Research News

ADF Anthropometry Project

The Australian Defence Force and a consortium led by the University of South Australia launched one of the biggest projects in the world to collect data about human body dimensions in Adelaide on August 24. The School of ITMS of the University of Ballarat is providing mathematical modelling and software development for the project, in a subcontract worth over $1 million. This builds on the unusual combination of expertise we have in the school, in simulation, statistics, mathematical analysis (especially optimization) and human factors.

The three-year project seeks to assess the fit of Australian adults into the cockpits of RAAF aircraft through computer modelling. Sophisticated scanning and computer technology is being used to scan 2000 volunteers from around Australia, representing a cross section of the general population between the ages of 18 and 30. Other equipment is being used to scan the range of Australian Defence Force aircraft cockpits. The eventual database will be used to improve recruitment strategies for pilots and aircrew, increase pilot safety and advise on cockpit design.

Overall project management and body scanning are being undertaken by the University of South Australia. Sinclair Knight Merz is undertaking crew station scanning and project management assistance. The Australian Sports Commission is providing anthropometry support.

Some links to our partners:

• http://www.unisa.edu.au/caa/projects/default.asp#adf
• http://www.defence.gov.au/news/raafnews/editions/4616/topstories/story07.htm
• http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/2004/ACFB9C.doc

TAFE Skills To Work Project

A research contract worth $700,000 has recently been signed with the State Office of Training and Tertiary Education (OTTE), and work commenced. The University of Ballarat is the prime contractor, thanks to the expertise the School of ITMS has in decision support systems.

Subcontractors Justsys

http://www.justsys.com.au

and i4talent

http://www.i4.com.au

will provide the knowledge engineering and profiling aspects, respectively. The project aims to deliver to the TAFE sector an online knowledge-based careers advice system, enabling prospective students and others to find clearer pathways, linking their skills via educational options to positions in the workforce. The target completion date is May 2005.