Data-Points Header [https://i.imgur.com/hPP4ZmV.png]

Data Point 02 - Type 40.5 Battle Simulator

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The Type 40 Battle Simulator is a Bailey Mechanics product recently put into service by the ‘Independent Alliance of Free States’(IAFS). Considered the peak of simulator technology, this stationary cabinet has an accurate recreation of a Neo-M Type cockpit inside and 'rumble' functions.

The Am-Fluchtig however, has customised its six simulator units to create the Type 40.5 - These modifications were carried out by Petty Chief Officer Pele's workshop team aboard the ship. Each modified unit can be hooked up directly to a pilot's actual mech; this allows for training not only within a real cockpit but also for a far more immersive experience than the standard booths.

IAFS headquarters has requested detailed documentation of these modifications be prepared and handed over the next time the Fluchtig returns to Bannerman, so that Bailey Mechanics can begin a mass production of the Type 40.5

Nonetheless, while Chief Pel's hardware improvements are impressive, the software being run is much the same as the regular Type 40. The system prioritises realism over all else, using its impressive processing power to render exceedingly high polygon representations of both environments and mecha - With many pilots reporting a high degree of photorealism, it is hard to distinguish from actual battle.

This however, does require a number of corner cuts to allow the simulation to run smoothly. Most objects only show a 2D plain unless approached, and in particular, the computer AI units use something of a 'cheat'. Rather than generate a unique model 'enemy mech' for pilots to train against, the simulator instead mirrors the machine the pilot uses, mapping a direct image of it onto a lower polygon model.

This means when the pilot is using a Neo-C, the AI opponents will also appear as mirror Neo-C (Although usually displayed in monochrome for the sake of differing). This said these 'mirror units' can be programmed with completely variable specs as chosen by the computer or programmer.

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Ai Enemy Unit [https://i.imgur.com/Z4sFw5j.png]

Render of the mirror model the Simulator Uses.

Another way in which the simulator saves on processing power is by machine learning from its pilots. The machine will take pilot inputs and use them to create a believable pattern for its simulation. With this in mind, a D-rank pilot like Una results in enemies of a D-rank skill threshold - Unfortunately, this has some faults.

Although impressive, the simulator's processing power, indeed no machine's processing power, can fully replicate the reaction times, instincts and human skills of actual pilots and the simulator is known to be capped at a rating of around C-. This, in effect, means a pilot like the Scarlet Scourge, whose accurate ranking is thought to be as high as S (Super-Lethal), gets almost no value out of practising against the AI opponents, owing to them being entirely incapable of mirroring her skill level.

Even pilots ranked as low as 'C' have complained about the simulator's enemies being predictable after a time. That said, the software is still state-of-the-art and highly valuable for training auxiliary pilots and less experienced individuals like Una O' Conchabhair. Moreover, its ability to accurately render mechs and spaces allows for the best group training of mecha squadrons ever produced. Whether this technology will make the difference in real battle or not, is as yet to be seen.

Simulator Enemy Units;

Full Name; Simulator-Object-4042 Manufacturer(s); Generated by The Simulator Mk40/40.5 Production Type; Visually mirrors the user's input data Production Window (For the Software); 25/06/Ta424 - Present Frame; Mirrors the user's input data Notable Pilots; n/a Threat Ranking; E- up to C-