Abstract Current computer console paradigms involve the use of significant computer hardware within

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Chair-Mounted Computer Workstation
Introduction
Project Requirements

• Design Objectives
• Provide the functionality of a traditional
  computer workstation
• System shall be able to function in a
  cramped environment with
• large amounts of ambient noise.
• Implement a graphical user interface to
  ease use of peripherals

AbstractCurrent computer console paradigms
involve the use of significant computer hardware
within an enclosure presented in front of the
operator, which must be environmentally protected
and maintained. Specifically in a military
application, a less cumbersome method of
interface is needed to allow soldiers to
accomplish their typical work tasks. The solution
to this problem is the development of a versatile
and modular workstation mounted to a chair
allowing greater freedom of movement while
maintaining functionality and durability. The
result of this project will be an operational
prototype that may be modeled for future
development. This prototype will demonstrate a
feasible and reliable solution to the current
problem, allowing the operator mobility without
sacrificing functionality.

• Functional Requirements
• Provide audio and visual Feedback
• User will have redundant data entry
• User will be able to use all system
  capabilities with peripherals
• User will be able to use system with
  minimal training

Problem Statement The user interface must allow
similar functionality to that of a standard
personal computer system, while simultaneously
allowing the greatest freedom of movement
possible. Further, a display must allow the
operator unobstructed view of the output while
also allowing a view of his/her peripheral
environment.
Intended Users Uses The intended operator for
the design is a member of the United States
Military. The workstation is intended to be
installed on a watercraft or aircraft for
military purposes. The design is intended for
use by both males and females and is not age
specific.
Figure 5 Interior of a US military aircraft

• Measurable Milestones
• Problem definitions
• Technology considerations and selection
• End-product design
• End-product prototype implementation
• End-product testing
• End-product demonstration
• End-product documentation

• Design Constraints
• Must not interfere with users movements
• Must be able to draw power from platform
• Must fit between existing equipment
• Must be completed by May 2006

• Operating Environment
• Military Support Aircraft and Warships
• Confined spaces with large ambient noise
• Sheltered from the elements
• Secure area

• Assumptions
• Users will be familiar with the Windows XP
• User has use of both eyes
• User has full function of extremities
• Installation of Windows Powertoys

Resources

• Acknowledgements
• Dr. Arun Somani
• Dr. Zhao Zhang
• Lockheed Martin

• Limitations
• Project budget
• Must not interfere with users duties
• System must not interfere with existing
  equipment

Proposed Approach and Considerations

• Proposed Approach
• Research workstation technologies
• Select appropriate technologies
• Design to constraints and purpose of client
• Test final system prototype

• Technologies Considered
• Data display devices
• Tactile input devices
• Voice recognition

• Testing Considerations
• Testing usability by end user
• Testing system functionality
• Testing hardware/software compatibility

Figure 1 MG1101 MicroGyro
The MG1101 MicroGyro is utilized as the movement
sensor for the glove mouse-pointer system. This
device was selected due to its small size and its
ability to sense movement on two separate axes of
motion at once.
Figure 3 FireFox Throat Microphone
The FireFox throat microphone is utilized to
allow for voice driven data entry in an
environment with heavy ambient noise. The
microphone can be used in conjunction with the
earphones/radios already in use on military
platforms.
Schedule
Figure 2 EyeTop Display Glasses
Figure 6 Project Schedule
The display system is implemented by a pair of
EyeTop glasses. The glasses have a single
monocular display on the right side. The display
glasses allow users to observe the computer
screen without interfering with their duties.
Figure 4 Dimax 12C Master Controller
Closing Summary
Control of the gyro and keypad is realized
through the Dimax I2C master controller. This
device allows the system to communicate with the
gyro and keypad.
Current computer workstations involve significant
computer hardware in an enclosure usually placed
in front of the operator, with environmental
protection and maintenance being required. A
less intrusive and smaller workstation than this
standard would enhance the ability of military
personnel to complete required tasks. By
providing a chair-mounted computer workstation,
the size and mobility will become assets rather
than hindrances. The system will be designed
specifically for tasks associated with military
personnel while maintaining functionality and
durability the operator currently uses. This
project will maintain the efficiency and
functionality of current workstations while
making significant advancements in reducing size
and allowing the operator more flexibility.

• Expected End Product and Other Deliverables
• User Manual
• Graphical User Interface for System
• Prototype of Input Peripherals
• Device drivers for peripherals