Electro-Neuron-Synapse-Interface
The Electro-Neuron-Synapse-Interface (ENSI) is a system designed for establishing neural connections between humans and vehicles equipped with the Connection For Flight Interface system.
Description
The central component of the COFFIN system as of 2040, the ENSI system is responsible for the mental link required to operate said hardware. The conventional hands-on-throttle-and-stick (HOTAS) controls are replaced with a pair of neural sensors on side panels, on which the hands are placed to establish a connection.[1]
The connection made by ENSI allows the pilot to control a jet through their thoughts alone, greatly improving performance in comparison to the traditional HOTAS configuration. On account of its nature, COFFIN-based operation has been called "fly-by-opto", in reference to the popular fly-by-wire systems used by aircraft from previous eras.[1]
In 2040, a popular theory among military figures proposed the remote control of vehicles by a pilot through ENSI from any place in the planet, using the "Tele-Existence" communications system based on the Inter-Satellite-Network. However, while it would reduce the physical wear of a pilot, it carries the risk of potential nerve damage through feedback, along with a noticeable delay between inputs and responses and a vulnerability to hacking. As such, Tele-Existence remained an unfeasible control system.[1]
ONSI
The Opto-Neuron-Synapse-Interface (ONSI) is an advanced variant of ENSI developed by General Resource that elaborates on the original concept, directly linking the pilot's nervous system to the aircraft. It was developed by the company for the experimental X-49 Night Raven aircraft, which was to be flown by Rena Hirose. ONSI works by artificially accelerating the brain's neural network through light stimulation, thus increasing its activity. Use of the hardware requires an special implant on the nape of the subject, which then connects with the central nervous system.[1]
On account of the increased mental activity, ONSI leads to improved combat performance in comparison to ENSI. However, the functional reorientation causes the mental load to increase significantly, which can lead to brain damage. In addition, a risk of post-surgery problems occurring is also present, making ONSI a highly hazardous system.[1]
Trivia
- Ace Combat Infinity made a likely reference to ONSI in its "Ulysses Disaster" trailer, in which a woman (later revealed to be the Butterfly Master) was depicted with implants on the nape of her neck, as seen with Rena.