Ergonomic virtual assessment for cockpit layout of civil aircraft

An ergonomic assessment method for cockpit layout of civil aircraft based on virtual design was put forward in the paper through evaluation to a certain cockpit. 3D model of cockpit was translated from CATIA to JACK using .wrl format, pivotal information of model was lost less, the translation didn't affect ergonomic estimate, then the model was optimized through JACK preparing for later ergonomic appraisement; Human model, built from Chinese pilot of 1%, 50%, 99%, was used in cockpit ergonomic analysis according to Chinese pilot dimensions data, furthermore comfort angel ranges and most comfort posture was built for fit analysis through visiting with pilots, by virtual controlling human model to devices of cockpit, layout assessment was carried out to seat, rudder pedal, stick, lens hood, center console and top panel. Result of appraisement to every device was educed, and some advices for improvement were also given. This layout assessment method carried beforehand in virtual design phase made human factors considered into design in advance, ultimate cockpit would meet design philosophy centered on human, and the problems such as delaying period and increasing expense for doing poorly done work over again were reduced, design efficiency was improved greatly.