A Fidelity Analysis Tool for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Training Systems Navy SBIR FY2004.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2004.1 Topic No.: N04-027 Topic Title: A Fidelity Analysis Tool for F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Training Systems Proposal No.: N041-027-0 Firm: SDS International, Inc. One Crystal Park 2011 Crystal Drive, Suite 100 Arlington, Virginia 22202 Contact: Fred Patterson Phone: (850) 492-1941 Abstract: In many cases, flight simulator quality is equated to the physical characteristics of hardware/software contained within a system. In conjunction with this practice; the term �fidelity�" is often used to express the compiled performance of various simulator components. In view of these comparisons between mechanical parameters and software performance (for determination of simulator quality) it�|s not unusual that fidelity requirements are often based upon how much technology an organization can afford, instead of assessing the level of technology needed for an optimal training experience (Roza, 1999). Rather than base fidelity requirements solely upon inanimate parameters (optical, mechanical, and piezoelectric) SDS proposes development of objective human compatibility (bioengineering) standards for a more insightful definition of simulator fidelity. To achieve this goal, specific aeromedical parameters will be integrated into bioengineering standards that define the level of compatibility between inanimate simulator components and human perceptual-cognition systems. Specifically, SDS proposes development of simulator fidelity standards based upon known bandwidths of aviation biometrics that are related to sensory and cognitive functions. Among the variables planned for testing are aviation-sensory-spatial-reflexes (e.g., opto-kinetic cervical reflex, torsional opto-kinetic nystagmus, and vestibular ocular reflex shifts) and stick control bandwidths defined by the frequency weighted task complexity index. Benefits: By applying aviation bioengineering standards toward the definition of simulator fidelity, the Navy will be able to better develop flexible, cost-effective flight simulations that pilots will perceive as more realistic. The proposed biometric parameters will also provide simulator designers with a powerful tool for objective measurement of human compatibility with specific flight simulation profiles. In addition to enhancing pilot performance, fidelity standards that promote sensory-spatial compatibility will also have the potential to reduce incidences of simulator sickness; an endemic problem with many flight simulations currently described as having high fidelity. Development of a biometric and component fidelity analysis tool (BCFAT) will: �� Enhance pilot training by generating flight simulations that stimulate the human sensory system in a manner similar to what occurs in cockpit environments. �� Reduce the potential for negative training by creating flight simulations that invoke the same spatial strategies used with real world aviation environments. �� Decrease costs associated with flight simulator development by providing an objective determination of how much hardware/software technology is required to produce an optimum pilot training experience. Potential civilian beneficiaries of the BCFAT program would include: �� Civilian air carriers who have an ever increasing need for optimal and low-cost flight simulation systems. �� Non-commercial civilian pilots required to have effective simulator training, with limited financial resources. �� Gamming and Medical professionals that utilize either virtual or augmented reality simulator environments could easily utilize the proposed fidelity analysis tool as a means to enhance human and machine compatibility. With respect to broadened use of the BCFAT among other DOD components, it would be relatively straightforward for SDS to transition these benefits to other military flight simulation programs. Return