Assessing the Fidelity of a Human-in-the-Loop Helicopter Flight Research Simulator

The Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) has modified the Simulator Fidelity Rating (SFR) scale developed by the University of Liverpool, UK, for application to Human-in-the-Loop (HiL) research tasks. The modified SFR (mSFR) was applied successfully over three trials to assess the fidelity of various tasks performed in the DSTO fixed-base helicopter research simulator. The mSFR scale was found to provide a repeatable method to measure simulation fidelity. To identify simulator deficiencies, the mSFR scale was accompanied by formal written feedback from test pilots describing the use of task strategy, control activity, and useable cue environments. The DSTO research simulator was found to be deficient in heave, aural, and small translational rate cues for the cases examined. It is proposed that consistent application of the mSFR in HiL research tasks will provide greater confidence in the research outcomes DSTO is able to provide to the Australian Defence Force community.