Error Quantization Effects in Compensatory Tracking Tasks

A series of experiments were performed to determine the effect of error signal quantization on human operator compensatory tracking performance. Single-axis, dual-axis, and cross-coupled critical tracking tasks were utilized with a variety of quantization formats. The controlled element dynamics were chosen so as to force the operator to generate varying amounts of lead equalization. The single-and dual-axis critical tasks served as sensitive indicators of display format effects, with the single-axis task yielding information concerning the operator´s effective time delay while tracking. The cross-coupled task allowed measurement of the operator´s attentional workload margin while using the quantized displays. The results indicate increased operator time delays and attentional workload when using the quantized display formats.