The F-16 C/D Avionics Intermediate Shop Maintenance Procedures Trainer (AIS-MPT) represents a significant advance in the application of desktop simulation techniques to a training task that has previously been addressed only through interactive computer-based training (CBT). In order to meet requirements for a high-fidelity simulation of the AIS computer system using captured operational data, the simulator was designed using a digital multimedia representation of the four automatic test equipment (ATE) station types that is controlled by a simulation execution environment written in Ada. The result is a unique combination of real-time simulation programs and multimedia-based "simware" running on a networked, dual-CPU student station, and providing a true training simulator for the AIS and for F-16 line replaceable units (LRU).

The AIS-MPT provides the training environment for the development of new skills in the operation, familiarization, operational check-out, fault isolation and repair of AIS ATE and LRUs for the F-16 aircraft. The system provides a high-fidelity simulation of the AIS computer system, including a very detailed simulation of the software diagnostic tools used to debug complex AIS and LRU malfunctions, and a low-fidelity simulation, using digital multimedia images, of the four ATE station types of the AIS. The simulator uses actual AIS test data, obtained by using a data capture utility, to drive a simulation of the test equipment for 63 different malfunctions of both AIS equipment and aircraft LRUs. In addition, a courseware development utility provides the capability to create and modify the simulation presented at the computer bay and the multimedia simulation without having to modify trainer software.

This paper will provide an overview of the AIS-MPT software design, a description of the orchestration of the real-time simulation software and the multimedia presentation of test equipment, and an example of the unique development of "simware" materials that define student exercises.