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Queensland-based Ryan Aerospace Australia has been awarded a contract to supply the US Army at Fort Rucker, Alabama – the world’s largest helicopter training facility.
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Ryan Aerospace Australia has been awarded a contract to supply more than 30 HELIMOD Mark III helicopter simulators for the US Army at Fort Rucker, Alabama.
The contract is part of the Army’s "Aviator Training Next" or "ATN" Program, an experimental, yet innovative, new way to provide helicopter pilot training during the primary phase using the latest in virtual reality (VR) technology and high-end, commercially available helicopter simulator equipment.
Managing director of Ryan Aerospace, Chris Ryan, said, "Delighted to partner with the US Army and prime contractor SAIC to work on this ground-breaking project."
The system is supported by an after-action review software package that automatically assesses, grades and logs the student’s performance.
The project is multi-faceted and many teams are working together to ensure the best possible outcome. A dedicated team based at West Point (the US Military Academy) will be conducting a thorough research project to objectively assess the outcomes of the project and report back on ways to improve it even further.
The experiment will run until mid-2020, upon which the US Army will decide if this is a valid means of training.
All 31 systems have been delivered and installed ahead of schedule and the US Army Aviators have commenced the experimental training. Ryan Aerospace (Australia) has been working with Precision Flight Controls (PFC) based in Sacramento to support the project.
The HELIMOD Mark III was designed to teach real helicopter pilots the art of long lining/vertical reference/slung loads and hover training.
HELIMOD Mark III is a VR head-mounted display that puts the user directly in the pilot's seat of virtually any aircraft. There is a full sense of immersion brought about by the 3D, stereoscopic nature of the VR goggles.
The pilot has the ability to 'look around' the aircraft and, more importantly, can lean out the side and look directly underneath the helicopter (such as looking down at your slung load). This is perfect for teaching the basics of vertical reference.
The HELIMOD Mark III is portable and deployable making it ideal for small offices, trailers, shipping containers etc. The main base is just 28 inches wide (700mm) and 51 inches long (1,300mm).
The HELIMOD Mark III enjoys a number of key features and benefits, including:
- Full immersion in the cockpit with the ability to look around (including directly down for vertical reference/long lining operations);
- Modular and reconfigurable (aircraft-specific modules and controls can easily be added/interchanged), including main instrument panels, avionics suites, GPS etc;
- USB "Plug and Play". Can be used with a variety of software platforms dependent on the training requirement;
- Cyclic has force trim function with stick shaker option available;
- Pedals have high quality hydraulic dampening;
- Collective has high quality hydraulic dampening and friction control;
- Main frame has durable Rhino Coating with recessed, rugged handles for easy movement. Internal parts over-engineered to withstand the harshest of operating environments;
- Retractable wheel system for easy movement available as an option;
- Small footprint. Can fit in a small office, trailer or shipping container and is entirely portable;
- Package deals with PC, configured software and virtual reality headset available;
- Motion platform available;
- Adjustable seat and scalable; and
- Can also be used with LCD screens or projectors for the out-the-window visuals instead of/as well as the virtual reality headset.
HELIMOD Mark III builds on the success of Ryan Aerospace's Mark II unit, which proved highly successful at the Heli-Expo in Las Vegas recently.
This contract has helped win Ryan Aerospace a Queensland Premier’s Export Award and made it a finalist in the upcoming National Awards.
Stephen Kuper
Steve has an extensive career across government, defence industry and advocacy, having previously worked for cabinet ministers at both Federal and State levels.
