Title: Advanced Technology Applications in Flight Simulation Training and Evaluation: Voice Generation and Recognition
Authors: Lee, A.T.
Reference: Tech. Report, Beta Research, Inc., October, 1999.
Report No.: BRI-TR-121099

Abstract

Technical advancements in computer and visual display technology over the past two decades have engendered major advances in simulation technology development. Flight simulation technology has achieved sufficient levels of fidelity to allow the simulator to become an effective surrogate for the real aircraft. In some aspects of flight simulation, achievements been much less dramatic. Simulating voice communications between a trainee pilot and air traffic controllers, other crew members and ground personnel, and even the normal radio frequency traffic has proved much more difficult. As these communications task are an important aspect of training and because the fidelity of simulation may be compromised by their absence, an investigation was conducted to investigate the state of voice technology and the applications of this technology to the simulation of voice communications in flight training. This report describes the history and status of voice generation and recognition and its actual and potential application to flight simulation technology. Examples of voice technology applications in military and civilian simulators are provided to illustrate the practical utility and limits of the technology. Recommendations for the use of the technology for training and evaluation are provided.