SBIR-STTR Award

Mathematical models of self-orientation are used to predict what a person would feel or perceive in response to a given set of sensory inputs. We propose to develop a user-friendly mathematical model of human spatial orientation perception for applications in piloted aerospace vehicles. Specifically, the model will build upon the latest state-of-the-art models, and will be incorporated into a software platform that supports 1) easy entry of motion cue data by non-expert users, possibly from limited datasets, 2) intuitive graphical aids for visualization of both aircraft and head orientation and predicted orientation perceptions, 3) fundamental advancements in the types of sensory cues included in the model (e.g. somatosensory, tactile, or visual attitude indicator) and their integration. Such a model could be used offline to aid in the investigation of commercial and military aviation mishap analysis, especially for mishaps where the pilot is unable to give a firsthand account of the accident, or used in real-time as part of a new countermeasure system for spatial disorientation (SD).

Environmental Tectonics Corporation completed a Phase I SBIR contract for the United States Army during the work period June 1November 30th, 2015. During the Phase I effort, ETC began development of a SO modeling tool referred to as OBSERVER. OBSERVER is designed to predict what a pilot would feel or perceive in response to a given set of sensory inputs. This tool can aid the Army during accident investigation analysis, help identify instances of SD in flight, and improve the realism of flight simulation technology. OBSERVER includes custom applications to process raw flight data recorder output and a visualization toolbox that is able to generate compelling 3D animations of real vs. predicted perceptions. OBSERVER expands upon the capability of existing orientation models while drastically simplifying their use. During Phase II we seek to conduct a series of human subject experiments designed to validate new features added to the model during Phase I and develop new technology that can be used by the Army for mishap investigation analysis and spatial disorientation detection.