Three-Dimensional Control Panel Simulation using Programmable Tactile Display System

Current mission rehearsal trainers are custom physical mock-ups for each cockpit or operator interface training device, which provides the correct tactile feel, but since each mock up can only simulate one cockpit, these mock-ups are expensive, space-consuming, and inflexible. Virtual Reality (VR) based trainers are flexible in that one system can simulate a variety of cockpits and training scenarios. In this proposed effort we intend to develop a VR based 3D control panel simulation using a programmable tactile display system with novel actuator arrays which can simulate a variety of control panels. Desirable attributes of this tactile system are that it should be unobtrusive and seamlessly integrated into a glove, which lead to the requirements that it should be portable, wireless, light-weight, and low power. Our primary objective for Phase 1 is to perform technical, human factors and end user research necessary to produce the design specifications, develop our actuator system, simulate two representative control panels with stereoscopic display and generate a preliminary design for a proof-of-concept 3D control panel system. In addition, we will develop a detailed work plan for development and testing of such a system.