were collected. Results show no effect (only some trends) for display type, but significant effect for the interaction between video feed type and task type and display type.
Dismounted operational tactics are heavily aided by unmanned vehicles (UVs). The challenge for the dismounted soldier who receives video feed from UVs lays in the ability to understand the global situation in the conflict area. A possible way to enhance soldiers' orientation and awareness is to display multiple sources of information. This study examined the added value of using video feeds from aerial and ground vehicles (UAV/UGV) simultaneously relative to using aerial feed alone. Thirty former infantry soldiers with no experience using UV video feed participated. Objective mission-related performances and eye tracking patterns where examined. Results show that performance scores in both the Identification and Orientation tasks were superior in the combined interface. In addition, few consistent eye scanning strategies were found, and generally participants preferred to use the UGV feed video over the UAV feed.
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