Investigation of the Effects of Gy and Gz on AFTI/F-16 Control Inputs, Restraints, and Tracking Performance.
Abstract
A group of AFTI/F-16 Project Test Pilots was subjected to sustained and oscillating lateral accelerations ranging from 1 Gy to 2 Gy in 0.25 Gy increments while performing complex tracking tasks. The acceleration environment was produced by the AFAMRL's human centrifuge, the Dynamic Environment Simulator. During exposures, the pilots were restrained with either a conventional lap belt and shoulder harness system, or with that system augmented by shoulder restraint pads similar to those being considered for incorporation in the AFTI/F-16. This sensitivity study showed about a 150% improvement to active tracking performance and approximately a 400% improvement in performance on passive tracking tasks when the shoulder restraint pads were used. Marked performance degradation without shoulder restraints was seen beginning at approximately + or - 1.5 Gy. Results obtained during sustained +Gy and -Gy were equivocal, but showed the same general trend. This investigation also revealed the possibility of potentially hazardous inadvertant and inappropriate control cross coupling resulting from the acceleration environment. Throttle pitch pointing, rudder, and roll inputs were the most notable. Useful information was also developed concerning pilot fatigue from multiple, sequential exposures to Gy; and further insight was obtained into difficulties with maintenance of viewing position with respect to the head-up display.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA144333
Entities
People
- D. W. Repperger
- J. W. Frazier
- K. E. Hudson
- R. E. Van Patten
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory