Data base correlation issues

It is noted that a full mission simulator, just like the device simulated consists of many different subsystems, each of which requires a uniquely formatted database. Although the format is different, the data in each must correlate with all other simulation subsystems (e.g. visual, sensor, moving map). A simulation facility must provide the capability of correlating each subsystem of one simulator with the comparable ones of other simulators. Correlation is dependent upon several factors such as the simulation task, the computer image generators and graphics systems used, and the interaction of specific database components. The authors discuss these topics and how they can impact the degree of correlation that can occur for any particular simulation exercise. Correlation components are described, and a specific correlation problem that has arisen at a helicopter company is addressed.<>