Aviation navigation feedback device

Abstract

A strong emphasis on safety while operating vehicles, planes, and heavy machinery is essential. The operators, company, and public have a great interest in safety due to the concerns of public relations and customer well-being. This project details an aviation navigation feedback device (or “smart” ear seal coined “SmartSealz”) for pilots, who often face long working hours and stressful conditions. A working prototype has been produced that acquires the appropriate signals, processes them, and gives essential feedback through tactile actuators. These signals include air pressure, magnetic field strength, linear acceleration and angular velocity. Performance and efficiency were determined by using results from inflight navigation testing. Navigational signal acquisition circuits are being designed to meet or exceed Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) standards. From initial testing the current prototype was shown to be consistent with altitude feedback at elevations between 1700 and 8800 ft and had a 20-degree error when testing magnetic heading feedback. Ultimately, this “SmartSealz” device provides a solution to the safety implications resulting from fatigued or distracted operators.