FAA Office of Aerospace Medicine
Civil Aerospace Medical Institute
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AVIATION MEDICINE REPORTS

Report No: DOT/FAA/AM-96/15

Title and Subtitle: Use of off-the-shelf PC-based flight simulators for aviation human factors research

Report Date: April 1996

Authors: D.B. Beringer

Abstract: Flight simulation has historically been an expensive proposition, particularly if out-the-window views were desired. Advances in computer technology have allowed a modular, off-the-shelf flight simulation (based on 80486 processors or Pentiums) to be assembled that has been adapted, with minimal modification, for conducting general aviation research. This simulation includes variable flight instrumentation, forward, 45 and 90 degree left external world views, and a map display. Control inputs are provided by high-fidelity analog controls (e.g., damped and self-centering yoke, high-performance throttle quadrant, gear, flap, and trim controls; and navigation radio frequency select).

The simulation is based upon two commercially available flight simulation software packages, one originally designed as an instrument flight trainer and the other as a "game"-type flight simulation. The provisions of these packages are discussed highlighting their particular research capabilities. as well as their limitations. The comparatively low cost and ease of assembly/integration allow multiple "standardized" systems to be distributed for cooperative inter-laboratory studies. The approach appears to have utility for both research and training.

Key Words: Personal Computer-Based Aviation Flight Simulation, Simulator Research, Instrument Flight Psychology, Applied Psychology

No. of Pages: 17