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Week 2
This week we started the use of flight simulation as a training and safety tool prior to real-world aircraft operations. As discussed in the SeligSIM lecture, flight simulators allow pilots to practice control, orientation, and emergency procedures in a risk-free environment. Since weather conditions were not suitable for live flight training, this lab focused on installing and configuring the SeligSIM fixed-wing simulator and becoming familiar with its operation.
This simulator will be used throughout the semester for flight training assignments. The primary objectives of this lab were to install the simulator, configure the Orqa controller, test system functionality, and complete a first simulated flight attempt.
Resources and Tools
Orqa FPV Controller
Personal computer (Windows or Mac with virtual Windows environment)
SeligSIM User Manual (2024.5a)
Ryan Shurtleff’s Orqa Controller Setup Guide
Screen recording software
After the Windows environment was operational, the SeligSIM installation process was completed by following the Getting Started Guide (Part I) from the SeligSIM User Manual.
Steps included:
Downloading the latest version of SeligSIM from the official website
Installing the simulator following sections 1.3 and 1.4 of the manual
Adjusting computer graphics and performance settings as recommended
The simulator launched successfully after installation.
Orqa Controller Setup:
The Orqa FPV controller was configured using Ryan Shurtleff’s setup guide.
Steps completed:
Connected the Orqa controller to the computer via USB
Verified that the controller was recognized in Windows
Opened SeligSIM controller settings
Assigned control axes (throttle, pitch, roll, yaw)
Verified proper control surface movement within the simulator
Control inputs responded correctly and matched expected aircraft behavior.
Simulator Familiarization:
Before attempting flight, time was spent becoming familiar with the simulator environment and controls while the aircraft was on the ground. This included:
Testing throttle response
Checking control surface movement
Adjusting camera views
Practicing small steering inputs
This step was important to ensure the controls were mapped correctly and to reduce the likelihood of immediate loss of control after takeoff.
First Flight Attempt:
A short first flight attempt was completed and recorded using screen capture software as required.
During this flight, I was able to successfully take off by applying smooth throttle and maintaining barely acceptable directional control down the runway. After liftoff, I climbed to a safe altitude and began maneuvering the aircraft around the field. Basic turns and directional control were achieved, which confirmed that the controller setup and control surface mappings were functioning correctly.
While maneuvering, I began to experience increasing difficulty maintaining stable control. Control inputs became slightly overcorrected, which led to unstable flight attitude. As the aircraft’s orientation became more difficult to manage, I ultimately lost control, resulting in a crash landing.
Although the flight did not end in a safe landing, it was still a successful learning experience. It demonstrated how sensitive fixed-wing aircraft can be to control inputs and highlighted the importance of smooth, gradual stick movements. This first attempt provided valuable insight into aircraft handling and will help improve control precision in future simulator sessions.
Screen Recording Test:
Screen recording software was tested to ensure future assignments can be submitted properly. The recording captured:
The simulator window
Control inputs
The full flight attempt
Playback was reviewed to confirm video and system performance were adequate.
Conclusion
This lab successfully established the simulator environment that will be used throughout the semester for flight training. Installing SeligSIM and configuring the Orqa controller provided hands-on experience with aircraft control in a safe and controlled setting. The first simulated flight highlighted the importance of smooth control inputs and proper setup before flight.
Using simulation before real-world flying improves pilot readiness, reduces risk, and builds confidence. With the simulator now fully operational, future training sessions can focus on improving flight skills and aircraft handling.
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