99-523: The term Link Trainer , also known as the "Blue box" and "Pilot Trainer" is commonly used to refer to a series of flight simulators produced between the early 1930s and early 1950s by Link Aviation Devices , founded and headed by Ed Link , based on technology he pioneered in 1929 at his family's business in Binghamton, New York . During World War II , they were used as a key pilot training aid by almost every combatant nation. The original Link Trainer
198-449: A simulation model are the equations of motion for the aircraft. As the aircraft moves through atmosphere it can exhibit both translational and rotational degrees of freedom . To achieve perception of fluent movement, these equations are solved 50 or 60 times per second. The forces for motion are calculated from aerodynamical models, which in turn depend on state of control surfaces, driven by specific systems, with their avionics, etc. As
297-466: A stick shaker . Another form of tactile input from the pilot are instruments located on the panels in the cockpit. As they are used to interact with various aircraft systems, just that may be sufficient for some forms of procedure training. Displaying them on a screen is sufficient for the most basic BITD simulators and amateur flight simulation , however most classes of certified simulators need all buttons, switches and other inputs to be operated in
396-623: A Canadian Forces base along with other operational and support units. The rank of general is held when an air officer is Chief of the Defence Staff . The last air force officer who served as Chief of the Defence Staff was General Thomas J. Lawson , who was appointed to the position in 2012. The commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force holds the rank of lieutenant-general . Divisions are commanded by major-generals. Brigadier-generals are typically second-in-command of
495-420: A base. Inside the cockpit is a single pilot's seat, primary and secondary aircraft controls, and a full suite of flight instruments. The base contains several complicated sets of air-driven bellows to create movement, a vacuum pump that both drives the bellows and provides input to a number of aircraft instruments, a device known as a Telegon oscillator that supplies an 85 VAC 800 Hz sinusoidal reference signal to
594-520: A day), and 180,000 first officers evolving to captains . The largest manufacturer is Canadian CAE Inc. with a 70% market share and $ 2.8 billion annual revenues, manufacturing training devices for 70 years but moved into training in 2000 with multiple acquisitions. Now CAE makes more from training than from producing the simulators. Crawley-based L3 CTS entered the market in 2012 by acquiring Thales Training & Simulation 's manufacturing plant near Gatwick Airport where it assembles up to 30 devices
693-461: A division. Wings are commanded by colonels. Squadrons are commanded by lieutenant-colonels. Majors are typically second-in-command of squadrons, or flight commanders. Captains, lieutenants and second lieutenants are the junior level leaders in RCAF squadrons and headquarters. On 1 April 2015, the rank structure and insignia changed. The rank of private was replaced with that of aviator, represented with
792-581: A dozen Army pilots were killed. The Army Air Force hierarchy remembered Ed Link and his trainer. Link flew in to meet them at Newark Field in New Jersey, and they were impressed by his ability to arrive on a day with poor visibility, due to practice on his training device. The result was that the USAAF purchased six Link Trainers, and this can be said to mark the start of the world flight simulation industry. The principal pilot trainer used during World War II
891-476: A flat surface, as well as brightness in regions with overlapping projections. There are also different shapes of screens used, including cylindrical, spherical or ellipsoidal. The image can be projected on the viewing side of the projection screen , or alternatively "back-projection" onto a translucent screen. Because the screen is much closer than objects outside aircraft, the most advanced flight simulators employ cross-cockpit collimated displays that eliminate
990-402: A horizontal beam on which are mounted 40 ft rails, allowing lateral movement of a simulator cab of +/- 20 feet. A conventional 6-degree of freedom hexapod platform is mounted on the 40 ft beam, and an interchangeable cabin is mounted on the platform. This design permits quick switching of different aircraft cabins. Simulations have ranged from blimps, commercial and military aircraft to
1089-425: A limit on maximum latency between pilot input and aircraft reaction. Because of that, tradeoffs are made to reach the required level of realism with a lower computational cost. Flight simulators typically don't include full computational fluid dynamics models for forces or weather, but use databases of prepared results from calculations and data acquired in real flights. As an example, instead of simulating flow over
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#17328015668721188-411: A military aircraft or hoist operators. Separate simulators have also been used for tasks related to flight, like evacuating the aircraft in case of a crash in water. With high complexity of many systems composing contemporary aircraft, aircraft maintenance simulators are increasingly popular. Before September 2018, when a manufacturer wished to have an ATD model approved, a document that contains
1287-642: A new environmental command called simply Air Command ( AIRCOM ; French: Commandement aérien ). Air Command reverted to its historic name of "Royal Canadian Air Force" in August 2011. The Royal Canadian Air Force has served in the Second World War , the Korean War , the Persian Gulf War , as well as several United Nations peacekeeping missions and NATO operations. As a NATO member,
1386-465: A passion for flying in his boyhood years, but was not able to afford the high cost of flying lessons. So, upon leaving school in 1927, he started developing a simulator. The project took him 18 months. His first pilot trainer, which debuted in 1929, resembled an overgrown toy airplane from the outside, with short wooden wings and fuselage mounted on a universal joint. Organ bellows from the Link organ factory,
1485-481: A period ranging from 1934 through to the late 1950s. These trainers kept pace with the increased instrumentation and flight dynamics of aircraft of their period, but retained the electrical and pneumatic design fundamentals pioneered in the first Link. Trainers built from 1934 up to the early 1940s had a color scheme that featured a bright blue fuselage and yellow wings and tail sections. These wings and tail sections had control surfaces that actually moved in response to
1584-430: A pilot license. Specific classes of simulators are also used for training other than obtaining initial license such as instrument rating revalidation, or most commonly obtaining type rating for specific kind of aircraft. During the aircraft design process , flight simulators can be used instead of performing some flight tests. Such "engineering flight simulators" can provide a fast way to find errors, reducing both
1683-414: A propeller for the rank insignia. The previously used term " leading aircraftman " was considered not to be gender neutral. The rank insignia were also changed: enlisted ranks were changed from gold to pearl-grey (silver) and officers rank braid was changed from gold to pearl-grey on black, similar to the pattern used before unification of Canada's armed forces in 1968. A revival of the former rank titles of
1782-650: A range of simulators for disorientation training, that have full freedom in yaw. The most complex of these devices is the Desdemona simulator at the TNO Research Institute in The Netherlands, manufactured by AMST. This large simulator has a gimballed cockpit mounted on a framework which adds vertical motion. The framework is mounted on rails attached to a rotating platform. The rails allow the simulator cab to be positioned at different radii from
1881-482: A screen Flight Navigation and Procedures Trainer (FNPT) : Representation of cockpit with all equipment and software to replicate function of aircraft systems Flight Training Devices (FTD) Full Flight Simulators (FFS) Flight simulators are an example of a human-in-the-loop system, in which interaction with a human user is constantly happening. From perspective of the device, the inputs are primary flight controls , instrument panel buttons and switches and
1980-420: A self-contained system with well-defined inputs and outputs. All classes of FSTD require some form of replicating the cockpit. As they are the primary means of interaction between the pilot and the aircraft special importance is assigned to cockpit controls . To achieve good transfer of skills, there are very specific requirements in the flight simulator regulations that determine how closely they must match
2079-503: A structured test schedule. For many years, it was believed that 6 DOF motion-based simulation gave the pilot closer fidelity to flight control operations and aircraft responses to control inputs and external forces and gave a better training outcome for students than non-motion-based simulation. This is described as "handling fidelity", which can be assessed by test flight standards such as the numerical Cooper-Harper rating scale for handling qualities. Recent scientific studies have shown that
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#17328015668722178-530: A year, then UK CTC training school in 2015, Aerosim in Sanford, Florida in 2016, and Portuguese academy G Air in October 2017. With a 20% market share, equipment still accounts for more than half of L3 CTS turnover but that could soon be reversed as it educates 1,600 commercial pilots each year, 7% of the 22,000 entering the profession annually, and aims for 10% in a fragmented market. The third largest
2277-708: A year: 85% FFSs and 15% FTD s. CAE supplied 56% of this installed base, L3 CTS 20% and FlightSafety International 10%, while CAE's training centres are the largest operator, with a 13% share. North America has 38% of the world's training devices, Asia-Pacific 25% and Europe 24%. Boeing types represent 45% of all simulated aircraft, followed by Airbus with 35%, then Embraer at 7%, Bombardier at 6% and ATR at 3%. Most flight simulators are used primarily for flight training . The simplest simulators are used to practice basic cockpit procedures, such as processing emergency checklists, and for cockpit familiarization. They are also used for instrument flight training, for which
2376-620: Is TRU Simulation + Training , created in 2014 when parent Textron Aviation merged its simulators with Mechtronix , OPINICUS and ProFlight , focusing on simulators and developing the first full-flight simulators for the 737 MAX and the 777X . The fourth is FlightSafety International , focused on general , business and regional aircraft . Airbus and Boeing have invested in their own training centres, aiming for higher margins than aircraft manufacturing like MRO , competing with their suppliers CAE and L3. In June 2018, there were 1,270 commercial airline simulators in service, up by 50 over
2475-446: Is a device that artificially re-creates aircraft flight and the environment in which it flies, for pilot training, design, or other purposes. It includes replicating the equations that govern how aircraft fly, how they react to applications of flight controls, the effects of other aircraft systems, and how the aircraft reacts to external factors such as air density , turbulence , wind shear, cloud, precipitation, etc. Flight simulation
2574-410: Is known as "parallel simulation" or "distributed simulation". As military aircraft often need to cooperate with other craft or military personnel, wargames are a common use for distributed simulation. Because of that, numerous standards for distributed simulation including aircraft have been developed with military organisations. Some examples include SIMNET , DIS and HLA . The central element of
2673-472: Is the case with modelling, depending on the required level of realism, there are different levels of detail, with some sub-models omitted in simpler simulators. If a human user is part of the simulator, which might not be the case for some engineering simulators, there is a need to perform the simulation in real-time. Low refresh rates not only reduce realism of simulation, but they have also been linked with increase in simulator sickness . The regulations place
2772-401: Is used for a variety of reasons, including flight training (mainly of pilots), the design and development of the aircraft itself, and research into aircraft characteristics and control handling qualities. The term "flight simulator" may carry slightly different meaning in general language and technical documents. In past regulations, it referred specifically to devices which can closely mimic
2871-974: The Canadian Air Force , which was formed in 1920. The Canadian Air Force was granted royal sanction in 1924 by King George V to form the Royal Canadian Air Force. In 1968, the RCAF was amalgamated with the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Army , as part of the unification of the Canadian Forces . Air units were split between several different commands: Air Defence Command (ADC; interceptors), Air Transport Command (ATC; airlift, search and rescue), Mobile Command (tactical fighters, helicopters), Maritime Command (anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrol), as well as Training Command (TC). In 1975, some commands (ADC, ATC, TC) were dissolved, and all air units were placed under
2970-650: The Royal Air Force with a somewhat modified instrument panel, where its model designation was D2 . It was used by many countries for pilot training before and during the Second World War, especially in the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan . The AN-T-18 featured rotation through all three axes, effectively simulated all flight instruments, and modeled common conditions such as pre- stall buffet, overspeed of
3069-725: The SAGE radar stations within NORAD; Air Transport Command: provided strategic airlift for the NATO and UN peacekeeping missions; and Training Command . Aviation assets of the Royal Canadian Navy were combined with the RCAF Canadair CP-107 Argus long-range patrol aircraft under Maritime Command. In 1975, the different commands, and the scattered aviation assets, were consolidated under Air Command (AIRCOM). In
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3168-720: The USSR . Following WWII, Air Marshal Robert Leckie (wartime RAF Chief of Staff) said "The Luftwaffe met its Waterloo on all the training fields of the free world where there was a battery of Link Trainers". The Link Flight Trainer has been designated as a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers . The Link Company, now the Link Simulation & Training division of CAE USA Defense & Security CAE Inc. , continues to make aerospace simulators. Edwin Link had developed
3267-432: The parallax effect between the pilots' point of view, and provide a more realistic view of distant objects. An alternative to large-scale displays are virtual reality simulators using a head-mounted display . This approach allows for a complete field of view, and makes the simulator size considerably smaller. There are examples of use in research, as well as certified FSTD . Visual simulation science applied from
3366-471: The "Link Trainer". Link also demonstrated his trainer to the U.S. Army Air Force (USAAF), but with no result. However, the situation changed in 1934 when the Army Air Force was given a government contract to fly the postal mail. This included having to fly in bad weather as well as good, for which the USAAF had not previously carried out much training. During the first weeks of the mail service, nearly
3465-553: The 2000s, AIRCOM was heavily involved in the Afghanistan War , transporting troops and assets to Kandahar. Later in the decade-long war, AIRCOM set up a purpose-specific air wing, Joint Task Force Afghanistan Air Wing, equipped with several CH-146 Griffon and CH-147 Chinook helicopters, CC-130 Hercules, CU-161 Sperwer and leased CU-170 Heron UAVs in support of the Canadian Forces and ISAF mission. The wing stood down on 18 August 2011. From 18 March to 1 November 2011,
3564-619: The AN-T-18 Basic Instrument Trainer, known to tens of thousands of fledgling pilots as the "Blue Box" (although it was painted in different colors in other countries), was standard equipment at every air training school in the United States and Allied nations. During the war years, Link produced over 10,000 Blue Boxes, turning one out every 45 minutes. During World War II, Link trainers were sometimes run by women. Several models of Link Trainers were sold in
3663-474: The Air Corps to look at a number of solutions, including Link's pilot trainer. The Air Corps was given a stark demonstration of the potential of instrument training when, in 1934, Link flew in to a meeting in conditions of fog that the Air Corps evaluation team regarded as unflyable. As a result, the Air Corps ordered the first six pilot trainers on 23 June 1934 for $ 3,500 each. In 1936, the more advanced Model C
3762-579: The CC-150 Polaris. The two aircraft will arrive in winter 2023 and converted by Airbus Defence and Space (mainly in Spain and repainted in France). On June 19, 2023 a contract was awarded for the acquisition of nine CC-330 Husky aircraft (mix of 4 new and 5 used A330-200), associated equipment, integrated logistic support elements, training simulator(s), and sustainment. Weapons systems are used by
3861-757: The CF-18 Hornet, CP-140 Aurora, CH-146 Griffon and the CH-148 Cyclone. The commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force , at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, commands and provides strategic direction to the Air Force. The commander of 1 Canadian Air Division and Canadian NORAD Region, based in Winnipeg, is responsible for the operational command and control of Royal Canadian Air Force activities throughout Canada and worldwide. 2 Canadian Air Division
3960-706: The Canadian Forces, enforcing the security of Canada's airspace and providing aircraft to support the missions of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Army . The RCAF is a partner with the United States Air Force in protecting continental airspace under the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). The RCAF also provides all primary air resources to and is responsible for the National Search and Rescue Program . The RCAF traces its history to
4059-703: The F-35A. Following the 2015 Federal Election the Liberal Party , whose campaign had included a pledge to cancel the F-35 procurement, formed a new government and commenced an open competition to replace the existing CF-18 Hornet . On 28 March 2022, the Government of Canada announced that the competition had placed the F-35A first and planned to buy 88 of them. Under procurement rules, the government entered into negotiations with Lockheed Martin. On 9 January 2023,
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4158-519: The French commanders Clolus and Laffont and Lieutenant Clavenad, the first ground training aircraft for military aircraft were built. The "Tonneau Antoinette" (Antoinette barrel), created by the Antoinette company, seems to be the precursor of flight simulators. An area of training was for air gunnery handled by the pilot or a specialist air gunner. Firing at a moving target requires aiming ahead of
4257-738: The Pilot Maker were also sold to amusement parks. In fact, his patent (US1825462 A) for the Pilot Maker was titled Combination Training Device for Student Aviators and Entertainment Apparatus . The most prolific version of the Link Trainer was the AN-T-18 (Army Navy Trainer model 18), which was a slightly enhanced version of Link's C3 model. This model was also produced in Canada for both the Royal Canadian Air Force and
4356-649: The QTGs will be rerun during the year to prove during continuous qualification that the simulator is still in the tolerances approved by the CAA. These definitions apply to both airplanes and helicopters unless specified otherwise. Training devices briefly compared below are all different subclasses of Flight simulation training device (FSTD). Basic instrument training device (BITD) airplanes only : A basic student station for instrument flight procedures; can use spring loaded flight controls, and instruments displayed on
4455-436: The RCAF did not occur, however, as such an extensive change was considered "too complicated and confusing". Instead, the current rank titles were retained (with the exception of aviator). The Royal Flying Corps , considered to be a predecessor of the RCAF, used rank titles similar to the existing rank titles of the RCAF. The badge of the Royal Canadian Air Force consists of: Roundels used from 1920 until 1945 were usually
4554-565: The RCAF established No. 1 Air Division RCAF consisting of four wings with three fighter squadrons each, based in France and West Germany. In 1950, the RCAF became involved with the transport of troops and supplies to the Korean War ; however, it did not provide RCAF combat units. Members of the RCAF served in USAF units as exchange officers and several flew in combat. Both auxiliary and regular air defence squadrons were run by Air Defence Command . At
4653-543: The RCAF was engaged in Operation Mobile , Canada's contribution to Operation Unified Protector in Libya. Seven CF-18 Hornet fighter aircraft and several other aircraft served under Task Force Libeccio as part of the military intervention. On 16 August 2011, the Government of Canada announced that the name "Air Command" was being changed to the air force's original historic name: Royal Canadian Air Force (along with
4752-472: The Royal Canadian Air Force consists of 12,074 Regular Force and 1,969 Primary Reserve personnel, supported by 1,518 civilians, and operates 258 manned aircraft and nine unmanned aerial vehicles . Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny is the current Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force and Chief of the Air Force Staff. The Royal Canadian Air Force is responsible for all aircraft operations of
4851-533: The Singer Link Digital Image Generator (DIG) created in 1978 was considered one of the worlds first CGI system. Initially, the motion systems used separate axes of movement, similar to a gimbal . After the invention of Stewart platform simultaneous operation of all actuators became the preferred choice, with some FFS regulations specifically requiring "synergistic" 6 degrees of freedom motion. In contrast to real aircraft,
4950-680: The Space Shuttle. In the case of the Space Shuttle, the large Vertical Motion Simulator was used to investigate a longitudinal pilot-induced oscillation (PIO) that occurred on an early Shuttle flight just before landing. After identification of the problem on the VMS, it was used to try different longitudinal control algorithms and recommend the best for use in the Shuttle program. AMST Systemtechnik GmbH (AMST) of Austria and Environmental Tectonics Corporation (ETC) of Philadelphia, US, manufacture
5049-473: The air force began to rebuild. During the Second World War , the RCAF was a major contributor to the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and was involved in operations in the United Kingdom , Europe, the north Atlantic, North Africa , southern Asia, and with home defence. Eight thousand, eight hundred and sixty-four Americans came north to volunteer for the RCAF and over 850 died in action. By
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#17328015668725148-447: The aircraft is an important cue for flying the aircraft, and is the primary means of navigation for visual flight rules operation. One of the primary characteristics of a visual system is the field of view . Depending on the simulator type it may be sufficient to provide only a view forward using a flat display. However, some types of craft, e.g. fighter aircraft , require a very large field of view, preferably almost full sphere, due to
5247-415: The behavior of aircraft throughout various procedures and flight conditions. In more recent definitions, this has been named " full flight simulator ". The more generic term "flight simulation training device" (FSTD) is used to refer to different kinds of flight training devices, and that corresponds more closely to meaning of the phrase "flight simulator" in general English. In 1910, on the initiative of
5346-624: The business his family owned and operated in Binghamton, New York, driven by an electric pump, made the trainer pitch and roll as the pilot worked the controls. Link's first military sales came as a result of the Air Mail scandal , when the Army Air Corps took over carriage of U.S. Air Mail . Twelve pilots were killed in a 78-day period due to their unfamiliarity with Instrument Flying Conditions . The large scale loss of life prompted
5445-447: The centre of rotation and this gives a sustained G capability up to about 3.5. Royal Canadian Air Force The Royal Canadian Air Force ( RCAF ; French : Aviation royale canadienne, ARC ) is the air and space force of Canada. Its role is to "provide the Canadian Forces with relevant, responsive and effective airpower". The RCAF is one of three environmental commands within the unified Canadian Armed Forces . As of 2020,
5544-522: The change of name of Maritime Command to Royal Canadian Navy and Land Force Command to Canadian Army). The change was made to better reflect Canada's military heritage and align Canada with other key Commonwealth countries whose military units use the royal designation. The RCAF adopted a new badge in 2013, which is similar to the pre-unification RCAF badge (although placed in the modern frame used for command badges). The Latin motto of Air Command – Sic itur ad astra – which
5643-502: The drones. Personnel will also forward deploy to northern Canada as needed. November 30, 2023 - Canada finalized a government-to-government agreement with the US government for the acquisition of up to 16 P-8A Poseidon aircraft for the RCAF. Fourteen multi-mission aircraft will be procured, with options for up to two additional. In 2022, two ex- Kuwait Airways Airbus A330 -200 were selected to be converted as Airbus A330 MRTT to replace
5742-763: The early 1990s, Canada provided a detachment of CF-18 Hornets for the air defence mission in Operation Desert Shield . The force performed combat air patrols over operations in Kuwait and Iraq, undertook a number of air-to-ground bombing missions, and, on one occasion, attacked an Iraqi patrol boat in the Persian Gulf . In the late 1990s, Air Command's CF-18 Hornets took part in the Operation Allied Force in Yugoslavia , and in
5841-427: The end of the war, the RCAF had become the fourth largest Allied air force. During World War II the RCAF was headquartered at a six-storey office building at 20-23 Lincoln's Inn Fields (built 1937), London. A commemorative plaque can be found on the outside of the building. After the war, the RCAF reduced its strength. Because of the rising Soviet threat to the security of Europe, Canada joined NATO in 1949, and
5940-460: The fixed base and the movable fuselage. The third set of bellows simulates vibration, such as stall buffet. Both the trainer and the instructor's station are powered from standard 110VAC/240VAC power outlets via a transformer , with the bulk of internal wiring being low voltage. Simulator logic is all analog and is based around vacuum tubes . As of 2022, many Link Trainers survive and are exhibited. Flight simulator A flight simulator
6039-669: The force maintained a presence in Europe during the second half of the 20th century. The Canadian Air Force (CAF) was established in 1920 as the successor to a short-lived two-squadron Canadian Air Force that was formed during the First World War in Europe. Wing Commander John Scott Williams was tasked in 1921 with organizing the CAF, handing command over later the same year to Air Marshal Lindsay Gordon . The new Canadian Air Force
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#17328015668726138-419: The front of the fuselage controls movement about the yaw axis. This Turning Motor is a complex set of 10 bellows, two crank shafts and various gears and pulleys derived from early player piano motors. The Turning Motor can rotate the entire fuselage through 360-degree circles at variable rates of speed. A set of electrical slip ring contacts in the lower base compartment supplies electrical continuity between
6237-513: The government of Canada officially ordered 88 F-35As. On 19 December 2023 the Government of Canada announced that a contract was signed for 11 MQ-9B drones, 219 Hellfire missiles , and 12 Mk82 500-pound bombs in a deal worth $ 2.49 billion CAD. The drones are expected to be first delivered in 2028 with full operation expected in 2033. The drones are to be stationed in 14 Wing Greenwood , N.S. with 55 personnel and with 25 personnel at 19 Wing Comox , B.C. and in Ottawa with 160 staff to control
6336-445: The instructor's station, if present. Based on these, the internal state is updated, and equations of motion solved for the new time step. The new state of the simulated aircraft is shown to the user through visual, auditory, motion and touch channels. To simulate cooperative tasks, the simulator can be suited for multiple users, as is the case with multi-crew cooperation simulators. Alternatively, more simulators can be connected, what
6435-494: The manoeuvres that are performed during air combat. Similarly, since helicopters can perform hover flight in any direction, some classes of helicopter flight simulators require even 180 degrees of horizontal field of view. There are many parameters in visual system design. For a narrow field of view, a single display may be sufficient, however typically multiple projectors are required. This arrangement needs additional calibration, both in terms of distortion from not projecting on
6534-429: The map table, plotting the pilot's track. The desk includes circuits for the pilot and instructor to communicate with each other via headphones and microphones, and controls for the instructor to alter wind direction and speed. The AN-T-18 has three main sets of bellows. One set of four bellows (fore and aft and both sides of the cockpit) controls movement about the pitch and roll axes. A very complicated set of bellows at
6633-460: The outside view is less important. Certain aircraft systems may or may not be simulated, and the aerodynamic model is usually extremely generic if present at all. Depending on the level of certification, instruments that would have moving indicators in a real aircraft may be implemented with a display. With more advanced displays, cockpit representation and motion systems, flight simulators can be used to credit different amount of flight hours towards
6732-504: The past decade. Transport aircraft have been leased as required. Despite RCAF marking all aircraft have civilian registration numbers. The Canadian CF-35 is a proposed variant that would differ from the F-35A through the addition of a drogue parachute and may include an F-35B/C-style refuelling probe. In 2012, it was revealed that the CF-35 would employ the same boom refuelling system as
6831-521: The pilot's movement of the rudder and stick. However, many trainers built during mid to late World War II did not have these wings and tail sections due to material shortages and critical manufacturing times. The Pilot Maker was Link's first model. It was an evolution of his 1929 prototype and was used in Mr. Link's Link Flying School and later by other flying schools. During the Depression years versions of
6930-433: The platform, providing yaw cues. A generic replica cockpit with working instruments was mounted on the motion platform. When the cockpit was covered, pilots could practice flying by instruments in a safe environment. The motion platform gave the pilot cues as to real angular motion in pitch (nose up and down), roll (wing up or down) and yaw (nose left and right). Initially, aviation flight schools showed little interest in
7029-574: The real aircraft. These requirements in case of full flight simulators are so detailed, that it may be cost-effective to use the real part certified to fly, rather than manufacture a dedicated replica. Lower classes of simulators may use springs to mimic forces felt when moving the controls. When there is a need to better replicate the control forces or dynamic response, many simulators are equipped with actively driven force feedback systems. Vibration actuators may also be included, either due to helicopter simulation requirements, or for aircraft equipped with
7128-530: The remaining pilot and instructor instruments, and a wind drift analog computer. The second major component is an external instructor's desk, which consists of a large map table; a duplicate display of the pilot's main flight instruments; and the Automatic Recorder, a motorized ink marker also known as "the crab". The crab is driven by the Wind Drift computer and moves across the glass surface of
7227-419: The retractable undercarriage , and spinning . It was fitted with a removable opaque canopy, which could be used to simulate blind flying, and was particularly useful for instrument and navigation training. The AN-T-18 consists of two main components: The first major component is the trainer, which consists of a wooden box approximating the shape of a fuselage and cockpit, connected via a universal joint to
7326-424: The risks and the cost of development. Additionally, this allows use of extra measurement equipment that might be too large or otherwise impractical to include during onboard a real aircraft. Throughout different phases of the design process, different engineering simulators with various level of complexity are used. Flight simulators may include training tasks for crew other than pilots. Examples include gunners on
7425-534: The same as Royal Air Force roundels although not all variations were used and colours were matched to locally available paints. On 5 July 1940, the RCAF was authorized to introduce the maple leaf into the roundel in place of the red centre. However, a large amount of RCAF planes still continued to use the RAF roundel until 1945 since their aircraft, including those built in Canada all came through RAF channels. On 9 November 1984, Canada Post issued "Air Force" as part of
7524-672: The same time, the Pinetree Line , the Mid-Canada Line and the DEW Line radar stations, largely operated by the RCAF, were built across Canada because of the growing Soviet nuclear threat. In 1957, Canada and the United States created the joint North American Air Defense Command (NORAD). Coastal defence and peacekeeping also became priorities during the 1950s and 1960s. In 1968, the Royal Canadian Navy , Royal Canadian Air Force and Canadian Army were amalgamated to form
7623-400: The same way as in the aircraft cockpit. The necessity for a physical copy of a cockpit contributes to the cost of simulator construction, and ties the hardware to a specific aircraft type. Because of these reasons, there is ongoing research on interactions in virtual reality , however lack of tactile feedback negatively affects users' performance when using this technology. Outside view from
7722-689: The simulated motion system has a limited range in which it is able to move. That especially affects the ability to simulate sustained accelerations, and requires a separate model to approximate the cues to the human vestibular system within the given constraints. Motion system is a major contributor to overall simulator cost , but assessments of skill transfer based on training on a simulator and leading to handling an actual aircraft are difficult to make, particularly where motion cues are concerned. Large samples of pilot opinion are required and many subjective opinions tend to be aired, particularly by pilots not used to making objective assessments and responding to
7821-515: The specifications for the model line and that proves compliance with the appropriate regulations is submitted to the FAA. Once this document, called a Qualification Approval Guide (QAG), has been approved, all future devices conforming to the QAG are automatically approved and individual evaluation is neither required nor available. The actual procedure accepted by all CAAs (Civil Aviation Authorities) around
7920-564: The surfaces and transition from one level of image detail to the next one in a smooth manner. Real-time computer graphics visualization of virtual worlds makes some aspects of flight simulator visual systems very similar to game engines , sharing some techniques like different levels of details or libraries like OpenGL . Many computer graphics visionaries began their careers at Evans & Sutherland and Link Flight Simulation, Division of Singer Company, two leading companies in flight simulation before today's modern computing era. For example,
8019-590: The target (which involves the so-called lead angle) to allow for the time the bullets require to reach the vicinity of the target. This is sometimes also called "deflection shooting" and requires skill and practice. During World War I , some ground-based simulators were developed to teach this skill to new pilots. The best-known early flight simulation device was the Link Trainer , produced by Edwin Link in Binghamton, New York , United States, which he started building in 1927. He later patented his design, which
8118-528: The unified Canadian Forces . This initiative was overseen by the Defence Minister, Paul Hellyer . The controversial merger maintained several existing organizations and created some new ones: In Europe, No. 1 Canadian Air Group , operated Canadair CF-104 Starfighter nuclear strike/attack and reconnaissance under NATO's Fourth Allied Tactical Air Force ; Air Defence Command: operated McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo interceptors, CIM-10 Bomarc missiles and
8217-527: The use of technology such as vibration or dynamic seats within flight simulators can be equally effective in the delivery of training as large and expensive 6-DOF FFS devices. The largest flight simulator in the world is the Vertical Motion Simulator (VMS) at NASA Ames Research Center , south of San Francisco. This has a very large-throw motion system with 60 feet (+/- 30 ft) of vertical movement (heave). The heave system supports
8316-617: The visual systems developed in flight simulators were also an important precursor to three dimensional computer graphics and Computer Generated Imagery (CGI) systems today. Namely because the object of flight simulation is to reproduce on the ground the behavior of an aircraft in flight. Much of this reproduction had to do with believable visual synthesis that mimicked reality. Combined with the need to pair virtual synthesis with military level training requirements, graphics technologies applied in flight simulation were often years ahead of what would have been available in commercial products. When CGI
8415-404: The wings, lift coefficient may be defined in terms of motion parameters like angle of attack . While different models need to exchange data, most often they can be separated into a modular architecture, for better organisation and ease of development. Typically, gear model for ground handling would be separate input to the main equations of motion. Each engine and avionics instrument is also
8514-582: The world is to propose 30 days prior qualification date (40 days for CAAC) a MQTG document (Master Qualification Test Guide), which is proper to a unique simulator device and will live along the device itself, containing objective, and functional and subjective tests to demonstrate the representativeness of the simulator compare to the airplane. The results will be compared to Flight Test Data provided by aircraft OEMs or from test campaign ordered by simulator OEMs or also can be compared by POM (Proof Of Match) data provided by aircraft OEMs development simulators. Some of
8613-400: Was 13.7 m (45 ft) high and capable of accommodating the navigation team of a bomber crew. It enabled sextants to be used for taking "star shots" from a projected display of the night sky. In 1954 United Airlines bought four flight simulators at a cost of $ 3 million from Curtiss-Wright that were similar to the earlier models, with the addition of visuals, sound and movement. This
8712-589: Was a branch of the Air Board and was chiefly a training militia that provided refresher training to veteran pilots. Many CAF members also worked with the Air Board's Civil Operations Branch on operations that included forestry , surveying and anti-smuggling patrols. In 1923, the CAF became responsible for all flying operations in Canada, including civil aviation. In 1924, the Canadian Air Force,
8811-425: Was also a pilot, but dissatisfied with the amount of real flight training that was available, he decided to build a ground-based device to provide such training without the restrictions of weather and the availability of aircraft and flight instructors. His design had a pneumatic motion platform driven by inflatable bellows which provided pitch and roll cues. A vacuum motor similar to those used in player pianos rotated
8910-533: Was created in 1929 out of the need for a safe way to teach new pilots how to fly by instruments . Ed Link used his knowledge of pumps , valves and bellows gained at his father's Link Piano and Organ Company to create a flight simulator that responded to the pilot's controls and gave an accurate reading on the included instruments. More than 500,000 US pilots were trained on Link simulators, as were pilots of nations as diverse as Australia, Canada, Germany , New Zealand, United Kingdom, Israel, Japan, Pakistan , and
9009-809: Was dispatching six CF-18s and military personnel to assist NATO in operations in Eastern Europe. The Royal Canadian Air Force has about 430 aircraft in service, making it the third-largest air force in the Americas , after the United States Armed Forces , and the Brazilian Air Force . Used by Aerospace Engineering Test Establishment (AETE), CFB Cold Lake for test support and pilot proficiency. The Canadian Forces have leased aircraft from vendors to help transport troops and equipment from Canada and other locations in
9108-465: Was established in June 2009, and consists of training establishments. The other division, 3 Canadian Space Division, was established in 2022. As of 2024 , there are 15 wings across Canada, 13 operational and 2 used for training. Wings represent the grouping of various squadrons , both operational and support, under a single tactical commander reporting to the operational commander. Ten wings also include
9207-445: Was first available for sale in 1929. The Link Trainer was a basic metal frame flight simulator usually painted in its well-known blue color. Some of these early war era flight simulators still exist, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to find working examples. The Link family firm in Binghamton manufactured player pianos and organs, and Ed Link was therefore familiar with such components as leather bellows and reed switches. He
9306-514: Was first used to train pilots, early systems proved effective for certain simple training missions but needed further development for sophisticated training tasks as terrain following and other tactical maneuvers. Early CGI systems could depict only objects consisting of planar polygons. Advances in algorithms and electronics in flight simulator visual systems and CGI in the 1970s and 1980s influenced many technologies still used in modern graphics. Over time CGI systems were able to superimpose texture over
9405-406: Was granted the royal title, becoming the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF). Most of its work was civil in nature, with forest patrols of the northwest a major part of its operations; however, in the late 1920s other agencies took up most civil tasks, with the notable exception of aerial photography surveys, and the RCAF evolved into more of a military organization. After budget cuts in the early 1930s,
9504-423: Was introduced. American Airlines became the first commercial airline to purchase a Link trainer in 1937. Prior to World War II, Link trainers were also sold to the U.S. Navy, Civil Aeronautics Administration, Germany, Japan, England, Russia, France, and Canada. Link and his company had struggled through the Depression years, but after gaining Air Corps interest the business expanded rapidly and during World War II,
9603-500: Was the Link Trainer. Some 10,000 were produced to train 500,000 new pilots from allied nations, many in the US and Canada because many pilots were trained in those countries before returning to Europe or the Pacific to fly combat missions. Almost all US Army Air Force pilots were trained in a Link Trainer. A different type of World War II trainer was used for navigating at night by the stars. The Celestial Navigation Trainer of 1941
9702-527: Was the first of today's modern flight simulators for commercial aircraft. A simulator for helicopters existed as the Jacobs Jaycopter as means of “Cutting helicopter training cost.”. The simulator was later sold as a funfair ride in the 1964-65 New York World's Fair . The simulator manufacturers are consolidating and integrate vertically as training offers double-digit growth: CAE forecast 255,000 new airline pilots from 2017 to 2027 (70
9801-534: Was the motto of the Canadian Air Force when first formed after the First World War (before it became the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1924) was retained. Though traditional insignia for the RCAF was restored in 2015, there has been no restoration of the traditional uniforms or rank structure of the historical service (apart from a rank of "aviator", which replaced that of "private" in 2015). On 17 April 2014, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced that Canada
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