Effect of Search Window Size on Search and Rescue Call-Around Performance.

摘要

The Fixed Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) project tasked Defence Research and Development Canada (DRDC) to provide guidance on the primary search window requirements for a new SAR aircraft. At issue was the effect of the size and location of the SAR technician's window on the SAR technician's ability to verbally guide a pilot to fly the aircraft over a search object. An answer was obtained through a two-stage approach. First, data were collected using a simulation of the call-around. In the synthetic environment, six SAR technicians performed a large number of call-arounds where the search window size and observer position in a simulated aircraft were adjusted on a trial-by- trial basis. Then, a live flying trial at CFB Comox involving two SAR technicians was conducted to validate the results obtained from the synthetic environment. Three recommendations emerged. First, the primary search window should provide a field of view of at least 160 . Second, performance is not affected by the visual effect of placing the window ahead of, or behind, the wing. Third, to obtain the full benefit of the field of view afforded by the window, the observer must be provided with an ergonomically sound work station.