GB759516A - Improvements in and relating to ground aviation trainers - Google Patents

Abstract

759,516. Ground trainers for pilots. AIR TRAINERS, Ltd. Feb. 28, 1955 [Nov. 26 1953], No. 32853/53. Class 4. Apparatus for presenting to a pupil in a ground aviation trainer, a visual impression of a runway during a landing approach exercise, comprises a source of light shining on to a screen in front of the pupil through an aperture, the edges of which represent the edges of the runway, means being provided for varying the shape and size of the aperture in accordance with the supposed position of the aircraft relative to the runway. In Fig. 2, the source of light 10 shines through an aperture formed by four plates 12, 14, 16, 18, of which 14 and 18 are movable vertically, and 12 and 16 movable laterally and rotatable by reversible electric screw-jacks. These jacks are controlled, for example, by an analogue computer, so that the illuminated area on the screen represents in perspective and apparent size, the appearance of a runway. The support 58 on which the plates and screw-jacks are mounted is movable vertically by a motor 64 and rack-and-pinion 60, 62 in a frame 50 to simulate pitching of the aircraft. Similarly a motor 54 moves the frame 50 laterally to simulate yaw, and a motor 36 tilts the whole apparatus about shaft 34 to simulate roll. A further light shines over a plate (not shown) fixed to frame 58 to define a simulated horizon. In an alternative embodiment, when the far end of the runway is not required to be, defined, plate 14 is omitted, and plates 12, 16, and 18 form a triangular aperture.