Abstract: An apparatus for simulating the loads acting on the arms of an aircraft pilot under high G conditions including a first torque motor of pancake-like configuration attached to the flight suit near the elbow area of the pilot. A second torque motor positioned near the pilot's waist operates through a tether line to apply a force to the shoulder of the pilot. With both torque motors operating, the upper and lower arms of the pilot are loaded in a manner to simulate the effect of acceleration loading of primary consequence, +Gz.

Abstract: An improved G-seat system for providing kinesthetic cues to the operator of a vehicle simulator in which the motion sensations associated with the "G" forces are simulated by the motion of a single seat plate (62) having a pair of passive thigh ramps (78) mounted thereon and the variation in the degree of inflation of thin bladders (82A,B) which overlie the seat plate. Raised surfaces (80) may be provided on the plate beneath the ischial tuberosity region of the operator to increase the dynamic range of perceived g-loading effects. A backrest plate (92) may be provided for motion in conjunction with the seat plate and a thin bladder (128) may likewise be provided theron. Driven radial elements (108,110) may then be positioned on the lower part of the backrest plate to augment pressure cues at selected areas of the operator's back.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for simulating acceleration forces on the head and helmet of a pilot of a vehicle simulator. A device for producing those forces (10) is positioned unobtrusively in the cockpit of the simulator. An apparatus (22, 80) is provided which inconspicuously interconnects the force-producing device and the pilot's helmet (14) after the pilot has seated himself in the vehicle simulator. After the helmet and force-producing device have been inter-connected, a drive sequence is implemented which drives the force-producing device to provide forces to the helmet of the pilot in a manner which simulates the experience of the actual acceleration forces of the vehicle being simulated.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for simulating the loss of vision in a subject, which occurs for example under sustained high "G" loading, using an optical element 12 such as a visor with variable optical characteristics ranging from opaque to transparent. An oculometer 18 monitors at least one of the subject's eyes and provides a signal representative of its line of sight. This signal is fed to a computer 56 which calculates a pattern of opacity, light scattering transmissivity and transparency and controls the screen accordingly to produce such a pattern simulative of the visual effects which occur during loss of vision.

Abstract: A G-seat for simulating accelerations is provided with apparatus for generating skin tension/contraction cues. These cues are generated by displacing at least a portion of a body-supporting, seat cushion surface in a direction generally parallel to said surface. Disclosed are various exemplary mechanisms for producing this displacement including apparatus for imparting coplanar movement to either a whole seat cushion, or a section thereof, relative to the remainder of the seat; seat cushion lip extenders; and driveable seat upholstery. The operation of the skin tension cue generator is preferably coordinated with the operation of the other active elements of an Advanced G Seat to produce compatible skeletal attitude, flesh pressure gradient, area of contact and skin tension cues.

Abstract: A "G" seat for providing kinesthetic (sensation of motion) cues to a pilot of a simulated aircraft. The seat is designed specifically to stimulate elements of the haptic sensory system and is capable of independently producing desired skeletal attitude shifts, area of flesh contact changes and flesh pressure gradient variations and coordinating same to simulate acceleration effects. The seat contains two mosaics of air cells forming a seat cushion and a back cushion, respectively. The air cells comprise tension spring loaded bellows having rigid top plates. The top plates of the cells in each mosaic form a body supporting surface of the corresponding cushion. The cells may be individually driven under computer control to vary the elevation, attitude and shape of these body supporting surfaces. In addition, clam-shell shaped air cells are positioned on either side of the seat cushion to provide thigh pressure and area of contact variations and a lap belt is driven to provide ventral area pressure variation.