MATE. Multi Aircraft Training Environment

A medium fidelity and low cost training device for pilots, called the Multi Aircraft Training Environment (MATE), is developed to replace other low fidelity stand-alone training devices and integrate them into a flexible environment, primarily aimed at training pilots in checklist procedures. The cockpit switches and instruments in MATE are computer-generated graphics.

The graphics are back projected onto semi-transparent touch screen panels in a hybrid cockpit mock-up. Thus, the MATE is relatively cheap, it is always available, it is reconfigurable (e.g. between types of aircraft/models to be simulated) and with possibilities for including various forms of intelligent computer assistance.

This training concept and the technology are not specific to aviation, but can be used to simulate various types of control panels in different domains. The training effectiveness of pilots’ procedure training in the MATE prototype was compared with the effects of traditional training that included the use of real aircraft.

The experimental group (EXP) trained the pre-start checklist and the engine start checklist for the Saab 340 commuter aircraft in a MATE prototype. The control group (CTR) trained the same procedures using the aircraft (a/c) for training the pre start and a desktop computer tool (power plant trainer) for training engine starts.

Performance on the pre-start checklist was compared in a formal checkout that took place in the a/c. Performance on the engine start procedure was compared in a full flight simulator (FFS). The conclusion was, firstly, that training in the MATE prototype can result in an equally good performance as the existing training (a/c and computer tools), provided that the MATE trainees are given time to familiarise themselves with the a/c.

Secondly, training in MATE can result in better performance during dynamic tasks, such as abnormal engine starts. This is promising for the further development of the MATE concept.