Validation of simulated dynamic interface testing as a tool in the forecasting of air vehicle deck limits and deck landing aids

Validation results are discussed and compared in confirming the tendency of certain parameters being well represented by simulation with the actual at-sea result. The use of 6 degree-of-freedom motion flight simulator to forecast physical deck motion and deck motion limits, is discussed. Full flight test programs using the Merlin CAE Trainer System at RNAS Culdrose and the Manned Flight Simulator at Naval Air Test Center, Aircraft Division (Patuxent River, Maryland), are described. Using a real-time ship motionbased helicopter recovery monitoring system, pilots perform flight-testing evolutions (DLQ) just as they would at sea. The simulated flight test has 5 (five) essential objectives: assess the capabilities of the Cockpit Dynamic Simulator (CDS) to support or conduct SHOL/NATOPS limits; demonstrate High Level Architecture (HLA) federation along with selected modules e.g. air wake; evaluate recovery safety improvements offered by experimental systems, such as the Landing Period Designator; and determine feasibility of applying these simulators in support of dynamic interface at sea testing. The method, which has been implemented at both centers, gives good performance and correlation with apparent quiescent windows of deck motion. The theoretical approach is described. Results are presented in relation to the stability issues normally confronted by a helicopter at the instant of recovery in progressively difficult conditions. A brief synopsis of several of the integrated HLA modules representing various aspects of the maritime environment, is presented. The summaries include development, simulation and testing of various helicopter recovery aids which were applied during the simulator test. Measurements of instantaneous degree-of-freedom velocity and acceleration are reported, and preliminary comparisons are made with, and between, aided launch and recovery and non-aided evolutions. © UAV American Helicopter Society (2007).