Brain Electrical Activity Mapping in Military Pilots During Simulator Trainings

Abstract

The aim of this study is to describe an evaluation method and measurement methodology for the study of variations in electroencephalography (EEG) signals in fighter pilots during training. The study is needed to monitor the mental state of fighter pilots during training. Knowledge of a pilot’s mental state during training could help to determine their readiness to perform a combat mission. It is generally known that changes in mental state and stress is manifested in electrical activity of the brain. To assess variations in the brain’s electrical activity, it is assumed to use the electroencephalography (EEG) signal. EEG signals were obtained from two fighter pilots. The data was recorded during training missions on a flight simulator. The simulated training mission was composed of three submissions (composed of stressful events and mid events). The non-linear Poincaré plot analysis was used for evaluation of EEG variability during training. The results were presented using the brain electrical activity mapping. The results showed statistically significant differences in EEG variability, when comparing a stressful event with mid event periods. This finding demonstrated the ability of the proposed method to quantify mental load, i.e. the stress of fighter pilots during flight simulator training. The results can help evaluate the stress and readiness of individual fighter pilots.