Capability comparison of pilot assistance systems based solely on terrain databases versus sensor DB fused data systems

Abstract

This paper compares the capabilities achievable with a pure database driven DVE system (NIAG class 4 system) with the capabilities of a database system fused with sensor information (NIAG class 2 system). Both systems will present the same 3D conformal symbology. To achieve terrain conformal representation with operational navigation systems and databases, specific compensation techniques are required. This applies especially for the pure database system. The sensor database fusion system on the other hand relies mainly on relative accuracies simplifying the required compensation techniques at the cost of additional sensors and fusion algorithms. Both system configurations were flighttested on a test helicopter. The test results, specifics and basic limitations will be discussed and compared.