Flight Simulator Research Articles

Comparison of continuous glucose monitoring with self-monitoring of blood glucose in type 1 diabetes in the changing atmospheric pressures in aviation: a hypobaric flight simulation.

Pilots with type 1 diabetes are required to perform capillary glucose monitoring regularly during flights. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) may be an effective and more practical alternative. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of CGM systems against self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) during a hypobaric flight simulation. Twelve insulin pump users with type 1 diabetes were studied using two simulation protocols. Protocol A consisted of a ground phase, ascent, a 190 min cruise with ingestion of a liquid meal, descent and then ground. Protocol B consisted of a ground phase, ascent, a 60 min cruise while fasting, descent, a 20 min ground phase, ascent, a second flight of 120 min with ingestion of a meal, followed by descent and ground. Insulin was administered with or before the meal according to the participants' carbohydrate-counting regimen during both protocols. In Protocol A, capillary, interstitial and plasma glucose were measured during flight and at ground, while in Protocol B, glucose and oxygen were measured. Measurements from three CGM brands and two SMBG devices were recorded during the flight simulations. Findings at cabin pressures during flight (550 mmHg) and ground (750 mmHg) were compared. Fasted and postprandial glucose measurements were analysed using Spearman's correlations and mean absolute relative differences (MARDs). Eleven men and one woman (n=6 men in Protocol A; n=5 men and n=1 woman in Protocol B) were studied. A total of 1533 data points were recorded. During flight vs ground level, Spearman's correlations for CGM system- and SMBG-derived glucose values were very strong in both Protocol A (r=0.96 during flight vs r=0.94 at ground) and Protocol B (r=0.85 during flight vs r=0.69 at ground). The differences in aggregated CGM MARDs during flight vs ground level were minimal across Protocol A (11.85%; 95% CI [9.78, 13.92] vs 9.08%; 95% CI [7.02, 11.14]) and Protocol B (12.01%; 95% CI [3.34, 20.69] vs 12.97%; 95% CI [4.30, 21.65]). The performance of CGM systems and SMBG are comparable during flight-associated atmospheric pressure changes. All tested measurement devices for CGM and SMBG were suitable for diabetes-care-based decisions during flight simulation.

Exploring technology acceptance of flight simulation training devices and augmented reality in general aviation pilot training

This study investigates pilot perspectives on the use of Flight Simulation Training Devices (FSTDs) in Canada’s general aviation (GA) sector, which, despite their longstanding adoption, remain underutilized. It also examines pilot perspectives on the potential of Augmented Reality (AR) technology as an assistive tool in GA pilot training. An online survey gathered views on FSTD use for routine flight operations and emergency training, as well as AR’s potential to support learning. Responses from 197 participants show a strong interest (average rating above 4 on a 5-point scale) in incorporating FSTDs and AR technology into the GA pilot training framework. The findings suggest that immersive, technology-driven training environments have the potential to better address modern aviation demands and enhance pilot proficiency.

Environmental, Developmental, and Genetic Conditions Shaping Monarch Butterfly Migration Behavior.

Monarch butterflies in North America migrate south each autumn, but the mechanisms that initiate their migratory flight remain incompletely understood. We investigated environmental, developmental, and genetic factors that contribute to directional flight by testing summer and autumn-generation monarchs in three flight simulators: two at ground level (with and without wind blockage) and a novel balloon-based system that raised butterflies 30 meters into the air. Monarchs reared under autumn-like conditions in a growth chamber during the summer were also tested to explore the influence of developmental cues. Autumn generation monarchs demonstrated significant southwestern flight orientation, observed exclusively in the balloon simulator, underscoring the importance of high-altitude flight for migratory behavior. Summer generation monarchs reared under autumn-like conditions displayed southward orientation, larger wing sizes, and partial reproductive diapause, indicating specific seasonal environmental cues that are sufficient to induce migratory traits. In contrast, a lab line of monarchs reared in captivity since 2016 exhibited diminished wing size and reduced orientation ability, even when raised outdoors in the autumn, consistent with a loss of migratory traits in the absence of migration. Surprisingly, butterflies in the balloon simulator tended to orient upwind, which suggests that wind may also serves as a directional cue during migration. These findings highlight the critical roles of altitude, wind, and environmental cues in monarch migration and validate the balloon flight simulator as a powerful tool for studying migratory behavior. This research advances our understanding of the initiation of monarch migration and informs strategies for conservation efforts amidst environmental change.

The Integration of AI and Metaverse in Education: A Systematic Literature Review

The use of the metaverse in educational environments has grown significantly in recent years, particularly following the shift of major tech companies towards virtual worlds and immersive technologies. Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies are employed to construct immersive learning environments. The metaverse is generally understood as a vast digital ecosystem or virtual space, facilitating the transition of individuals from physical to virtual environments, and is applicable to educational domains where practical experiments are challenging or fraught with risks, such as space exploration, chemical experimentation, and flight simulation training. In addition, the integration of artificial intelligence with the metaverse within educational contexts has significantly enriched the learning environment, giving rise to AI-driven teaching systems tailored to each student’s individual pace and learning modalities. As a result, a number of research articles have been conducted to explore the applications of the metaverse and artificial intelligence in education. This paper provides a systematic literature review following the PRISMA methodology to analyze and investigate the significance and impact of the metaverse in education, with a specific focus on the integration of AI with the metaverse. We address inquiries regarding the applications, challenges, academic disciplines, and effects of integrating AI and the metaverse in education that have not yet been explored in most research articles. Additionally, we study the AI techniques used in the metaverse in education and their roles. The review affirms that the integration of the metaverse in education, with the utilization of AI applications, will enrich education by improving students’ understanding and comprehension across diverse academic disciplines.

A Collaborative Virtual Reality Flight Simulator: Efficacy, Challenges and Potential

A Collaborative Virtual Reality Flight Simulator: Efficacy, Challenges and Potential

Forward and Turning Flight Simulation of Flying Cars and Comparative Evaluation of Flight Dynamics Models Considering Wind Disturbances

Forward and Turning Flight Simulation of Flying Cars and Comparative Evaluation of Flight Dynamics Models Considering Wind Disturbances

Objective testing of a civil aircraft flight simulator

Objective testing of a civil aircraft flight simulator

Research on the virtual-real hybrid integration of flight simulator based on multi-protocol heterogeneous fusion mechanism

Research on the virtual-real hybrid integration of flight simulator based on multi-protocol heterogeneous fusion mechanism

Model-based testing method for flight simulator QTG testing

Model-based testing method for flight simulator QTG testing

Aircraft Load Estimation Using Linear Parameter-Varying System-Based Hybrid Observers

The hybrid loads observer has demonstrated its precision in estimating structural loads and wind disturbances in prior applications. This level of precision is attained by combining a high-fidelity physical, nonlinear flight dynamics model with a data-driven correction model. To mitigate the typically high computational effort, the nonlinear model is substituted in this work with a linear parameter-varying (LPV) system. Therefore, the nonlinear model is approximated by scheduled Linear Time-Invariant models derived from Jacobian linearization. The robustness of this novel approach against parameter uncertainties is evaluated through simulated flight test studies using a subscale test aircraft as an example. It is demonstrated that increased model uncertainties lead to wind estimation accuracy reduction. Additionally, increased parameter uncertainties adversely affect the accuracy of structural load estimation within the model-based (physical) part of the observer. Nonetheless, this loss of accuracy can be compensated by the correction model, leading to the typical high load estimation accuracy of the hybrid loads observer. Finally, experimental data from wind-tunnel tests, utilizing a 1-degree-of-freedom representative test wing, confirms the high estimation accuracy of the LPV-based hybrid loads observer. Despite employing low-fidelity models, achieving high accuracy is feasible while maintaining the characteristic low complexity of the correction model.

Performance Analysis of Three Predictors for Mitigating Input and Output Time Delays

This paper presents a novel extended Kalman filter (EKF)-based nonlinear predictor—the extended Kalman predictor (EKP)—and compares its performance with two linear predictors, the Smith predictor (SP) and the Kalman predictor (KP). A motivating application is telerobotic operation using a predictive display that requires knowledge of the robot pose despite time delays at the input and the output. The paper provides the mathematical formulation of the EKP, as well as the two linear predictors, and demonstrates their use for the simulated flight of a small, fixed-wing uncrewed air vehicle. The EKP performs comparably to the KP when the aircraft motion experiences small perturbations from a nominal trajectory, but the EKP outperforms the KP for larger excursions. The SP performs poorly in every case.

Effects of Mental Workload Manipulation on Electroencephalography Spectrum Oscillation and Microstates in Multitasking Environments.

Multitasking during flights leads to a high mental workload, which is detrimental for maintaining task performance. Electroencephalography (EEG) power spectral analysis based on frequency-band oscillations and microstate analysis based on global brain network activation can be used to evaluate mental workload. This study explored the effects of a high mental workload during simulated flight multitasking on EEG frequency-band power and microstate parameters. Thirty-six participants performed multitasking with low and high mental workloads after 4 consecutive days of training. Two levels of mental workload were set by varying the number of subtasks. EEG signals were acquired during the task. Power spectral and microstate analyses were performed on the EEG. The indices of four frequency bands (delta, theta, alpha, and beta) and four microstate classes (A-D) were calculated, changes in the frequency-band power and microstate parameters under different mental workloads were compared, and the relationships between the two types of EEG indices were analyzed. The theta-, alpha-, and beta-band powers were higher under the high than under the low mental workload condition. Compared with the low mental workload condition, the high mental workload condition had a lower global explained variance and time parameters of microstate B but higher time parameters of microstate D. Less frequent transitions between microstates A and B and more frequent transitions between microstates C and D were observed during high mental workload conditions. The time parameters of microstate B were positively correlated with the delta-, theta-, and beta-band powers, whereas the duration of microstate C was negatively correlated with the beta-band power. EEG frequency-band power and microstate parameters can be used to detect a high mental workload. Power spectral analyses based on frequency-band oscillations and microstate analyses based on global brain network activation were not completely isolated during multitasking.

Application of educational simulations in the process of adult education

The article analyzes modern research on the application of simulation games in the process of adult education, in particular in such areas as medicine, aviation, jurisprudence and pedagogy. The advantages of such training methods are noted, in particular, the development of practical skills in a safe environment. The article describes in detail the different types of simulations, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, role-playing and computer simulations, and provides examples of their successful use. In particular, the use of the Body Interact platform for the training of medical professionals, flight simulators for pilot training, and role-playing games in the simulation of court processes and the training of teaching staff are analyzed. It is noted that one of the key advantages of educational simulations is the opportunity to practice practical skills in a safe environment, which is especially relevant for professions that require a high level of responsibility. Also, simulations promote the development of critical thinking, decision-making and teamwork. The article emphasizes the importance of integrating simulation technologies into the educational process. The authors offer recommendations on the development of effective simulation scenarios, the selection of appropriate equipment, and the organization of the educational process. The authors reveal the potential of educational simulations to increase the effectiveness of adult learning and provide recommendations for the optimal integration of these technologies into the educational process.

Problem of low-frequency motion cueing along roll on flight simulators

An innovative approach to improve the fidelity of low-frequency lateral motion cueing within full-flight simulators for non-maneuvering aircraft is presented. On the basis of the perception peculiarities by the human vestibular system of movement along the roll, the problem of low-frequency motion cueing of lateral movement by motion systems of flight simulators was formulated and solved. The critical challenge of simulating the set of angular motion cues that pilots perceive during flights is decided. This research highlights two key outcomes. The fourth-order low-pass filter effectively extracts low-frequency motion cues from aircraft motion kinematic parameters, enhancing simulation accuracy. Secondly, proposed method significantly expands the range of simulated motion cues while ensuring their synchronization with high-frequency motion cues along relevant degrees of freedom. This formulation of the problem increases the range of simulated motion cues to ±0,3nz, which practically corresponds to the range of simulated motion cues of a transport aircraft, and thus increases the quality of motion cueing. The implementation of the developed method on the An-72TK-200 full flight simulator confirmed its effectiveness. In conclusion, this study introduces a promising methodology that enhances the quality of motion cueing, thus rendering flight simulations more realistic and beneficial for both pilots and aerospace engineering researchers in the real of non-maneuvering aircraft flight simulators

Психологическая подготовка студентов к экстремальным ситуациям средствами виртуальной реальности

<p>The article considers the results of the study of psychological preparation of students — extreme profile psychologists for situations of special risk through special organized training using virtual reality. <strong>Subjects</strong>: 38 students aged 20 to 24 years, including 29 females. The subjects were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. <strong>Research methods</strong>: method “Forecast”, method of differential diagnostics of depressive states by V.A. Zhmurov, method “Assessment of neuropsychic stress”, diagnostics of slowing down of biological aging using the program “Anti-aging XXI” (T.N. Berezina). Methods of mathematical statistics: calculation of descriptive statistics, calculation of the Mann-Whitney U criterion, calculation of the Spearman correlation coefficient. Methods of experimental influence: seven VR simulators of different influences (flight simulator, depth, altitude, speed, darkness, etc.). <strong>Results</strong>. There is a relationship between motivation for activity in extreme conditions and personal resources: a direct relationship with the “achievement” resource and an inverse relationship with the risk level. The VR training we developed actualizes these resources. Increased achievements are ensured by the fact that respondents successfully complete tasks in extreme situations simulated in VR. Risk reduction is ensured by adaptation to extreme situations during the training. After the training, the subjects of the experimental group showed a significant decrease in the level of depression and an increase in the motivational and emotional components of readiness for action in an extreme situation. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: to increase motivation for activity in an extreme environment, it is necessary to increase the “achievement” resource, and for the “risk” resource, it is necessary to achieve its replacement with a conscious attitude to the situation. Virtual reality technologies have proven their effectiveness in increasing personal resources and preparing psychology students for activity in extreme conditions.</p>

Drone Rider: Foot Vibration Stimuli to Enhance Immersion and Flight Sensation in VR

Simulating the experience of flight is a key objective of virtual reality (VR) technology. To enhance the sense of flying and immersion, we developed Drone Rider, a VR system that simulates free-flight atop a drone. In this study, we investigated whether delivering vibratory stimuli to the user’s feet could improve these sensations. While high-frequency drone propeller vibrations typically induce sensory numbness, alternative vibration patterns were explored. In Experiment 1, participants rated 13 different vibration patterns derived from various mechanical sounds, such as those from chainsaws, motorcycles, and washing machines. The motorcycle-based vibrations were most effective in enhancing both the sense of flight and immersion. In Experiment 2, we synthesized new vibration patterns by superimposing the highest-rated vibrations from Experiment 1, but no combination outperformed the original motorcycle vibration. These findings suggest that vibrations with multiple components below 100 Hz may reduce sensory adaptation and enhance the sense of flight and immersion in VR. This work provides valuable insights for developers aiming to optimize haptic feedback in VR flight simulators.

Impact of automation level on airline pilots' flying performance and visual scanning strategies: A full flight simulator study.

Cockpit automation has brought significant benefits in terms of mental workload and fatigue. However, the way primary flight instruments are monitored by pilots may be negatively affected by the high confidence in systems. We examined the effects of automation level on mental workload, manual flight performance and visual strategies. Twenty professional pilots performed six landing scenarios at three levels of automation depending on flight director (flight path guidance) and autothrust (automatic management of the speed) engagements. Higher levels of automation increased flight performance and reduced mental workload, but were associated with a decrease in vigilance to primary instruments, particularly flight path indicators and engines' thrust. We also found that gaze entropy was sensitive to pilot role (pilot flying vs pilot monitoring) and automation level. These results confirmed the risks of adverse effects of automation on visual monitoring. Designing procedures for pilots to actively monitor automated cockpit systems should be encouraged.

Computational Algorithms for Representing Aircraft Instruments with Barometric Physics (Numerical Methods Applied to Flight Simulation)

The present work describes the development of a graphical environment to represent typical flight instruments on a computer screen. The instruments’ behavior is displayed according to information regarding the aircraft’s flight conditions. Some of the instruments represented in this work, such as the altimeter, the vertical speed indicator, the aircraft speed indicator, and the Mach indicator, use air pressure principles. The algorithms and routines developed for the screen display are created using the C++ programming language and compiled independently to be included as libraries to improve the software performance. The algorithms developed for this purpose also include the corresponding relationship between the physical variables, such as the speed and displacement, and the standard atmosphere to provide an equivalent value. These algorithms are successfully tested using data information to simulate three hypothetical flights, which are divided into maneuvers with the aircraft in a stopped position, running on the ground, taking off and flying away, including some changes in directions. Moreover, the routines for displaying the aircraft path with the instruments’ animation are also successfully tested by comparison. Finally, an approach analysis as a function of the step time (Δt) used for calculation of the aircraft displacement to evaluate the efficiency of the numerical method integrated in the simulator is also described. It is proved that the aircraft instrument representation is appropriate according to the input data of the analyzed flights, and an improvement in the calculation can be easily obtained, making it possible to represent any flight condition on the aircraft instruments.

Evaluating Pilot Mental Workload Using fNIRS-Based Functional Connectivity Features with a Deep Residual Shrinkage Network Under Emergency Flight Scenarios

Excessive mental workload can lead to less remaining resources for pilots to perform concurrent tasks during emergency flights, affecting aviation safety. Based on a flight simulator, this study investigated 25 cadet pilots using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and subjective ratings to assess their mental workload under three subtasks with different equipment failures. fNIRS data included oxyhemoglobin, deoxyhemoglobin, and total hemoglobin signals, yielding 10545 functional connectivity (FC) features from four brain regions: prefrontal, right motor, left motor, and occipital cortexes. A deep residual shrinkage network classified mental workload levels, outperforming convolutional neural network and random forest models with 89.58% accuracy after feature selection employing an interpretable machine learning algorithm. The results suggest that brain FC from three hemoglobin signals could be used to differentiate the three different levels of pilot mental workload. This study could contribute to improving pilot training and supporting the development of pilots’ competencies during emergency scenarios.

Sensory conflict in simulator sessions - measuring biosignals to predict the onset of disorderly symptoms: a brief literature review.

The global virtual reality (VR) market is growing surprisingly fast. As VR applications continue to expand into various areas of life, attention is being paid to issues related to user well-being. The danger lurking for users is the occurrence of simulator sickness and artificial reality sickness, collectively referred to as sensory conflict. As early as the 1950s, an attempt was made to study simulator sickness. Unfavorable psychophysical symptoms occurred in pilots using the first flight simulators. With the development of technology, the graphic and simulation capabilities of the various types of simulators are increasing. Easier access to simulators using first person view (FPV) and thus more outstanding research capabilities allow new studies related to the incidence of this disease to compare symptoms occurring during simulator sessions with those occurring during realworld endeavors. The primary purpose of the review is to bring together the latest reports on different types of sensory conflict concerning factors that are symptomatic in prediction and diagnosis. Heart rate, brain activity, stomach activity, and skin conductance seem to be the most adequate, objective indicators of subjects' susceptibility to this phenomenon. In addition, it is intended to systematize concepts related to sensory conflict in the broadest sense. Int J Occup Med Environ Health. 2024;37(5):482-94.