- There are several basic types of flight simulators. They work in different ways, but all have the same basic purpose: to give you a realistic impression that you are controlling an airplane. All of them function by tricking the senses in different ways. The basic types of modern simulators include PC based simulators, full cockpit simulators and full motion simulators.
- PC based simulators consist of a software package that runs on a personal computer. This type of simulator works by creating an computer generated, animated image on the computer screen that resembles the view from the cockpit of an airplane. This typically includes a representation of the instrument panel (usually with realistically functioning instruments), and a view out the window of the sky, the horizon and the ground. The illusion of motion is created by having the image of the instrument panel remain stationary while the imagery of the sky and the ground tilts and moves up and down. This type of simulator has the advantage of being able to replicate many different types of aircraft at the click of a button.
- Full cockpit simulators combine a computer based simulator with a life-size, realistic mock-up of the cockpit a specific airplane type. The interior would typically contain all of same physical switches, levers, and instruments found in the real airplane. The windows would be replaced by computer screens that display simultaneous computer generated views of the outside world. These screens, along with all the instruments, switches and levers, are connected to a central computer that coordinates them all to function realistically together. Additionally, there are also usually several large speakers positioned around the outside of the cockpit to create three-dimensional sound. The elements work together to create a very convincing illusion of flight. There is generally a technician who sits at a console outside the cockpit and controls the simulation. This type of simulator is used by airlines for the initial training on specific aircraft types. They have the disadvantage that they cannot be easily converted to simulate more than one type of aircraft.
- A full motion simulator contains the same elements as the full cockpit simulator, except that the entire mock up is mounted on an elevated platform that sits on a set of movable hydraulic legs. These legs are also controlled by the central computer, and create the physical sensation of motion by tilting and shaking the cockpit. When the pilot inside manipulates the controls to turn the aircraft, the hydraulic legs lean the entire cockpit in the appropriate direction. Thus, in addition to seeing the moving view out the window, the pilot actually feels himself move. Like the full cockpit simulator, a full motion simulator is extremely expensive and is generally used only in training real pilots.
