LightLace GSuit TACFI

This project aims to integrate fiberoptic sensors into g-Trousers to measure muscle stiffness, blood flow, and respiration of pilots and trainees during AGSM. By embedding sensors directly into g-Trousers, we enhance pilots' endurance for longer missions, improve survival during aggressive maneuvers, and increase target engagement effectiveness. The project scope includes incorporating technological advancements, adding lower body sensors to g-Suits, and refining biometric and predictive analytics based on field testing and evaluations within the Department of Defense (DoD). During the Phase 2 award, ORC collaborated with the 711th Human Performance Wing to measure critical AGSM training metrics. Competitor solutions often fail in the cockpit due to electromagnetic interference, a problem mitigated by the fiber optic Light Lace® sensors, which maintain high signal quality unaffected by electromagnetic interference or static electricity. Initial tests involved integrating Light Lace® into chest, abdominal, and thigh straps to identify optimal sensor placements. The results suggested that direct integration into g-Suits or g-Trousers would simplify usage and promote broader adoption within the USAF.