Using the Backward Transfer Paradigm to Validate the AH-64 Simulator Training Research Advanced Testbed for Aviation

Abstract

The Simulator Training Research Advanced Testbed for Aviation (STRATA) is a modular research simulator which in its current configuration represents the AH-64 helicopter. The backward transfer of training paradigm was employed to determine if AH-64 piloting skills transfer to STRATA. Ten AH-64 pilots participated in the experiment. They performed a mission scenario consisting of 13 Aircrew Training Manual (ATM) tasks. No orientation or practice was allowed. Most participants rated STRATA as highly similar to the AH-64 in handling. Real-time performance ratings indicated that of 130 task events, 88.5% were performed to ATM standards. After the experiment, four independent judges rank-ordered performance on the hover task using output from STRATA'S performance measurement system. Rankings showed high concordance and a high correlation with real-time ratings.

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