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24 April, 2025

Case Study: How Polytechnique Montréal Advances Vigilance Research in Aviation

Polytechnique Montréal, in collaboration with a Montréal-based aircraft manufacturer, conducted an innovative vigilance study designed to advance aviation safety research.

Utilizing the Smart Eye Pro (SEP) system and EEG technology, the research team explored human factors and cognitive vigilance in simulated flight environments. This study aimed to uncover critical insights into pilots’ performance and fatigue, ultimately contributing to safer aviation practices.

 

/ Goals & Challenges:

The study sought to measure and analyze pilot vigilance under varying conditions to understand its impact on decision-making and response times. Conducting research in an advanced flight simulator with several pilots presented logistical challenges, including precise data synchronization and ensuring seamless integration of EEG and eye tracking systems.

Two pilots inside a cockpit during flight, showcasing the role of eye-tracking technology in monitoring gaze behavior and improving aviation safety.

/ How Smart Eye Pro Supported the Project:

The Smart Eye Pro was pivotal in simplifying the data collection process for this complex study. Using three eye tracking cameras, researchers were able to measure subtle eye movements and gaze patterns while pilots monitored the flight deck. The team also used iMotions to capture and analyze real-time EEG readings, providing robust data on vigilance. The system’s versatility ensured it integrated smoothly with the high-tech flight simulator.

 

/ Ease of Installation and Training:

The Smart Eye team provided comprehensive training and support, enabling the researchers to quickly familiarize themselves with the technology. The setup process was intuitive, and Smart Eye’s team ensured a seamless installation, even in a demanding research environment.

/ Key Features:

The researchers particularly appreciated the system’s multi-camera setup, which captured intricate details of pilot gaze behavior, and the user-friendly interface that allowed for efficient data analysis.

 

We were thrilled with how well the Smart Eye Pro worked for our vigilance study. Its precision and reliability exceeded our expectations, simplifying data collection and analysis. The team at Smart Eye went above and beyond to support us, and we highly recommend their solutions to other research teams.

 

Philippe Doyon-Poulin, Professor in Industrial Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal

/ The Results:

The collaboration between Smart Eye, Polytechnique Montréal, and the aircraft manufacturer produced valuable insights into pilot vigilance, which will inform future aviation safety protocols. Researchers commended Smart Eye Pro’s role in achieving their goals efficiently and effectively.

/ Conclusion:

The success of this project underscores Smart Eye’s commitment to supporting cutting-edge research in aviation and beyond. Through innovative technology and dedicated customer support, Smart Eye continues to empower researchers to push the boundaries of their work.

 

Find out how Smart Eye can support your research goals, contact us today!

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