Edda Systems is a Norway-based company that supplies the eCoach air traffic control (ATC) simulators for training ATC officers (ATCO) and flight information service officers (FISO). It is a simulator covering air traffic services (ATS).
The simulator offers scalable training for ground operations, as well as tower, approach and area control. Remote tower training is also supported in both single and multi-mode operations, and includes options for prototyping before a major remote tower acquiring project.
The system architecture can be on-premises or in the Cloud. Both are optimised for remote piloting or other operations across multiple locations, via the Internet. This reduces the need for travel, enables Covid-19 mitigation, and ensures optimal use of personnel resources. System delivery is often performed across the globe without any travel.
ATC simulator lifecycle cost
eCoach is designed to provide efficient training and long-term cost-effectiveness. The system offers simulator management with minimal waiting times and remote operations support, without the need for system operators to undertake specialist training.
Simulator hardware is in use as a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) product and is developed in line with the latest computer and display technology. This enables simulator networks to be upgraded or expanded when required.
A number of innovative solutions are embedded in the eCoach system to provide optimal benefits to clients. These include cost-effectiveness for air navigation service providers (ANSP) and enables them to acquire one simulator system for a range of applications.
ATC and simulator functionalities
The eCoach simulator are used for all types of airport and airspace operations. All flights are simulated gate-to-gate and aspects that are not in focus are fully automated. Customer feedback shows that ATC and simulator functionalities provide realistic conditions and high-quality training.
Data management
ATC simulators include configuration data, simulator exercises, 2D and 3D airport models, and airspace definitions known as aeronautical information publications (AIPs). This data must be stored and managed in a controlled, safe, frequent and efficient way to ensure an optimal return on investment.
Development of eCoach and associated software focuses on ensuring the data can be frequently updated by the customer on-site without specialist staff. Alternatively, Edda Systems can carry out the work on behalf of the client according to the support agreement.
Flexibility of use
Effective and controlled management of eCoach data makes the simulator sufficiently productive to be used beyond personnel training. It can also be used for scrutiny of airport, airspace, operations, and for technical applications.
When major (re)work is planned, models of new airports or runways can be simulated before the start of the project. Airspace changes can also be simulated at any stage to provide insight into the lowest possible project risk. New operational procedures can be investigated in detail before large projects are undertaken.
Similarly, remote tower investigations, camera locations, heads-up-display (HUD) arrangements, and other parameters can be tested effectively and with a low cost, before major investment decisions are made.
For many ANS projects, clever use of the simulator can significantly reduce costs and risks, provide quality and safety analysis assurance benefits, thus improving return on investments (ROI).
With the eCoach ATC system and its simulator component separated, the solution can be used to test other operational ATC systems. The simulator can also produce data for input into new systems undergoing testing to ensure optimal operation prior to deployment.
Flexibility of size
The eCoach system is based on a client-server architecture over a local area network (LAN) using Microsoft Windows. While the initial installation comprises basic modules, it can be expanded with additional hardware or software components at any time.
eCoach simulators with Cloud Computing (Azure) have been delivered to several customers with great success. This option provides outsourcing of server and storage capacities, allowing the customer to change the performance, and associated, cost over time. It also reduces internal needs for IT maintenance such as backup and security features.
Systems can be installed for area and approach control, and then later extended to include 3D tower facilities with a wide range of projectors or monitors to choose from.
Large-scale operations for multiple airports or area control centres can be carried out with a single system solution. Individual training can be performed in isolated working stations away from other activities, but still connected to the same system.
Flexibility of location
The eCoach simulator is designed for remote operation. It can be installed at a central location or spread across a number of geographical areas to suit the needs of the client. Changes to the simulator are easy to make, allowing clients to carry out seamless operations in several locations. By selecting Cloud Computing (Azure) architecture, these aspects are optimised.
