VILA - Vest Integrated Load Assist

FTLÆs Vest Integrated Load Assist (VILA) system is a body-worn, carry-on, exoskeleton for helicopter pilots that addresses the issue that Navy helicopter pilots often experience back or neck pain during or immediately after flights, leading to less availability of pilots, reduced operational readiness, shortened careers, and increased medical costs. Several factors contribute to this, but the weight of in-flight Personal Safety Equipment (PSE) connected to the pilotÆs flight vest is considered a significant contributor to the issue. VILA is loosely integrated into the flight vest and tracks pilot kinematics to reduce the effective weight of the personal survival equipment and vest worn by a seated pilot. The system also provides additional back support without impeding pilot mobility. The system uses a smart actuator with a novel load-assist controller. By reducing loads borne by the pilot, VILA mitigates back pain during flight and acute long-term injury. The VILA design is informed by strict constraints associated with current flight protocols and a cramped cockpit and requires no modifications to the airframe or helicopter seating system. The system only requires access to the airframe 28V power source connector for operation. It is expected that the outcomes of the VILA system will include improved situational awareness and flight task performance, as well as lower long-term costs to the Navy.