Modeling McRuer delay and gain parameters within recorded aircraft state data

A study was conducted to identify potential markers for low- and high workload within continuous control data. These markers include derived parameters, such as error, as well as modeled parameters. With respect to the modeled parameters, a parameter tracking system has been developed for modeling the gain and delay with which pilots respond to deviations from desired state values, such as altitude, course, and speed. The system models these parameters based on the McRuer crossover model where the mean-squared error between the modeled parameters and the actual values has been minimized. Several potentially distinguishing markers for identifying excessively low- and high workload levels were found, including measures of error duration, extent, and modeled parameters of operator gain and delay.