Advanced Flight Simulation Facility for Research on Sea-Based Operations of Rotorcraft

Funds are requested to purchase equipment for an advanced rotorcraft simulation facility to be used in research and education related to handling qualities and advanced control system design for sea-based rotorcraft. The simulator will facilitate ongoing research and educational programs at Penn State under the Sea-Based Aviation National Naval Responsibility program. The simulator includes a six-degree-of-freedom motion platform, a six-channel dome projection visual system, and a programmable control loader system. These will be coupled with a simulation cab donated to Penn State by Bell Helicopter. Penn State has operated a fixed-base rotorcraft simulator with a three-channel visual system since 2008. The system has been used to support educational activities, numerous DoD and industry supported research programs, and a number of basic research programs specifically focused on shipboard operations of Navy rotorcraft. The proposed facility represents a substantial upgrade in simulation fidelity compared to the existing simulator at Penn State. It will significantly enhance the value of current and future research programs; notably the wide field of view (210° horizontal and 70° vertical) dome display and motion cueing system will increase fidelity or simulations of maritime operations. The state-of-the-art six channel visual system will include automatic calibration of image warping and blending. This facility will enhance basic research on handling qualities for maritime operations. It will also facilitate development and evaluation of advanced control systems and cueing systems that enhance safety and reduce pilot workload during shipboard launch and recovery in adverse weather, high winds, and high sea states. The simulator will also be used for controls, handling qualities, and safety research for other military and civil rotorcraft missions.