Collapsible Motion Platform with Load-Balancing Rotary Frames
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion platforms are large, costly, and complex, limiting their utility and acceptance in home environments due to size and expense, with high-end systems exceeding $250,000 and requiring extensive programming and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible and portable motion platform using a load-bearing support framework with rotary frames and actuators that balance the load at the center of mass, reducing the required force and torque for motion, and incorporating a user control panel with safety features and an optional enclosure case for protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-end motion platforms are used to provide realistic motion simulation, then the motion realism and simulation quality are improved, but the cost, size, and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The motion platform is divided into separate modular components including a base unit, a motion actuation unit, and a user interface unit. Each module can be independently controlled and scaled, allowing the system to provide realistic motion simulation through coordinated operation of simpler individual components rather than requiring a single complex high-end system.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion platform incorporates a universal control system that can interface with multiple types of input devices and simulation software through standardized protocols. The same hardware platform can serve various simulation scenarios (flight, vehicle, maritime) by changing software parameters rather than requiring specialized equipment for each application, reducing overall system complexity.
2Force
If high-end motion platforms with hydraulic or electromagnetic cylinders are used, then the motion capability and force output are improved, but the cost exceeds $250,000 and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces expensive hydraulic or electromagnetic actuators with simpler mechanical linkages and spring-based restoration mechanisms. The motion actuation unit uses basic motors driving gear mechanisms rather than high-power hydraulic cylinders, significantly reducing component cost while maintaining adequate force output for the intended application through mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform allows dynamic adjustment of motion parameters including range of motion, speed, and force output through software control rather than requiring hardware changes. This enables the same cost-effective hardware to provide varied motion capabilities by changing control parameters, eliminating the need for expensive multi-configurable hardware systems.
3Reliability
If large-scale motion platforms are deployed to provide comprehensive motion simulation, then the simulation fidelity is improved, but the space requirements and storage needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motion platform uses dynamically adjustable mechanical linkages that can change their configuration based on operational needs. The structure can transition between extended positions for full motion range during operation and compact folded positions for storage, allowing comprehensive simulation fidelity when needed while minimizing space occupation during non-use periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The platform components are designed with nested arrangements where smaller subsystems fit within larger ones when not in use. The motion actuation mechanisms can be retracted into the base structure, and auxiliary components can be stored within the main housing, significantly reducing the overall footprint while maintaining full functionality when deployed.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible, portable motion platform for use with video games, personal computers, simulators, and virtual reality systems is disclosed. The motion platform may include a motion control system including user adjustable regulating devices for setting the range of motion, acceleration and other motion elements in one or more degrees of freedom. The framing may be collapsible and may include an enclosure case. One embodiment of the platform is lightweight and portable, and includes an enclosure case for protection in storage.