The Effects of Spatially-Informed Alarm Types and Presentation Rates on Pilot Performance.

The efficiency of human-machine systems mainly constrains situational awareness in modern air combat. This study aims to investigate the effects of alarm types with spatial information (voice alarms, auditory icon alarms, earcon alarms) on pilot performance and cognitive workload at different alarm presentation rates (low, medium, high) in aircraft operations. Research findings suggest that alarm presentation rate and alarm type have no significant impact on flight performance, while reaction time decreases as the alarm presentation rate increases. When exposed to earcon alarms and auditory icon alarms, participants reaction speed significantly faster compared to voice alarms, with no significant difference between visual and earcon alarms. Furthermore, the study revealed that visual alarms impose a higher cognitive load on participants. These research conclusions can contribute to the rational design of sound alarm in future fighter cockpit systems.