Simulating Spatial Disorientation in Pilots: Integrated VR and Rotating Chair-Based Approach

Spatial Disorientation (SD) is a critical issue in aviation, often leading to severe accidents when pilots misinterpret their aircraft’s attitude. This paper proposes a novel simulator system designed to induce unrecognized SD using Virtual Reality (VR) and a rotating chair. The system focuses on two cases of SD: False Horizon and Leans. The VR scenario includes multiple phases that challenge participants’ SD by integrating visual and rotational stimuli based on an aerodynamic model. The experimental setup and procedure are designed to simulate realistic flight conditions, providing a controlled environment to study SD dynamics. Future work will involve implementing the prototype system and collecting physiological responses to enhance real-time SD detection and training protocols.