Editor’s Note:
How can a critical piece of equipment overcome precision limitations through independent innovation and technical transformation? When optical simulation technology was still an unexplored field in China, how did researchers transform theoretical exploration into practical engineering applications?
In this issue of the “Simulation Stories Around Us” column, we explore the three-decade aerospace simulation journey of Jiangyue Qian, a researcher at the Beijing Simulation Center. From overcoming challenges in three-axis turntable technology to advancing the development of optical simulation laboratories and large-scale equipment, generations of aerospace simulation professionals have continuously expanded technological boundaries through perseverance and innovation. Let us revisit this remarkable journey and discover the dedication, vision, and driving force behind a lifelong pursuit of innovation.
01 The Beginning of Simulation: A Journey Fueled by Youth and Aspiration
Emerging in the mid-20th century, simulation technology is an interdisciplinary field based on cybernetics, similarity theory, and computer technology. By using system models to conduct experimental studies, it provides advantages including safety, cost-effectiveness, controllability, non-destructive testing, and repeatability, making it a key supporting technology in spacecraft development and aerospace engineering. Following the Third Plenary Session of the 11th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China,http://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/cJPXvUb3449ZCMCYnTTzcA the aerospace sector faced an urgent demand for new experimental approaches, creating new opportunities for the development of simulation technology in China.
In the early 1990s, after graduating from university, I joined the Beijing Simulation Center, which was then undergoing a major construction phase. The simulation laboratory buildings were rising rapidly, while various experimental systems and equipment were being intensively installed, tested, and commissioned.
After joining the center, I formed a test team with a group of young colleagues of similar age, taking responsibility for the commissioning and acceptance of the hardware-in-the-loop simulation laboratory. To ensure the equipment was completed on schedule and successfully pass the national acceptance inspection for the simulation engineering project, we worked tirelessly day and night, dedicating ourselves fully to the mission.
02 Overcoming Challenges in the Turntable System and Completing the Acceptance Process
When the equipment was first installed, we discovered a critical technical issue with the three-axis turntable, one of the key components of the system. The inner-loop control accuracy of the turntable was insufficient, meaning that errors generated during high-speed rotation could not be corrected in real time. This directly affected the accuracy of test results and, in severe cases, could prevent experiments from proceeding and halt the equipment commissioning process.
However, our young simulation test team was not discouraged by the challenge. Team leader Tao, together with colleagues Huang and Guo, boldly proposed a modification plan: installing photoelectric sensors and zero-crossing detection devices independently, using the signals generated by these devices as feedback inputs to the control system to compensate for errors in the turntable’s inner-loop control. The proposal immediately sparked debate, with concerns raised regarding both its technical feasibility and the risks of modifying a critical piece of equipment.
Driven by the determination and courage of young researchers, Team Leader Tao and the team continued to argue for the feasibility of the approach and eventually gained the support of their colleagues. At this crucial moment, senior aerospace experts provided their trust and encouragement, allowing the modification project to proceed. Tao was responsible for software debugging, Huang handled the mechanical structure of the turntable, Guo worked on the control system, and I focused on debugging the photoelectric sensors. After a month of intensive efforts, we successfully resolved the inner-loop control problem of the turntable.
The successful modification of the turntable greatly strengthened the team’s confidence. Building on this achievement, we quickly completed the integration and debugging of the entire system and successfully carried out the hardware-in-the-loop simulation demonstration and verification test, marking the successful commissioning of the simulation system. When the recorder began tracing test curves onto thermal paper, the winding lines appeared in the eyes of the team members as a masterpiece more beautiful than any artwork.
In 1993, the Beijing Simulation Center successfully passed the national project completion acceptance.
03 Theory as the Foundation: Exploring New Frontiers
Entering the new millennium, simulation technology ushered in another period of rapid development. To advance the continued growth of simulation capabilities in China, the Beijing Simulation Center launched the innovation and construction of a new optical simulation laboratory. At that time, optical simulation technology was still an unexplored field in China. As the project leader, I was fortunate to participate in this pioneering effort, beginning my long-term journey with large-scale simulation test equipment.
Entering an entirely new field in midlife, I initially felt uncertain when confronted with a technological gap. An experienced aerospace veteran offered me valuable advice: technological innovation must be guided by theory first. I immersed myself in theoretical physics and optics, continuously studying design manuals and conducting intensive research day and night. After several months of exploration, I established preliminary models for the critical cold background and stray light characteristics of the simulation equipment. Together with my team, we repeatedly discussed, revised, and optimized the theoretical calculation models until they were finalized.
When the refined and iteratively improved model finally ran successfully on the simulator, the generated three-dimensional optical energy distribution images appeared like colorful ring-shaped mountains. The colors represented different temperatures, while the height indicated energy density. The results perfectly matched our theoretical assumptions, and the entire team could not help but cheer with excitement.
04 A Decade of Perseverance: Breaking Barriers and Pursuing Dreams
From the initial feasibility studies and research to successful development, the large-scale simulation test equipment took nine years to complete. Throughout this decade of unwavering dedication, a new experimental building was constructed, the optical test hall was completed, and large-scale simulation equipment was developed from the ground up.
As the saying goes, “The final stretch of a hundred-mile journey is often the hardest”. Greater challenges still lay ahead. The subsequent optical test system involved complex configurations, lengthy operational cycles, and significant technical difficulties, with little prior experience to draw upon. Faced with these challenges, I devoted myself fully to analyzing every aspect of the system, striving to minimize risks. Together with my team, we clarified our approach and overcame one obstacle after another, including low-temperature testing, sensor debugging, infrared source development, and the fabrication of high-precision optical apertures.
The operation of large-scale simulation equipment required continuous 24-hour testing. The test team was divided into day and night shifts, with detailed plans developed down to each day and each hour to maximize efficiency. I personally took responsibility for night shifts, inspecting circuits and systems late into the night to prevent any potential failures. During that period, our team almost lived at the test site. After a decade of dedication, we remained determined in the face of challenges, encouraging one another and maintaining strong motivation through countless sleepless nights. Finally, the testing process achieved complete success.
Whenever I walk into the newly completed optical simulation laboratory and see the massive equipment shining under the lights while hearing its distinctive operating sounds, I still feel a deep sense of pride rising from within.
05 Looking Back on Three Decades: Innovation Without End
This year marks the 70th anniversary of China’s aerospace industry. Over seven decades of exploration and progress, achievements such as Dongfanghong reaching the skies, Shenzhou realizing generations of dreams, BeiDou illuminating the world, Chang’e exploring the Moon, and Tianhe building a path toward space have become remarkable milestones recognized worldwide. Behind these achievements are generations of aerospace professionals who have overcome challenges, forged ahead with determination, and devoted themselves to advancing China’s aerospace endeavors.
Now, 30 years have passed since I joined the aerospace industry, yet the memories of those years remain vivid. Time may pass quickly, but it leaves behind invaluable treasures: the beauty of youth that continues to inspire, the guidance of mentors that remains unforgettable, the warmth of colleagues that feels like spring, the dedication pursued without regret, and the strength that transcends time.
The brilliance of youth continues to inspire;
the wisdom of predecessors remains deeply cherished;
the support of colleagues stays warm and enduring;
the pursuit of excellence remains unwavering;
and the resilience gained through growth continues beyond time.
These unique experiences and memories of perseverance continue to shine brightly through the passage of time, constantly inspiring and motivating me. Recently, my team has once again embarked on the research and testing of new simulation materials, guided by the spirit of daring to surpass boundaries and pursuing exploration without hesitation. Further improvements and innovations will continue in the future. My journey with simulation is far from over. Through challenges and refinement, we continue to sharpen our capabilities like a blade forged in ice, and innovation will always remain a journey in progress.
Author Profile
Jiangyue Qian
Researcher at the Beijing Simulation Center
《Simulation for All》 is an initiative of the Asian Simulation Alliance (ASIASIM), focusing on the intersection of simulation technology and industry. The publication features three dedicated columns: “Simulation Stories Around Us”, which welcomes personal experiences and inspiring journeys in simulation; “Outstanding Simulation Cases”, which highlights valuable explorations and practical achievements; and “Expert Perspectives”, which shares forward-looking insights and visions shaping the future of simulation.
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