iPhone Operating System (iOS) Framework and Application Development for Electronic Kneeboard

With SBIR N161-016, we aim to explore the possibilities of enhancing the F18 pilot's kneeboard leveraging Apple iPad technology. Hardware and software can not only replace, but enhance the capabilities of today's paper kneeboards in a variety of very powerful ways. Big Nerd Ranch's research efforts will focus on usability and extensibility. We aim to explore every aspect of an F18 Pilot's use of the paper kneeboard, its current limitations and shortfalls, and how the processing power of software can improve the usefulness and effectiveness of the traditional kneeboard. Calculations, commonly used charts, and even civilian airports based on geographic location can all benefit by being presented to the pilot when needed. Using device sensors (accelerometer, magnetometer, and GPS functions) we can interpret data and present the pilot with relevant information quickly and accurately. Beyond usability and reducing the number of manual processes pilots would need to engage, our research efforts will focus on designing a platform that can be easily modified for other aircraft and potentially related service applications. Successfully doing so not only increases the benefit to the navy and other armed services, but also provides more options of commercialization.