Laboratory Apparatus for Studying Visual Space Perception of the Pilot in Simulated Night Approaches to Landing

Abstract

The device provides a relatively inexpensive means of assessing a number of perceptual and human factors parameters in the night approach to landing situation. A technique for modeling airport runway lighting is described along with electromechanical and optical systems for precise control of simulated approach speed, model slant, and direction in the visual field of the simulated radial approach axis. The realism of this display is enhanced by preservation of the natural relations of size and brightness of simulated runway lights to distance.