Function: Engine Power Loss Flow<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/td>\n\nChecklist Switches<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/td>\n\nVerification accomplished by Pilot\u00a0<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nFlow consisting of\u00a0 7 checklist items\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n(Panel top)<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\nFlow Ends-Engine Power Loss<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n1. Mixture (Set appropriately – usually “Rich”)<\/td>\n 7\u00a0 LEVER<\/td>\n Move the fuel selector lever to the other tank<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n2. Throttle (Set appropriately)<\/td>\n 6\u00a0 PULL<\/td>\n Pull the primer and make sure it doesn’t move.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n3. Carb Heat \/ Alternate Air (On)<\/td>\n 5\u00a0 FLIP<\/td>\n Flip all the switches up (on).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n4. Magnetos (Both)<\/td>\n 4\u00a0 TWIST<\/td>\n Twist the mag key.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n5. Electric Fuel Pump (On)<\/td>\n 3\u00a0 PULL<\/td>\n Pull the carb heat.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n6. Primer (In & Locked)<\/td>\n 2\u00a0 PUSH<\/td>\n Push the throttle.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n7. Fuel Selector (On a tank that has fuel)<\/td>\n 1\u00a0 PUSH<\/td>\n Push the mixture.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nFlow sequence switches: Arranged from bottom to top\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n(Panel bottom)<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\nFlow starts-Engine Power Loss<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nThe pilot completes this flow in less than 10 seconds with one hand, without even looking at the switches at times! Pilots repetitively train and train on all the checklists and flows, especially the emergency functions.<\/p>\n
Is training alone the secret that enables such correct and swift actions? Or, is there another associated human aspect also?<\/em><\/h5>\n\u00a0Do you have that human aspect in you? Take your case! In <\/em>pitch, darkness can\u2019t you run your fingers around, feel the buttons and operate your TV remote, which you have been normally doing umpteen times? Yes, then you have developed this aspect. Answer- Muscle memory! That touch, feel and flow on <\/em>those button is registered through your muscle memory. <\/em><\/p>\nMuscle memory<\/strong><\/a> plays a big role in the simple, safe, quick and correct execution of an emergency checklist where every second count.<\/p>\nHaptics (derived from the Greek phrase \u2018I touch\u2019) is the science of applying touch sensation to actuate or control objects by feeling pressure, texture, vibrations, body motion, position & orientation. The tactile feedback is felt from sensors in the muscles, joints, tendons which retains muscle memory and improves both, the performance of and the affective response of the pilot to user interfaces.<\/p>\n
Pilots develop \u2018muscle memory\u2019\u00a0 which gets their hand to the right spot for major controls switches, confirms the shape and that he is there, all without ever looking into the cockpit. It’s easy to identify solely by touch, feel of lever, movement and look, to verify. A flow should be essentially “muscle memory” for a pilot and he may know it by rote. But the pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane and not get caught up reading a checklist at a critical time. Use of mechanical switches leads to muscle memory.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/18.218.32.224\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Cockpit-768x545.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nAdvantages to pilots when operating mechanical switches over touchscreens:<\/h4>\n1. Haptic and tactile feedback<\/strong><\/h4>\nRepetitive training and developed muscle memory enable pilots to verify flows without even looking at the switch by:<\/p>\n
Operating switches as per flow just by the feel<\/p>\n
\n- Confirmation on the force applied which can be felt<\/li>\n
- Ascertaining the correct position<\/li>\n
- Verifying correct, intentional and feedback interpretation<\/li>\n
- Flicking a switch gives clear haptic and audible feedback<\/li>\n
- Preventing inadvertent flicking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
2. No visual distraction<\/strong>
\nUsing mechanical buttons the pilot can grab a switch, verify that it is correct, and then move it. No view is blocked.
\n3. Ease of operation with gloves<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be operated with hand gloves on or cloth wrapped (in case of bleeding).
\n4. Crash proof device<\/strong>
\nIf the computer driving the touch screen crashes, pilot is out of control. Mechanical switches being less susceptible, don’t encounter this failure mode.
\n5. Fault status<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be checked and made sure using a screwdriver and a voltmeter. Debugging touch screens cannot be done onboard.<\/p>\n6. Most important-Touch screen reliability<\/strong><\/p>\nCertain environments and situations test how effective the pilot is at manipulating switches and controls in the cockpit and ensure smooth cruising or safe landing.<\/p>\n
\u00a0A. Dynamic Environments<\/strong><\/h5>\n\u00a0<\/strong>How comfortably can you send messages, when seated in your car and travelling on a bumpy road, from your latest and now shaky, touchscreen smartphone?<\/em><\/p>\na. Turbulence<\/strong><\/p>\nDuring turbulence, the pilot\u2019s head almost hits the ceiling and the hands and body become unstable, how can a touch accuracy be confirmed at a \u2018correct location\u2019 on a flat smooth screen? Touch screens are hard to use when the pilot\u2019s hand is not stable.<\/p>\n
b. Vibrations<\/strong><\/p>\nTouch screens vibrate during rough weather, which can result in false or non-detected touches by the pilot.<\/p>\n
c. Clear readability<\/strong><\/p>\nFingerprint residues on the touch screen results in poor sunlight readability. Not applicable to mechanical switches.<\/p>\n
B\u00a0 Emergency Situations<\/strong><\/h5>\nWhat if this situation calls for the pilot to throw (operate) 25 related switches in a hurry?<\/p>\n
In such dynamic environments and emergency situations the use of touch screen becomes completely useless. It is far easier and reliable to press a physical button, without pressing an adjacent button. Definitely, the mechanical switches solution is head and shoulders above any solution with a touchscreen!<\/p>\n
Hence, till date important and critical devices in the cockpit have mechanical switches like buttons, knobs etc.<\/p>\n
Cockpit of the future<\/h4>\n
Technology leading to a multi-touch cockpit display has evolved.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"http:\/\/18.218.32.224\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/Cockpit-touch-screen-768x516.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nBarco NV- Belgium presented a concept cockpit display-the full touch screen cockpit as part of the European ALICIA project<\/a>, at the 2012 Farnborough International Air Show. One composite, flush glass display, and two stand-alone control units with a multi-touch screen. The introduction in civilian aircraft through cockpit integrators and the eventual certification are pending as on date in 2018.<\/p>\nTechnology is evolving and the creation of advanced cockpit screens (display units) and touch screens (resistive and capacitive), calls for the conformity to the stringent testing standards. Precise testing is the key to conformity in air safety. Robotic testing<\/a> is rigorous, accurate and in-depth. Invariably, advanced robotic testing platforms are used today for testing, not only of touch screens but also device, control and instrumentation panels with their associated switches.<\/p>\nThe pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane safely under all conditions. Mechanical switches have proven their reliability in all cockpit operation scenarios.\u00a0 So as on date, the trade-off between concerns of human safety and usage of touch screens to accomplish functions in the aircraft cockpit is non- existent! Till such time, pilots in the cockpit have to perform traditionally with their \u2018heads up\u2019 and \u2018eyes out\u2019.<\/p>\n
Get Automated<\/h4>\n
Applications of robotic automation are already in place in every industry. The time is \u201cNow\u201d! Get started right away with our customized product and service-based solutions.<\/p>\n
Checklist Switches<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/td>\n\nVerification accomplished by Pilot\u00a0<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nFlow consisting of\u00a0 7 checklist items\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n(Panel top)<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\nFlow Ends-Engine Power Loss<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n1. Mixture (Set appropriately – usually “Rich”)<\/td>\n 7\u00a0 LEVER<\/td>\n Move the fuel selector lever to the other tank<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n2. Throttle (Set appropriately)<\/td>\n 6\u00a0 PULL<\/td>\n Pull the primer and make sure it doesn’t move.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n3. Carb Heat \/ Alternate Air (On)<\/td>\n 5\u00a0 FLIP<\/td>\n Flip all the switches up (on).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n4. Magnetos (Both)<\/td>\n 4\u00a0 TWIST<\/td>\n Twist the mag key.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n5. Electric Fuel Pump (On)<\/td>\n 3\u00a0 PULL<\/td>\n Pull the carb heat.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n6. Primer (In & Locked)<\/td>\n 2\u00a0 PUSH<\/td>\n Push the throttle.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n7. Fuel Selector (On a tank that has fuel)<\/td>\n 1\u00a0 PUSH<\/td>\n Push the mixture.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nFlow sequence switches: Arranged from bottom to top\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n(Panel bottom)<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\nFlow starts-Engine Power Loss<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nThe pilot completes this flow in less than 10 seconds with one hand, without even looking at the switches at times! Pilots repetitively train and train on all the checklists and flows, especially the emergency functions.<\/p>\n
Is training alone the secret that enables such correct and swift actions? Or, is there another associated human aspect also?<\/em><\/h5>\n\u00a0Do you have that human aspect in you? Take your case! In <\/em>pitch, darkness can\u2019t you run your fingers around, feel the buttons and operate your TV remote, which you have been normally doing umpteen times? Yes, then you have developed this aspect. Answer- Muscle memory! That touch, feel and flow on <\/em>those button is registered through your muscle memory. <\/em><\/p>\nMuscle memory<\/strong><\/a> plays a big role in the simple, safe, quick and correct execution of an emergency checklist where every second count.<\/p>\nHaptics (derived from the Greek phrase \u2018I touch\u2019) is the science of applying touch sensation to actuate or control objects by feeling pressure, texture, vibrations, body motion, position & orientation. The tactile feedback is felt from sensors in the muscles, joints, tendons which retains muscle memory and improves both, the performance of and the affective response of the pilot to user interfaces.<\/p>\n
Pilots develop \u2018muscle memory\u2019\u00a0 which gets their hand to the right spot for major controls switches, confirms the shape and that he is there, all without ever looking into the cockpit. It’s easy to identify solely by touch, feel of lever, movement and look, to verify. A flow should be essentially “muscle memory” for a pilot and he may know it by rote. But the pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane and not get caught up reading a checklist at a critical time. Use of mechanical switches leads to muscle memory.<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nAdvantages to pilots when operating mechanical switches over touchscreens:<\/h4>\n1. Haptic and tactile feedback<\/strong><\/h4>\nRepetitive training and developed muscle memory enable pilots to verify flows without even looking at the switch by:<\/p>\n
Operating switches as per flow just by the feel<\/p>\n
\n- Confirmation on the force applied which can be felt<\/li>\n
- Ascertaining the correct position<\/li>\n
- Verifying correct, intentional and feedback interpretation<\/li>\n
- Flicking a switch gives clear haptic and audible feedback<\/li>\n
- Preventing inadvertent flicking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
2. No visual distraction<\/strong>
\nUsing mechanical buttons the pilot can grab a switch, verify that it is correct, and then move it. No view is blocked.
\n3. Ease of operation with gloves<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be operated with hand gloves on or cloth wrapped (in case of bleeding).
\n4. Crash proof device<\/strong>
\nIf the computer driving the touch screen crashes, pilot is out of control. Mechanical switches being less susceptible, don’t encounter this failure mode.
\n5. Fault status<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be checked and made sure using a screwdriver and a voltmeter. Debugging touch screens cannot be done onboard.<\/p>\n6. Most important-Touch screen reliability<\/strong><\/p>\nCertain environments and situations test how effective the pilot is at manipulating switches and controls in the cockpit and ensure smooth cruising or safe landing.<\/p>\n
\u00a0A. Dynamic Environments<\/strong><\/h5>\n\u00a0<\/strong>How comfortably can you send messages, when seated in your car and travelling on a bumpy road, from your latest and now shaky, touchscreen smartphone?<\/em><\/p>\na. Turbulence<\/strong><\/p>\nDuring turbulence, the pilot\u2019s head almost hits the ceiling and the hands and body become unstable, how can a touch accuracy be confirmed at a \u2018correct location\u2019 on a flat smooth screen? Touch screens are hard to use when the pilot\u2019s hand is not stable.<\/p>\n
b. Vibrations<\/strong><\/p>\nTouch screens vibrate during rough weather, which can result in false or non-detected touches by the pilot.<\/p>\n
c. Clear readability<\/strong><\/p>\nFingerprint residues on the touch screen results in poor sunlight readability. Not applicable to mechanical switches.<\/p>\n
B\u00a0 Emergency Situations<\/strong><\/h5>\nWhat if this situation calls for the pilot to throw (operate) 25 related switches in a hurry?<\/p>\n
In such dynamic environments and emergency situations the use of touch screen becomes completely useless. It is far easier and reliable to press a physical button, without pressing an adjacent button. Definitely, the mechanical switches solution is head and shoulders above any solution with a touchscreen!<\/p>\n
Hence, till date important and critical devices in the cockpit have mechanical switches like buttons, knobs etc.<\/p>\n
Cockpit of the future<\/h4>\n
Technology leading to a multi-touch cockpit display has evolved.<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nBarco NV- Belgium presented a concept cockpit display-the full touch screen cockpit as part of the European ALICIA project<\/a>, at the 2012 Farnborough International Air Show. One composite, flush glass display, and two stand-alone control units with a multi-touch screen. The introduction in civilian aircraft through cockpit integrators and the eventual certification are pending as on date in 2018.<\/p>\nTechnology is evolving and the creation of advanced cockpit screens (display units) and touch screens (resistive and capacitive), calls for the conformity to the stringent testing standards. Precise testing is the key to conformity in air safety. Robotic testing<\/a> is rigorous, accurate and in-depth. Invariably, advanced robotic testing platforms are used today for testing, not only of touch screens but also device, control and instrumentation panels with their associated switches.<\/p>\nThe pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane safely under all conditions. Mechanical switches have proven their reliability in all cockpit operation scenarios.\u00a0 So as on date, the trade-off between concerns of human safety and usage of touch screens to accomplish functions in the aircraft cockpit is non- existent! Till such time, pilots in the cockpit have to perform traditionally with their \u2018heads up\u2019 and \u2018eyes out\u2019.<\/p>\n
Get Automated<\/h4>\n
Applications of robotic automation are already in place in every industry. The time is \u201cNow\u201d! Get started right away with our customized product and service-based solutions.<\/p>\n
Verification accomplished by Pilot\u00a0<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\nFlow consisting of\u00a0 7 checklist items\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n(Panel top)<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\nFlow Ends-Engine Power Loss<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n1. Mixture (Set appropriately – usually “Rich”)<\/td>\n 7\u00a0 LEVER<\/td>\n Move the fuel selector lever to the other tank<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n2. Throttle (Set appropriately)<\/td>\n 6\u00a0 PULL<\/td>\n Pull the primer and make sure it doesn’t move.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n3. Carb Heat \/ Alternate Air (On)<\/td>\n 5\u00a0 FLIP<\/td>\n Flip all the switches up (on).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n4. Magnetos (Both)<\/td>\n 4\u00a0 TWIST<\/td>\n Twist the mag key.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n5. Electric Fuel Pump (On)<\/td>\n 3\u00a0 PULL<\/td>\n Pull the carb heat.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n6. Primer (In & Locked)<\/td>\n 2\u00a0 PUSH<\/td>\n Push the throttle.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n7. Fuel Selector (On a tank that has fuel)<\/td>\n 1\u00a0 PUSH<\/td>\n Push the mixture.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \nFlow sequence switches: Arranged from bottom to top\u00a0<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n(Panel bottom)<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\nFlow starts-Engine Power Loss<\/em><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\nThe pilot completes this flow in less than 10 seconds with one hand, without even looking at the switches at times! Pilots repetitively train and train on all the checklists and flows, especially the emergency functions.<\/p>\n
Is training alone the secret that enables such correct and swift actions? Or, is there another associated human aspect also?<\/em><\/h5>\n\u00a0Do you have that human aspect in you? Take your case! In <\/em>pitch, darkness can\u2019t you run your fingers around, feel the buttons and operate your TV remote, which you have been normally doing umpteen times? Yes, then you have developed this aspect. Answer- Muscle memory! That touch, feel and flow on <\/em>those button is registered through your muscle memory. <\/em><\/p>\nMuscle memory<\/strong><\/a> plays a big role in the simple, safe, quick and correct execution of an emergency checklist where every second count.<\/p>\nHaptics (derived from the Greek phrase \u2018I touch\u2019) is the science of applying touch sensation to actuate or control objects by feeling pressure, texture, vibrations, body motion, position & orientation. The tactile feedback is felt from sensors in the muscles, joints, tendons which retains muscle memory and improves both, the performance of and the affective response of the pilot to user interfaces.<\/p>\n
Pilots develop \u2018muscle memory\u2019\u00a0 which gets their hand to the right spot for major controls switches, confirms the shape and that he is there, all without ever looking into the cockpit. It’s easy to identify solely by touch, feel of lever, movement and look, to verify. A flow should be essentially “muscle memory” for a pilot and he may know it by rote. But the pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane and not get caught up reading a checklist at a critical time. Use of mechanical switches leads to muscle memory.<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nAdvantages to pilots when operating mechanical switches over touchscreens:<\/h4>\n1. Haptic and tactile feedback<\/strong><\/h4>\nRepetitive training and developed muscle memory enable pilots to verify flows without even looking at the switch by:<\/p>\n
Operating switches as per flow just by the feel<\/p>\n
\n- Confirmation on the force applied which can be felt<\/li>\n
- Ascertaining the correct position<\/li>\n
- Verifying correct, intentional and feedback interpretation<\/li>\n
- Flicking a switch gives clear haptic and audible feedback<\/li>\n
- Preventing inadvertent flicking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
2. No visual distraction<\/strong>
\nUsing mechanical buttons the pilot can grab a switch, verify that it is correct, and then move it. No view is blocked.
\n3. Ease of operation with gloves<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be operated with hand gloves on or cloth wrapped (in case of bleeding).
\n4. Crash proof device<\/strong>
\nIf the computer driving the touch screen crashes, pilot is out of control. Mechanical switches being less susceptible, don’t encounter this failure mode.
\n5. Fault status<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be checked and made sure using a screwdriver and a voltmeter. Debugging touch screens cannot be done onboard.<\/p>\n6. Most important-Touch screen reliability<\/strong><\/p>\nCertain environments and situations test how effective the pilot is at manipulating switches and controls in the cockpit and ensure smooth cruising or safe landing.<\/p>\n
\u00a0A. Dynamic Environments<\/strong><\/h5>\n\u00a0<\/strong>How comfortably can you send messages, when seated in your car and travelling on a bumpy road, from your latest and now shaky, touchscreen smartphone?<\/em><\/p>\na. Turbulence<\/strong><\/p>\nDuring turbulence, the pilot\u2019s head almost hits the ceiling and the hands and body become unstable, how can a touch accuracy be confirmed at a \u2018correct location\u2019 on a flat smooth screen? Touch screens are hard to use when the pilot\u2019s hand is not stable.<\/p>\n
b. Vibrations<\/strong><\/p>\nTouch screens vibrate during rough weather, which can result in false or non-detected touches by the pilot.<\/p>\n
c. Clear readability<\/strong><\/p>\nFingerprint residues on the touch screen results in poor sunlight readability. Not applicable to mechanical switches.<\/p>\n
B\u00a0 Emergency Situations<\/strong><\/h5>\nWhat if this situation calls for the pilot to throw (operate) 25 related switches in a hurry?<\/p>\n
In such dynamic environments and emergency situations the use of touch screen becomes completely useless. It is far easier and reliable to press a physical button, without pressing an adjacent button. Definitely, the mechanical switches solution is head and shoulders above any solution with a touchscreen!<\/p>\n
Hence, till date important and critical devices in the cockpit have mechanical switches like buttons, knobs etc.<\/p>\n
Cockpit of the future<\/h4>\n
Technology leading to a multi-touch cockpit display has evolved.<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nBarco NV- Belgium presented a concept cockpit display-the full touch screen cockpit as part of the European ALICIA project<\/a>, at the 2012 Farnborough International Air Show. One composite, flush glass display, and two stand-alone control units with a multi-touch screen. The introduction in civilian aircraft through cockpit integrators and the eventual certification are pending as on date in 2018.<\/p>\nTechnology is evolving and the creation of advanced cockpit screens (display units) and touch screens (resistive and capacitive), calls for the conformity to the stringent testing standards. Precise testing is the key to conformity in air safety. Robotic testing<\/a> is rigorous, accurate and in-depth. Invariably, advanced robotic testing platforms are used today for testing, not only of touch screens but also device, control and instrumentation panels with their associated switches.<\/p>\nThe pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane safely under all conditions. Mechanical switches have proven their reliability in all cockpit operation scenarios.\u00a0 So as on date, the trade-off between concerns of human safety and usage of touch screens to accomplish functions in the aircraft cockpit is non- existent! Till such time, pilots in the cockpit have to perform traditionally with their \u2018heads up\u2019 and \u2018eyes out\u2019.<\/p>\n
Get Automated<\/h4>\n
Applications of robotic automation are already in place in every industry. The time is \u201cNow\u201d! Get started right away with our customized product and service-based solutions.<\/p>\n
The pilot completes this flow in less than 10 seconds with one hand, without even looking at the switches at times! Pilots repetitively train and train on all the checklists and flows, especially the emergency functions.<\/p>\n
Is training alone the secret that enables such correct and swift actions? Or, is there another associated human aspect also?<\/em><\/h5>\n\u00a0Do you have that human aspect in you? Take your case! In <\/em>pitch, darkness can\u2019t you run your fingers around, feel the buttons and operate your TV remote, which you have been normally doing umpteen times? Yes, then you have developed this aspect. Answer- Muscle memory! That touch, feel and flow on <\/em>those button is registered through your muscle memory. <\/em><\/p>\nMuscle memory<\/strong><\/a> plays a big role in the simple, safe, quick and correct execution of an emergency checklist where every second count.<\/p>\nHaptics (derived from the Greek phrase \u2018I touch\u2019) is the science of applying touch sensation to actuate or control objects by feeling pressure, texture, vibrations, body motion, position & orientation. The tactile feedback is felt from sensors in the muscles, joints, tendons which retains muscle memory and improves both, the performance of and the affective response of the pilot to user interfaces.<\/p>\n
Pilots develop \u2018muscle memory\u2019\u00a0 which gets their hand to the right spot for major controls switches, confirms the shape and that he is there, all without ever looking into the cockpit. It’s easy to identify solely by touch, feel of lever, movement and look, to verify. A flow should be essentially “muscle memory” for a pilot and he may know it by rote. But the pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane and not get caught up reading a checklist at a critical time. Use of mechanical switches leads to muscle memory.<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nAdvantages to pilots when operating mechanical switches over touchscreens:<\/h4>\n1. Haptic and tactile feedback<\/strong><\/h4>\nRepetitive training and developed muscle memory enable pilots to verify flows without even looking at the switch by:<\/p>\n
Operating switches as per flow just by the feel<\/p>\n
\n- Confirmation on the force applied which can be felt<\/li>\n
- Ascertaining the correct position<\/li>\n
- Verifying correct, intentional and feedback interpretation<\/li>\n
- Flicking a switch gives clear haptic and audible feedback<\/li>\n
- Preventing inadvertent flicking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
2. No visual distraction<\/strong>
\nUsing mechanical buttons the pilot can grab a switch, verify that it is correct, and then move it. No view is blocked.
\n3. Ease of operation with gloves<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be operated with hand gloves on or cloth wrapped (in case of bleeding).
\n4. Crash proof device<\/strong>
\nIf the computer driving the touch screen crashes, pilot is out of control. Mechanical switches being less susceptible, don’t encounter this failure mode.
\n5. Fault status<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be checked and made sure using a screwdriver and a voltmeter. Debugging touch screens cannot be done onboard.<\/p>\n6. Most important-Touch screen reliability<\/strong><\/p>\nCertain environments and situations test how effective the pilot is at manipulating switches and controls in the cockpit and ensure smooth cruising or safe landing.<\/p>\n
\u00a0A. Dynamic Environments<\/strong><\/h5>\n\u00a0<\/strong>How comfortably can you send messages, when seated in your car and travelling on a bumpy road, from your latest and now shaky, touchscreen smartphone?<\/em><\/p>\na. Turbulence<\/strong><\/p>\nDuring turbulence, the pilot\u2019s head almost hits the ceiling and the hands and body become unstable, how can a touch accuracy be confirmed at a \u2018correct location\u2019 on a flat smooth screen? Touch screens are hard to use when the pilot\u2019s hand is not stable.<\/p>\n
b. Vibrations<\/strong><\/p>\nTouch screens vibrate during rough weather, which can result in false or non-detected touches by the pilot.<\/p>\n
c. Clear readability<\/strong><\/p>\nFingerprint residues on the touch screen results in poor sunlight readability. Not applicable to mechanical switches.<\/p>\n
B\u00a0 Emergency Situations<\/strong><\/h5>\nWhat if this situation calls for the pilot to throw (operate) 25 related switches in a hurry?<\/p>\n
In such dynamic environments and emergency situations the use of touch screen becomes completely useless. It is far easier and reliable to press a physical button, without pressing an adjacent button. Definitely, the mechanical switches solution is head and shoulders above any solution with a touchscreen!<\/p>\n
Hence, till date important and critical devices in the cockpit have mechanical switches like buttons, knobs etc.<\/p>\n
Cockpit of the future<\/h4>\n
Technology leading to a multi-touch cockpit display has evolved.<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nBarco NV- Belgium presented a concept cockpit display-the full touch screen cockpit as part of the European ALICIA project<\/a>, at the 2012 Farnborough International Air Show. One composite, flush glass display, and two stand-alone control units with a multi-touch screen. The introduction in civilian aircraft through cockpit integrators and the eventual certification are pending as on date in 2018.<\/p>\nTechnology is evolving and the creation of advanced cockpit screens (display units) and touch screens (resistive and capacitive), calls for the conformity to the stringent testing standards. Precise testing is the key to conformity in air safety. Robotic testing<\/a> is rigorous, accurate and in-depth. Invariably, advanced robotic testing platforms are used today for testing, not only of touch screens but also device, control and instrumentation panels with their associated switches.<\/p>\nThe pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane safely under all conditions. Mechanical switches have proven their reliability in all cockpit operation scenarios.\u00a0 So as on date, the trade-off between concerns of human safety and usage of touch screens to accomplish functions in the aircraft cockpit is non- existent! Till such time, pilots in the cockpit have to perform traditionally with their \u2018heads up\u2019 and \u2018eyes out\u2019.<\/p>\n
Get Automated<\/h4>\n
Applications of robotic automation are already in place in every industry. The time is \u201cNow\u201d! Get started right away with our customized product and service-based solutions.<\/p>\n
Muscle memory<\/strong><\/a> plays a big role in the simple, safe, quick and correct execution of an emergency checklist where every second count.<\/p>\n Haptics (derived from the Greek phrase \u2018I touch\u2019) is the science of applying touch sensation to actuate or control objects by feeling pressure, texture, vibrations, body motion, position & orientation. The tactile feedback is felt from sensors in the muscles, joints, tendons which retains muscle memory and improves both, the performance of and the affective response of the pilot to user interfaces.<\/p>\n Pilots develop \u2018muscle memory\u2019\u00a0 which gets their hand to the right spot for major controls switches, confirms the shape and that he is there, all without ever looking into the cockpit. It’s easy to identify solely by touch, feel of lever, movement and look, to verify. A flow should be essentially “muscle memory” for a pilot and he may know it by rote. But the pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane and not get caught up reading a checklist at a critical time. Use of mechanical switches leads to muscle memory.<\/p>\n Repetitive training and developed muscle memory enable pilots to verify flows without even looking at the switch by:<\/p>\n Operating switches as per flow just by the feel<\/p>\n 2. No visual distraction<\/strong> 6. Most important-Touch screen reliability<\/strong><\/p>\n Certain environments and situations test how effective the pilot is at manipulating switches and controls in the cockpit and ensure smooth cruising or safe landing.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/strong>How comfortably can you send messages, when seated in your car and travelling on a bumpy road, from your latest and now shaky, touchscreen smartphone?<\/em><\/p>\n a. Turbulence<\/strong><\/p>\n During turbulence, the pilot\u2019s head almost hits the ceiling and the hands and body become unstable, how can a touch accuracy be confirmed at a \u2018correct location\u2019 on a flat smooth screen? Touch screens are hard to use when the pilot\u2019s hand is not stable.<\/p>\n b. Vibrations<\/strong><\/p>\n Touch screens vibrate during rough weather, which can result in false or non-detected touches by the pilot.<\/p>\n c. Clear readability<\/strong><\/p>\n Fingerprint residues on the touch screen results in poor sunlight readability. Not applicable to mechanical switches.<\/p>\n What if this situation calls for the pilot to throw (operate) 25 related switches in a hurry?<\/p>\n In such dynamic environments and emergency situations the use of touch screen becomes completely useless. It is far easier and reliable to press a physical button, without pressing an adjacent button. Definitely, the mechanical switches solution is head and shoulders above any solution with a touchscreen!<\/p>\n Hence, till date important and critical devices in the cockpit have mechanical switches like buttons, knobs etc.<\/p>\n Technology leading to a multi-touch cockpit display has evolved.<\/p>\n Barco NV- Belgium presented a concept cockpit display-the full touch screen cockpit as part of the European ALICIA project<\/a>, at the 2012 Farnborough International Air Show. One composite, flush glass display, and two stand-alone control units with a multi-touch screen. The introduction in civilian aircraft through cockpit integrators and the eventual certification are pending as on date in 2018.<\/p>\n Technology is evolving and the creation of advanced cockpit screens (display units) and touch screens (resistive and capacitive), calls for the conformity to the stringent testing standards. Precise testing is the key to conformity in air safety. Robotic testing<\/a> is rigorous, accurate and in-depth. Invariably, advanced robotic testing platforms are used today for testing, not only of touch screens but also device, control and instrumentation panels with their associated switches.<\/p>\n The pilot’s first responsibility is to fly the airplane safely under all conditions. Mechanical switches have proven their reliability in all cockpit operation scenarios.\u00a0 So as on date, the trade-off between concerns of human safety and usage of touch screens to accomplish functions in the aircraft cockpit is non- existent! Till such time, pilots in the cockpit have to perform traditionally with their \u2018heads up\u2019 and \u2018eyes out\u2019.<\/p>\n Applications of robotic automation are already in place in every industry. The time is \u201cNow\u201d! Get started right away with our customized product and service-based solutions.<\/p>\n<\/a><\/p>\nAdvantages to pilots when operating mechanical switches over touchscreens:<\/h4>\n
1. Haptic and tactile feedback<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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\nUsing mechanical buttons the pilot can grab a switch, verify that it is correct, and then move it. No view is blocked.
\n3. Ease of operation with gloves<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be operated with hand gloves on or cloth wrapped (in case of bleeding).
\n4. Crash proof device<\/strong>
\nIf the computer driving the touch screen crashes, pilot is out of control. Mechanical switches being less susceptible, don’t encounter this failure mode.
\n5. Fault status<\/strong>
\nMechanical switches can be checked and made sure using a screwdriver and a voltmeter. Debugging touch screens cannot be done onboard.<\/p>\n\u00a0A. Dynamic Environments<\/strong><\/h5>\n
B\u00a0 Emergency Situations<\/strong><\/h5>\n
Cockpit of the future<\/h4>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nGet Automated<\/h4>\n