APTIMA INC — Department of Defense STTR Phase I: AF17A-T011

Description

Effective Live, Virtual, and Constructive (LVC) training methods have been underutilized within ground-based training operations. More specifically, Battlefield Airmen training methods have not fully adopted or incorporated recent advances in augmented reality (AR) technologies into their training due to specialized training requirements. To address this issue, the Aptima team will design and develop Battlefield Airmen Training Technologies for LVC, ground-based Environments (BATTLE). The BATTLE system and associated technical products (e.g., design guidelines) will provide a rugged, lightweight, blended reality (BR) prototype that facilitates, evaluates, and enhances LVC training for outdoor, ground-based battlefield training. The proposed solution will use a combination of existing AR technology and custom software to allow Battlefield Airmen trainees (Pararescue Jumpers [PJs]) to interact with both live and virtual environments simultaneously (i.e., BR). The BATTLE system will evaluate learner engagement and training performance, and will be able to interface with the existing training workflow. The proposed system will address efficiencies in training resource allocation by optimizing staff workload and lessening the need for live asset utilization, such as aircraft or ammunition. In summary, the current effort proposes work to increase the effectiveness of ground-based training while also satisfying logistical and economic constraints facing many training programs