Assessing the Benefits and Costs of Motion for C-17 Flight Simulators

This study examines the benefits and costs of incorporating a motion system in the C-17 flight training simulator, and it suggests a standard framework for assessing simulator fidelity requirements in general, and motion cueing alternatives in particular. Using a framework detailed in this report, the research assesses three simulator alternatives: a system having no motion, a system using hydraulic/pneumatic g-seats, and a system using a six-degree-of-freedom (dof) motion platform. If the Air force devises an adequate training syllabus for C-17 simulators and if the program plan ensures that adequate performance data are collected during development, the incremental costs of simulators using six-dof motion platforms appear to be warranted when measured against the likely benefits from their use. Simulators with no motion systems, or those using g-seats, do not appear to be cost-effective for the C-17 training application.