ECS Software Suite to Strengthen Soldiers’ Technical Proficiency

Engineering & Computer Simulations (ECS) has enhanced its software suite of adaptive, customized learning products and training tools in support of the U.S Army Program Executive Office – Aviation (PEO Aviation) for its Project Manager Cargo (PM Cargo) CH-47F Block II Training Program. Conceptualized and designed by ECS to provide optimal performance, lowest cost of ownership, and maximum return on investment, this upgraded software suite features a high-fidelity immersive environment that encourages critical thinking and targets the individual user’s learning style and level of knowledge. The one-to-one digital representation of the CH-47F Block II serves as the foundation for a digital twin. Nathan Ginos, Vice President of Development, is leading the project from ECS Huntsville while working closely with the entire ECS team.

Ginos explains: “This software suite provides a virtual visual copy of the CH-47F Block II cockpit that looks exactly like its real-world counterpart. The level of fidelity and accuracy of the full 3D model serves as the foundation for potential future work simulating performance and subsystems, which would make it a fully realized digital twin.”

The team’s objective was to provide Soldiers with comprehensive and engaging technical training while strengthening job proficiency and enhancing mission success. The software suite includes the following components: computer-based training for rated crewmembers, and non-rated crewmembers, including Army aircraft electricians (15F), Army CH-47 helicopter repairers (15U), Army avionic mechanics (15N), and Army aircraft powertrain repairers (15D); 3D interactive preflight instructor tool; and the cockpit desktop trainer, developed in partnership with SAIC, the trainer features the current CH-47F and CH-47F Block II avionics software (CAAS) with a desktop and touch panel control interface.

The suite offers a first-person perspective in a high-fidelity 3D immersive environment and is available on multi-platform delivery on Windows Standalone, WebGL, and mobile. In addition, the ECS team delivered numerous computer-based training lessons, covering 39 Terminal Learning Objectives (TLO) and 93 Learning Step/Activities (LSA).

ECS has been developing interactive aviation maintenance training programs and tools for PM Cargo since 2017. During development, the team used the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADDIE) process to maximize training effectiveness.

ECS will demonstrate this software suite in booth #1829 at the Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation, and Education Conference (I/ITSEC) in Orlando, Florida, from 28 November to 1 December.