Recent advances in electronic technology have occurred at such an exponential rate, that they have changed the packaging directions from heavy, stationary computer systems to relatively light, portable modules. Currently, users are causing a trend to ruggedize, as well as miniaturize, portable computers into user friendly, light weight, wearable computer systems for field use. In the Navy carrier based environment, the ruggedized, wearable computer systems will enhance efficiency and productivity of personnel without building expensive and rapidly changing electronics into the equipment or platform itself. During Phase I, The Flexible PC Company with Computing Devices international proposes to conduct a feasibility study. The purpose of the study is to analyze technology roadmaps and compare them to the stated need of the Navy to perform. training, maintenance, rehearsal, and military operations in a carrier based environment. The team will provide special attention to the at sea Naval aviation operational environment, and identify near to far term applications including an approach to demonstrating high pay- off applications in a Phase II program. The three major elements of the proposed study are: 1) roadmaps of products, technologies, and applications, 2) environmental and packaging concepts studies, and 3) human factors studies.
Keywords: Human Factors Human Factors Wearable Wearable Flexible Flexible Computer Computer Environment.
