Black & Veatch Used 3-D Modeling to Design Combat Mission Simulation Facility | Black & Veatch
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Black & Veatch Used 3-D Modeling to Design Combat Mission Simulation Facility

Black & Veatch Used 3-D Modeling to Design Combat Mission Simulation Facility

Project Name
BRAC Flight Simulator Facility
Location
Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada
Client
Nellis Air Force Base

Nellis Air Force Base, near Las Vegas, Nevada, is an integral part of the United States Air Force Air Combat Command. Known as the “Home of the Fighter Pilot,” the base covers more than 14,000 acres, while the total land area occupied by Nellis and the restricted Nevada Test and Training Range is more than 4,800 square miles.

Nellis is widely viewed as the pinnacle of advanced air combat aviation training. The base’s mission is accomplished through an array of aircraft: A-10; F-15C; F-15E; F-22A; F-16; RQ-1A and MQ-1 Predator remotely piloted aircraft; and HH-60G helicopters. The key to combat aviation training is flight simulation.

Black & Veatch provided complete design services for a new facility to be used for combat mission simulation and upgrade training. The BRAC (Base Realignment and Closure) Flight Simulator Facility occupies nearly 16,000 square feet of usable space at Nellis. It offers an out-of-the box design that falls within well defined criteria and codes.

To accomplish its mission, Black & Veatch used a powerful parametric 3-D modeling software program that integrates 3-D and 2-D model-based technology. This model was tied to a large database used by the project team to capture design documents and analysis of building performance. This ensured that information updates were instantly shared with the entire team. That approach enabled seamless communication throughout the design process, resulting in an efficient workflow for the client.

The Black & Veatch project managers also had to carefully consider the surrounding environment. Temperatures in the Las Vegas area can exceed 100°F (37.8°C). The facility design needed to account for scorching heat and bright sunlight.

Black & Veatch created an administration area for permanent and mission-related staff and control rooms for staff needs. The campus-like setting is surrounded by stand-off space to ensure occupant safety. State-of-the art heating and cooling systems effectively address the multiple needs of the project.

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