The core component of a simulation-based training system is the process of creating training scenarios. The scenario creation process is essential for simulation-based training systems since scenarios are designed to provide the context for the training to occur. An effective training scenario should provide opportunities for trainees to practice their skills, and receive feedback from the instructors on their performance. A training scenario is normally characterized by three main components: (1) the initialization, (2) the key events that must happen during the training, and (3) the termination conditions. Prior to developing a training scenario, training objectives must be analyzed to determine the set of knowledge and skills that are required as part of the training to ensure that scenario outputs are domain-valid and pedagogically effective. Because of this reason, the creation of validated and effective training scenarios must be carried out by qualified instructors and highly trained subject matter experts. The process is challenging and time-consuming, therefore expensive. The objective of this paper is to describe an approach that will facilitate the task of the generation of training scenarios. The proposed method is based on the ontology of knowledge presentation. The paper presents an ontology developed to capture simulation scenario attributes that are pertinent to the flight simulation domain, and describes the role of this ontological analysis in the process of creating training scenarios. Leveraging the SISO interoperability standard, this study expands the C2SIM core ontology by adding a Training Scenario Extension layer to it. As a result, training scenarios can be generated in a standardized format that complies with the base and extended C2SIM ontology. Finally, the paper will present a use case of air refueling training as an application of this approach. This work constitutes an important step towards standardizing practices in automated simulation scenario development for flight simulation applications.

Keywords
FLIGHT SIMULATION, SCENARIOS

Additional Keywords
Ontology; C2SIM Standard