[Project THOUGHT] Pilot Pod Revisions

When it was decided to make the Pilot Pod into the primary cockpit system for Project THOUGHT, the following goals were set:

* Minimal volume and profile (to minimize potential damage to pilot and maximize the ability of the pod to evade unwanted detection if deployed)
* Adjustable internal seat to switch between Mecha and Starfighter configurations
* Volumetric Panoramic Monitor based on Active Camouflage and [[:stararmy:volumetric_windows]]
* Make many self-contained systems with existing Power Armor and Escape Pod technology (life support, stasis, PSC, computing, etc)
* Integrate computer core into ejectable cockpit rather than the Mecha itself
* Optionally pilot without tactile interface and load panoramic data directly into digital brain (full telepathic piloting)
* Run selected elements of the [[:kageroject_thought:thought_software_package]] as well as an AIES Virtual machine within a CIES or EIES
* Make the unit able to store as many pieces of personal weaponry and survival items as the pilot is likely to possibly need

Due to a need for superior video and audio processing, the Immersion System was later added as a software upgrade to all Pilot Pods in YE 33.

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Control Methods

There are two methods of controlling this pod, and the systems it is connected to. One is the Conventional Interface, in which multipurpose consoles extend and flip from the arms of the pilot's chair, and the pilot uses them to control the unit while watching his or her environment on the volumetric panoramic display. The other is the THOUGHT Interface, where SPINE or Mental Transceivers built into the chair allow a direct connection with the Compact Integrated Electronics System (CIES) and the THOUGHT Software Package; allowing the pilot to see, feel, and move via the suit as if it were part of their body, with numerous additional micromanaging options and benefits. The Immersion System helps to manage vision and audio, further enhancing the experience, but adding a learning curve for the most advanced options – especially for those not used to Neko-style Skin Vision.

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Immersion System

Added in YE 33 as a software upgrade, the Immersion System helps manage advanced three-dimensional audio and video capabilities while also providing a standardized format for all systems using Pilot Pods. It is capable of advanced panoramic vision and sound, triangulation of both, zoom, and overlays. In this configuration, it interacts seamlessly with the THOUGHT Software Package to paint as complete a picture of the situation for the pilot as possible.

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Mental Transceivers

These are the same mental transceivers as found in the Comfort Bed; and have been configured to work for all aspects of the THOUGHT Software Package, the Immersion System, and the CIES. These transceivers are not necessary if SPINE is in use, but are designed to function even if the pilot is wearing a spacesuit and helmet.

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When it was decided to make the new Pod, the following goals were set:

* Further minimize volume and profile by containing the pilot in a fetal position
* Massage the pilot’s back and body with a hemosynthetic insert to prevent cramping or bodily discomfort after leaving the pod
* Remove redundant and unneeded components
* Optimize and compact necessary self-contained systems
* Retain computer core into ejectable cockpit
* Run the same software as its predecessor ( THOUGHT Software Package, as well as an AIES Virtual machine within a CIES or EIES)
* Make the unit able to hold a Star Army Butt Pack

Due to a need for superior video and audio processing, the Immersion System was later added as a software upgrade in YE 33.

Click to expand...

Control Methods

The Conventional Interface has been fully removed from the Type 33 Pilot Pod, leaving only the THOUGHT Interface; where SPINE or Mental Transceivers built into the walls of the pod allow a direct connection with the Compact Integrated Electronics System (CIES), the THOUGHT Software Package, and the Immersion System. This allows the pilot to see, feel, and move as if the pod or compatible connected hardware were part of their body, with numerous additional micromanaging options and benefits.

The THOUGHT Interface is intended to deliver an experience similar to that of a Star Army Power Armor, but notably enhanced and with many limitations removed. The pilot uses a bidirectional mental link with the CIES, Immersion System, and THOUGHT Software Package (filtered by the PSC) to allow them sensory and motor control of the machine, as if it were actually their body. Other options are possible as well, though it takes a notable degree of practice to unlock the true potential of this mode. The capabilities the THOUGHT Interface allows are designed to be only limited by the design of the unit controlled, and the pilot's skills. It is controlled by thought alone – with no tactile input whatsoever.

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Mental Transceivers

These are the same mental transceivers as found in the Comfort Bed; and have been configured to work for all aspects of the THOUGHT Software Package, the Immersion System, and the CIES. The transceivers built into the pod’s inner hull are designed to function even if the pilot is wearing a spacesuit and helmet. It should be noted that in addition to the transceivers in the interior hull scanning the mind of the occupant, there is also a SPINE interface present.

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Immersion System

Added in YE 33 as a software upgrade, the Immersion System helps manage advanced three-dimensional audio and video capabilities while also providing a standardized format for all systems using Pilot Pods. It is capable of advanced panoramic vision and sound, triangulation of both, zoom, and overlays. In this configuration, it interacts seamlessly with the THOUGHT Software Package to paint as complete a picture of the situation for the pilot as possible.

Click to expand...