SBIR/STTR Award attributes
Rotorcraft flight simulation provides a cost effective resource for handling qualities evaluation and pilot training in particular for shipboard launch and recovery operations. Furthermore, simulation fidelity can be enhanced when motion and body force cues are provided to the pilot. In Phase I, Continuum Dynamics, Inc. (CDI) examined methods to develop cueing strategies that combine high-fidelity aerodynamic models to characterize the rotorcraft operating environment with human perception models to characterize how this environment is processed to infer self-motion. Initial validation of the modeling framework and demonstration using a dynamic seat was performed in Phase I. The proposed Phase II program will continue development and validation of the motion / body force cueing algorithm framework, as well as perform test and evaluation using piloted simulation. Simulation testing will evaluate multiple levels of cueing fidelity, in addition to the modeling framework used to develop and implement cueing strategies given available hardware constraints. Successful completion of the Phase II will provide a suitably mature technology baseline including models, algorithm design, and dynamic seat hardware that can be transitioned to fleet trainers for naval helicopter and tiltrotor aircraft.
