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.