1993 At Sea Evaluation of ECDIS

Irene M. Gonin and Marylouise K. Dowd

Abstract:	Electronic Chart Display atxl Information System (BCDIS) is a navigation tool which superimposes electronic chart, ship’s position, and radar on one display. The purpose of the test was to compare baseline performance (i.e., mariner using traditional techniques: a paper chart, radar/ARPA, and visual piloting) and performance with BCDIS. Criteria of evaluation inch&d: safety of navigation, reduction of navigation workload, mariner comfort with chart features and navigation functions, and integration of radar features. A variety of human factors techniques for measuring performance and operator reactions were used, inchrding NASA Task Load Index, situational awareness, ratings of safety ad preference, and questionnaires. Results indicated that when using ECDIS with radar overlay, the average workload was the lowest, leaving more time for collision avoidance. The mariners reported close agreement with the features sod functions reqired by the International Maritime Organimtion5Wnational Hydrographic Organixation (IMO/IHO) Draft Performance Standard for ECDIS. An overwhelming majority felt ECDIS would be useful as a simulation/training tool, but were divided on ECDIS’ functioning as primary navigation tool. Most reported that special training would be necessary. Statistical analyses performed showed navigational method, vidility ad the presence of a mdar overlay to be the most siguificant factor for improving navigational performance.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 1994 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation January 24 - 26, 1994 Catamaran Resort Hotel San Diego, CA
Pages:	729 - 738
Cite this article:	Updated citation: Published in NAVIGATION: Journal of the Institute of Navigation
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