The Close Combat Tactical Trainer (CCTT) is a simulation system wherein various elements replicating actual combat vehicle weapon systems along with command and control elements are networked together providing real-time, fully interactive collective task training in a virtual environment. The M1 Variant [M1 (V)] design was conceived to provide improved efficiency and a reduction in resources required in supporting the Army's training needs. The CCTT M1 design consists of a Crew compartment; containing the Commander, Gunner, and Loader stations; a separate Driver compartment and three electronic racks. Each original M1 Simulator requires 224 square feet of floor space and supports only one configuration of an Abrams Tank.
The newly designed M1 (V) simulator is designed to make better utilization of assets within a training site by using kits. These kits support the use of multiple configurations within one unit. Currently, four kit configurations have been designed: the Abrams M1A1, the M1A1-Digital (D), the M1A2, and the M1A2 System Enhancement Program (SEP). The number of different types of kits is expandable to as many Abrams configurations as needed. This is accomplished through the use of a base or common simulator unit design, to which reconfiguration kits are added to customize the trainer to the unique requirement. Each kit is stored in standard supply cabinets, requiring less than 5% of the unit space.
Additionally, the reconfiguration ability of the M1 (V) allows for the rapid development of new configurations to support concept development and analysis of changes to the tactical vehicle. Design changes can be incorporated into the trainer and vehicle simultaneously. This allows the simulator to be used to train the soldiers required to support tactical evaluation milestones.
In designing the M1(V), the original four stand-a-lone M1 simulator designs were analyzed for commonality and to identify areas for design improvement. This paper discusses the analysis and development work to improve Usability, Maintainability and Life Cycle Cost of the CCTT Abrams simulator for the Army.