DJI Flight Simulator - Skills Training

Introduction:
The DJI flight simulator is a program that lets the user, with a controller for a mavic or phantom for example, control a virtual drone in dynamic scenarios. For AT 219, we were given three different training types to complete and score high enough on to pass. These training types consisted of different obstacle course style tracks to maneuver through and complete different tasks. These 3 training maps were meant to test our ability to control a drone in different situations. We were allowed multiple attempts of each one until we got a high enough score.

Tunnel Race:

(Figure.1 Tunnel Race)

The first was a tunnel race. This essentially was a long endless tunnel that we had to fly through. We had a time limit that started at roughly two minutes, and would count down. Inside this large tunnel were rings that, when flown through, would give us extra time onto our clock. The more rings you passed through the more time you received and the more points you got on the scoreboard. If you crashed into the edges of the rings, crashed into the walls or ground, or ran out of time, the challenge was over and you would receive a score. (Figure.1) The more points you got the more stars you received at the end. For this one we had to get at least 2 stars. This challenged us to be able to fly accurately at high speeds because the slower you went the faster you lost and the less points you got. It took a few tries to get the hang of the slightly different program than real life, but after that I was able to breeze through the levels. After a few minutes of flying through the basic rings, more rings appeared that would move. This raised the challenge of being able to accurately and safely change course depending on where the ring was moving.

Bubble Race:

(Figure.2 Bubble Race)

The bubble race was I think the most beneficial out of the 3 training's that we completed. This one featured a bridge like complex with platforms that contained bubble like orbs scattered throughout. (Figure.2) We were tasked with collected every last one without crashing. The turns and areas were very small and tight which prompted me to fail the challenge a multitude of times. However, I feel as though this one was especially beneficial because it taught quick and accurate maneuvering of the drone. Having an objective and ensuring we do not crash exactly mirrors how jobs/operations will be in the future at a job.

Time Trial:

(Figure.3 Time Trial)

The last training we completed was the time trial. This one set is on a long road on the country side and set waypoints along the road a good distance apart. We started on the ground and had to take off and follow these waypoints in order till we arrived at the finish line. (Figure.3) The speed at which we traveled through the waypoints was crucial because the sooner we got to the end the better. This one taught us to maintain speed and accuracy. Not as much as the tunnel race but it still tasked us with being almost as accurate. This one I felt was the least helpful as it seemed to be an introductory level challenge but overall it helped to practice situational awareness and know where to go after each waypoint.