AF tests flight respiratory monitoring

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – Air Force researchers rely on innovative technology to deliver advanced respiratory monitoring to lower risks of in-flight breathing issues, and to protect the health and performance of the aircrew. Those researchers, with the 711th Human Performance Wing at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, are working with the UK-based private company Cobham to develop VigilOX, an advanced sensor system designed for continuous in-flight measurement of aircrew breathing. Having the sensor system integrated into the Advanced Flow Engineering (AFE) system allows us to really understand the pilot’s breathing patterns, energy demands, pulmonary function, and if the pilot is potentially exposed to anything that could degrade performance during combat,” said Dr. David Burch, research biomedical engineer and the medical technology solutions team leader with the 711th HPW. The measures gives the AF a better insight on a pilot’s respiratory patterns and how well life support systems are functioning. Having been tested on the T-6A, T-45C, F-18, and F-15 aircrafts, the VigilOX sensor system shows potential promise in improving monitoring capabilities and keeping aircrew safe. The device is currently undergoing tests at Brooke Army Medical Center in Texas. (Source: AF Surgeon General 07/26/18 ) Gulf Coast Note: The AF and Navy have had issues with psychological episodes related to oxygen in several different aircraft, including the T-45C that is flown out of NAS Meridian, Miss.