Design Interactive, Inc. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: As the Army moves forward with the integration of the MRAP Heavy Armored Ground Ambulance

Description

As the Army moves forward with the integration of the MRAP Heavy Armored Ground Ambulance (HAGA) as a ground platform for extraction, there is a critical need to train medics on how to take advantage of the capabilities of the new platform (e.g. access to additional tools and storage space) and develop coping mechanisms for obstacles associated with performing tasks within the vehicle (e.g. space/movement restrictions). The proposed Medic Vehicle Environment/ Task Training (M-VETT) suite aims to meet these goals through the use of a set of training platforms that include computer-based, handheld mobile applications, and a mixed reality training system. By integrating scenario-based training on each of the platforms, a training progression can be created that allows trainees to build a basic understanding and knowledge of the capabilities and format of the HAGA, kinesthetic memory of the locations of equipment onboard the vehicle, and finally an ability to effectively apply this knowledge in an environment that simulates the restrictions created by the HAGA interior. Based on task and training needs analyses that were carried out in Phase I, the proposed effort will develop this suite of training systems targeted at addressing the critical training needs of HAGA operators.