Deck Motion Compensation Analysis Tool

The proposed Deck Motion Compensation Analysis Tool (DMCAT) is a PC based simulation for the development of Mode 1, 1A and II Automatic Control Landing System functionality. The tool is built on the Task-Pilot-Vehicle flight simulation environment from Robert Heffley Engineering. The DMCAT is based upon a Power Approach configuration of the F/A-18 derived from the CASTLE airframe model. The performance of the DMCAT model is consistent with the Navy's knowledge base of the simulated and "real" performance of the aircraft. The DMCAT is used to define the cause-effect between critical system design parameters and flight technical errors and recovery performance. The DCMAT provides design guidance for selection of critical system parameters relating to deck motion compensation in sea states 3 through 5. The DCMAT includes a behavioral "pilot" model which provides ACLS Quality Ratings for Mode II operations. The Test Function and Design Guidance Implementation of the DMCAT enables a database of ACLS responses to be developed and managed for different aircraft types and a range of disturbances. The DMCAT allows a user to rapidly prototype: 1) Variants of the baseline ACLS, 2) Integrate new sensor types, 3) Create new airframe geometries such as a flying wing, for example.