Development of a Signal Detection-Based Task for Research on Distributed Human-Robot Teaming within Immersive Virtual Reality

摘要

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design and validation of a dynamic signal detection-based task experienced withinimmersive virtual reality (IVR). The task will be used as a primary task for investigating the workload introduced by interface devicesused for human-robot team communications. Participants play the role of a Soldier performing a Cordon and Search operationmonitoring an environment for threats. The task differs from traditional signal detection tasks in that it is continuous, dynamic, andsignal stimuli move through participants’ field of view. Implementation of the task within simulation allows for direct control,measurement, and manipulation of multiple parameters that influence performance metrics, task difficulty, and participant workload.Lessons learned during the design and development of the task are shared to guide other researchers intending to implement a signaldetection-based task within IVR.