(MAVIS) Metrics for Assessing Virtually Induced Spatial Disorientation

Spatial disorientation (SD) is a major factor in military aviation mishaps, leading to preventable loss of life and aircraft. Training methods such as advanced simulators and virtual reality (VR) have enjoyed recent advances; now, there is an urgent need for innovative methods to assess the severity of SD experienced by trainees, and to evaluate the effectiveness of knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA) acquisition during training. To meet this need, Aptima and its partners at the University of Nebraska Omaha (UNO), the Naval Medical Research Unit – Dayton (NAMRU-D), and our consultant Lt. Col. Mark Wiser propose to develop MAVIS: Metrics for Assessing Virtually Induced Spatial Disorientation. MAVIS will integrate and analyze data from performance metrics, physiological sensors, instructor feedback, and trainee self-report surveys to provide reliable measures of an aviator’s perceived SD illusions and KSAs during training. Leveraging Aptima’s IRONPIPE and SPOTLITE technologies for data management and algorithm development, MAVIS will deploy sophisticated machine learning (ML) algorithms to provide instructors with accurate and precise assessments for decision support. MAVIS will be flexible, modular, and scalable, poised for integration into diverse virtual and simulated SD training environments and enabling frequent touchpoints for aviators to refresh KSAs and maintain readiness.