Voice Recognition - The Next Generation Man-Machine, Input Device?

As the complexity of today's cockpit increases, so does the workload of the pilot. The common keyboard is no longer an acceptable stand-alone input device for today's high-performance aircraft. Instead, new man-machine interface technologies must be produced to alleviate the pilot from extreme workload conditions. Particularly in fighter aircraft, the pilot needs a method of hands-free and eyes-free communication. Voice technology offers potential for reducing the pilot's visual and manual workload. This paper describes advantages and disadvantages of voice recognition systems and takes a brief look at the state of development of voice technology.