The Challenges of Closed-Loop Sensor Simulation

Abstract

Closed-loop simulation specifies the task of simulating systems and events in a timely manner as close to reality as possible. Specifically, this means that the simulation cannot be stopped or paused. Instead, all participating systems and their simulation counterparts must keep pace with the simulation time, especially when a non-simulated human operator is involved in the simulation loop. These specifications pose serious demands on the application of environment sensor simulations within a flight simulator or a driving simulator. Amongst others, the sensor simulation must be real-time capable, while being consistent with other simulation modules. In this paper we detail some of the major challenges when implementing an environment sensor simulation for a closed-loop flight simulator. Furthermore, we reference existing solutions and approaches and their individual advantages and drawbacks.