Low Cost Windowless Cockpit Research Vehicle

A commercial extension boom type forklift was modified for operation from a remote crew station. Two interchangeable cockpits were fabricated: (1) a generic helicopter cockpit with large windows and (2) a windowless cockpit with three television scenes projected on a panoramic display for outside vision. The vehicle is operated by a side-stick controller and a “collective” lever. The goal was to develop a low-cost means to conduct research into windowless aircraft operations. The vehicle tests have begun and will be expanded as the cockpit electronics are developed.