Quantitative Evaluation of High-Performance Flight in a Supine Crew Station Using the NAWC Dynamic Flight Simulator-Effects of Body Position and Motion.
Abstract
In an attempt to determine if high-performance supine flight is possible, the USAF Canopy Escape Module (65 supine seat) was modified and deployed into the NAWC Dynamic Flight Simulator. With its computer generated wide field of view display and HUD, aircraft controls and high fidelity high performance fighter aircraft aeromodel, it was determined if subjects could 'fly' high performance maneuvers while supine. Seven male subjects performed a flight syllabus consisting of well defined instrument flight maneuvers (vertical S-2, half Cuban 8, a series of high +Gz 360 level turns and ILS task), as defined in the NATOPS Instrument Flight Manual. Subjects were extensively trained and tested under both 1g (static) and under acceleration (dynamic) conditions in supine and upright postures. Data were assessed to determine the effects of motion (G) and seat position. A weighted objective grading scheme was devised to evaluate flight performance based on the ability to achieve specified levels of altitude, +Gz, airspeed and controllability. This paper reports on the analysis of the +Gz turns and the ILS task. During the turns, motion effects did not lead to significant differences in the ability to maintain specified +Gz- loads when supine, whereas there were significant differences when upright. Subjects demonstrated a lower error rate while flying statically as compared to dynamically for all loads. During dynamic turns, there were no significant differences in error rates between actual and required +Gz%level, although upright subjects maintained a higher percentage of the turns within defined acceptable ranges. Even though supine, one subject did experience a +Gz induced loss of consciousness (G-LOC) and an almost LOC event during a high +Gz turn.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA309421
Entities
People
- Barry S. Shender
- Peggy Heffner
Organizations
- Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Divison