An interactive simulator for maintenance training

Often one of the first casualties of today's numerous defense programs competing for funding is training. To address the rising costs of and diminishing resources for training, the Navy seeks innovative methods to train sailors efficiently and effectively. One such method is to employ high-fidelity, realistic, and user-friendly PC-based training simulators. The Hovering and Missile Compensation Maintenance Simulator was created for sailors in the Trident SSBN community to learn how to conduct maintenance on two shipboard ballasting systems. The simulator combines high-resolution graphics with physics-based models of the mechanics and electronics involved in these systems. Students use this program to conduct actual maintenance procedures on simulated equipment. An instructor-led multi-user capability is also available, which includes introducing failures into the systems, often requiring students to take corrective action. This article provides an overview of the technology used to create this maintenance simulator and discusses the challenges in creating a realistic simulation that will motivate the sailor to use such a tool.