SEMG-based fighter pilot muscle fatigue analysis and operation performance research

Abstract

Fatigue has a tremendously adverse impact on pilot performance. This study aims to explore the Biceps Brachii (BB), Rectus Femoris (RF), Flexor Carpi Radialis (FCR), and Tibialis Anterior (TA) activities of fighter pilots in the early and late combat stages, and the target hitting time. A total of 13 volunteers were recruited to conduct simulated combats inside a real fighter cockpit. The surface Electromyography (sEMG) was collected from all volunteers in the initial and final 20s of flight, and the target hitting time during three simulated combats was recorded. The root mean square (RMS) values of right BB and TA were significantly higher than the left side values (p ​< ​0.001), while insignificant differences were found in the RMS values between the bilateral RF and FCR. Compared to the early flight period, the median frequency (MF) values of BB and TA were significantly lower during the late flight period, and the RMS values were significantly higher (p ​< ​0.047). Contrastively, the RMS values of FCR and RF differed insignificantly during the late flight period. Regarding the target hitting time, a significant difference was noted between task 1 and rask3. Subjects exhibit varying levels of muscle fatigue for different muscle groups before and after the flight. The muscle fatigue levels are asymmetrical on the left and right sides. Muscle fatigue might reduce the pilots' operational ability. This study provides a reference for fighter pilot fatigue protection and treatment.