Compact Motion Simulator With Three-Support Runner Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion simulators are either bulky and complex, limiting their use in small spaces, or they have limited motion capabilities due to their design and actuation mechanisms, such as hexapods and pneumatic hydraulic systems.
Innovation Solution
A compact motion simulator with three adjustable supports, each with a ball joint and a runner system actuated by electric motors, allowing for realistic movement simulation in three spatial axes, including vertical, longitudinal, and transverse motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hexapod suspensions are used to enable motion in all six degrees of freedom, then motion capability is improved, but device complexity and support surface area increase
Solution Approach 1:
The motion simulator is segmented into three independent support elements instead of using a complete hexapod system with six elements. Each support element handles specific motion axes, dividing the complex six-degree-of-freedom problem into three simpler three-degree-of-freedom support structures that collectively achieve the desired motion capability while reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes unnecessary components from the traditional hexapod design. By taking out redundant support elements and simplifying the mechanical structure to only three essential supports with ball joints and runners, the system maintains adequate motion simulation capability while significantly reducing design complexity and space requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If hexapod suspensions are used to enable motion in all six degrees of freedom, then motion capability is improved, but support surface area and entrance height increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into three compact elements rather than six extensive hexapod legs. This segmentation allows each support to be optimized for specific motion directions while occupying minimal floor space, reducing the overall support surface area required for the motion simulator
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical space and three-dimensional arrangement of the three support elements to achieve six degrees of freedom motion. By arranging supports in a triangular configuration with ball joints positioned at different heights and orientations, the system compensates for reduced horizontal footprint through intelligent spatial utilization
3Ease of operation
If pneumatic hydraulic cylinders are used for seat actuation, then motion generation is achieved, but motion versatility is limited to lateral and forward/backward tilting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pneumatic-hydraulic actuation system with a purely mechanical linkage system consisting of ball joints, runners, and electric motors. This substitution eliminates the limitations of cylindrical actuation geometry, enabling more versatile motion directions including lateral tilting, forward/backward tilting, and vertical movement through the mechanical advantage of the runner-based support structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental actuation parameter from linear cylindrical extension to rotational motor-driven runner movement. By using electric motors to rotate the runners within the ball joint mechanisms, the system achieves multi-directional motion capabilities that exceed the limited tilting directions possible with pneumatic-hydraulic cylinders
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables realistic vehicle motion simulation in small spaces with enhanced versatility and motion range, providing a cost-effective and space-efficient solution for various driving scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
three adjustable supports (6, 7), each having an upper end through which it is attached to the seat (1) and a lower end with a second joint (9) through which it is attached and rests on a runner (10), said runners (10) being movable through a movable guide (11), actuated by a corresponding first electric motor (12), which moves, in turn, through a fixed guide (13)
Implementation Method 2
each having an upper end through which it is attached to the seat (1) with a first joint (8), and a lower end with a second joint (9)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention pertains to the technical field of teaching or training simulators, more specifically the field of those especially designed for providing instruction on driving vehicles or other means of transport, and it particularly refers to a compact motion simulator for creating motion in three directions.