The initial simulation test saves money by providing information without incurring the costs of flying the plane. The simulation also affords flexibility for training the pilots and the test directors, allowing them to conduct a dry run and make adjustments before involving the aircraft in the testing. In addition, this testing pattern increases the credibility of simulation techniques by providing a wealth of data. The follow-on test demonstrates that the results predicted by the first model actually occurred in the flight test, verifying that the simulation is a good tool for evaluating systems, Lowry explains. If additional, unforeseen data is gathered during the flight test, it is incorporated into the follow-up simulation, and the test can be rerun.
Simulation saves time by enabling engineers to conduct tests concurrently.
Also, if aircraft testing is delayed by hardware problems, the testing schedule can be maintained, and if a simulation demonstrates that a test is poorly designed, it can be revised or canceled. Lockheed Martin's Advanced Development Laboratory is also using simulation software to prototype the simulation tools that will be used in the ACS, says Ralph Bell, manager of the laboratory. This is particularly useful when building visual human-machine interfaces. These interfaces display application data as graphics, which are redrawn to reflect changes in the data. In real-time applications, a rapid refresh rate results in the perception of smooth animation.