Recent advancement in the Artificial Intelligence field may open the door to a Digital Assistant to support pilots in the cockpit in complex situations. In the cockpit, startling and surprising events can occur and trigger a “startle effect” among the crew. The startle effect can be defined as the first response to a sudden, intense stimulus. It triggers an involuntary physiological reflex, such as blinking of the eyes, an increased heart rate and an increased tension of the muscles. On the flight deck, the startle effect is often combined with a surprise that results from a disparity between a person’s expectations and what is actually perceived. As the flight deck is the interface between highly automated complex systems and pilots, such disparity between the reality and crew members’ expectations can have significant consequences on the safety of the flight.
FOCUS is an intelligent assistant to support pilots in mitigating the effects of startle and surprise. Three support functions are integrated to FOCUS: a startle and surprise detection module; a stress regulation support feature; and a situation awareness support feature. In addition, an assistant monitor and a control panel is provided on the pilot’s electronic flight bag.
