IN-DEPTH ENGINEERING CORPORATION — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N221-058

Description

An area in particular need of next generation training technology is advanced ESM for the TI-20 AN/BLQ-10 system.  Existing Computer-Based Training (CBT) tools for legacy AN/BLQ-10 systems have known deficiencies, and they fail to leverage and train the advanced automation and digital displays associated with the TI-20 upgrade to the system.  As such, a need exists for a trainer that teaches skills and proficiency using the latest tactical displays and CONOPs to be integrated into Virginia Class Submarines and beyond. In-Depth Engineering Corporation (IEC) therefore proposes to develop and validate the ESM Adaptive Game-based Learning Environment (EAGLE) solution, an AN/BLQ-10 TI-20 ESM trainer that: (1) implements the TI-20 AN/BLQ-10 tactical displays stimulated with simulated and real-world data, (2) uses Item Response Theory to adaptively move individual trainees through dynamic, multi-modal training scenarios, (3) provides an engaging gamification-based training environment, and (4) leverages state of the art stress habituation and biofeedback research and technology to expose the trainee to increasingly stressful stimuli within the scenarios. The EAGLE trainer will provide the Sailor with an immersive and engaging tool to improve his skills in ESM detection and analysis for the TI-20 AN/BLQ-10 subsystem that can be used both onboard and ashore.