Integrating Haptic Devices to Improve Human Performance and Training Effectiveness
The Defense Health Agency (DHA) awarded ECS this Phase III Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) project. This project consists of designing and developing haptics-based virtual reality (VR) training systems to support medical-simulated training environments. This includes combat medicine in the U.S. Army’s Synthetic Training Environment (STE) and expansion and commercialization to the broader healthcare communities.
The focus is leveraging technology to train Military Working Dog (MWD) Handlers in K9 tactical combat casualty care. The aim is to recognize key behavior changes and intervene before any serious injury or incapacitation occurs. This use case is incredibly important for the safety of both the MWD and their handlers, and the technology will play a vital role in ensuring their well-being. The K9 handlers are trained to perform lifesaving procedures that can help save the K9’s life. During the simulation, the virtual animal is designed to display the physical and behavioral changes that occur with each step, providing a realistic and immersive training experience. The handlers can fully immerse themselves in the simulation and use haptic feedback to assist the K9. This can be incredibly helpful in training and preparing the K9 for real-life situations.
Key Features
- Multiple Breed selection
- Customizable fur color
- Integration with the HaptX system
- After-Action Review
