Single versus dual video feed displays for dismounted soldiers: Performance and attention allocation (eye tracking)

Dismounted operational tactics are heavily aided by unmanned vehicles (UVs). The challenge for the dismounted soldier who receives video feed from UVs lays in the ability to understand the global situation in the conflict area. A possible way to enhance soldiers' orientation and awareness is to display multiple sources of information. This study examined the added value of using video feeds from aerial and ground vehicles (UAV/UGV) simultaneously relative to using aerial feed alone. Thirty former infantry soldiers with no experience using UV video feed participated. Objective mission-related performances and eye tracking patterns where examined. Results show that performance scores in both the Identification and Orientation tasks were superior in the combined interface. In addition, few consistent eye scanning strategies were found, and generally participants preferred to use the UGV feed video over the UAV feed.