Aviation
Pioneering Sustainable and Inclusive Flight Training through Cross-Disciplinary Research
Welcome to the Multisensory Brain and Cognition Laboratory, where we are dedicated to developing innovative solutions for sustainable and inclusive flight training. Enabled by generous investment from the Federal government to support ground-breaking research by the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics (WISA), our cross-disciplinary research program focuses on virtual flight training. By utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as motion capture, eye-and-head tracking, and virtual reality devices, our lab aims to revolutionize the aviation industry. The acquisition of new equipment, including a flight simulator and whole body motion tracking capabilities, will significantly enhance our research program.
Our goal is to transform flight training by reducing its environmental and economic impact, and making it more accessible to a diverse population. Flight simulators can minimize the need for commuting to airports, maintaining and operating aircraft, and other traditional training costs. Furthermore, our research seeks to create more accessible and inclusive training programs for aspiring pilots, breaking down barriers related to social and financial privilege.
The research program will be conducted in a phased approach. Initially, we will acquire, assemble, and test the flight simulator and motion capture system. During this time, our team will also engage in real-world flight training to gain firsthand experience and ensure a comprehensive understanding of aviation policies and procedures.
In the next stage, we will conduct a research study using the flight simulator to assess differences in performance between novice and professional pilots without motion cueing. By comparing eye and bodily movement patterns, we aim to identify the most efficient and effective training strategies for flight operation.
Finally, the third phase will involve mounting the flight simulator on a motion platform to study the effects of virtual turbulence on pilots' eye and bodily movements. This research will help us determine the impact of turbulence on flight performance and assess the advantages of prior simulator experience.
At the Multisensory Brain and Cognition Laboratory, we strive to foster a collaborative, cross-disciplinary approach that addresses the challenges facing the aviation industry. Our research program promises to deliver valuable insights and innovative solutions that will reshape the future of flight training, promoting sustainability, accessibility, and inclusivity in aeronautics. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey to revolutionize the world of aviation and enhance the well-being of technology users.