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Technology update
JSF voice recognition
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To augment the JSF's advanced avionics system, Boeing, BAE Systems, and ITT Industries engineers have incorporated voice-recognition technology into the cockpit.
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ITT Industries has been selected by Boeing and BAE Systems to supply its Voxware voice-recognition system for use in the Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) cockpit. The system includes a rugged, lightweight, continuous-speech device that permits selected cockpit controls to be operated solely with voice commands. The device and related software allow pilots to avoid some manual tasks so that they can remain better focused on their flight environment. "Voice-recognition technology will enhance the
pilot's aircraft management capabilities," said Stan Kasprzyk, Boeing JSF Cockpit Manager.
According to Boeing, the Voxware system incorporates speech-recognition technology specifically designed and optimized for ultra-high accuracy in the often noisy cockpit environment. The voice-recognition capability was successfully demonstrated last year in Seattle, WA, during a full-mission simulation of the JSF for U.S. and UK government customers. Voice recognition augments the advanced avionics of the JSF that gather, integrate, and display essential information in a format most useful to the pilot.
JSF avionics were installed recently aboard a 737 avionics flying laboratory (AFL) to allow engineers to evaluate and troubleshoot the systems before installing them on the JSF demonstrator. During the first flight, engineers tested the core avionics processor, various sensors, and mission software. Other key components tested in the program include radio-frequency and electro-optical sensors, and a prototype core processor. The processor, which runs the mission-system software, uses an open architecture that enables reuse and easy portability.
The AFL is fully instrumented for developing and assessing avionics-system performance. The most visible modification is a 4-ft nose extension that houses a developmental radar and other sensors. A mock JSF cockpit has been installed in the airplane's cabin. The AFL carries a crew of avionics engineers who monitor test data, fix problems, and direct testing to take advantage of emerging results.
Frank Bokulich
Aerospace Engineering May 2000
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