Racing simulator-flight simulator conversion module

Abstract

A module that allows a racing simulator configuration to be converted into a flight simulator configuration by adding an additional axis movement (pitch movement) forward and backward to an already acquired racing simulator configuration.

Description

4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0001] Racing steering wheel / base configuration on a movable mounting base plate. The operator can now pull and push their configuration forward and backward, thus enabling pitch control similar to that used in aircraft controls. When the steering wheel is released, it automatically returns to a neutral position (zero pitch) due to the elastic tension on the base plate. Changing the input device allows the user to enhance functionality and provides additional upgradeability. The module's frame is mounted to a table using suction cups, or, if the table surface is unsuitable, secured with an additional mounting bracket. The module allows a racing simulator configuration to be converted into a flight simulator configuration by attaching the owner's simulator. 5. TECHNICAL AREA

[0002] The invention relates to the field of simulation hardware, in particular systems which enable the reuse of existing input devices for alternative simulation areas, especially the conversion of racing simulator components into flight simulator control interfaces. 6. BACKGROUND

[0003] This invention was based on the idea of ​​designing racing simulator steering wheels / bases to be suitable for flight simulator games. Since racing simulator configurations already allow for steering (roll movement), only an additional axis movement (pitch) is needed to enable this. Foot pedals could be used for the yaw function in an aircraft, and the additional benefits of force feedback in racing simulator configurations can also be used in flight simulator configurations. 7. PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0004] There is a need for a cost-effective, modular solution that allows users to reuse components from racing simulators, such as steering wheels, pedal sets or gearshift levers, as components in a flight simulator environment. 8. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention relates to a physical and electronic interface module that enables the use of racing simulator controllers as flight simulator controllers. It comprises mechanical adapters for mounting racing steering wheel bases and circuit modules that remap input signals to ensure compatibility with flight simulation software. 9. DETAILED EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The explanation of the functionality of this invention (simulator conversion module) refers to the descriptions in the drawings (see corresponding illustrations and numbers). MOUNTING BRACKET

[0007] Reference is made to the in Fig. The invention is illustrated (claim 1). This figure shows the complete module with upgradeable input modules (excluding the control module). The figure shows how the mounting bracket

[10] is attached to the rear of the module frame. Two identical mounting screws [6] are used to attach the mounting bracket to the frame. Different table thicknesses can be compensated for using the slots in the mounting bracket and the height adjustments of the clamping wing screws

[11] . Because of the placement of the bracket

[10] , the rubber suction cup [ Fig. ] now curved and can protect the top edge when it is pressed against the edge of the tabletop. MOUNTING BASE PLATE

[0008] The mounting base plate is manufactured with four standardized mounting holes [9] to which the racing simulator configuration is to be mounted. The V-shaped wheels [7] of the mounting base plate are mounted in the V-slot frame [ Fig. The number of wheels and the size of the frame depend on the weight and size of the user's racing simulator configuration. When the racing simulator wheel is moved forward or backward, the attached

[13] control belt

[12] also moves, rotating the freely moving disc

[17] and a disc attached to an interchangeable input device

[18] . The corresponding wheel movement results in a specific pitch control. Pulling harder also results in greater tension resistance in the elastic cord on the opposite side of the steering movement. By extending the elastic cord outward [ Fig.The play in the frame was reduced. Less play when releasing the steering wheel is important for smooth pitch control in flight simulator configurations. The signal generated by the input module [2,3,4] is converted by a control unit into a digital signal, which a computer recognizes and then reacts to accordingly. Different input modules have different advantages and disadvantages. For example, a potentiometer [2] is inexpensive and results in a lower selling price for a module. However, it wears out much faster, and signal noise occurs if only one power source is used. A rotary encoder [3] is more expensive, but it is almost wear-free and does not generate signal noise because of its digital signal output. Using a brushless motor [4] is even more expensive, but it provides force feedback for pitch control. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] ILLUSTRATIONS [Figure .......] 1. This ISO image shows the entire module with the bracket not mounted. 2. This ISO image shows the entire module with the mounting bracket attached. 3. Module view from the rear with mounting bracket 4. Module view from below with the bracket not mounted 5. Module view from the right with the bracket not mounted 6. Module view from above with the bracket not mounted 7. Cutout showing timing belt and interchangeable input module 8. a. This figure shows a cross-section of the pressure distribution from the bracket into the frame. 8. b. / c. These illustrations show the extruded recess in the base frame. 9. Rear view of the bracket with cutout for an elastic cord 10. Module view from the front 11. Back of the module shown from above, with elastic cord at rest a. and under tension b. NUMBERS [...] 1 Elastic cord. 2 Interchangeable input device (potentiometer). 3 Interchangeable input device (rotary encoder). 4 Interchangeable input device with force feedback (brushless motor). 5. Cable connection to the control unit. 6 mounting screws for attaching the rear part of the frame and the mounting bracket. 7 V-shaped wheels for moving the base plate structure. 8 suction cups for mounting the frame to the table. 9 mounting holes for mounting the racing simulator configuration to the base plate. 10 Mounting brackets. 11 wing screws for attaching the module to the table. 12 timing belts. 13 Mounting plate for the timing belt and the elastic cord. 14 Mounting plate for the racing simulator. 15 Recess in the mounting bracket for the elastic cord. 16 Thick aluminum adhesive tape for stable attachment of the input module to the frame. 17 Freely movable disc. 18 Disc attached to an interchangeable input device. 19 Extruded recess in the base frame.

Claims

[1] A module that allows a racing simulator configuration to be converted into a flight simulator configuration by adding an additional axis movement (pitch movement) forward and backward to an already acquired racing simulator configuration. [2] Extending the elastic cord along the front and back of the frame allows the module (claim 1) to be used with less or no play when the steering wheel is released, which is important for smooth pitch control in flight simulator configurations. [3] Design of the mounting bracket in such a way that the elastic cord can move freely through the mounting bracket. This ensures that the pushing and pulling movements are carried out with the same elastic tension. The long mounting screws on the back of the module frame simplify the upgrade of an already acquired module (claim 1) and also transfer the mounting pressure from the screws to the frame of this module. Fig. ]. [4] Thanks to the open frame design, the use of interchangeable input modules [2,3,4] and the use of timing belts and pulleys, this design is easy to repair and upgrade. [5] The basic frame construction for the module (claim 1) is possible thanks to the extrusion recess [ Fig. Without this extrusion [19], the base frame would rotate inwards due to the base plate pressure.

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