Synopsis_Q&A.xlsx

XLSX spreadsheet 30 KB Posted Jun 17, 2019

Attached to: Mixed Reality Training Hardware/Software Federal contract opportunity
Solicitation number: FA480919QA033
Issued by: Department of the Air Force Air Combat Command

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Questions and Answers from related synopsis for this requirement.

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Other files for this federal contract opportunity

Other files attached to Mixed Reality Training Hardware/Software, newest first.
File	Type	Posted
Solicitation_Amendment_-_FA480919QA0330001.pdf	PDF	Jul 9, 2019
Copy_of_Solicitation_Questions.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Jul 8, 2019
Current_Virtual_Reality_Systems.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Jun 17, 2019
Solicitation_-_FA480919QA033.pdf	PDF	Jun 17, 2019
WD_15-4379_(Rev.-9).pdf	PDF	Jun 17, 2019
Statement_of_Work.docx	DOCX document	Jun 17, 2019

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Sheet1

Paragraph/section of SOW	Type of Recommended Action (drop down)	Contractor Comment or Question	Contractor Recommendation	Government Response	Government Action Taken
2	Add	Need to add system paragraph that covers required system specs. As currently written, there is no requirement for how well the system has to perform.	Add requirements like system latency (prevents sim sickness), Geometric accuracy and registration (alignment of real world to virtual; necessary to maintain immersion), OTW visual resolution (unclassified) (at what range should I be able to detect, ID, & recognize aircraft), etc. Specify how you're going to evaluate/measure or ask the contractor to provide their method(s).	Pending	pending
2	Add	As currently written there are no requirements for sustainment/support, all you will get is the commercial warranty at the component level.	Add system support requirements. NOTE: any GFE provided will have to have support provided by the government as well.	updated SOW	see 2.2.8
2	Add	No train-the-trainer requirements specified.	Add training requirements as a subparagraph to system support.	None required	N/A
2.1	Question	Are the current VR Simulators configured for F-15E training? If so, does the current system simulate for 2 possible users FCP and RCP?	N/A	No	N/A
2.1	Add	Gov't should state if any of the current HW or SW is being provided as GFE/I.		Acknowledged	See Attachment to SOW
2.1	Add	Please specify if all modifications need to be performed on site.		Upgrade is to be performed on site at SJAFB	All modifications to existing systems are to be performed on site
2.1.1	Modify	Statement defined a solution and prevented other technologies from achieving the desired results	Contractor shall provide the capability for users to see (real or virtual) both inside and outside the cockpit, their hands, kneeboard cards and the switches they are utilizing.	Requirement remains the same.	N/A
2.1.1	Add	Paragraph does not specify optical resolution of the MR googles.	Many products with low resolution are not suitable for Mixed Reeality applications. Suggest minimum resolution of 1920 x1200 pixels per eye.	Updated SOW	see 2.1.1
2.1.1	Modify	Another option versus a strictly MR approach would be a mini dome. Depending on space available.	TRU's adaptable mission trainer (AMT) uses allows for mini dome. The mini dome could sit over the existing hardware and provide a 3-projector visual system without the need for goggles or mixing the reality. In addition, the system can be a desktop or VR trainer as depicted below, it is very versatile and uses a small footprint. See image here: https://www.trusimulation.com/media-hub/adaptable-mission-trainer	Requirement remains the same. The intent is to modify existing commercial items	N/A
2.1.1	Modify	This requirement will need to be added to the RFP. Additionally, is the "real world" as decribed in the next paragraph is a screen with a virtual display of things like the "gear lever" - not an actual rendering of the cockpit?	Clearly specify how much or little MR is required for real-world.	Government intends to add illustrations to add to the SOW to help explain	see 2.1.1
2.1.2	Question	If SJAFB’s current VR simulator allows for FCP and RCP user roles, does it allow users to work together - simulating them being in the same single aircraft (i.e. networked training)?	N/A	No, it does NOT currently allow. Contractor will propose solution.	N/A
2.1.2	Question	Is there a desired dimension/size for this touchscreen panel?	N/A	min 21/max 27 screen size	see 2.1.3
2.1.2	Add	Do the software functionalities to be displayed on the touch screens (FCP & RCP) already exist and, if so, will they be provided as Gov Furnished SW to the contractor?	Please clarify	No. The intent is to modify/upgrade existing commercial items to the spec of the SOW	N/A
2.1.2	Modify	Statement defined a solution and prevented other technologies from achieving the desired results	Contractor shall provide a capability to simulate the front cockpit (FCP) and rear cockpit (RCP) of an F-15E Strike Eagle at the unclassified level, that will allow students to build muscle memory for their flight training. For example, after takeoff, students will “touch” the landing gear handle in the same location as the aircraft to bring the landing gear up. This requirement allows our students to develop positive training and have the interactive ability with the F-15E FCP or RCP so it will mimic the actions and location in the jet.	SOW updated to allow for other solutions for that requirement	see 2.1.2 and 2.1.3
2.1.2	Modify	While possible, mixed reality with a touch screen may not be the best option.	Vertex has developed high-fidelity cockpit models that allow for interaction with VR environments using bare handed (flight-gloved hand) interaction. Your specific requirement of operating a landing gear handle can be accomplished in a more realistic environment using our Vertex VMS software offering.

At the following link, you can view a video by navigating to our website and scrolling to the video of the AC-130U trainer (https://www.vertexsolutions.com/vertexsolutions/virtual-reality).

When the video is launched, an individual will run a checklist in VR using his hands only, including actuating the virtual landing gear handle. Additionally, we have the ability to allow twisting of knobs and the usage of densely packed control panels like CDU keyboards and switch panels in the VR environment using bare-handed natural human interaction. The option to use our advanced natural human interaction interface would provide a more realistic 3D training environment for your pilots and weapons system officers than opting for the 2D simulation that touch screens provide. Vertex would provide pass through video for other cockpit equipment such as flight controls and EFBs.	SOW updated to allow for other solutions for that requirement	see 2.1.2 and 2.1.3
	2.1.2	Modify	Add contractor recommendation to the requirement.	There is an issue with the MR / VR headsets in that they cannot provide enough resolution for instrument (HUD) and in-cockpit training.	Updated SOW	see 2.1.1
	2.1.2	Modify	Is the intent to display the FCP and RCP on the same touchscreen at the same time?	Recommend FCP and RCP would be separate training devices linked together through software but not physically.	Government agrees.	see 2.1.2
	2.1.2	Add		Either specify the size of the touch screen desired or the actual dimensions of the F-15 cockpit instruments. This is necessary to prevent negative training.	Updated SOW	see 2.1.3
		Add		Specify controls that are not needed. Current system doesn't replicate left or right side consoles.	None	N/A
	2.1.2	Modify	Paragraph assumes a 'flat' cockpit that correlates with a Touch Screen display area. “Muscle Memory” task training requires exact positioning to avoid negative training.	Contractor shall provide a mixture of touch screen and simulated switch panels capable of simulating the front cockpit (FCP) and rear cockpit (RCP) of an F-15E Strike Eagle at the unclassified level. This will allow students to build muscle memory for their flight training. To maintain location accuracy for students, the mixture of panels is necessary to make the cockpits maintain actual component positions in relation to the Student’s body and reach. This requirement allows our students to not develop negative training and have the interactive ability with the F-15E FCP or RCP so it will mimic the actions and location in the jet This single touch screen will be in the “real world” version of MR so the students will have their real hands and real interaction with the equipment.	SOW updated to allow for other solutions for that requirement	see 2.1.2 and 2.1.3
	2.1.3	Add	Is it correct to assume that the existing HOTAS stick and throttle sets are capable of being properly mapped and therefore do not need to be replaced?	Please clarify	Updated SOW	see 2.1.4
	2.1.3	Modify	Is the current Thrustmaster HOTAS stick and throttle acceptable or are you looking for an exact match to the F-15E?	Correctly map the existing or equivalent Hands on Throttle-and-Stick (HOTAS) to simulate the F-15E HOTAS in both the FCP and RCP.	Current Thrustmaster is acceptable	N/A
	2.1.3	Modify	Does the user require button accuracy only or both button and physical flight control accuracy?	Accurately mapping HOTAS for the F-15E can be accomplished with the current Thrustmaster controls; however, to create a more realistic cockpit experience there are COTS F-15E replica controls available.	Current Thrustmaster is acceptable	N/A
	2.2.1	Modify	Does the current installation utilize a central LMS?	Clarify if the modified system is to include an LMS or interface with existing.	Contractor's system must interface with existing and/or future LMS	see 2.2.1
	2.2.1	Modify	Will the Government provide the LMS referenced in 2.2.1 or is this the responsibility of the contractor?		Yes	see 2.2.1
	2.2.2	Question	Does the current F-15E VR simulation program at SJAFB mimic the f-15E’s Aerodynamic Flight Models to an acceptable level?	N/A	No	N/A
	2.2.2	Modify	Will F-15E aerodynamic data be available for modeling?	Provide flight test data for F-15E	No. This data is proprietary	N/A
	2.2.2	Modify	Why gaming software - or simulation software?	Remove the word "gaming" from requirements.	Updated SOW	see 2.2.2
	2.2.2	Modify	You use the term "Gaming software."	Please be more specific as to what you desire, Game engine, synthetic environment, etc. Knowing what you currently have and whether or not it meets these new requirements also helps.	Updated SOW	see 2.2.2
	2.2.2	Modify	Does the Gov't require the same OTW visuals as on the full flight sims?		The requirement is for a 360 degree field of view	see 2.2.2
	2.2.3	Modify	Change paragraph to read: "The software shall be capable of linking four (4) or more jets in the same virtual reality gaming space. The interface shall be based on the Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) Standard and be compatible with other DIS networks such as the USAF Distributed Mission Operations Network (DMON)."
		Updated SOW	see 2.2.3
	2.2.3.3	Modify	Modified to be consistent with new 2.1.1	Ability to select either FCP or RCP on startup or toolbar so the user can start or switch different crew positions to practice both as required. This would include the displays as discussed in Paragraph 2.1.2 for either a FCP or RCP for maximum options with the simulators.	Updated SOW	see 2.2.3.3
	2.2.3.3	Modify	Will the WSO takeoff/fly/land the aircraft when the startup option for RCP is selected and the RCP is not "linked" to a FCP?		Yes	N/A
	2.2.3.3	Modify	See comment in 2.1.2 for cockpits: is the focus on understanding and execution of the task only or is the addition of muscle memory necessary? In the latter case, dedicated (FCP/RCP) simulated switch panels in addition to graphically drawn panels are required.		Yes muscle memory is necessary	N/A
	2.2.3.3.1	Modify	Cockpit selection should be based on student login. If a pilot logs in for training, they would be presented with the FCP. If a WSO logs in, they will be presented with the RCP. This should be automatic.	Cockpit configuration should be based on login (pilot or WSO), not something that has to be configured manually each session.	The requirement has NOT changed. The Government needs a solution that allows user to select manually	N/A
	2.2.3.3.1	Add	"In addition, the Instructor shall have controls to link the desired cockpits together to form the crew for a specific aircraft flight."	"In addition, the Instructor shall have controls to link the desired cockpits together to form the crew for a specific aircraft flight."	No instructor panel required.	N/A
	2.2.3.4	Request	What is the source of the pre-recorded flights? Is this modification to include developing or rehosting MTC Boeing 360 Sim pre-recorded flights?	SOW Clarification	Updated SOW	see 2.2.3.4
	2.2.3.4		"Should" does not define a requirement. If this is required, use "shall" otherwise it is considered optional.		Updated SOW	see 2.2.3.4
	2.2.3.5	Add	Will the Gov provide a requirements list for the JHMCS functionality, and/or provide video of the functionality as ref?	Please clarify	No. The Contractor shall seek Commercially available solution	N/A
	2.2.3.5		If an existing overlay does not exist, this may take over 180 days to develop, possible up to a year for the correct queing software to be developed. Will a reference document be made available that defines all the functions of the HDM and JHMCS to include: symbols, colors and other visual representations? This will be a cost driver.		Pending	Pending
	2.2.3.5	Modify	what specific functionality is required for the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) simulation?	Please clarify requirement.	Pending	Pending
	2.2.3.5	Add	Please specify the need or lack of need for NVG capability. This effects the synthetic environment.		Not required	see 2.2.3.5
	2.2.3.5	Modify	Replace "Each simulator have" to "Each simulator shall"		Updated SOW	see 2.2.3.5
	2.2.3.6	Request	Please elaborate / expand on the pre-recorded flight replay system requirement mentioned in this paragraph. Also please explain the meaning of paused and then "freely controlled" in the environment.	SOW Clarification	Updated SOW	see 2.2.3.6
	2.2.4	Modify	We are assuming that you want the weapon specifications to be defined from open source data so that it remains unclassified. Only generic versions of the AIM-9M, AIM-120 and MK-82 currently exist, depending on the fidelity required this may take over 180 days to develop all the listed weapons. This will be a cost driver.	The software shall include Weapon Engagement Zone (WEZ) and weapon simulations for both Air to Air (A/A) and Air to Ground (A/G) weapons for the F-15E inventory, based on the current Jane’s Weapons: Air-Launched Yearbook.	Yes, Contractor shall use open source data	N/A
	2.2.4 and 2.2.5	Modify	Does the current system simulate weapons and provide maps and visual references that meet the intent of this SOW?		No	N/A
	2.2.5	Modify	Does the Gov currently own any of the world Maps? If so: what format are they in; and, will they be provided to the contractor?	Please clarity	No. Contractor shall seek Commercial solution	N/A
	2.2.5.1	Modify	If possible…the AOIs and other pertinent points of interest should be provided by the government.	While available from commercial suppliers, for cost savings, USG should offer the AOI(s) as GFI.	Not possible. Contractor shall seek Commercial solution	N/A
	2.2.6	Modify	"Will" is not contractually binding, if this is a requirement then use "shall". Depending on the number and complexity of the pre-made missions this will involve software development. This will be a cost driver.	Pre-made missions to match MTC missions shall be included with the software for student use. At a minimum, the missions shall include all requirements listed in Appendix 8.2.	The Government needs the option to create multiple mission profiles within the software provided by the Contractor	Partial pending. see 2.2.6
	2.2.6	Modify	Will MTC mission data be made available? What format are those missions in now? What is in appendix A.2?		Boeing Proprietary	N/A
	2.2.6	Modify	Should the missions be "Freeplay" or should they include a "Virtual Instructor" to guide the students through the lesson?	Add a requirement for Instructor Guided lessons - live Instrutor or Virtual Instructor.	Missions should be "freeplay"	N/A
	2.2.6.1	Add	Where is appendix 8.2?		Appendix is being modified and the information provided will be clarified before the solicitation is posted.	N/A
	3.1	Add	SimiGon will provide the USG with Government purpose rights to all development and deliverables of technical data and computer software funded under the transaction agreement, for at least a five-year period. Rights to source code of the baseline commercial software and pre-existing modules are not granted. SimiGon retains all Background IP, defined as SimiGon has described the intellectual property rights being provided to the Government in terms of technical data, both in software and hardware, clearly outlining any rights restrictions with commercial software End User License Agreements (EULAs) provided with the deliverables. Student Data is solely the property of the government. All statements required by FAR and other government requlations are included in the data published by the software.	Be specific with regard to existing commercial software.	Updated SOW	see 3.1
	4.0	Modify	It is unclear whether this project upgrades the current VR systems or adds 12 new MR systems that will augment the current capability.	Please clarify upgrade to exisiting or 12 new units.	Contractor shall uprade 12 VR systems already in place	see 1.2.1
	4	Modify	MULTIPLE CONTRACTORS SUBMITTED COMMENTS CONCERNING SCHEDULE		Updated SOW	see 4.0
	4	Add	Can all current systems be shut down for training during the install/upgrade process?	Specify maximum downtime.	Yes. 30 days max	see 4.1
	4.0 Items 1 & 2	Add	Will these Reviews take place at SJAFB?	Please clarify	Yes	N/A
	4.0 Items 3 & 4	Modify	When does AAS occur?	Please clarify	Updated SOW	see 4.0
	5.1.1	Modify	Will the Gov't provide digital files (CAD drawings)?	CAD drawings will establish a consistent standard across all offerors. Not all commercially available sim models have the same level of accuracy.	No	N/A
	7.2	Modify	Will there be any classified material associated with the project?	Provide draft DD254	No	N/A
	7.3	Modify	Will an ATO be required for the resulting device?	Provide cybersecurity guidance and authorizing agency.	No	N/A
	7.6	Modify	JPAS can only be used for cleared visitors	Make an appropriate classification determination and adjust as required.	Updated SOW	7.6 removed
	8.3	Question	What development environment (Unity Game Engine, Unreal Game Engine, etc) was the current VR experience made with?	N/A	No known environment	N/A
	8.3	Question	What (if any) flight simulation licensed software was used to create the current F-15 E training experience?	N/A	None used	N/A
	8.4	Request	Can we see approximately 2 minutes of the current SJAFB’s VR simulation (from inside the VR headset) ideally including some flight maneuvering, weapons shooting, startup procedures - if possible?	N/A	CHANGE: site visit and/or video not deemed necessary. If Contractor believes this is absolutely necessary, Contractor shall promptly bring it to the CO's attention.	N/A
	8.4	Modify	Contractor shall reuse as much of the hardware as possible. However, if the Harware is not capable of the performance specified in the RFP, the contractor would replace with hardware that does meet specifications. For example, if the HOTAS does not meet the stated requirements, then the contractor would be expected to replace the HOTAS and quote the new hardware in their proposal response.	See comment.	Contractor shall use what the Government already has in place.	N/A
	Commerciality	Add	Yes, this requirement can be satisfied with COTS software.	To reach the desired level of fidelity for the specific aircraft, COTS products will require customization. It is imperative that the government account for quality customization when determining delivery milestones to obtain an effective solution for the end user.	acknowledged	N/A
	Cost drivers	Add	The driver for the cost of the solution is our understanding that this is training for high-end major weapon system and not a generic training asset. Given the complex missions that today’s Strike Eagle crews perform, it is imperative to provide the most realistic training possible. This requires a high-fidelity VR cockpit with MR capability to provide immersive training. Accomplishing this goal requires an approach to adapt COTS technology to provide hyper-accurate training to future F-15E warfighters. On-site 3D scanning of the aircraft, customized flight dynamics models with collaborative feel tweaking, physically correct weapons characteristics, detailed scenarios, and robust playback will combine to create accelerated training for F-15E Strike Eagle crews. The required customization of certain parts of COTS products takes some additional time but will provide the training the F-15E FTU desires.		Acknowledged. The Governmetn CANNOT entertain any 3D scanning of the aircraft.
	Industry Day	Add	Add industry day for user's to experience technology.	The government should allow for an open industry day, along with technology demonstration, to allow users to experience the various solutions to ensure that when selections are made it is the best fit for the end user. Your user’s will almost always get a better solution if they are offered the chance to use the technology before making a decision.	CHANGE: site visit and/or video not deemed necessary. If Contractor believes this is absolutely necessary, Contractor shall promptly bring it to the CO's attention.	N/A

WEEK 2

2.2.3:		Is the current VR simulator already built with confirmed/tested Distributed Interactive Simulation (DIS) code? If so, what language is it engineered in (C++, C#, etc)?	N/A	all software is commercial (P3D etc.)	N/A
4	Question	What is the expected Period of Performance? The Deliverable Schedule represents Item 1 and 2 as ARO and Item 3 and 4 as AAS. There is no criteria for Test review AAS.		updated SOW	see 4.0
4	Question	Is the Initial Site Review for the USAF to visit Vendor site or for Vendor to visit SJAFB facility?		Contractor to visit SJAFB	N/A
4	Question	Is it the intent of the USAF to include a full set of Systems and SW requirements in the final SOW, in support of test traceability for the SW Test Review milestones?		No	N/A
Best interest of the government	Add	Remote support capability	While not expected to be required, will the government be able to support temporary commercial internet connections to provide for remote login support or will any support have to be accomplished on-site?	System will be run off of commercial internet so it is a possiblility. Not guaranteed.	N/A

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