Experience with Piloted Simulation in the Development of Helicopters

Based on examples from several projects this paper reflects MBB's experience with applicability, limitations, acceptance, and effectiveness of helicopter simulation. Some of the key points are the objective and subjective validation of a simulator and the various factors, which influence the acceptance by pilots. In this context it is very important to make a trade-off between simulator sophistication (i.e. cost) and required result i.e. design input in the actual phase of development. Other aspects of simulation effectiveness include evaluation and training of critical flight conditions prior to flight tests as well as involving the customer from early concept studies up to full mission simulations, which gives him more influence on the design and leads to better identification with the product.
This article is from 'Piloted Simulation Effectiveness Held in Brussels, Belgium on 14-17 October 1991 (L'Efficacite de la Simulation Pilotee),' AD-A253 007, p6-1 thru 6-11.