UAV Operator Training
SIM Factor is developing a new generation of training system for unmanned aerial vehicle operators, built on a digital reproduction of real terrain.
Instead of limiting training to flying a UAV over a fictional range, we build an environment in which the operator carries out complete operational scenarios in faithfully reproduced locations.
Real World – Digital Mission
Mission simulator
A conventional UAV simulator answers one question above all: can the operator fly the drone?
The SIM Factor system goes further.
Its purpose is to prepare the operator to carry out a complete task in a realistic operational environment — accounting for terrain, infrastructure, sensors, weather, events and situations that call for decisions.
The operator does not just practise flying.
They practise completing the mission.
The real world as a training environment
The SIM Factor training system uses a digital reproduction of the real world, not generic training maps.
A UAV operator can train in a specific location, with the real layout of terrain and infrastructure.
Digital twin of the terrain
SIM Factor technology makes it possible to build geo-specific training environments based on real-world data.
Our world covers real terrain, cities and genuine critical infrastructure. Our editor spans 11 distinct regions, more than 15,000 3D objects and hundreds of reproduced cities, towns and unique landscapes across Europe and India.
Buildings, terrain obstacles, infrastructure and the shape of the space all become an integral part of the training.
The operator learns more than the aircraft.
They also learn the terrain they will be working in.
Operational scenarios
The system supports practising, among other things:
- reconnaissance and observation,
- searching for people or objects,
- infrastructure inspection,
- operating in limited visibility,
- night operations,
- loss of GPS,
- loss of communications,
- operating in jamming zones,
- rapidly changing situations on the ground,
- several operators working together.
Every scenario can be repeated as often as needed, which allows operator responses to be compared and the training process analysed.
In cooperation with the Air Force Institute of Technology.
Combining the Institute’s expertise in UAVs and training methodology with SIM Factor simulation technology makes it possible to create a realistic, validated environment for operator training.
See the world as the operator sees it
The system is being developed to simulate different modes of observation and different environmental conditions.
It can reproduce, among other things:
- daylight cameras,
- night vision,
- thermal imaging,
- different times of day,
- changing weather,
- limited visibility.
The operator can practise not only finding an object, but also identifying it correctly and assessing the situation.
One system. Many UAV platforms
The UAV configurator will make it possible to reproduce different classes of unmanned aircraft by configuring their parameters.
The parameters that can be modified include:
- flight characteristics,
- dynamics,
- control method,
- stabilisation,
- camera parameters,
- sensors,
- platform limitations.
As a result, a single training infrastructure can support many UAV types and evolve as the equipment in use changes.
Team training
The SIM Factor platform is being developed as a multiplayer environment, letting many users operate at the same time in the same digital world.
This allows practising not only individual skills, but also communication, coordination, information sharing and joint decision-making.
A single session can involve many operators and observers. In time the system will also allow other mission participants to join, such as operators of other vehicles.
