Aircrew Management Device

Aircrew management device software, based upon USAARL code and information contained in the & Caldwell, USAARL/USASC 1996) will be refined and optimized for inclusion in an improved existing activity monitoring device. A 3-year cooperative effort between the Walter Reed Army Research Institute and Precision Control Design, Inc., resulted in the functioning, commercially available SLEEP WATCH-L, an actigraph instrument that incorporates many of the features necessary to complete an aircrew management device. WRAIR studies directed by Col. D. Redmond, M.D., tested and developed sleep deprivation and performance algorithms incorporated in the SLEEP WATCH-L. LCD displays time-of-day and sleep history for 7 or more days and a calculated performance estimation and light levels. The proposed software effort will be the framework for implementation of predictive scheduling based on circadian rhythm, sleep/wake patterns, environmental conditions, time zones, and expected duty hours. Components from the SLEEP WATCH-L will be combined with an ergonomic miniature keypad for data entry.. A prototype will be tested on subjects for sleep deprivation and performance decrement. The combined expertise of Ambulatory Monitoring, Inc., in software development and Precision Control Design, Inc., in hardware development assures successful completion of Phase I. Phase II will implement miniaturization and validate results in cooperation with existing military and Department of Transportation efforts for use by military aircrew, commercial pilots, and truck drivers. BENEFITS: A wrist-worn air-crew management device containing precision accelerometer, keypad and time display provides vital information for military and commercial air personnel using their personal recorded sleep history and circadian cycles to predict performance and optimal work scheduling. Sleep length, timing, naps, meal times, time zones, circadian rhythm and light are software inputs. Sale of such device, as well as rental and consulting service are a lucrative, desirable business opportunity for use by pilots and truckers.