Virtual Mission Control Station Using Head-Mounted Displays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control stations are large, heavy, and space-consuming, limiting operator mobility and display capabilities, and often require operators to be in close proximity, which can be unsafe and impractical in various platforms due to weight and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A control station system comprising a head-mounted display system, motion capture technology, and adjustable user input devices, allowing operators to wear the display and track head movements, enabling flexible operation and reduced space requirements while maintaining effective control over platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control stations are used, then operators can access control functions, but the control stations are large and heavy, occupying significant space and limiting mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the control station interface through a head-mounted display system. Instead of physical control panels and displays, the system projects a virtual control environment that operators can access anywhere in the aircraft, eliminating the need for heavy stationary control stations while maintaining full operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical control station structure with a software-based virtual environment delivered through head-mounted displays. The physical control panel, displays, and structural support system are substituted with digital interfaces and motion tracking software, dramatically reducing weight while preserving control functionality
2Area of stationary object
If display systems are mounted to platform structures, then operators can view information, but floor space is decreased and the number of simultaneously accessible display systems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the display interface from the two-dimensional plane of mounted screens to a three-dimensional virtual space that surrounds the operator. The head-mounted display presents multiple virtual displays in different spatial locations, allowing operators to access numerous display systems simultaneously without consuming physical floor space
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual control environment provides a universal interface that can present multiple types of information displays simultaneously - radar, navigation, system status, communications - all accessible through the head-mounted display system, eliminating the need for multiple physical display mounts
3Adaptability or versatility
If control stations are positioned close together for operator interaction, then collaborative problem solving is enabled, but safety constraints may be violated due to turbulence and platform maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication system as an intermediary that enables operators to interact and collaborate remotely. Through audio communication and shared virtual display access, operators can work together on problems while maintaining safe distances, eliminating the need for physical proximity while preserving collaborative capability
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for performing a mission. Information for a mission is received at a control station. The control station comprises a display system, a motion capture system, a number of user input devices, a seat associated with the number of user input devices, and a processor unit. The display system is configured to be worn on the head of an operator and to present a display to the operator. The motion capture system is configured to track movement of the head. The processor unit is configured to execute program code to generate the display and adjust the display presented to the operator in response to detecting movement of the head of the operator. The mission is performed using the information and the control station.