Research Goal: Perform piloted simulation research on Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVO) for future air vehicle concepts
Educational Goal: Integrate flight simulation and flight simulators as a fundamental teaching aid for classroom instruction
The simulators are designed for a high level of flexibility/reconfigurability with respect to:
* Simulation models: Flight & system dynamics modeling approach (model structure, analysis tools used, fidelity level)
* Flight control architecture: Control laws, modes, automation levels, etc.
* Inceptors: Design, location, and functional mappings to commanded flight states
* Cockpit displays: Layouts, function, and interaction of pilot with instrument and synoptic displays
Flight Simulator #1: Reconfigurable Flight Simulator Mark II (RFS Mk II)
Location: Gavin Building, Room 257
Cabin: Reconfigurable cabin with adjustable width and ceiling height, can be configured to side-by-side and tandem seating configurations
External visuals: 4K display (1) for front view, 1440p displays (4) for side views; graphics rendered using X-Plane or FlightGear
Cockpit displays: 4 touchscreen displays, 3 on panel and 1 overhead
Inceptors: Side-sticks x 2, pedals x 2, engine control lever(s); reconfigurable inceptor layout, can accommodate custom-designed inceptors
Simulation model: MADCASP (MATLAB/Simulink)
Computers: 5 in total; 1 x MSC, 3 x IGC, 1 x DCC
Flight Simulator #2 (Sim 2)
Location: Brown-Kopel Building, Room 0211
Cabin: Donated Cessna 152 cabin
External visuals: Back projection using 3 x 1080p projectors; graphics rendered using X-Plane or FlightGear
Cockpit displays: 3 touchscreen displays
Inceptors: Yokes x 2, pedals x 2, trim wheels x 3, engine control levers x 3, flap lever, gear lever
Control loading: Control loading boxes for roll, pitch, and yaw control axes; developed in-house, located aft of seats
Simulation model: MADCASP (MATLAB/Simulink)
Computers: 4 in total; 1 x MSC, 1 x IGC, 1 x DCC, 1 x CLC
Flight Simulator 3 (Sim 3)
Location: Brown-Kopel Building, Room 0211
Cabin: Donated Diamond DA-40 cabin
External visuals: 5 x 1080p overhead projectors projecting on 16 foot diameter 270 degree horizontal field-of-view cylindrical screen; graphics rendered using X-Plane or FlightGear
Cockpit displays: 3 touchscreen displays
Inceptors: Center-sticks x 2, pedals x 2, engine control levers
Simulation model: MADCASP (MATLAB/Simulink)
Computers: 4 in total; 1 x MSC, 2 x IGC, 1 x DCC
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are you just running X-Plane?
A: We use X-Plane just to render the “external visuals”, i.e., the view out-the-window. We do not use X-Plane’s internal flight dynamics engine, which is deactivated. The aircraft dynamics model and the equations of motion are solved using MADCASP, which generates the aircraft trajectory. This is then fed to X-Plane to generate the external visuals.
Q: Can you use any other programs to render the external visuals?
A: At present, we can use X-Plane or FlightGear. We expect to be able to use Prepar3D (P3D) in the near future.
Q: Do the simulators have motion platforms?
A: At present, no. They are fixed-base simulators.
Q: How much did it cost to build these simulators?
A: That information is classified.