Motion Simulator Access Retraction for Better Immersion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motion simulation systems in entertainment venues, such as those using multi-axis motion simulators, are either expensive or prone to downtime due to complex equipment, and sensory distractions like walkways and handrails can detract from the immersive experience by being perceptible during presentations.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically mounted seat system with movable access members, such as a walkway or handrail, that retracts to a less perceptible position during presentations, allowing for enhanced motion simulation without the need for expensive equipment, using a fixed platform and actively driven multi-degree-of-freedom suspension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multi-axis motion simulators are used to provide motion simulation, then motion simulation capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the motion simulation system into separate modular components: a fixed platform providing structural support and a dynamically mounted seat assembly that performs motion simulation. This segmentation allows the complex motion simulation function to be isolated in a manageable module that can be independently controlled and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while preserving motion simulation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic mounting of the seat to the fixed platform, allowing the seat to move relative to the platform in multiple degrees of freedom. This dynamic configuration enables motion simulation without requiring the entire platform to be movable, simplifying the mechanical structure while achieving the desired adaptability for various motion simulation scenarios
2Ease of operation
If sensory distraction members like walkways and handrails are provided for passenger access, then ease of operation is improved, but immersion quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the access members (walkway and handrail) dynamically positionable rather than fixed. During the presentation phase, these members are moved to positions where they are less perceptible to passengers, thereby reducing sensory distractions and improving immersion. During loading and unloading phases, they are positioned to facilitate easy passenger access, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and immersion quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent effectively extracts the sensory distraction elements from the passenger's field of view and tactile experience during presentations by moving them to less perceptible positions. This allows the access members to be removed from the immediate sensory environment of the passenger without eliminating their functional utility for access
3Device complexity
If the extent of seat movement is limited to 1-24 inches, then device complexity is reduced, but motion simulation realism deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a purely mechanical motion simulation system with a hybrid system that combines limited mechanical movement (1-24 inches) with electronically generated visual content displayed on screens. The electronic displays provide the majority of the motion simulation effect through perspective changes and visual cues, allowing the mechanical system to remain simple while achieving realistic motion simulation
Data Source
AI summary
A motion simulator is provided with a motion simulator accommodation that is dynamically mounted to a fixed datum or platform and is positioned facing a presentation. The motion simulator is provided with one or more access fitting which may be used to assist a person to enter the motion simulator accommodation. At least one of the motion simulator accommodation and the access fitting is movable with respect to each other from a first position to a second position, wherein, in the second position, the access fitting is less perceptible during the presentation than in said first position.