The end goal is to develop a sensor suite and software that can measure physiological response to pilot workload in a way that can be correlated to qualitative handling qualities. The sensor suite and any associated analysis software must allow near real-time measurement of pilot workload (result may be generated post test point but must be generated prior to the following test point). This technology must be capable of being deployed in both piloted simulation and flight test settings without negatively impacting the pilot�s ability to control the aircraft. Also, it must not require significant additional support or planning on the part of the test team for incorporation into handling qualities tests. For flight testing, the technology must be designed to address issues such as electromagnetic noise, packaging constraints, ease of use, and compatibility with aircrew gear. The system must have an option to be self- powered though it may use instrumentation power if available. The system must be able to be removed such that there is no lasting modification to the test aircraft once the testing is complete.

 

Note: NAVAIR will provide Phase I performers with the appropriate guidance required for human research protocols so that they have the information to use while preparing their Phase II Initial Proposal. Institutional Review Board (IRB) determination as well as processing, submission, and review of all paperwork required for human subject use can be a lengthy process. As such, no human research will be allowed until Phase II and work will not be authorized until approval has been obtained, typically as an option to be exercised during Phase II.

 

PHASE I: Determine the technical feasibility of physiological measurements for use in simulator and flight test environments. Develop a broad list of sensors and data analysis techniques and show how they could be combined to result in strong correlation to handling qualities. Perform basic laboratory testing to aid in the development of candidate sensors and prototype analytical software. Demonstrate the feasibility of the developed candidate sensors and analysis software that will be further refined and tested in Phase II. Provide a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessment. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed under Phase II.

 

Note: Please refer to the statement included in the Description above regarding human research protocol for Phase II.

 

PHASE II: Develop an integrated set of sensors and analysis software based on the outcome of Phase I. Develop and conduct piloted simulation tests to tune and evaluate the technologies using multiple pilots, across a variety of Mission Task Elements (MTE), and against several flight dynamics simulation models. Reduce the data collected during the simulation testing to refine the sensors and software to show strong correlation to pilot-assessed handling qualities. Desired correlation is +/-1 HQR to pilot assigned values as defined in ADS-33E-PRF Figure 1 [Ref 1].

 

Provide as deliverables: (1) the finalized sensor suite and accompanying software analysis package, (2) the results of the simulations testing showing correlation to handling qualities, and (3) a proposed path to mature the product to a level sufficient for aircraft operation. Update the Phase I Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessment based on results from Phase II work.

 

Note: Please refer to the statement included in the Description above regarding human research protocol for Phase II.

 

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Mature the sensor suite and analysis package developed in Phase II to a level that can be effectively deployed in a flight test. Produce the final, flight-test ready sensor suite and software analysis package. Demonstrate the effective use of the matured technology in a flight test environment. Provide a report that outlines the detailed specifications of the flight-test ready sensor suite and accompanying software analysis package and documents results of the flight test demonstration. Deliver the physical sensor suite, accompanying software analysis package, and user guidance documentation to the Government.

 

This technology is directly applicable to any flight testing (rotary or fixed-wing) where qualitative handling qualities are to be used for evaluation, development, or certification. The military has been using qualitative HQRs for many years for these purposes but the FAA is poised to incorporate these methods into the certification of civil aircraft in the future. In addition, any industry where managing human workload/capacity could utilize this technology to establish baselines and improve performance such as air traffic control. This will be of keen interest in the field of autonomy-assisted operations where accurate measures of workload alleviation will be necessary to establish