Autonomous vehicles of all kinds will be a major part of our infrastructure in the near future, so the Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System (ALIAS) has been developed to bring this technology to DARPA.
The technology was integrated into the Sikorsky S-76B helicopter and offers pilots with the ability to take their hands off the controls in favor of an autonomous flying experience. The system has been tested by DARPA and Sikorsky over the past several years and is capable of being installed into existing aircrafts, which makes it a distinctly more convenient option for implementation into the military.
The Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System was explained by DARPA Program Manager for ALIAS, Graham Drozeski, who said, "Hovering in adverse winds is a task that consumes a human pilot's attention, but automated flight control achieves 'rock steady' precision. Really, we want the pilot's eyes and mind on the fight rather than holding an altitude. That's the core focus of ALIAS: bringing the latest advances from unmanned aircraft into a piloted aircraft through an interface that provides fluid interaction with the autonomous capabilities."
Optionally Autonomous Helicopters
The Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System is Advanced
Trend Themes
1. Autonomous Vehicles - The development of the Aircrew Labor In-Cockpit Automation System (ALIAS) highlights the growing trend of autonomous vehicles in various industries.
2. Automated Flight Control - ALIAS showcases the trend towards advanced automated flight control systems, enabling pilots to free up their attention and focus on other critical tasks.
3. Human-machine Interface - ALIAS emphasizes the trend of developing intuitive and fluid human-machine interfaces that enable seamless interaction between pilots and autonomous capabilities.
Industry Implications
1. Aviation - The integration of ALIAS into helicopters presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for the aviation industry, allowing for greater efficiency, safety, and reduced pilot workload.
2. Military - ALIAS offers disruptive innovation opportunities for the military industry, as it enables the installation of autonomous technology into existing aircraft, enhancing operational capabilities and reducing human risk.
3. Unmanned Systems - ALIAS reflects the trend and potential disruptive innovation in the unmanned systems industry, by incorporating advanced autonomous capabilities into piloted aircraft.