Mohsen Rostami, Jafer Mujtaba Kamoonpuri, Pratik Pradhan and Joon Chung
The ground control station (GCS) is an important part of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which provides the facility for human control. In previous work, the authors developed an…
Abstract
Purpose
The ground control station (GCS) is an important part of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) which provides the facility for human control. In previous work, the authors developed an enhanced virtual reality GCS (VR-GCS) for airships. Here, the authors incorporated haptic gloves to control the aerial vehicle with the use of a virtual controller defined within the virtual environment.
Design/methodology/approach
The VR headset was connected to the haptics and the flight simulation tool. The VR headset was used to visualize basic flight simulation while the vehicle was controlled via the haptic gloves and a virtual controller defined in the virtual environment. Here, using the previous experience, the position and orientation data from the VR headset was sent to the FlightGear flight simulator (FGFS) via extensible markup language codes. This was used to drive the heads-up-display (HUD) as well within the VR headset. Then, the inputs from the pilot on the virtual controller were sent to the FGFS using an embedded code. To accurately simulate the final goal of deploying the haptic-based VR solution to monitor and pilot the airship in beyond visual line-of-sight scenarios, a VR application was developed using the Unity game engine. Finally, the integration of VR, haptics and FGFS was performed using another embedded code.
Findings
A test procedure was conducted with a similar rating technique based on the NASA TLX questionnaire that identifies the pilot’s spare mental capacity when completing an assigned task to assure the comfortability of the proposed haptics VR-HMD (HVR-HMD). Accordingly, 10 users participated in the test and a comparison has been made for the aircraft control using the physical remote control (RC) controller and the virtual one. The results from the repeated measures analysis of variance and Tukey’s honestly significant difference post hoc tests revealed significant differences in mental demand, physical demand, effort and frustration across the different simulation conditions. Notably, the HVR-HMD system significantly lowered workload and frustration levels compared to both the desktop and VR-HMD setups, underscoring its effectiveness as a training tool. Results from the NASA TLX questionnaire showed that the current iteration of the system is ideal for training amateur users to replace traditional RC controllers by using similar virtual systems in a safe and immersive environment.
Originality/value
Such an advanced portable system may increase the situational awareness of pilots and allow them to complete flights with the same data transmission procedures using virtual systems in simulation.
Details
Keywords
Maryam Safi, Joon Chung and Pratik Pradhan
The purpose of this paper is to assess and determine the potential of augmented reality (AR) in aerospace applications through a survey of published sources.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to assess and determine the potential of augmented reality (AR) in aerospace applications through a survey of published sources.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper reviews a database of AR applications developed for the aerospace sector in academic research or industrial training and operations. The review process begins with the classification of these applications, followed by a brief discussion on the implications of AR technology in each category.
Findings
AR is abundantly applied in engineering, navigation, training and simulation. There is potential for application in in-flight entertainment and communication, crew support and airport operations monitoring.
Originality/value
This paper is a general review introducing existing and potential AR applications in various fields of the aerospace industry. Unlike previous publications, this article summarizes existing and emerging applications to familiarize readers with AR use in all of aerospace. The paper outlines example projects and creates a single comprehensive reference of AR advancements and its use in the aerospace industry. The paper provides individuals with a quick guide to available and emerging technology.
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Pratik Ghosh, Sonali Upadhyay, Vimal Srivastava, Rahul Dhiman and Larry Yu
This study measured influencer characteristics, consumer emotions, self-construal, and behavioural intentions of Gen Z consumers for selecting fast-food restaurants in India. A…
Abstract
Purpose
This study measured influencer characteristics, consumer emotions, self-construal, and behavioural intentions of Gen Z consumers for selecting fast-food restaurants in India. A consumer behaviour model was conceptualized based on established theories.
Design/methodology/approach
A cross-sectional design was employed for hypothesis testing. Influencer characteristic perceptions, consumer emotions, self-construal, and behavioural intentions were measured for Gen Z consumers in Tier 1 cities in India using structural equation modelling.
Findings
Influencer characteristics significantly influenced behavioural intentions, consumer emotions, and self-construal in Gen Z consumers. Self-construal was also a significant predictor of behavioural intentions. Consumer emotions had a negative effect on behavioural intentions. Self-construal was a mediator between influencer characteristics and behavioural intentions and between consumer emotions and behavioural intentions. However, consumer emotions did not mediate the relationship between influencer characteristics and behavioural intentions.
Practical implications
Marketers can leverage these insights to design influencer campaigns that resonate with the emotions and self-construal of Gen Z consumers. Microinfluencers with characteristics that align with the target demographic’s emotions and self-perception can be strategically chosen.
Originality/value
Only a limited number of studies have investigated the influence of social media marketing on consumer behaviour within the fast-food industry, specifically with Gen Z consumers. This study sheds new light on the behavioural intention of Gen Z consumers predicted through influencer characteristics, consumer emotions, and self-construal through a conceptual model. The results support choosing microinfluencers and investing in them judiciously to promote fast-food businesses.