Non-contact Measurement Systems for Physiological Data Monitoring of Military Pilots During Training on Simulators: Review and Application

Due to more affordable and powerful physiological data monitoring systems becoming available, pilots' current physical and psychological status can be monitored more intensively. Contactless monitoring is needed for several reasons; the first concerns traditional sensors and their influence when placed in contact with the body of the measured person. Such sensors can have a negative effect upon the comfort or work performance of a pilot. The second important reason why contactless monitoring methods are preferred over other methods is legislative limitations. Another disadvantage emerges when health measurements and signals are adversely affected by the state of environment. This study examines the current technologies, design and application of non-contact systems as applied in military pilot monitoring. The three systems selected and tested are: ballistocardiography, video motion capture and thermography. The article serves as an evaluation guide for the most suitable and affordable non-contact monitoring systems available, when facing the dilemma of evaluating the quantitative physical and psychological conditions of military pilots. In addition, the article introduces an innovative non-contact telemetry monitoring system composed of appropriate subsystems. Based on previous research and tests, non-contact systems are strongly recommended for military pilot training.