Spatial Disorientation Simulator

Scientific and Technical Journal Safety & Defense 4 (1) (2018) 10–16 https://sd-magazine.eu/en/publications/2018-2/ Spatial Disorientation Simulator Dariusz Bogusz∗ Aeronautics Faculty, Polish Air Force Academy, ul. Dywizjonu 303 nr 35, 08-521 Deblin, ˛ Poland Abstract The article describes the characteristics of the spatial disorientation simulator constructed for the Polish Air Force Academy aviation training. Using the spatial disorientation simulator enables safe training for military pilots, as it simulates visual illusions and spatial disorientation. The simulator makes it possible to train pilots in spatial disorientation conditions for every possible type of aircraft, through designing and conducting the proper aircraft cabin models. Spatial disorientation training has to main aims. The first one is familiarizing the pilots with spatial disorientation phenomenon, and providing them with essential knowledge and abilities through theoretical and practical acquaintance with physiological limitations. Such limitations are related to the impact of different aviation environmental aspects on the human body. The second aim of the training is increasing the efficiency of aviation training, in relation to recognizing, analyzing and proper reacting to real and simulated occurrences, which lead to spatial disorientation. The author describes main stages of the training conducted during the spatial disorientation course. The article categorizes major features of different spatial confusion types and characterizes types of air illusions. Keywords: simulator, spatial disorientation, spatial orientation, spatial confusion, illusions, aviation training 1. Introduction The pilot’s job is to carry out orders in situations which are not natural for man. Piloting, being a very complex task to do, requires the sense of spatial cognition. Spatial cognition should be defined as constant information about the plane’s whereabouts, the nature of the plane’s movement towards the ground surface, and other guidelines, and the parameters dynamics, which characterize the planes threedimensional space movement [1]. Modern aviation techniques improve the pilots’ preparation process as they provide the candidates with extreme factors such as accelerations and overloads. Since recently, thanks to the spatial disorientation simulator, pilots can be tested in situations in which they lose the sense of orientation. The article aims at characterizing the process of losing spatial orientation, the spatial disorientation simulator, and the major operational assumptions of the training which uses the simulator. The author argues whether using the spatial disorientation simulator enables safe training for military pilots, as it simulates visual illusions and spatial disorientation. ∗ Corresponding author Email address: (Dariusz Bogusz) Using the simulator is safe thanks to the technical development, thanks to which construction of advanced simulators is possible. Such simulators improve the efficiency and safety of aviation training realized by the Polish Armed Forces and are a proof of the constant evolution of this certain technological branch. 2. Spatial Disorientation and Visual Illusions Spatial disorientation is defined as an incorrect position and movement sensation in relation to the surface of the earth. It is virtually impossible to trigger this type of phenomenon in a safe way. Moreover, typical simulators are not able to trigger such disorientation. Until 1970’s it was believed the problem might be solved with the appropriate psychological preparation for fighting the spatial orientation illusions, and with detecting candidates who suffered from the disturbance of vestibular function of the ear. In that time, it was also important that the aviation personnel knew the circumstances and physiological formation mechanisms of illusions, as well as the possible ways of fighting them [2]. The technological development enabled solving the problem with the help of special equipment for pilot training in spatial disorientation causing illusions of this phenomenon through Safety & Defense 4 (1) (2018) 10–16 the appropriate interaction of movement and image. Pilots are not aware of the phenomenon when they become influenced by it, as a result of which they have a false image of reality, make an inaccurate decision which often leads to tragic events and even aviation accidents. Therefore it is crucial that they are properly prepared and familiarized with this vital phenomenon. Skillful recognition of disorientation phenomenon, acquisition and maintaining appropriate skills, as well as preference given to the instrument indications instead of individual perception can be compelling during difficult and unforeseen situations in the air. [3] Insufficient attention paid to the position of the plane is the main reason for losing spatial orientation. Such disorientation usually occurs during a flight in weather conditions in which the horizon is not clear, or at night, when the attention is on tactical requirements or on activities performed in the cabin (e.g., switching frequency adjustment, reading the approach card). In order to counter the spatial disorientation, the pilot needs to be mentally prepared for performing the flight in harsh weather conditions or carrying out a difficult task. During the flight, for maintaining the situation awareness regarding the spatial location of the plane, it is important to use divided attention efficiently. It is hard to do, as its intensity increases as one enters adverse weather conditions. Moreover, it is essential to avoid those activities which imbalance the situation awareness (it is advised to use the “pilotnavigate, conduct a radio correspondence” rule). The main reason for the occurrence of the spatial disorientation is lack of a proper attention division when it comes to decoding information from devices determining the aircraft location. Performing tactical tasks, which demand high psychological an motor burden, may lead to spatial disorientation in all weather conditions. There is a division into three main types of spatial disorientation for multipurpose airplanes. Type I: Unrecognized spatial disorientation During this type of disorientation, the pilot is unaware of the fact that his/her spatial location and the plane’s movement differs from the pre-set one. He/she is also unaware of the disorientation which is taking place. The piloting of the aircraft is based on false perception which can lead to a collision with the ground [4]. Type II: Identified spatial disorientation During this type of disorientation the pilot is aware of the conflict between the information from his/her body mechanisms and the ones coming from pilot devices. In most cases, the pilot is able to resolve the conflict for the benefit of the information from the devices which enables him/her to safely continue the flight [4]. Type III: Overwhelming spatial disorientation Du (...truncated)