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30mm Gun Part Task Trainer Development (March 1998 to March 2000)
The development of the 30mm Gun Part Task Trainer was initiated
by the recommendations of the SMA Training Analysis Report, submitted
to the Customer as part of the overall Minehunter training program.
This report identified the need for a low cost Gun Aimer trainer
to develop the relatively difficult skills of using a complex user
interface to identify, prosecute and engage targets.
The subsequent development process was divided into four, defined
stages:
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Design
This figure shows the very first concept drawing of the Part Task
Trainer. A series of approaches were assessed, including CRT monitor
and hemispherical enviromental enclosures. The training analysis
requirement was used as the benchmark design driver at all stages
of the design process.
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A full-motion platform was also considered but rejected on the
grounds that it did not add significant learning value to the competencies
to be developed by gun aimer students.
The final design incorporated a fixed enclosure with a curved screen,
upon which is projected an immersive world environment.
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Prototyping
A full scale prototype was built to address the many issues identified
during the design phase. Problems solved during this phase included
image distortion, projector placement, gun sight manufacture and
screen format. Prototyping and design phases were progressed
iteratively, with feedback from the solutions being incorporated
back into the design specification.
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Configuration control of hardware and software was rigorously controlled
during all project phases.
Extensive use was made of 3D modelling tools to supplement the
physical prototyping tasks. This figure illustrates the solution
to the problem of projector placement and associated alignment and
balance issues.
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Development
A number of key items were manufactured, incorporated and tested
during the development phase. As with earlier phases, these development
activities provided feedback as changes to the design and prototype
elements of the PTT.
Significant cost savings were achieved by manufacturing most PTT
elements in-house or by local subcontractors.
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In particular, the user interface components (control panel, joysticks
etc.) were produced locally at a small percentage of the cost of
milspec versions available from the gun manufacturer.
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Delivery/Support
The PTT was delivered and installed into the Customer's site -
the Mine Warfare Systems Centre (MWSC) - in Sydney, Australia.
This figure shows the PTT in-situ, complete with Instructor scenario
development/control station.
Support and enhancement of the PTT is on-going, with on-site maintenance
and software upgrades.
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On Show
These photos show the PTT “in action” at SimTect 2000 Simulation
Exhibition at Sydney's Darling Harbour Convention Centre (February,
2000).
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