The project will develop and demonstrate an infrared, free-space control system which is operated by purposeful eye-blink commands that permit hands-free operation. The computer-operated, nictating telemetry, remote-operation and lightweight (CONTROL) system meets the need for a man-machine interface that will enable the human operator to control the surrounding systems while simultaneously performing hands-on tasks. Using pulsed infrared as the communication medium, the CONTROL system will, via purposeful eye blink, transmit to the remote receiver unit, which will have output control capabilities for surrounding systems. Advancements in the CONTROL system could have far reaching benefits, leading to an interface tool for personal computers mounted in headgear. During an extravehicular equipment repair or seizure, an astronaut could, with eye blink control, flip through a technical manual or view mechanical blue prints on a flip-down, heads-up display in the headgear visor. During preflight checks, an operator could process all of the nonflight equipment for removal verification while using the infrared communications link.
Potential Commercial Applications:
