Research papers

Flight simulators. Part 1: Present situation and trends. Part 2: Implications for training

The present situation and developments in the technology of flight simulators based on digital computers are evaluated from the standpoint of training airline flight crews.

A Laboratory Glass-Cockpit Flight Simulator for Automation and Communications Research

A laboratory glass-cockpit flight simulator supporting research on advanced commercial flight deck and Air Traffic Control (ATC) automation and communication interfaces has been developed at the Aviation Operations Branc…

Rotorcraft Flight Dynamics and Controls Research at NASA

In recent years, NASA has invested in key activities in the areas of flight controls, handling qualities and operations of rotorcraft for civilian applications.

Runway Texture and Grid Pattern Effects on Rate-of-Descent Perception

To date, perceptual errors occur in determining descent rate from a computer-generated image in flight simulation. Pilots tend to touch down twice as hard in simulation than in flight, and more training time is needed in…

Flight simulator platform motion and air transport pilot training

The effect of a flight simulator platform motion on the performance and training of a pilot was evaluated using subjective ratings and objective performance data obtained on experienced B-727 pilots and pilots with no pr…

Flight simulator fidelity assessment in a rotorcraft lateral translation maneuver

A model-based methodology for assessing flight simulator fidelity in closed-loop fashion is exercised in analyzing a rotorcraft low-altitude maneuver for which flight test and simulation results were available.

A Methodology for Evaluating the Fidelity of Ground-Based Flight Simulators

An analytical and experimental investigation was undertaken to model the manner in which pilots perceive and utilize visual, proprioceptive, and vestibular cues in a ground-based flight simulator.

Comparison of Different Methods of Grading a Level Turn Task on a Flight Simulator

With the advancements in the computing power of personal computers, pc-based flight simulators and trainers have opened new avenues in the training of airplane pilots.

Development and evaluation of a prototype in-flight instrument flight rules (IFR) procedures trainer

An in-flight instrument flight rules (IFR) procedures trainer capable of providing simulated indications of instrument flight in a typical general aviation aircraft independent of ground based navigation aids was develop…

Development and analysis of a modular approach to payload specialist training

A modular training approach for Spacelab payload crews is described. Representative missions are defined for training requirements analysis, training hardware, and simulations.

Calibration of a pitot-static rake

A five-element pitot-static rake was tested to confirm its accuracy and determine its suitability for use at Langley during low-speed tunnel calibration primarily at full-scale tunnel.

Assessment of simulation fidelity using measurements of piloting technique in flight

The U.S. Army and NASA joined together on a project to conduct a systematic investigation and validation of a ground based piloted simulation of the Army/Sikorsky UH-60A helicopter.

The role of the research simulator in the systems development of rotorcraft

Over the last 20 years, flight simulators became widely accepted as training tools. Moreover, research simulators were used extensively by the fixed-wing industry: in the design, testing, and certification of new aircraf…

Transfer of training and simulator qualification or myth and folklore in helicopter simulation

Transfer of training studies at Fort Rucker using the backward-transfer paradigm have shown that existing flight simulators are not entirely adequate for meeting training requirements.

Simulators for corporate pilot training and evaluation

Corporate aviation relies heavily on simulation to meet training and evaluation requirements. It appreciates the savings in fuel, money, noise, and time, and the added safety it provides.

Flight simulation of a wide-body transport aircraft to evaluate MLS-RNAV procedures

In a collaborative effort between the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) NASA and the U.S. Air Force, a piloted simulation was conducted to look at the issues involved with flying a large, wide-body aircraft in the ai…