Visual simulation for aircraft and space flight trainers

This paper outlines the newly emergent technology of visual simulation. The purpose of such a device is to create a synthetic visual reproduction of an external environment and display a dynamic perspective picture to a pilot in a ground-based flight trainer. Visual simulator design must consider three often unrelated disciplines, namely Electronics, Optics, and Psychology. The paper outlines the factors influencing the field of visual simulation and some of the design concepts. It also indicates the current state of the art and postulates future developments.