Game-Based Combat Rescue Helicopter Aircrew Mission Training and Rehearsal

ABSTRACT: The purpose of the SBIR topic is to develop and demonstrate an aircrew simulator/game that allows training in a high-fidelity environment, complete with configurable and reportable performance metrics and data gathering. The solution will need to include the ability for trainers to design and distribute scenario and training material with turn-key efficiency.Progeny Systems will develop a training exemplar after researching the most qualified game engine appropriate for the source material based on an established rubric. This training exemplar will demonstrate the simulator itself, the scenario designer for use by training instructors, and the database for collection and reporting of desired performance metrics.; BENEFIT: The Phase 1 effort is aimed at researching the appropriate game engine technology to power the simulator, as well as development of a scenario designer to be used in conjunction with the game engine. This will lead into the development of a training exemplar/prototype to be delivered at the end of the Phase 1 effort.The initial effort during Phase 1 will be the evaluation and selection of a capable game engine to power the simulator itself. This evaluation will be performed using a specialized rubric to ensure that the engine meets every possible need of the final simulator.Alongside the research effort for the game engine, a scenario designer will be developed with the end-user in mind. This scenario designer will be powerful and capable, but should require no special training for the end-user, presenting an easy-to-use interface capable of generating scenarios and scenario packages. Questions asked directly to the TPOC and SMEs during Phase 1 will provide the information needed to ensure that the selections within the scenario designer are accurate and reflect real-world usage.A server database will then be defined and configured to accept, store, and report on configurable performance metrics generated by actions completed in the game simulator. This database will be capable of storing metrics and reporting on individual performance records and analysis of emerging trends within users of the simulator. Questions asked directly to the TPOC and SMEs will help define which performance metrics should be initially included for tracking.For Phase 1, physical control schemes for the prototype will be limited to traditional keyboard/mouse and gamepad support, with possible expansion for control capability in Phase II.This Phase I work will result in a fully working exemplar prototype which provides a solution to the initial problem presented by the Air Force. A prototype/Version 1.0 of the Scenario Editor will be provided with the ability to generate separate scenarios. These scenarios will feed into the game engine executable, loading in specific configuration items that will directly influence the scenario that plays out. Completing or failing any scenario will generate reportable metrics, stored in a database for future reporting and incorporation into trend analysis.Phase II work will likely branch out into more complex and configurable scenarios and scenario packages, along with updated control schemes for the game end-user. These control schemes will likely include efforts in the Augmented Reality or Virtual Reality game space, which will allow for even higher fidelity and significant realism within the game world itself.