Human-machine Function Allocation-based Simulation of Ejection Seat Operation for Comfort Enhancement

Abstract

Abstract-The comfort of an ejection seat greatly influences the pilot's flight performance. To achieve the maximum comfort, a pilot needs to adjust the backrest and cushion of an ejection seat by operating its regulating assembly that is based on human-machine function allocation. It is evident that the comfort of an ejection seat has to be determined first before an effective regulating assembly can be designed. In this study, a simulation platform incorporating human body model, ejection seat and aircraft steering control system was established using computer-aided design techniques. With the virtual backrest and cushion obtained through the platform, experiments were conducted to simulate the pilot operation of an ejection seat for comfort. It showed that improving the ejection seat comfort could create an effective and comfortable driving environment for the pilot. The study provided a theoretical basis for designing the regulating assembly.

Comfort Evaluation of Slow-Recovery Ejection Seat Cushions Based on Sitting Pressure Distribution

“…For research on the comfort of ejection seats, Ojetola et al (2011) and Qiu et al (2012) studied the impact of seat inclination on comfort. Pint et al (2002) and Cheng and Pellettiere (2005) analyzed the comfort of current cushions in the US military and found that slow-recovery cushions generally have better performance, but their comfort is also related to material property.…”