Enrico Gaia

Multimodal astronaut virtual training prototype

A few dedicated training simulator applications exist that mix realistic interaction devices-like real cockpits in flight simulators-with virtual environment (VE) components. Dedicated virtual reality (VR) systems have been utilized also in astronaut training. However there are no detailed descriptions of projection wall VR systems and related interaction techniques for astronaut assembly training in zero gravity conditions. Back projection technology tends to have certain advantages over head mounted displays including less simulation sickness and less restricted user movement. A prototype was built to evaluate the usefulness of projection technology VEs and interaction techniques for astronaut training. This was achieved by first constructing a PC cluster-based general purpose VE software and hardware platform. This platform was used to implement a testing prototype for astronaut assembly sequence training. An interaction tool battery was designed for the purposes of viewpoint control and object handling. A selected training task was implemented as a case study for further analysis based on laptop usage in the Fluid Science Laboratory (FSL) inside the Columbus module in the International Space Station (ISS). User tests were conducted on the usability of the prototype for the intended training purpose. The results seem to indicate that projection technology-based VE systems and suitably selected interaction techniques can be successfully utilized in zero gravity training operations.

ANNIE, a tool for integrating ergonomics in the design of car interiors

In this ANNIE project – Applications of Neural Networks to Integrated Ergonomics – BE96-3433, a tool for integrating ergonomics into the design process is developed. This paper presents some features in the current ANNIE as applied to the design of car interiors. A variant of the ERGOMan mannequin with vision is controlled by a hybrid system for neuro-fuzzy simulation. It is trained by using an Elite system for registration of movements. An example of a trajectory generated by the system is shown. A fuzzy model is used for comfort evaluation. An experiment was performed to test its feasibility and it showed very promising results.

Demonstration: VR-HYPERSPACE — The innovative use of virtual reality to increase comfort by changing the perception of self and space

Our vision is that regardless of future variations in the interior of airplane cabins, we can utilize ever-advancing state-of-the-art virtual and mixed reality technologies with the latest research in neuroscience and psychology to achieve high levels of comfort for passengers. Current surveys on passengers experience during air travel reveal that they are least satisfied with the amount and effectiveness of their personal space, and their ability to work, sleep or rest. Moreover, considering current trends it is likely that the amount of available space is likely to decrease and therefore the passengers physical comfort during a flight is likely to worsen significantly. Therefore, the main challenge is to enable the passengers to maintain a high level of comfort and satisfaction while being placed in a restricted physical space.

Workload Evaluation of Subjects Carrying out Accessibility and Operability Tests in Underwater Environment for Microgravity Simulation

As weightlessness is not completely reproducible on Earth, usability evaluation of space systems is often simulated through tests in aquatic environment. A Neutral Buoyancy Facility test campaign was organized in a special pool to simulate Extra-Vehicular Activities on the Columbus module of the future International Space Station with the aim of assessing various aspects of crew interface design. To understand how stressful this environment could be, we developed an evaluation methodology of the workload correlated to visibility, accessibility and operability tests.