Design standards and layout methods of multi-information visual interface based on eye movement of flight simulator

The goal of this research is to develop guidelines for optimizing the layout of instrument display system based on cognitive characteristics under the condition of multi-tasking with multi-information sources. Collecting eye movement data of take-off, level flight and landing based on multi-instrument display control test-bed. All these data were analyzed by the methods of statistical distribution, significantly different and data graphical processing. Our findings lead us to form some basic principles for better design of instrument panels. We put forward the following design suggestions and layout methods of instrument which are different from the traditional view: 1) The instruments with high attention conversion frequency should be placed together; 2) The instruments placed in core position should be much larger than those in non-core position; 3) Instruments should be placed in horizontal direction as far as possible. The conclusions of this research are applicable to aircrafts, automobiles, and other kinds of human-machine systems to improve the comfort and performance of operators.