New standards in control tower training systems are being set today by Raytheon's FIRSTplusTM Tower Simulator. Detailed computer-generated imagery is complemented by a complete simulator suite that includes student controller, pseudo-pilot and instructor positions.

Visual Simulations
 Tower simulation technology is constantly evolving. To meet this challenge, image-generation and projection display technologies are selected to best meet the customer's training objectives. All image-generation options are based on the latest hardware and software products and systems. The field-of-view, size, and type of displays are completely scalable. Options ranging from small monitors to front-projected, 360º field-of-view, and dome-like displays can be integrated to meet customers’ visual system requirements.

The FIRSTplusTM Tower Simulator product line also meets the two most important training criteria for a high-fidelity ATC tower training environment: highly realistic scenario generation and adjustable time-of-day, weather, and seasonal conditions.

Tower Simulator Design
 Tower Simulator Design The tower simulator is based on a network of FIRSTplusTM simulators connected to the tower visual display system. Each FIRSTplusTM node interfaces with an information display subsystem to provide weather reports, Direction Finder, and other airfield-related data. The complete simulator suite comprises local controller, ground controller, flight data, instructor, and pseudo-pilot positions. The controller stations have a full view of the panoramic scene produced by the visual system. All stations network together for fully integrated operations. A terminal area radar display provides coordinated ATC system training and fully integrated operation between tower, approach/ departure, and enroute radar training environments.

The ground controller station enables students to control airport lighting controls, tower indicators and alarms, surface movement radar, and airport surface detection equipment.

The flight data or assistant position provides communications and, if desired, a flight strip bay, which holds the aircraft flight progress strips.

Pseudo-Pilot Positions
The pseudo-pilot controls the simulated aircraft used throughout the exercises being presented to the ATC students. The pseudo-pilot position provides maximum control of aircraft and scenario events with a minimum of effort.

High-resolution monitors display a top-down view of the airport and the surrounding radar coverage area, including all of the aircraft under the pseudo-pilots' control. Both instructors and students find the keyboard and graphical user interface intuitive and easy to use.

Instructor Positions
Instructors can monitor and control any exercise. They can introduce aircraft emergencies and malfunctions, generate new scenarios, change weather and time-of-day conditions, and communicate with students or pseudo-pilots.

Data Preparation
Advanced FIRSTplusTM software modules simplify training course development. Powerful, user-friendly scenario-development tools enable instructors to design and modify tower and ground training exercises quickly and easily.

Options
The FIRSTplusTM Tower Simulator offers many options to meet specific or unique training requirements. These options include:

  • Voice Recognition and Audible Response
    For the most realistic environment possible, voice recognition and computer-generated audible responses can be added. Students' speech commands both aircraft and ground vehicle movement. This option provides an effective alternative or supplement to a staffed pseudo-pilot position. Models and Visual Databases A standard set of 3-D aircraft models are provided with the basic system. Raytheon can also provide multiple site-specific, visual databases, as well as train customers in model.
  • Basic Computer Equipment
    The FIRSTplusTM Tower Simulator runs on a variety of industry-standard PCs. Raytheon can select the industry standard PC that best fits the customer's current operational environment.
  • Consoles
     Consoles can be provided and customized, or FIRSTplusTM technology can be placed in consoles provided by the customer.
  • Number of Positions
     The number of positions can be scaled for particular training requirements. The number of controllers, pseudo-pilots, or instructors can be customized on a per-system basis.
  • Displays and Projection Systems
    Displays and projection systems are scalable and can be built using a variety of different manufacturers' equipment.
  • Models and Visual Databases
    A standard set of 3-D aircraft models are provided with the basic system. Raytheon can also provide multiple site-specific, visual databases, as well as train customers in model and database modification and implementation.
  • Communications
     A software-based, fully configurable communication subsystem is available. This subsystem provides R/T (Receiver/ Transmitter) and telephone emulations and is automatically configured to match the simulation configuration when training exercises are loaded.