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A WIDE FIELD-OF-VIEW CRT PROJECTION SYSTEM WITH OPTICAL FEEDBACK FOR SELF ALIGNMENT

Paul Lyon

Evans & Sutherland Computer Corporation

Evans & Sutherland have developed a multi-channel CRT projection system.  This system uses microprocessor technology with optical feedback to provide self-alignment for color-hue, intensity, color-convergence, geometry, and focus.  By replacing drift-prone analog correction circuits with digital circuits and D/A converters, system drifts are limited to gain and offset errors.  These errors are optically detected and corrected in "real time" by the microprocessor.  Geometry drifts can be detected and corrected to within 1/4 of a pixel.  Because this projection system is CRT based, image generator, lens, and projection angle induced distortions as large as 30% can be corrected by the projector's digital electronics.  The projection system self-alignment capabilities together with edge matching make possible the tiling of multiple channels.  This facilitates improved brightness and resolution over wide fields-of-view.  A six channel system, with 30 degree by 30 degree fields-of-view for each channel, using a 12 foot radius screen of unity gain yields 7 ft.-lambert brightness with better than 3 arc-minute resolutions.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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CLOSING THE GAP BETWEEN AIRCRAFT AND SIMULATOR TRAINING WITH LIMITED FIELD-OF-VIEW VISUAL SYSTEMS

Wayne P. Leavy, Engineering Group Leader

Goodyear Aerospace Corporation

Mike Fortin, Manager of Data Base Engineering

Rediffusion Simulation Incorporated

A limited field-of-view (LFOV) visual system for the F-15 flight simulator (FS) - developed and built by Goodyear Aerospace Corporation - would greatly increase the already proved training capability of the FS.  The current F-15 FS, having no visual system, readily handles all its assigned instrument and emergency procedure training tasks.  The LFOV system - capable of adapting to cost parameters - will enhance the overall training capability of the F-15 FS by adding out-of-the-window visual cues.  The overall training capability, particularly in the visual air-to-air and air-to-ground modes, is expected to be significantly improved by the addition of the LFOV system.  The database for the FLOV system is intended to support air-to-ground, air-to-air, and normal airfield operations.  Air Force instructor pilots will evaluate the FLOV for a three-month period by following specific evaluation plans and by using strict grading procedures.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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IMAGE GENERATOR ARCHITECTURES AND FEATURES

Roy Latham

Research and Development Department

The Singer Company, Link Flight Simulation Division

In order to meet user requirements, tradeoffs are made in the implementation of the four functions (scene management, prioritization, geometric processing, and video processing) that comprise a digital image generation system of the sort used for flight training.  This paper discusses how different approaches to image generator architecture affect the features apparent to the user.  Among the architectural variations discussed are programmable versus pipelined geometric processing, and four variations of video processor (scanline, reverse-priority-ordered frame buffering, priority-ordered frame buffering, and distance buffering).  The architectures are compared with respect to system cost, overload sensitivity, and the implementation of anti-aliasing, texture, and translucency features, among others.  Understanding the tradeoffs involved will help designers and users better meet the requirements of a training task.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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PILOT ORIENTED PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT

Joe De Maio, Herbert H. Bell and John Brunderman

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory/Operations Training Division

Flight simulators provide a complete quantitative record of a pilot's flying performance.  Evaluating this record is complicated by the volume of data and by its fine detail, dozens of flight parameters, sampled many times per second.  Automated performance measurement systems (APMS) reduce the volume of data to an amount, which is manageable and understandable.  The usual APMS is aircraft state oriented.  The APMS keys on aircraft state (e.g., X-Y position, bank angle) to define, intervals over which performance data are integrated.  This APMS is relatively insensitive to pilots' intentions and so may average performances, which had differing objectives, based only on their having occurred at the same point during the task sequence. An alternative APMS has been developed which is pilot oriented.  This APMS defines measurement intervals based on control inputs.  Control inputs are identified by discrete changes in flight path.  These intervals are psychologically relevant in that they begin with a goal-directed control input and end with a countervailing input.  By relating performance in the pilot defined intervals to state defined intervals, it is possible to quantify performance on given flight segments (e.g., a level turn), and to specify factors which lead to a given level of performance.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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NEW CONCEPTS IN AIRCREW TRAINING USING COMPUTER GENERATED IMAGERY - A STUDY REPORT

D. Hauck, Engineer

M. Verstegen, Engineer

McDonnell Douglas Electronics Company

The results of a study of the use of computer generated imagery in non-traditional training techniques are reported.  These techniques complement and extend the role of a simulator from that of aircraft replicator to that of a training device.  The study had three primary objectives: l) exploit the flexibility of CGI to generate new concepts in aircrew training methods; 2) develop and demonstrate examples of these concepts; and 3) perform exploratory testing of the examples to assess their effectiveness and pilot acceptance.

For future study, the concept of using the simulator as a specific visual task trainer is discussed.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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ON-LINE TASK ANALYSES IN MAINTENANCE SIMULATION

J. Jeffrey Richardson, Ph.D.

Research Scientist

Denver Research Institute

The Air Force Human Resources Laboratory is currently sponsoring a project to investigate the costs and benefits of interactive, computer-based simulation in support of avionics maintenance training, utilizing a video disc picture data base to represent the actual equipment.  The focus is on simulations, which support the development of genuine troubleshooting expertise--the competence to go beyond prescribed procedures.  A unique aspect of this project is the use of on-line task analyses.  An on-line task analysis is defined as a computer-resident database representing the set of goals and actions employed in accomplishing a task.  Goals are divided into subgoals or actions, serving to decompose the troubleshooting problem into simpler problems.  Actions involve direct manipulation of equipment.  On-line task analyses may be useful in the development and delivery of quality, cost-effective maintenance simulations.  Four benefits of on-line task analyses and a methodology for the development of these analyses are presented.  The associated potential training effectiveness gains and cost savings are currently being tested empirically.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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A COMPARISON OF SIMULATOR PROCUREMENT/PROGRAM PRACTICES: MILITARY VS. COMMERCIAL

John S. Hussar

Director, Commercial Engineering

Link Flight Simulation Division, The Singer Company

The costs of complex military flight simulators have been steadily rising, causing all concerned to carefully evaluate procurement and life-cycle costs of these devices.  In making these evaluations, the issue is often raised that commercial airline simulators of comparable quality can be procured for less money and with shorter schedules.  This paper provides a comparison of military and commercial procurement methods, concentrating on the major differences between them.  It analyzes the key discriminators between military and commercial contract requirements, which collectively cause simulator procurement and program practices to be so different, and costs to vary so widely, when the resultant flight simulators procured by both methods are highly regarded for their training capabilities.  Recognizing that some of the military requirements are unique and necessary, this paper takes the position that military simulator procurement can utilize some of the methods employed in commercial procurements to reduce life-cycle costs.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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CONCURENCY OF DESIGN CRITERIA -- A KEY TO TRAINER READINESS

Jon Casperson

Military Training Systems

B-1B Simulator System PDR Manager

Jerome Jonas

Military Training Systems

KC-135 Simulator Program Manager

Boeing Military Airplane Company

The benefits associated with combat crew readiness are obvious.  What may not be so obvious are the benefits associated with timely acquisition and availability of training and training devices.  As new aircraft programs develop and present aircraft programs mature, the crews must either train on the operational equipment or wait until the associated trainers are developed or updated.  If the trainers are developed and updated in concert with the aircraft program, the Air Force is provided not only with combat-ready crews at the correct time, but also at the correct cost.  The key to keeping the training devices in concert with the aircraft is a Concurrency Program.

On the B-1B program, a complete concurrency program is being addressed.  By complete, it is meant a program that addresses the two major issues associated with keeping the trainer concurrent with the aircraft:

1.        Cost-effective development and distribution of the required design criteria data.

2.        Inherent flexibility designed into the training device to accommodate changes in a cost- effective manner.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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DETERMINING COST AND TRAINING EFFECTIVENESS TRADEOFFS FOR TRAINER DESIGN:   TEST OF AN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL

Dr. Ruth A. Wienclaw

Honeywell Inc.

Dr. Jesse Orlansky

Institute for Defense Analyses

This paper reports the status of an ongoing project to develop a macro model describing the decisions involved in developing training equipment.  The purpose of the model is to assist managers in making such decisions by providing information concerning the tradeoffs between the cost and effectiveness of training provided by different configurations and choices of equipment.  The goals of the current phase of the study were to determine the feasibility of collecting data to empirically test the model and turn it into a practical tool to be used in making decisions relating to trainer design and development, and to perform a preliminary test of the model.

Results of the field data collection led to the conclusion that the data necessary to test the model can be obtained.  However, such measures need to be refined before the model can be turned into a practical tool.  The preliminary test of the model performed in this study resulted in no major modifications of the model.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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COST-EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT MAINTENANCE TRAINING DEVICES: A USER ACCEPTED DESIGN PROCESS

W. F. Jorgensen and P.H.L. Brown

In response to a USAF need for cost-effective and efficient training devices for the F-16 aircraft, a design process which was largely adapted from U. S. Air Force instructional design procedures was used and modified to ensure the efficient integration of these devices within the USAF training and logistics environments.  Two specific and unique training device suites were conceptualized for the F-16 Fire Control and Armament systems.  Physical and functional characteristics were specified for each training device suite to meet the specific hands-on training needs for Fire Control (AFSC 326X6C) and Weapons Control (AFSC 462X0) maintenance technicians.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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TRAINING CAPABILITIES

"THE FACILITY PART OF THE EQUATION"

Jerome S. Kamchi, Configuration Control Manager

Weldon "Bud" Dube', Facility Engineer

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory (AFHRL/OTS) WAFB

The theme of increased readiness through training has an inherent assumption that adequate facilities either exist, can be modified, or can be built to house computerized training devices.  Too often adequate facilities do not exist or require long lead times to acquire.  Training capabilities can become a myth to the realities of not having an adequate facility or of having modern training equipment fail because of facility deficiencies such as high temperatures and power spikes.  But what are adequate facilities for computerized training devices, and how do we acquire them?  This paper will review the time phasing and types of funding available within the Department of Defense for construction projects, design concepts of a flexile modular training building including security and environmental considerations.  Without understanding the time phasing for acquisition of training facilities, the effectiveness of training devices can be reduced to zero.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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VISUAL CUEING EFFECTIVENESS: COMPARISON OF PERCEPTION AND FLYING PERFORMANCE

Joe De Maio

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory/Operations Training Division

Edward J. Rinalducci

Georgia Institute of Technology

Rebecca Brooks and John Brunderman

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory/Operations Training Division

Growing emphasis on simulation of low altitude and air-to-air tactical scenarios has greatly increased the requirement for simulator visual systems capable of providing the pilot high-fidelity out-of-the-cockpit cues.  Evaluation of visual system performance through simulator flying studies has been the primary measure of system quality.  Such studies can be costly and time consuming, and often they provide equivocal results.  The present set of experiments was conducted to investigate the use of psychophysical measurement methodology to provide a quick, low-cost evaluation of the altitude cueing effectiveness of simulator visual displays.  Experiment I examined altitude perception in several visual environments. Experiment II was a validation effort, in which flying performance was evaluated in selected visual environments.   In Experiment I pilots made altitude estimates based on static and dynamic presentations of visual displays containing texture and varying sizes of 3-dimensional objects.  Best-fitting power functions were used to relate perceived altitude to actual altitude.  In Experiment II Air force pilots flew the Advanced Simulator for Pilot Training F-16 through five display selected visual environments at 600 kt and 150 ft AGL.  Reliable differences were found as a function of display variables.  In environments which provided strong altitude cues, pilots were able to fly very close to the designated altitude.  In environments, which provided poorer cues, pilots flew substantially above designated altitude.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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DMA AND CIG: A SHOTGUN WEDDING

                Cary E. Wales and Michael A. Cosman

Evans and Sutherland Computer Corporation

The DMA database and its future enhancements have been hailed as the general solution to creating visual data bases for CIG.  DMA centered approaches have proven marginal or ineffective, however, in providing visual support of low altitude flight since DMA stresses navigation rather than flying skills.

The imagery presented by the CIG system must tell the pilot where he is relative to his map, and where he is relative to the ground.  These are two very different objectives, and emphasizing one may compromise the other.  Heavy emphasis on 'capture criteria' (for map fidelity) has historically resulted in systems, which do an inadequate job of supporting low-level flight, a task that depends on high 'scene density'.  This paper examines the capture criteria and scene densities required to support such missions, and quantifies critical aspects of a 'nap of earth' database.  We will examine various constraints inherent in CIG systems, and their influence on what can be achieved.  We also will discuss database definition strategies, including the use of DMA data, to see where traditional approaches have been deficient in providing the required visual cues.  Then we will present an approach which combines DMA data, new mathematical methodologies and database design strategies, and current production hardware, to meet both the capture criteria and scene density needs of “nap of earth” missions.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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AN ADAPTIVE CBT COURSEWARE AUTHORING SYSTEM TO MEET THE NEEDS OF MILITARY AUTHORS

David Mudrick

David Stone

Hazeltine Corporation

The use of computer-based training (CBT) is rapidly becoming more widespread within the military services.  Courseware production, historically the most cost and labor intensive area of CBT, will become more difficult with the decline in availability of capable authoring personnel.  Reasons for this decline and a potential solution--the development of advanced authoring systems--are discussed.  A description of one such system, called ADAPTTM (for the TICCIT CBT system) is presented.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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USER FRIENDLY AUTHORING LANGUAGES:   AN ALTERNATIVE APPROACH

Charles R. Myers, Jr. and Roger A. Schaefer

Grumman Aerospace Corporation

Two general types of programming languages have been developed for computer based educational systems.  The first type of language, which is patterned after such high order languages as PASCAL or FORTRAN, provides great programming flexibility.  However, its structured, syntactical constructs require either that an experienced programmer be involved in lesson generation or that instructional personnel become skilled in sound programming techniques.  Its use frequently results in other problems as well, such as communication difficulties between instructional and programming personnel in the implementation of the lesson design and development process.  To avoid these problems, the second type of language was developed.  It allows instructional personnel to generate on-line instructional materials without acquiring sophisticated programming skills.  This second category of languages is often thought of a s being "user friendly." Such languages usually take an algorithmic approach to instruction and relay heavily on prompting as the means of lesson program entry.  They serve very well for many applications, but their use has not been without problems.  Not the least of these problems has been a lack of flexibility in the presentation and creation formats.  This paper describes the OMEGA authoring system, a lesson authoring approach that provides instructional personnel with the positive features of both of the above language types.  The approach has been implemented on an educational system that includes capabilities for the integrated use of interactive videodisc and three-dimensional simulation.  The paper first relates some basic facts about computer systems in general, and then discusses the various aspects of user friendliness in the context of educational programming.  It then describes and evaluates both the traditional and OMEGA approaches to user friendly authoring.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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EFFECTIVENESS OF MULTI-YEAR AND ADVANCE PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS

F. S. Belyea

Link Flight Simulation Division, The Singer Company

Experience gained from the use of these types of contracts under the new regulations has proved that, within some restrictions, they have been beneficial to industry as well as cost effective for the Government.  In a typical example, over 30% cost benefit over an annual procurement have been realized in acquisition and early delivery of training devices.  The experience demonstrates the utility and adaptability of these regulations that can be attained through aggressive and innovative use.  Additional changes and use of the regulations and uniform policies implementing the regulations would provide more frequent use of these procurement types.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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MANAGING AIRCRAFT/SIMULATOR CONCURRENCY

Robert W. Best and Lt. Co. James C. Clark

Aeronautical Systems Division

U.S. Air Force Systems Command

Wright-Patterson AFB

"Concurrency" is the word being used to describe the situation when a simulator or other aircrew training devices are required for delivery at the same time as the new aircraft it will support.  If traditional acquisition approaches are applied to concurrent aircraft and simulation programs, it is practically impossible, in many cases, to deliver a fully capable aircrew training device anywhere near the Initial Operational Capability (IOC) of the aircraft.  This is especially true when dealing with aircrew trainers for a complex tactical or strategic weapon system.  Using the B-1B Simulator System program as an example, this paper discusses the risks and management challenges involved with concurrency and an innovative acquisition strategy designed to ensure the availability of aircrew training devices at or before the aircraft IOC.  Included in this strategy are: l) a new approach to preparation of the request for proposals documentation, 2) a competitive preliminary design effort, 3) methods for dealing with the acquisition of simulator design data, 4) the concept of providing the user a limited (interim) training capability early in the program, 5) management of a configuration baseline which evolves along with the simulator design, and 6) retrofit/update of all delivered devices to the final aircraft configuration.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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MANAGING A LOW QUANTITY, HIGH TECHNOLOGY TRAINER DEVELOPMENT  PROGRAM

Lawrence J. Rytter

AAI Corporation

To effectively manage a low quantity, high technology trainer development program, the program management team must consider a variety of trade-offs during the development cycle. These trade-offs stem from the fact that a limited production trainer is neither a prototype nor a production line unit.  This paper presents the issues and trade-off that should be addressed by the program management team prior to and during the trainer development program.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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MARINE CORPS GROUND SIMULATOR TRAINING NEEDS IN THE 1985-1995 TIME FRAME

Paul Patti

Falcon Research

Major J. Marlin

U. S. Marine Corps

This study was initiated to develop a document to be used for the planning and programming of simulation acquisition in support of Marine Corps training.

Generic training task requirements in the ground combat (C) combat support (CS) and combat service support (CSS) fields which can be enhanced through the use of simulation were identified.  Tradeoff analyses were performed to develop prioritized lists of the tasks for which simulators should be developed and of recommended generic-type simulation devices.

The extent of the need for simulation was assessed by determining which of the training task requirements would be improved by the use of simulation, taking into account the technology state-of-the-art (SOA).  Measures of quality of training used included: performance, time to train, training cost, personnel support, technological risk, integratability with other training, and special assets requirements.

This paper describes the methodology applied and the results obtained.  Special emphasis is put on the criteria utilized and the planned future use of the results.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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CHANGING ARTILLERY TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Chris Savinell and Jim Taylor

AAI Corporation

The modern battlefield has created a need for new artillery tactics and equipment.  The need to fight a sustained battle in a nuclear, biological and/or chemical (NBC) environment while maintaining high mobility is a substantial challenge.  New HELP and DSWS Self Propelled Howitzer (SPH) configurations combined with laser rangefinders and computers promise significant increases in artillery effectiveness and efficiency.  Revised tactics and equipment dictate new artillery training requirements.  Digital data, on-board navigation and automatic fire control systems are now included in the primary operating modes.  The responsibilities and technical capabilities of personnel are changing. The challenge is to provide effective training from individualized classroom instruction through integrated live fire exercises.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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COST ANALYSIS OF PROPOSED TRAINING DEVICES FOR DSWS OPERATOR COURSE

Robert V. Guptill

Dynamics Research Corporation

This paper reports on a preliminary training development study (TDS) of the proposed training devices for the operator course of the Division Support Weapon System.  Training device requirements for this system are being determined during the earliest stages of the Life Cycle System Management Model (LCSMM).  The study overcame the lack of data needed for training device decision-making by building upon the comparability analysis techniques embodied in previous applications of the HARDMAN methodology to the Division Support Weapon System.  The results of this study suggested that device-based courses would be substantially less costly than equipment-based courses.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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LOW-ALTITUDE DATABASE DEVELOPMENT EVALUATION AND RESEARCH (LADDER)

Dennis McCormick, Tamara Smith, Frank Lewandowski, and William Preskar

The Singer Company, Link Flight Simulation Division

Elizabeth Martin

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory

Williams AFB

Singer-Link and the Air Force Human Resources Laboratory (AFHRL), Williams Air Force Base, combined efforts to investigate specific visual requirements during low-level, high-speed flight.  Visual information requirements were hypothesized, and an experiment was designed to systematically test the effects of various visual cues upon flight performance.  The experiment tested the effects of visual scene elements in supporting simulator flight tasks of experienced Air Force fighter pilots.  Specific visual factors studied were: 1) the importance of surface texture, 2) the importance of 3-D objects and object type, and 3) the effect of turning and bank angle upon flight performance.  Pilot subjects were able to control flight at a mean altitude of 198 feet and at airspeed of 480 knots.  Test results indicate that both 3-D objects and 2-D terrain surface texture aid controlled low-altitude flight.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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AN APPROACH TO A STANDARDIZED SIMULATOR DATABASE

Thomas W. Hoog, John D. Stengel, Jr., and Michael R. Nicol

Aeronautical Systems Division, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

The current trend in user requirements for databases to support visual, sensor, and radar simulation for training is toward real-world databases that cover large geographic areas.  The production of these databases is an expensive process and typically each new system develops new database generation software, along with a database itself, to meet its own specific needs.   The result is a large amount of redundant effort, since the same geographic area may be modeled or transformed repeatedly for different applications.  This paper will describe an approach to help the Department of Defense (DoD) control the escalating costs of generating and maintaining simulator digital databases.  This approach will be developed through Air Force Project 2851, Common DoD Simulator Digital Database/Transformation Program, a tri-service effort which was initiated at the direction of the Joint Logistics Commanders (JLC) DoD Joint Technical Coordinating Group on Simulators and Training Devices (JTCG-STD).

The objective of Project 2851 is to develop a DoD standard simulator database and common transformation software to support all simulator training devices requiring the use of digital topographic data.  The DoD standard simulator database will provide a common source of digital data that will be specifically compiled to meet training objectives and which will minimize the need to enhance Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) data during the database generation/transformation process for each individual simulator system.  The goal of the common transformation program is to reduce the amount of system unique software for each simulator system.  It will promote a greater degree of database and software compatibility among the many DoD simulator systems.  The results of the project should be improved simulator training capability at reduced development, acquisition, and life cycle cost to the Government.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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DATABASE GENERATION–IMPROVING THE STATE-OF-THE-ART

Patricia A. Widder and Clarence W. Stephens

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory

Operations Training Division

Williams Air Force Base

The development of databases for computer image generation systems is a time consuming, labor intensive process.  While the last ten years have seen tremendous advances in the capabilities and capacities of computer image generation, comparable advances have not occurred in the area of database management.  As visual systems can output more scene detail, they require databases, which contain more information and so, take longer to build.  If some effort is not made to develop methods to build databases more efficiently, the limiting factor for the amount of detail contained in an environment will be the database development time.  This paper will discuss two projects currently underway at the Air Force Human Resource Laboratory (AFHRL), Williams Air Force Base, AZ, which enable databases to be developed much quicker by allowing the modelers to utilize work which has been done in the past by AFHRL or other organizations.  The first project is the development of software to convert databases formatted for one visual system to the format required for another visual system.  The intermediate steps of this process will utilize a "generic database," which is simple a database which contains the minimum information necessary to recreate the environment in any format.  The preliminary test of this effort will be to convert databases between the Advanced Simulator for Pilot Training (ASPT) and the F-111B Visual System Attachment.  If successful, the effort will be extended to transform existing databases from Defense Mapping Agency (DMA) and other visual simulation systems used by the Air Force, Army, and Navy.  When completed, this will alleviate the necessity of completely regenerating the same database by hand when it is to be used on multiple visual systems.  The second project is the development of a library of models.  This library is an on going effort to create a collection of pre-made models that are accurate, usable, and well documented.  An effort is being made to predict which models will be required in the future and to create them before they are needed.  The library will alleviate database modelers having to make every model from scratch every time that model is used in a different database.  These projects and others also under development at AFHRL will allow databases in the future to be generated much more efficiently and quickly than is currently possible for most visual systems.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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HUMAN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS

FOR THE BATTLE GROUP TACTICAL TRAINER

L. Bruce McDonald and Grace P. Waldrop

McDonald & Associates, Inc.

Elizabeth Y. Lambert

Human Factors Laboratory

Naval Training Equipment Center

The U.S. Navy is currently developing a Battle Group Tactical Trainer (BGTT) which provides experiential ware gaming exercises to Naval Officers engaged in tactical decision making and planning courses.  A major design goal for the program is to simplify the man-computer interface such that players and controllers with little or no computer training can interact extensively with the BGTT database.  One step in the design process was to conduct a human engineering analysis of the BGTT's objectives, system functions, information flow, information processing requirements and user requirements, and make hardware and software recommendations that would assist in the achievement of this goal.  This paper discusses the recommended hardware and software features required to simplify operator interface with the training system.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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TRAINING ASSISTANCE TECHNOLOGY

Dr. Thomas J. Hammell

Vice-President, Research and Development

Ship Analytics, Incorporated

Training Assistance Technology is the collection of tools that are provided as part of the training system to assist the instructor in conducting the training process.  They would typically consist of automated capabilities designed to support specific parts of the training process such as to provide detailed postscenario feedback to the trainees.  Many of these capabilities would be implemented as a part of the computer-driven training device, although usually not impacting the simulation fidelity, and thus comprising the training subsystem of the training device.  The Submarine Advanced Reactive Tactical Training System (SMARTTS), the direct product of a long-term research and development program sponsored by the U.S. Naval Training Equipment Center, is the initial preprototype implementation of Training Assistance Technology in an applied environment.  SMARTTS is provided, as integrated with a Submarine Combat Systems Trainer.  Other applications of this generic technology are presented, with detailed examples.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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THE PLATOON GUNNERY SIMULATOR (PGS): A REAL TACTICAL TRAINING TOOL

C. J. Quiniou - Ingenieur Principal de l'Armement

SEFT - Issy les Moulineaux

M. Perrin - Project Manager

THOMSON-CSF Division Simulators

The training requirements and the project schedule for the PGS (Platoon Gunnery Simulator) will be presented by the French counterpart of the PM Trade.  Then the firm under contract for the design and manufacture of the PGS will give a more detailed presentation of the equipment, emphasizing the system features: - an equipment unique in its kind, providing combat training in a classroom for the crews of a platoon of tanks - total compliance with ergonomic aspects - extraordinary detail and realism of the landscapes into which are inset up to 8 fixed and/or mobile targets - consistent representation of all the effects of firing (noise, flash, recoil, observation of the shell trajectory) - perfect adaptation to each type of turret - versatile and easy to use for the instructors.

Two simulators are to be delivered to the French Army in 1984 - 1985.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR SIMULATION

Nicholas Szabo

Research and Development Department

The Singer Company, Link Flight Simulation Division

During the 1980's, a new generation of airborne radar systems will become operational.  These radar will have a number of new capabilities, but their synthetic apertures will have the greatest impact on simulation of the system since they provide a tenfold increase in resolution.  Increased radar landmass simulator resolution is not the only problem implied by this increase.  In particular, the sparsity of the DMA databases presents a challenge in the generation of realistic images.  Other new requirements include the simulation of anomalies caused by Doppler mapping.  For the last two years, Link has conducted an R&D program to explore the requirements of these new generation radars.  This paper reports on the results.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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SIMULATION VS SIMULATION

IN ELECTRONIC WARFARE TRAINERS

Rollin L. Olson

AAI Corporation

The design of an EW trainer involves a decision to simulate EW functions via computer software or to incorporate actual EW hardware within the trainer and stimulate it with required signals.  This paper compares the requirements and relative advantages of software simulation vs. hardware stimulation in EW trainers.  Aspects discussed include cost of hardware and software, computer load, trainer fidelity to real-world conditions, documentation and data requirements, interaction among EW units, testing requirements, and trainer modification.  Both approaches have particular advantages and problems in each of these areas.  In conclusion, the choice of simulation or stimulation, or mixture of both, in a given trainer should be based on careful study of particular circumstances and requirements.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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APPLICATIONS OF A GENERIC SHIP PROPULSION

MODEL FOR ACOUSTIC SIGNATURE SIMULATION

IN SONAR TRAINERS

R. A. Roane

Senior Systems Analyst Engineer

Honeywell Training & Control Systems Operations

R. W. Woolsey

Acquisition Director

Naval Training Equipment Center

This paper describes a generic model for use on a sonar trainer that simulates the propulsion systems (including engines, turbines, shafts, and propellers) for most vessels in use today without predefining the specific vessel types.  These vessel types include surface ships, submarines, torpedoes, and decoys, which the instructors can create or alter by modifying a set of table driven model constants without the necessity of changing the basic structure of the model.  The model provides for realistic simulations of propulsion mode transition dynamics and allows for interruptions of transitions already in progress.  The model is suitable for sonar classification training, and further, is adaptable to a variety of training systems, which would require a high fidelity target radiated acoustic signature simulation.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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A LOW-COST DRIVER TRAINER (LCDT) FOR A TRACKED VEHICLE

John Abraham

General Dynamics Electronics Division

A videodisc-based driving procedures training system is under development by General Dynamics Electronics Division for the United States Marine Corps that will provide training for drivers of the new LVT-7A1 tracked landing vehicle.  This new system, to be delivered in March of 1984, will provide training and practice to new drivers in correct vehicle operation before they drive an actual vehicle.  The system is designed to train 750 students each year in classes of 30 students each.  The LCDT consists of a minicomputer with a master control console, five instructor consoles, and five student stations that replicate the driver's compartment of the LVT-7A1.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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MERCHANT SHIP SIMULATORS

Max H. Carpenter

Special Projects Director

Maritime Institute of Technology & Graduate Studies

As recently as 14 years ago, the various tasks involved with sailing merchant ships was reviewed and emphasis was placed on those considered appropriate for simulator training.  Following this move, development was started by several organizations throughout the world on ship simulators.  This paper presents the story of the work that led up to the completion of two large ship simulators.  The size of these simulators plus motion to simulate heavy weather and a 360-degree horizontal field of view led to many interesting design experiences. The problems, errors and successes that were encountered during the design, development and final construction of these devices should be of importance to future planners of marine simulators.  The mathematical modeling of ship and systems is of importance.  Decisions concerning the bridge instrumentation, performance measurement, and instructor control are based on training requirements.  Of maximum importance is the visual input to the trainee.  The fidelity of the simulator is judged by this presentation.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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THE NAVY'S SHIPHANDLING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT MODEL

Michael J. Hanley

Research Psychologist

Ship Analytics, Incorporated

Dr. D. H. Andrews

Psychologist

Naval Training Equipment Center

The U. S. Navy has undertaken a shiphandling trainer design and development project for the purpose of upgrading existing training.  Naval officers at all career levels have had fewer opportunities to acquire and practice shiphandling skills because of a considerable reduction in underway steaming time.  A functional design has been generated that describes several design alternatives ranging from expensive, full mission, high fidelity, bridge simulators to smaller part-task devices that train principles and concepts.  The Navy has determined that a relatively small, less expensive part-task trainer may meet most of the requirements for training basic and intermediate level shiphandling skills in the areas of shiphandling: alongside, in restricted waters, in open ocean, during mooring and anchoring, and for tactical operations.  A model device has been developed that allows the Navy an opportunity to evaluate each of the proposed trainer subsystems under consideration for final engineering design.  Major subsystems include a computer generated imagery (CGI) visual display, computer aided instruction (CAI) and a situation display that affords immediate and delayed performance feedback during and after training exercises.  Future research using this model will provide important information concerning subsystem training effectiveness and the fidelity requirements for major areas of shiphandling training.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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REAL-TIME CGSI-SINGLE PIPELINE PROCESSOR

Dorothy M. Baldwin

Physicist, Advanced Simulation Concepts Laboratory

Naval Training Equipment Center

Brian F. Goldiez, Systems Engineer

U.S. Army Project Manager for Training Devices

Carol P. Graf

Senior Principal Research Scientist

Honeywell S&RC

Ted W. Dillingham

Engineering Manager, New Technology

Honeywell T&CSC

Non-real-time feasibility was demonstrated in 1982 for a hybrid visual/sensor simulation approach which merges two technologies, Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) and Computer Synthesized Imagery (CSI) to form Computer Generated Synthesized Imagery (CGSI).  This approach holds promise as a cost-effective, attainable method of providing real-time, high detail imagery for visual and/or other sensors, such as FLIR.  Because of the high potential payoff from the development of this hybrid approach, a current program is aimed at demonstrating feasibility of this CGSI technology in real-time.  CGSI uses a modular set of building blocks, which may be configured to meet specific training and simulation requirements.  The pipeline processor is the major element in a CGSI system.  The pipelines accept control commands from the Field of View (FOV)/Controller module and input video data containing objects from the database.  The Pipeline Processor then outputs transformed objects to the scene-construction module and special effects module.  To control risks, a single pipeline is being fabricated and tested before the remaining modules and additional pipelines are fabricated.  The feasibility demonstration of a single pipeline is scheduled for September 1983.  The results of these tests will be included in the oral presentation at the conference, but unfortunately will not be available in time to meet the publication deadline for the written paper.  A description of the test procedure is included here.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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A LASER IMAGE GENERATION SYSTEM FOR HELICOPTER

NAP-OF-THE-EARTH FLIGHT TRAINING

Hin Man Tong

Director of Visual Systems

Link Flight Simulation Division

The Singer Company

The training effectiveness of the camera-modelboard visual system for low-altitude, nap-of-the-earth (NOE) flights, particularly for helicopters, is well established.  Traditional camera-modelboard technology, however, has a number of inherent limitations, which have been overcome by using a laser image generated instead of a TV camera as in the current generation of camer-modelboard systems.  The first full-scale Laser Image Generation (LIG) visual system, developed by Singer-Link under the AH-1S Cobra Helicopter Flight Weapons Simulator contract, will be delivered to the U.S. Army in the near future.  This new visual system offers improvements in many areas, some of which are discussed in this paper, together with the visual system technology involved and performance parameters achieved on the AH-1S simulator.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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FIBER OPTIC HELMET MOUNTED DISPLAY:

A COST EFFECTIVE APPROACH TO FULL VISUAL FLIGHT SIMULATION

Capt. Caroline L. Hanson

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory

Operations Training Division

Williams AFB

Wide field of view, high resolution, detailed visual displays are crucial for the effective simulation of complex air-to-air and air-to-ground combat environments.  Current dome and dodecahedron systems are far too costly and lack the combination of required capabilities.  The Air Force Human Resources Laboratory (AFHRL) is currently developing a fiber optic helmet mounted display (FOHMD) system that has the potential for filling these demanding requirements.  The breadboard FOHMD) system which has the potential for filling these demanding requirements.  The breadboard FOHMD, built through a Canadian Cost-sharing contract with CAE Electronics, displays a head-slaved high-resolution area of interest surrounded by a low-resolution background in color.  The instantaneous field of view is comparable to the view available to a pilot when wearing an Air Force helmet.  Four image generation channels and projectors are used to generate individual displays for each eye.  The imagery is piped to the helmet via coherent fiber optic bundles.  This system is a valuable research tool for studying many of the issues associated with helmet mounted displays such as image stability, resolution/brightness/field of view trade-off, and visual perception/fatigue.  A follow-on phase will refine the basic breadboard design by reducing the number and size of fiber optic bundles, developing improved helmet tracking and refined optics, and researching a multi-mission instructor/operator station.  The fiber optic helmet mounted display shows outstanding potential and may ultimately be the key to high fidelity combat simulation training at the squadron level.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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DIGITAL CONTROL LOADING–A MICROPROCESSOR-BASED APPROACH

D. Parkinson

Link-Miles Division, The Singer Company

This paper reports on a multi-year development effort to provide exact simulation of aircraft primary control systems under all conditions of aircraft control and operation for all regimes of flight and environment conditions.  The development demonstrated the ability to develop realistic models and provide for their exact solution via digital computation while integrated with a highly responsive control force simulation system.  Digital quantization effects are eliminated by very high rates of computation achieved by using dedicated microprocessors within the control loop, resulting in no degradation of control "feel." smoothness, or response.  Further improvements in long-term stability, calibration, and measurement are also achieved.  The paper discloses the results of various comparative analyses between digital and analog, for various force and position servo loops, leading to the development of a microprocessor-based digital control loading system.  Trace comparisons are made between the final breadboard system versus actual aircraft control measurements for force/displacement and dynamic stick response tests to demonstrate the fidelity achieved by the system.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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VHSIC FOR TRAINING SYSTEMS

David P. Glenn

Naval Training Equipment Center

Harold T. Freedman and Dr. James A. Gardner

Honeywell, Inc.

Very High Speed Integrated Circuits (VHSIC) is a new technology, which promises to have a major impact on the training and training device community.  As DoD and industry, in a joint effort, began to pursue this technology in 1980, it quickly became obvious that VHSIC, if successful, would result in more than just an evolutionary change in microelectronics -- it had the potential to revolutionize the way in which we design, build, and use electronic devices.  At this point in 1983 the performance predictions for the VHSIC technology are very close to being achieved.  Not only will we have available to us significant increases in processing throughput, but the VHSIC chips will be smaller, lighter, require less power, and be more reliable than their predecessors.  Cost savings are also predicted.  As these advantages came close to reality in 1982, the Naval Training Equipment Center recognized a tremendous potential in the new chips to improve the future training devices and solve some problems being presented by the limitations of current technology.  Therefore, a study contract was let to Honeywell (one of the six DoD VHSIC contractors) to investigate the impact of VHSIC on training and training devices.  This paper will discuss the results of that study and indicate the future direction in which the VHSIC technology will drive the training community.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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MICROPROCESSORS IN AIRCREW TRAINING DEVICES

Richard J. Sylvester, President

Systems Productivity & Management Corporation

Microprocessors are already embedded in Aircrew Training Devices (ATDs) for display generation, input/output control, and other special purpose applications.  This paper deals with the key factors relating to the use of microprocessor systems (rather than minicomputers) in performing the central computational function for ATDS.  Such factors include key performance parameters to be considered when replacing a 32-bit minicomputer by a system of microprocessors; requirements for a recent Air Force ATD system; benchmarks for computational performance; and specific changes to ATD prime item development specifications.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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DATABASE MANAGEMENT OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

Robert L. Schwing

Director, Research and Development

Link Flight Simulation Division, The Singer Company

The incessant increase in computational power provided by microelectronics has not begun to be matched by corresponding improvements in software productivity.  This not trite observation has especially pernicious implications in the Weapon/Mission simulator field, where massive developments of demanding, new, real-time software in relatively short time spans are a way of life.

This paper describes a new, comprehensive approach to satisfy this need: a software development environment, which relates the total set of information relevant to the software product through database management techniques.  The main elements of the concept include:

1)       Organization of the simulator (software and hardware) into a hierarchical framework, clearly separating functions so that top-down design and modularization will be substantially easier.

2)       Arrangement of all types of product information -- from specifications, through requirements and designs, to code itself -- in an engineering database patterned exactly upon the hierarchical framework in "1" above.

3)       Merging of management status information and configuration control data into the same framework.

4)       Provision of a coherent set of tools to "connect" all elements of the database for development, control, and management purposes.

Progress to date has shown that explicit correlation among all elements of the database can exist and that traceability (location and identification) of each functional entity is readily provided.  Precise configuration is known at each level of development, which inherently leads to configuration management, an automatic "coldstart" capability, and correlation of changes to related information sets.

It is our conviction, based on experience, that the creation of an all-inclusive, databased product development and management system such as the one described herein is essential to cope with the software quality and schedule needs of modern Weapon/Mission simulator development programs.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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SOFTWARE DOCUMENTATION SUPPORT

Kerry M. Atchinson

Boeing Military Airplane Company

Generation and support of documentation accompanying software development is historically a low-efficiency, high-cost undertaking.  Frequently the situation arises where a choice must be made to fulfill documentation requirements and incur cost and schedule overruns, or to complete the software product in a reasonable time and deliver less than adequate documentation.  The primary difficulties are efficient generation, quick and thorough update, and document correlation on large projects.  Automated methods can alleviate these problems by (1) application of word processing systems to the generation and editing of descriptive text, (2) use of a database manager-type control of system interface definition and document correlation, (3) use of pseudo-code for first-time design and flowchart generation, and (4) the use of special purpose software tools to perform analysis of code for flowchart and module interface updating.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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SOFTWARE PROGRESS TRACKING SYSTEM

T. Michael Moriarity

AAI Corporation

The increasing complexity of software systems combined with the requirements for structured and modular designs have increased many fold the number of software elements developed and delivered on recent simulator programs.  The increased number of elements plus the traditionally "soft" milestones used to measure progress has made monitoring software development and predicting future progress time consuming, subjective, and often unreliable.

A software progress tracking system, which uses an earned point scheme, has been successfully used to monitor software development on several large simulator programs.  Points are assigned for each step in the software development cycle on a per element basis.  The steps are "hard" milestones in which a generated product is accepted by program management.  As the products are accepted he associated points are earned.  The ratio of earned points to total possible points is compiled on an element, functional area, or total software system basis to determine progress achieved.  A report generator program, usually resident on the simulator computational system, tabulates the data in a variety of management reports.

The system as implemented is flexible, highly automated, and is closely coupled to configuration management systems and software quality assurance procedures to ensure validity of data.  The accumulated point values are quickly ascertained, objective, and based on the current state of program development.  Simple calculations or comparisons of the accumulated point values provide an accurate measure of progress, deviation from schedule, and prediction of future progress.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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USER-FRIENDLY SOFTWARE–THE ROLE OF THE USER

Ed Callahan, Ph.D.

Essex Corporation

This paper presents a definition of the term "user-friendly" as it relates to computer software-human interaction.  The software generation process, the various types of computer software users, and the role users should play in the software generation process are described.  The author strongly recommends direct involvement on the part of the user(s) or computer software systems.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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PASSIVE WEAPON TRAINING SYSTEM

German Von Thal

McDonnell Aircraft Co.

NOT AVAILABLE FOR PUBLICATION

COFT--A NEW CONCEPT IN TANK GUNNERY TRAINING

Donald E. Jones

Naval Training Equipment Center

Richard K. Hopkins

General Electric Company

Simulation and Control Systems Department

The problem of developing and sustaining armor crew gunnery proficiency has become increasingly challenging in recent years due to operational and training costs and limited range availability for realistic gunnery training.  The Unit-Conduct of Fire Trainer (U-COFT) was thus developed to provide armor force commanders the capability for improving and sustaining crew gunnery combat readiness between range firing periods.  A total training system consisting of crew station, visual, and instructional subsystems, the U-COFT is housed in three environmentally controlled shelters that afford limited mobility and self-contained operation.  It will be deployed with armor and infantry battalions in 44 locations throughout the free world.  The U-Cost instructional system features an extensive library of exercises which train all the gunnery tasks required of a crew in combat, plus an adaptive training management function that permits each crew to improve its proficiency at a rate commensurate with its ability.  This paper briefly describes the unique instructional features incorporated in the U-COFT training system.

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INCREASED READINESS THROUGH MODULARITY

Frederic W. Snyder

Military Training Systems, Systems Engineering

Boeing Military Airplane Company

A current DOD thrust to develop and apply modularity approaches, tools and standards to training simulator development and acquisition is expected to yield benefits in reduced cost and acquisition time, as well as improved supportability.  Top-down functional design of stand-alone modules and well-defined interfaces will enhance simulator system designs.  This paper examines the effects and benefits of modularity, which are expected to increase readiness through earlier trainer availability dates and increased supportability.  The derivative effect of modularity appears to provide new options that can operate to support increased defense readiness.

This paper is available on the I/ITSEC Compendium CD-ROM.

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A FOUR-DIMENSIONAL THUNDERSTORM MODEL FOR FLIGHT SIMULATORS

J. T. Klehr

Link Flight Simulation Division, The Singer Company

The recent airliner crash at New Orleans indicates that windshears due to thunderstorm downbursts challenge the most experienced and well-trained pilots.  Much controversy exists as to the correct flight procedures for takeoff and landing under downburst windshear conditions.  Flight simulators provide a safe environment to test procedures and train pilots for hazardous flight situation, but in the past, flight simulators have been unable to realistically duplicate the complex changes that occur temporally and spatially in real-world thunderstorms.  A thunderstorm model based upon real-world data has now been developed for flight simulators, which provides twelve meteorological flight parameters which change in three-dimensional space and over a thirty-minute time span with color weather radar representations of the storm coordinated in time and space.  The storm data set (representin a 20nm x 20nm x 3200-ft volume) is based upon multiple Doppler radar analyses of a 1978 Illinois thunderstorm.  This data has been supplemented by a well-documented, fine resolution, downdraft model to provide realistic values in the hazardous regions of the sudden downdraft and its resulting turbulent gust front.  By selecting different downdraft intensities and storm translational speed, the instructor may simulate a mild thunderstorm or one in which it would be impossible to fly.  By positioning the storm's downdraft with respect to the runway in time and space, numerous different thunderstorm situations may be simulated.  This thunderstorm model represents a breakthrough in the simulation of the storm environment and four-dimensional windshear effects for flight simulation.

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THE PROGRAM PLANNING REVIEW (PPR)

" - - MILESTONE OR MILLSTONE"?

R. B. Walker, Program Manager

General Electric Company

R. E. DeNezza, Program Manager

USAF/ASD/SIMSPO

Current Air Force practices invokes the Program Planning Review (PPR) and its associated data submissions and review meetings on all new simulator procurements.  The PPR, as defined by Air Force policy, provides both the contractor and Air Force program offices with insight into the program plans to insure successful completion of all contract objectives.

The PPR requirements have been the subject of recent comments, studies, and reviews.  The resulting opinions have consistently questioned the "need" for the in-depth planning and related data submissions required to support the PPR Milestone within the first four months after contract award.  The arguments both for and against concern the quantity of data submitted the number of reviews scheduled, and the resulting impact on the contractor.

This paper summarizes the successful completion of the PPR requirements on a current Air Force simulator contract where proper preparation and implementation of the program plans by the contractor, and prompt, explicit review by the government, resulted in a program baseline which has met all cost and schedule objectives to date.

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SOME MANAGEMENT INITIATIVES TO IMPROVE EMBEDDED COMMERCIAL COMPUTER AND TRAINING DEVICE LIFE CYCLE SUPPORT

Wayne W. Gamble

Veda Incorporated

This paper discusses some of the problems associated with the use of commercial off-the-shelf computer systems in aircrew training devices and offers some suggestions for improving the life cycle management of commercial computer systems in such military training devices.  The impacts of commercial practices and computer capacity limitations are addressed as well as acquisition and logistics management considerations.  Improved planning and management effectiveness will be needed in the 1980s to ensure that computer systems are supportable and/or replaced during the life cycle of training devices systems.  Both acquisition and logistics support agencies will need to recognize that the life cycle of commercial computer systems may be limited by the lack of computer and peripheral vendor support and by the lack of expansion capability.  Accordingly, training devices will need to be designed and developed to accommodate computer expansion or replacement.  Computer system expansion or replacement will need to be anticipated to minimize training device to weapon system configuration differences caused by a lack of computer system supportability or capacity.  This process could be termed "Pre-Planned Product Preservation (P4)".

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TRAINING THE MULTIPLE-AIRCRAFT COMBAT ENVIRONMENT

Lt. Col. Peter A. Cook

Capt. Caroline L. Hanson

Air Force Human Resources Laboratory

Operations Training Division

Williams Air Force Base

Aircrew training devices for the teaching of tactical combat maneuvering currently range from simple desktop trainers to large weapon system trainers with limited visual systems.  Still missing from the spectrum is the capability to practice full-mission multi-ship scenarios.  At present such training can only be provided by major field exercises such as Red Flag, at great expense.  A network of hostile-environment simulators could greatly increase the frequency of training, provide more realistic training, and keep pilots at a higher state of readiness than by using aircraft along.  The Air Force Human Resources Laboratory is exploring technology requirements for multiple aircraft simulation under Project 2743, the Combat Mission Trainer (CMT) program.  The goal is to develop a full-mission combat simulator affordable at the wing level and capable of training all air-to-air and air-to-ground tasks.

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LOGISTIC SUPPORT - A COMPUTER MANUFACTURER'S VIEWPOINT

George T. McCaskill

Vice President, Marketing

Burtek, Incorporated

When the Department of Defense directed that commercially available standard off-the-shelf computer systems would be used for military simulation programs in place of special militarized computers the intent was clear: Cut costs!  Now, more than a decade after that DOD directive, it is possible to look back, recognize the value of the decision, and identify many of the problem areas that have been created for the military simulation program organizations.  The military services have attempted to address the problems posed by the apparent conflict of needs but have met with minimal success to date.  This paper is a computer manufacturer's look at some of the support problems that have been created by the use of commercially available computer systems, some of the solutions that have been considered, and some actions that should be explored if resolutions to the problems are to be achieved.

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PROFIT RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE

SIMULATION AND TRAINING EQUIPMENT INDUSTRY

John L. Mitchael

Military Training Systems

Business Manager

Boeing Military Airplane Company

The objective of increased readiness through training can be enhanced through mutual military/industry efforts to support a viable earnings position.  Strong financial health of companies competing in the market provides the resources, knowledge and systems that supply advanced technology and products that meet military training objectives.

Government agencies can contribute by providing clear definitions of the product needed, by imposing only specifications necessary to meet acceptable quality, and by contracting provisions commensurate with program risk.  With firm product goals and applicable specifications, industry can minimize risk through sound planning and stable performance.

Industry can contribute by developing resources and systems that are efficient and effective in providing training products.  Capability growth fosters innovativeness in advanced planning and productiveness, which are significant to providing quality products on schedule at the lowest cost possible.  Industrial growth to bring this about is possible only if industry is in a strong financial position.

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AUTOMATED SOFTWARE TESTING

Dr. Robin Spital

Principal Development Engineer

AAI Corporation

In order to obtain the enhanced testing capability required to test sophisticated trainer software and to ensure the quality of test documentation, AAI has developed an automated software testing system.  Its advantages include:

1)       Automatic production of all test documentation.

2)       Guaranteed agreement of the values inserted into or read from memory during a test with test documentation.

3)       Guaranteed consistency of test documentation with other documents.

4)       The ability to compare or insert repetitively large buffers of data; testing is no longer subject to the limitations of hand-insertion of data, or visual comparison of data.

5)       Simultaneous updating of both test and test documentation through the editing of test disc files.

6)       The ability to save large areas of memory for future comparisons, a feature especially useful for software integration.

This paper examines the AAI software package in detail.

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AUTOMATIC AUDIT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

Gary A. Brown

AAI Corporation

Management of a software development project is typically characterized by a lack of control and poor projections.  Status reports are notoriously inaccurate; worse yet, the prerequisite software audits drain development resources from the design effort.

This paper describes an automated procedure for performing software audits and generating status reports.  This procedure reduces the time required for both tasks significantly, and makes status reports available upon demand.  Timely status reports furnish management with an early warning of problem areas so that project control can be exercised.  For example, resources may be reallocated or additional resources employed where these problems are identified.

The Automatic Audit Information System for Software Development (AAIS) procedure has been implemented by AAI Corporation for the development of Device 20B5.  It is based upon the following concept:

1)       A central software development library

2)       Software development milestones and criteria

3)       Functional hierarchies

4)       A development scoreboard.

AAIS provides the 20B5 management with close project control by means of timely audits and concise status reporting.

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