Full flight simulators are long-life assets. The challenge is that the technology inside them rarely ages at the same pace as the training demands outside them. Visual systems are often the first major subsystem to face obsolescence, limited database coverage, and diminishing support for legacy components.
To solve this problem, Southcoast Simulation developed a modern, home-grown image generator and display system designed specifically for high-fidelity training environments. The result is a platform that replaces legacy visual capabilities and supports thousands of airport databases with very high visual fidelity, while remaining engineered for the realities of Level D operations.
Many legacy visual systems were designed around fixed assumptions: limited database scope, aging optics, discontinued parts, and integration constraints that make upgrades expensive and disruptive. Southcoast Simulation’s objective was direct:
Our in-house image generator and display system enables thousands of airport databases at high fidelity, supporting the realism and consistency required for professional training.
Many legacy Level D visual systems relied on large cathode ray tube (CRT) projectors that are heavy, power-hungry, and increasingly difficult to support.
Southcoast Simulation replaced these CRT projector assemblies with modern, lightweight, high-resolution projectors as part of our visual modernization program. This upgrade makes the visual system far more flexible (integration, alignment, serviceability, and future refresh options) while significantly reducing power consumption.
Modern projection technology can deliver excellent performance, but Level D environments introduce requirements that off-the-shelf solutions are not built to satisfy without engineering adaptation.
Southcoast Simulation developed advanced methods to integrate commercial projectors into Level D applications by modifying:
In many wide field-of-view simulator displays, projector blending artifacts remain noticeable and can distract from training realism. Southcoast Simulation developed unique techniques to eliminate visible projector blending lines, representing a significant innovation compared to many existing visual systems.
The result is a more seamless out-the-window view, supporting immersion and consistency during critical training events.
With the Southcoast Simulation Image Generator and display system, operators gain a modern, high-fidelity platform that scales to thousands of airports and is engineered with long-term maintenance in mind. It is a practical upgrade path for aging simulators and a strong foundation for sustained training capability.
If you operate a full flight simulator and are evaluating a visual system modernization, database expansion, or obsolescence mitigation program, Southcoast Simulation can help.
Contact us to discuss your simulator configuration and upgrade objectives.
