Wireless Integrated Cockpit Information Display: Military Cockpit Applications

The Wireless Integrated Cockpit Information Display (WICID) program developed a method for pilots to remotely control and display carry-on laptop based applications from the aircraft cockpit. Because flight safety concerns do not allow the pilot/copilot to use the standard keyboard and mouse devices during flight, the WICID program developed a multifunction display (MFD) that uses customized input devices such as bezel keys and a touch screen. The subsequent design of the WICID system became especially valuable in enhancing certain technologies critical to the military cockpit. This paper will address how the WICID system topology is uniquely suited to improve cockpit access to four main technology categories: Enhanced Situation Awareness (SA), Mission Planning/On-board Replanning, Enhanced Communication, and Navigation Aids. It will also show how the design of the WICID system supports other capabilities such as machine-to-machine data transfer, task automation, customized application interfaces, and the consolidated control and display of many system applications from a single interface device.