PE sensor data collection on T-45

Cobham group sensors are collecting data to assist the Air Force and Navy in detecting conditions around physiological events (PEs) involving T-45C trainers and fleet F-18 jets. The UK firm’s Orchard Park, NY, division recently flew three test flights with F-18 and T-45 aircraft and confirmed by Rear Adm. Sara Joyner during a House Armed Services Committee hearing. Cobham used its VigilOX™ pilot breathing sensor system during those tests. T-45C student and instructor pilots at Naval Air Stations Meridian, Miss.; Pensacola, Fla.; and Kingsville, Texas, have experienced multiple PEs that have led to training stand-downs while a fix was sought. VigilOX™ is the first pilot-worn sensing system to comprehensively capture real-time physiological, breathing gas, and cockpit environmental data during flight, which will be used to help inform conditions around unexplained physiological episodes. Cobham and Navy medical, and research professionals are in the initial stages of reviewing the post-flight data, which will be correlated to hypoxia-like symptoms. The data will form the basis of a predictive algorithm that will ultimately drive oxygen equipment to automatically adjust oxygen dosage as needed. Cobham also produces a CRU-123 solid state oxygen monitor that captures critical oxygen concentrator performance data. The T-45C marked the first flight where CRU-123 and VigilOX™ flew together on the same aircraft providing the most comprehensive picture of aircraft and pilot physiological interaction from air source to mask. (Source: Aviation Week 04/09/18) The Air Force, which also has seen a spike in PEs in the F-35A, A-10, and T-6 trainers is simultaneously testing VigilOx.