Significance of a Qualitative Handling Assessment Approach Towards Motion System Requirements for Flight Simulators

摘要

Progress drives regulation and regulation drives progress. The aircraft simulator is a classic example where one aspect is constantly trying to push the other to be a step ahead. The full flight simulator consists of various engineered sub-systems, the merits for their inclusion having stood the test of time with their contribution towards the training value of the simulation. Motion is one such sub-system for which opinions can be greatly divided. However, a vast majority of the current high fidelity simulators use motion to enhance the fidelity of their simulation. In fact, to achieve certain levels of training capabilities, a simulator must have motion- the regulations demand it. The compatibility between the requirements of the standards by which they are bound and the progress in technology and reliability that has been accomplished often does not justify the means. Wherever possible, the process of evaluation is carried out with a combination of qualitative and subjective approach. Quantifying an assessment facilitates the interpretation of the value judgment assigned to the level of simulation. The ultimate goal in this business of airplane simulation- which include the manufacturer, the regulator and the training entity, is really the quality of training imparted to the pilot. The individual goal of each sub-system of the simulation then should be to drive and complement each other in order to achieve that ultimate training aid. Any method of attaching degrees of objectivity to the quality of the motion system should therefore be a better assessment than just checking performance in isolation or at extremities where normal simulation rarely go. This paper attempts to sort out the facts behind the existing nature of the current requirements for commercial simulators and the aspects which are considered to be of importance to a motion-based simulator. The nature of regulations and motion are discussed and suggestions are proposed on how the motion system could be regulated for enhanced fidelity rather than just mechanical performance capability.