An Integration Approach For Rotorcraft Pilot's Associates

Automation has been applied successfully in a variety of rotorcraft subsystems to reduce pilot workload. This automation has progressively changed the layout of the cockpit and enhanced pilot effectiveness. However, further progress is necessary to integrate the entire weapon system. Currently the pilot is left to accomplish this difficult task. A semi-autonomous Rotorcraft Pilot's Associate (RPA) capable of injecting an understanding of the current situation between the pilot and intrusive interruptions will reduce pilot workload and make a major contribution to the success of the mission. The key to integrating the diverse subsystems is automation of in-flight route planning. A RPA with a core route planner can be designed to merge the mission and tactical plans with current navigation data. This will provide a dynamic prioritization of information to be presented to the pilot. Modular design and development can be employed, thereby, extensive redesign of existing automated subsystems is not required. This paper will address our understanding of the problem and discuss an integration approach for Rotorcraft Pilot's Associates.