title: Control order and visuomotor strategy development for joystick-steered underground shuttle cars.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  In this simulator-based study, we aimed to quantify performance differences between joystick steering systems using first-order and second-order control, which are used in underground coal mining shuttle cars. In addition, we conducted an exploratory analysis of how users of the more difficult, second-order system changed their behavior over time.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Evidence from the visuomotor control literature suggests that higher-order control devices are not intuitive, which could pose a significant risk to underground mine personnel, equipment, and infrastructure.
  
  
  METHODS
  Thirty-six naive participants were randomly assigned to first- and second-order conditions and completed three experimental trials comprising sequences of 90 degrees turns in a virtual underground mine environment, with velocity held constant at 9 km/h(-1). Performance measures were lateral deviation, steering angle variability, high-frequency steering content, joystick activity, and cumulative time in collision with the virtual mine wall.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The second-order control group exhibited significantly poorer performance for all outcome measures. In addition, a series of correlation analyses revealed that changes in strategy were evident in the second-order group but not the first-order group.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Results were consistent with previous literature indicating poorer performance with higher-order control devices and caution against the adoption of the second-order joystick system for underground shuttle cars.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Low-cost, portable simulation platforms may provide an effective basis for operator training and recruitment.
authors.forename: Steven
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Cloete
authors.forename: Christine
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Zupanc
authors.forename: Robin
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Burgess-Limerick
authors.forename: Guy
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Wallis
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001334:Automobile Driving / Q000523:psychology*; D003032:Coal Mining / Q000295:instrumentation; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015541:Off-Road Motor Vehicles; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology*; D012371:Robotics; D055815:Young Adult