Abstract
This thesis describes a case study, which develops and evaluates a method for photo-realistic reconstruction, simulation, visualization and animation of the events leading to an aircraft accident. The case used for the study was an accident involving a midair collision between a Boeing 727-214 and a Cessna 172M over San Diego, California, September 25, 1978. The goal of the study was to demonstrate that by using photo-realistic reconstruction, it is possible to evaluate human visual factors, that may have contributed to an accident, which would not be apparent in traditional manual reconstruction or in more schematic computer reconstruction. It is demonstrated that with this approach, it is possible to view the events leading to the accident from any desired viewpoint, including the points of view of the flightcrew, passengers, and witnesses. It is also demonstrated that the approach allows a full analysis, study and evaluation of the orientation and flight dynamics of the aircraft and witness statements. Finally, it is demonstrated that this method of photo-realistic accident reconstruction can be used in the determination of probable cause and contributing factors as well as in forensic engineering.
Moore, Thomas Z (2000). Reconstruction of PSA B-727-214 and C-172M accident of September 25, 1978: San Diego, California, using computer simulation and visualization. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -2000 -THESIS -M66.