Er . . . have they thought this through?

I'm a little . . . er . . . perturbed by a suggestion from Boeing.

Boeing has floated the possibility of using vibrating cockpit seats as an alternative mechanism to visual and aural indicators on the flightdeck.

. . .

The 27 January patent document, whose authors include Boeing chief test pilot Frank Santoni, describes a mechanism comprises two travelling probes capable of vibrating at various amplitudes, frequencies and durations, depending on the nature of the required alert.

This could be pre-programmed to ensure timely intervention at specific points in the flight. But the document also shows that it could be activated, if necessary, by external interaction from air traffic control.

Boeing's document suggests the mechanism may provide overflight prevention capability. The system could also be used to obtain the attention of pilots who are not responding to radio calls.

There's more at the link.

They want to put "two traveling probes" in "vibrating cockpit seats"? Really?

This reminds me irresistibly of an article last year in Gizmodo, which asked "What do you get when you cross a sex toy with a bicycle seat?" The answer (which you'll find at the link - it may not be safe for work) may surprise you.

Boeing might want to re-think this idea - or risk re-defining membership of the "Mile High Club" in a whole new way! (Of course, pilots might find that an . . . er . . . intriguing possibility!)





Peter