Part-task trainers offer a flexible, economical means for training aircrew on specific avionics systems or subsystems. Atlantis part-task trainers feature commercial off-the-shelf, PC-based hardware that runs customised high-fidelity simulations of the systems to be trained. Combined with accurate graphic displays and controls that replicate the tactile feel, actuation force, backlighting, and appearance of those in the aircraft, these simulations provide a realistic environment for effective training.

Custom courseware, in the form of Mission Plans, provides training and testing capabilities for specific trainee skills. A context-sensitive help facility automatically provides assistance to the trainee during the lessons.

On-line computer-managed instruction (CMI) software allows the instructor to generate and manage the trainee curriculum, allowing the course content to be tailored to meet a customer's specific requirements. Once a trainee has mastered the skills required to perform a lesson's tasks, the CMI system credits the trainee with completion of this lesson and permits subsequent lessons to be assigned.

Atlantis part-task trainers are available for both commercial and military applications. For Boeing and Airbus aircraft, Atlantis part-task trainers use the same simulation models that power Atlantis Flight Training Devices (FTDs), providing a consistently high level of simulation fidelity across the entire range of Atlantis training products.

CREW TRAINING DEVICE

The Atlantis Crew Training Device (CTD) focuses on economical, effective training in essential normal and abnormal procedures, the flight management system, and two-man team training. To achieve maximum training performance at lowest cost, the CTD combines commercial off-the-shelf computer equipment with high-fidelity simulated aircraft hardware and software. The CTD employs the same simulation software used in Atlantis FTDs, providing accurate system responses to cockpit activity.

The CTD includes realistic, hands-on hardware with the proper dimensional relationships and high physical fidelity. This includes a fully functional simulated Flight Control Unit (FCU), including EFIS control panels, and a simulated FMS Multifunctional Control and Display Unit (MCDU). The EFIS displays have the same dynamic characteristics as the real aircraft displays.

The CTD presents a virtual cockpit on three monitors that display forward instruments, appropriately masked to suit aircraft type, and two LCD touchscreen displays representing the overhead panel and centre console. The virtual cockpit is divided into three areas: the Pedestal, the Centre Console, and the Overhead Panel. All components are represented spatially and proportionally as close to the real aircraft as possible. When a trainee selects a panel by touching it, the panel expands to allow easy access to the controls. Touching anywhere on the screen outside of the expanded panel reduces the panel to its original size. Regardless of the panel size, all indications and control positions reflect the current state of the aircraft.

C-130 HERCULES AVIONICS UPGRADE PART-TASK TRAINER

For the Hercules C-130 transport, the Atlantis avionics upgrade part-task trainer offers pilot/copilot, navigator, and flight engineer training on the C-130's upgraded autopilot, flight management, navigation, and electronic flight instrument systems. These trainers are in use by the Canadian Department of National Defence and the Royal Danish Air Force.