How to develop an A330

[GermanSimPilot 37]

I like to start this topic that someone maybe get a better understanding of what is takes to create an airliner like the A330. First things first i like to say that the following is my own assumption and a basic overview, i have no clue of software developing, maybe @Mathijs Kok can add some points here and there.

 

The Model:

- First of all you need to create a 3D model of the aircraft. For that you need a lot of footage and closeup pictures to recreate a virtual one. (Maybe you also get some technical drawings)

- Animation of the model so you can see flaps/ slats, elevator, aileron, trim, horizontal stabilizer and the gear moving. (Maybe add the winflex.)

- Adding of the lights and reflections

- Adding of base textures

- Adding of liverys

 

So the outside is "done"

 

- Make a 3D model from the flightdeck

- Adding all the switches and knobs and animate them so they can be turned and be pressed

- Adding of the textures with all the different surfaces and fonts

- Adding of the light layer so the cockpit can be illuminated

- Implementation of the displays with all the symbology and pictures of the ECAM system

- Define clicksports

 

Inside is" done". Now you have a static aircraft wich is looking nice, but it can do nothing more!

Now the tricky part begins, the coding. Filling the static aircraft with life.

 

- Create a flightmodel that behaves like the real one. Here you might need help from real pilots as only they can tell if you virtual aircraft behaves like the real counterpart.

- Create the systemdepth with all the logic behind it (F.E: Feeling the effect of a hydraulic failure)

- Implement the FBW logic with the Airbus unique flight- laws

- Implement the AP logic so LNAV, VNAV, autoland and so on works as the should

- Link the clickspots to the respective system. You don't want the speedbrake to extend if you actually just want to engage the autopilot.

 

Now you have a well looking and behaving A330 wich is as silent as growing grass.

 

Sounddesign is maybe the most sisyphus work. To make the sounds sound like the real one.... especially with the Trent 700 famous howling needs a fine hearing and a lot of tweaking.

For sure i will miss a few points, but at the end now you have a good looking, well sounding and proper behaving/ flying A330. Not to take into account that are any bugs accured while all of this work!

 

You test the software at your own PC. You need to make sure it runs at NVIDIA and AMD GPU´s.
You start a Beta test, recieving a lot of data and bugs from your tester. You need to solve the bugs and you are lucky if by debuging some other code don't gets corrupted.

 

This work needs the time it needs.

[Aerosoft Team [Inactive Account] 51558]

Basically, you are right. You need a ton of money to pay six people for over a year.