Evaluation of a Mixed-Reality Headset Using the SIMulated Day Useable Cue Environment Paradigm

Ground-based simulators with simulated out-the-window visuals have long been used for handling qualities evaluations of new aircraft. In recent years, there has been an increased interest to replace conventional projector-based out-the-window visual systems with virtual- or mixed-reality headsets as these devices have the potential to increase realism, reduce cost, and make simulators more accessible. Although the quality of visual cues has improved significantly as headset technologies have advanced, it is still largely unknown if the visual cues provided by these headsets are suitable for handling qualities evaluations. To quantify the quality of simulated day visual cues for handling-qualities evaluations, the SIMulated Day Useable Cue Environment concept from the MIL-DTL-32742 standard has previously been applied for conventional visual systems. This paper is the first to use this concept for a mixed-reality headset. Nine pilots from the National Test Pilot School participated in the evaluation in the Vertical Motion Simulator at NASA Ames Research Center. The evaluation used a simulated electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle with three Handling Qualities Task Elements from the FAA eVTOL Handling Qualities Test Guide: pirouette, lateral reposition and hold, and vertical reposition and hold. Some limitations make the direct interpretation of the Simulated Day Useable Cue Environment results from this study difficult; however, this study shows that the methodology is a valuable concept to help evaluate the quality of visual cues in mixed-reality headsets for handling qualities evaluations.