VSAT SERVICES
Training System and Simulator System Requirements Analysis Process (TSRAP).
TSRAP is similar to the TSRA commonly used by the US Military to define weapon
system training requirements. However, it includes a heavy emphasis on
determining fidelity requirement based on operator training needs. Analysis
starts with mission task analysis. Trainer requirements including importance,
criticality and fidelity are determined for each trainer or simulator subsystem
on a task-by-task basis. In critical areas such as visual simulation, the
analysis may be supported by additional data such as a pilot cue analysis.
(Click
here for more information)
Training System and Simulator Capabilities Analysis Process (TSCAP).
TSCAP is similar
to the TSRAP; however, the analysis includes evaluating current device
subsystems to determine on a task-by-task or MEC by MEC (Mission Essential
Competency) basis, current fidelity and required fidelity. This is done with the
support of operational subject matter experts (SMEs).
Training Effectiveness Monitoring System (TEMS).
TEMS
is similar to TSCAP except that it is directed toward collecting and analyzing
data on a continuing basis from trainees (aircrew and maintainers) that had
completed a training program. Data is collected, which can be used to make and
track changes and tune the trainer system to best meet trainee needs.
Simulator Operational Evaluation System (SOES).
SOES is a subjective
method of evaluating the ability of a simulator or critical simulator
subsystem(s) to support mission training on a task or MEC basis. SOES is based
on the Air Force Vis Eval process. The Joint Vis-Eval Program. such as the Joint
Vis-Eval, which was sponsored by USAF and participated in, by the Navy and
Marines showed the results could be highly consistent when subjective data is
collected as long as the process is highly structured. For this evaluation,
highly experienced instructor pilots (IP’s) were first trained in the process
and then conducted the evaluation using structured missions and tasks. The
results were compiled using a workshop that included the IP’s and training
analysts. (Click here
for more information on Vis-Evals)
Simulator Objective Performance Evaluation System (SOPES).
SOPES is the most extensive and scientific evaluation system. It may be focused
on a particular subsystem of the simulator such as visual or force cueing or
conceivably cover multiple subsystems or the entire simulator. Similar to SOES,
SOPES starts with a structured mission including mission tasks or MECS. The
simulation is instrumented to collect data on pilot performance, pilot behavior
and possibly pilot physiological data. It has been found that pilots adapt to
lack of certain cues and poor simulator performance and therefore performance by
the pilot may not be an indicator of valid simulation. Under such conditions, it
has been found that the pilot’s behavior, e.g. control strategy may be far
removed from what it is in the aircraft. Eye tracking appears to be another
measure of behavior which will differs inappropriate simulator cueing. The SOPES
offers other advantages over SOES besides objective data. By using both training
pilots and test pilots, the simulator algorithms may be optimized to best
represent flight in the aircraft. As changes are made data can be collected to
monitor changes in behavior and performance. (Click
here for more information on behavioral evaluations)
The
figure below shows the relationships among VSATs evaluation methods as well as
some programs on which they were used. Each of the processes in the solid boxes
bounding the sides and back of the five boxes representing the methods discussed
above can support all these methods.
(Click here for more information on cue analysis)
Other Services. VSAT
also provides the following
services
Technology Assessments. VSAT Technology Assessments provide an analysis of the
technology needs and of the technology which support the needs of a current or
future training system or simulation requirements. A VSAT technology assessment may be
applied to any simulation application including such applications as research
simulators. Where current systems exist, the technology assessment documents
the shortcomings. It also identifies technical improvements that may be applied in
either current or future systems. It identifies new and alternative technologies
which have the potential to improve existing media capabilities and provide new
alternatives. (Click here for more information)
Technology Roadmaps. VSAT personnel are highly experienced and
can help many public and private organizations to focus their activities and allocate
their resources using technology roadmaps for a variety of technologies and purposes.
Although roadmaps iare simple in concept,
they are difficult in practice. Developing a
meaningful roadmap for specific intended purposes takes careful analysis on the front end,
a systematic process through out, and a final product appropriate to the users’
needs.
(Click
here for more information)
Acquisition Support.
VSAT can develop acquisition requirements, documents,
specifications and proposals. VSAT customers benefit from our vast acquisition experience
as military members, DoD employees, and as defense contractors. They receive
totally unbiased assistance in such potentially sensitive areas as requirements analyses,
system and component evaluations, alternatives, and recommendations.
(Click here for more information)
