Russian engineers have created a "digital pilot" for testing new aircraft

Specialists from the State Research Institute of Aviation Systems (GosNIIAS) have developed a mathematical model of pilot activity. The project is being implemented under the auspices of the National Research Center "N.E. Zhukovsky Institute" and is aimed at creating advanced aviation technologies.

The new model is needed to assess the ergonomics and functionality of future onboard systems at the design stage. Engineers will be able to test the interfaces of the crew cabin without involving flight personnel at an early stage, and quickly make changes to the equipment requirements.

The development is based on a modular approach. The psychophysiological block allows you to configure the parameters of the "digital" pilot: model cognitive load, emotional state, level of concentration. Thanks to this, the system adapts to different crew qualifications and simulates real flight conditions, including stress and fatigue.

The model has already been integrated into the software complex of the stand for developing technologies for intelligent onboard equipment. This makes it possible to accelerate research in the field of human-machine interaction and piloting automation.

In the future, some components of the development will be used directly on board aircraft as an intelligent crew support system. Another direction is the modernization of simulators: the model will increase the realism of training and allow practicing emergency situations in a safe environment.