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Related Experiment Videos

The optokinetic cervico reflex during simulated helicopter flight

M G Braithwaite1, K G Beal, E A Alvarez

  • 1U.S. Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory, Fort Rucker, AL, USA.

Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|December 18, 1998
PubMed
Summary

The optokinetic cervico reflex (OKCR) occurs in helicopter pilots, causing head tilt during visual flight. This reflex impacts spatial orientation and rotary-wing operations, especially during day or night vision goggle use.

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Area of Science:

  • Aerospace Medicine
  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • The optokinetic cervico reflex (OKCR) is a hypothesized visually driven reflex aiding retinal image stabilization during aircraft maneuvers.
  • Formal study of head tilt during helicopter flight is needed to understand its impact on rotary-wing aviator performance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • Investigate the relationship between horizon position and perceived orientation.
  • Assess the role of OKCR in spatial disorientation for pilots.

Main Methods:

  • A UH-60 flight simulator study involving 20 volunteer pilots.
  • Examined OKCR during simulated day flight and night vision goggle (NVG) flight conditions.

Main Results:

Related Experiment Videos

  • Confirmed the occurrence of OKCR in simulated helicopter flight, with and without NVGs.
  • Head roll increased with aircraft roll angle in visual conditions, stabilizing at a maximum.
  • Head roll was absent during instrument meteorological conditions.

    • Conclusions:

    • The OKCR is present in helicopter pilots and impacts rotary-wing operations.
    • Findings provide vital information for assessing spatial disorientation.
    • Recommendations for future research are discussed.