Adaptive Spaceship Cockpit Architecture

Abstract

This research project is focused on a system design theory and practice of the most complex environment that a human-system architect can ever encounter. It is the environment of the spaceship cockpit or cabin that is affected by forces of propulsion and gravity accelerations and freefall while the direction and magnitude of gravity change during the flight. Furthermore, the hyperbaric, restrictive environment of Intra Vehicular Activity spacesuit adds another layer of complexity. In off-nominal or emergency situations, these environmental effects combine, which results in specific human-system interaction requirements. Considering human-system integration requirements on safety, comfort and efficiency of communication between human and on-board system, some communication techniques and devices (input, display) will perform better than others and some will be disqualified completely. The goal of this project is to develop new design guides that will be part of empirical knowledge base for space vessels cockpit and cabin architecture. This is achieved using a custom built, office-size human spaceflight simulator. The space system architecture guides are demonstrated on a concept of a spaceship cockpit and a custom input device.