360-degree visualization system for NATS 3D tower simulator, UK
Case study
The system supplied through Micro Nav Ltd, U.K. will be used to train tower controllers and related personnel for familiarization practice and conversion training. For Barco this was a very interesting project as the design of the tower incorporates an unusual ‘look down’ capability. Barco’s complete system solution at National Air Traffic Services (NATS), consists of a 10-channel projection system with spare projector; 360-degree front-projection screen with automatic door and emergency hatch; sophisticated alignment and control tools; Polaris (Barco’s pattern generating software program which generates the test patterns needed to match the geometry of the cylindrical screen); and dedicated peripheral devices. Barco is also supplying its MAGIK II, an easy-to-use high-bandwidth interface that enables IG connection to the multi-channel projection system.
The 3D Tower Simulator incorporates a revolutionary design with an extended "look-down" capability, which required the 10 Barco SIM 6 Ultra II projectors to be positioned in a circular arrangement above the center of the screen, fixed onto a specific ceiling-mounted support structure. The Barco front projection cylindrical screen has 5 m radius and 3.15 m height, whereas the screen surface has been treated with special coating to improve reflective characteristics of the sheet.
The display system structure is designed by Barco’s systems engineering team, experienced in creating custom tailored solutions for demanding markets. Barco has taken into account the layout of the tower simulator (operator desks), the operational tasks to be performed in the simulator, the building constraints and the maintenance of the projection system.
Tom Howard-Jones, the New Business Director at Micro Nav said: “ We have worked with Barco over many years and projects. We have great respect for their technology and capabilities. We are pleased to be working together on this prestigious program that will play a key role in NATS plans at Heathrow Airport. We hope that we will enjoy more successes together as we deliver the new generation of ATC simulators.”
About this project
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| Date | September, 2005 | ||||||
| Location | Heathrow, UNITED KINGDOM | ||||||
| Press releases | Barco delivers 360-degree visual display system for National Air Traffic Services tower simulator (UK) (en) |
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