Uplinker
Yes, research has shown that humans comprehend angular movement as instinct. This means that rotations (of legs or clock handles) are easier to interpret correctly than vertical movement like the speed tape. The same is true of speed on your car. It is easier for the brain to know how fast you are going by seeing the rotation of the traditional round dial speedometer. It is harder for the brain to interpret the digital numbers on the modern display. Remember that numbers are taught in school, but moving around is not! When you are taught the numbers, your brain has already worked out angular movement by instinct for several years!
I am very confused why airplane designers still choose to show speed on a tape when this is known.
ETA: I realise that I may use some words incorrectly. I apologise for any inconvenience this may bring to your inner grammar nazi. :-)
Last edited by MrSnuggles; 15th Dec 2016 at 18:14.
Reason: saying sorry