Improved Radio Frequency (RF) Modeling for Correlated Environment Communication System Simulators with Sensor Simulators

Echo Ridge and partner Rockwell Collins propose to mature, enhance and further demonstrate the out the window (OTW)-synchronized RF environment emulator technology prototyped and demonstrated in Phase I. The Phase II design and development activities will result in a deliverable prototype system capable of demonstrating functionality, value, mitigated development risk and compatibility with fielded flight trainer systems. It will be used to introduce and promote the technology towards a Phase III activity and adoption into the training community. The prototype will be capable of accurately emulating the RF environment in a manner that is synchronous with the flight path/dynamics and resultant OTW view from an aircraft cockpit as simulated in a flight simulator. The effect on communication systems, sensors and instrumentation is as though they were truly subjected to the RF operating environment encountered by the aircraft. The system calculates these characteristics on-the-fly (OTF) as the instructor/pilot operates the simulator. A primary objective of the RF path simulation is to add as much realism as possible while minimizing latency so that the RF modeling emulation is correlated with the other flight trainer systems and cockpit displays.