Innovative Approach to Teaching Vertical Reference
After being well received during demonstrations at the last Heli-Expo in Las Vegas, Australian simulator manufacturer Ryan Aerospace has launched the HELIMOD MK III, an innovative and affordable long line trainer targeted at teaching helicopter pilots the art of vertical reference and management of external sling loads.
Head tracking sensors and steroscopic virtual reality (VR) goggles offer left or right seat trainees a sense of full immersion with a 360° view of the cockpit and an ability to lean out and ‘look’ directly beneath the helicopter – an essential for teaching the basics of vertical reference. HELIMOD MK III is software agnostic and can be configured with a variety of software packages, including VBS3, X-Plane 11, DCS, Prepar3D, Titan, Arma and Presagis products such as HeliSim, Vega Prime and Sage.
Portable and deployable, the trainer has a footprint just 1.3×0.7m, making it ideal for constrained training environments. Modular, interchangeable controls mean the trainer can be reconfigured to a specific aircraft model in just minutes. The cyclic has a realistic feel, which includes functional force trim not normally found in low cost simulators, and the adjustable anti-torque pedals with hydraulic dampening, coupled with a fully adjustable seat, will accommodate almost any sized pilot.
Motion platforms such as the D-Box system are easily integrated through preinstalled attachment points on the trainer – particularly important when using VR to establish congruency between what the pilot sees and his/her vestibular system, thus reducing the likelihood of dizziness or disorientation. The trainer can also be provided with the BUTTKICKER low frequency sound system for additional vibration and sound cues.
