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SDS International is a leading provider of professional technical products and services. SDS develops innovative practical solutions based upon operational requirements that apply to the following areas: Education & Training, Analytical & Technical Services, Test & Evaluation, and Simulation & Training. From providing SCORM conformant, XML-based training solutions to supporting data link training, test execution management, and leading-edge PC-based image generators (IG), SDS activities are all focused on a single mission: Supporting the Warfighters.
The U.S. Government Accounting Office (GAO) has documented that during a recent five year period (1999-2003), Department of Defense (DOD) aircraft accidents caused the loss of 375 military aircraft and the deaths of over 300 personnel, at a cost exceeding 7 billion dollars. After investigating causal factors related to these mishaps, DOD researchers concluded that over 20% of all military aircraft losses (class "A" mishaps) can be attributed to a variety of in-flight spatial disorientation (SD) problems. In order to reduce pilot susceptibility to SD, the U.S. Navy recently made the decision to purchase and implement SDS' Spatial Awareness Training System (SPATS). This innovative training system is focused on developing comprehensive training solutions that permit students to recognize, avoid, and recover from SD situations most commonly associated with military and civilian aircraft mishaps. SDS received this phase III award as a direct result of the Navy's favorable assessment of SDS' Phase II prototype SD courseware and demonstration of the SPATS scenario-based SD simulation capabilities. The SPATS approach to SD training encompasses application of academic training (instructor led, Computer Based Training and Wed Based Training), immersion training (observing simulation-generated SD scenarios), and simulation training that utilizes SDS' low-cost, non-motion-based LiteFliteR Reconfigurable Simulator.
SDS International, Inc. recognizes the human need and commercial applications for enhancing aviation safety through improved spatial awareness training. Since SD is also a major risk factor for both general aviation and commercial carriers, there is a direct benefit in using SPATS for mishap reduction in the civilian community. Although the FAA currently recommends spatial awareness training for all private or commercial pilots, an inclusive didactic and simulator training system (based upon recently identified spatial strategies and sensory spatial reflexes) has not been available prior to introduction of the SPATS. The Navy's recent purchase of this system will help validate its effectiveness and promote formal introduction of this training into existing civilian aviation training programs.
Mr. Ed Bryan, Vice President, SDS International
3403 Technological Avenue, Suite 7
Orlando, FL 32817
Phone: (407) 282-4432
Fax: (407) 282 4065
Website: http://www.sdslink.com/
Email: ebryan@sdslink.com
