Motion Simulator Using Gimbal and Linear Motors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motion simulators lack the fidelity to match real accelerations with virtual accelerations, causing nausea and limiting the immersive experience in virtual reality applications, and traditional rollercoasters are static, time-consuming, and costly to design and manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic combined translational and rotational motion simulator system that allows for programmable and continuous motion in three-dimensional space, using linear and rotary motors with gimbal assemblies to provide high-fidelity experiences, synchronized with virtual reality, enabling realistic simulations of various real-world and imaginary scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional motion simulators use small accelerations produced by hydraulic motors and cylinders, then the system is simple to implement, but the fidelity to match real accelerations is insufficient causing nausea and breaking presence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic motion simulator system that can adaptively adjust motion parameters in real-time to match virtual reality accelerations. The system uses programmable motion profiles and feedback control to dynamically optimize acceleration fidelity, transitioning from static hydraulic configurations to adaptive, programmable motion control that maintains presence while managing system complexity through software-based solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional hydraulic motor and cylinder systems with alternative actuation mechanisms that can deliver higher acceleration fidelity. This substitution enables more precise control over motion parameters, allowing the system to accurately replicate real-world accelerations without being constrained by the limitations of conventional hydraulic systems.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional rollercoasters use fixed tracks with permanent formations, then the manufacturing provides structural stability, but the design and manufacturing process is time-consuming and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static rollercoaster structure into a dynamic, reconfigurable system. Instead of permanent track formations, the system uses programmable motion profiles and adjustable mechanical configurations that can be changed through software control. This allows the same physical structure to deliver varied ride experiences without requiring time-consuming re-manufacturing or re-formation of tracks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables variation in ride characteristics by changing operational parameters rather than physical structures. Through programmable motion control, the system can adjust acceleration profiles, velocity curves, and trajectory parameters to create different ride experiences from the same hardware configuration, eliminating the need for expensive and time-consuming manufacturing changes.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional rollercoasters require heating and permanently forming steel rails to accurate shapes, then the manufacturing precision is achieved, but significant metal fatigue results from the process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of heating and permanently forming steel rails with alternative methods that achieve the required precision without inducing metal fatigue. This substitution eliminates the thermal and mechanical stresses associated with traditional rail formation, thereby improving the reliability and service life of the structural components while maintaining manufacturing precision.
4Ease of operation
If VR content is limited to sitting, standing, or walking experiences in confined spaces, then the system is easy to implement, but the immersion and presence are compromised due to lack of real motion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enhances VR experiences by integrating dynamic motion simulation that goes beyond static or simple walking movements. The system uses programmable motion control to deliver realistic accelerations and movements that match virtual environments, thereby improving immersion and presence while maintaining ease of operation through unified software control of both visual and physical elements.
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
The system provides a high-fidelity, dynamic, and programmable motion experience that closely matches real-world accelerations, enhancing user immersion and versatility, allowing for a wide range of simulations without the limitations of fixed tracks or high manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
utilize linear propulsion or linear lift systems to produce such accelerations. These linear motion systems can incorporate a variety of apparatus including, but not limited to, rotary motors with pulleys and steel cables, hydraulic motors, linear induction motors, linear synchronous motors
Implementation Method 2
Most of these real motion systems are small-scale and typically utilize hydraulic motors and/or cylinders to induce a sensation of motion by producing small accelerations
Implementation Method 3
A gimbal assembly can be mounted to the platform, with the gimbal assembly including a first gimbal mounted on the platform for controlled rotation about a first axis, a second gimbal mounted on the first gimbal for controlled rotation about a second axis
Data Source
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AI summary
A versatile translational and rotational motion simulator comprising a first apparatus to translate a user in a first linear direction; a second apparatus to translate the user in a second linear direction; a third apparatus to translate the user in a third linear direction; a fourth apparatus disposed on the third apparatus to support the user throughout the first, second, and third linear translations; a gimbal assembly disposed on the fourth apparatus and including a positional tracking sensor and/or reference device to track the position of a user's head; a virtual reality device to create a virtual reality scene within the mind of the user; a sound system to create an auditory sensation within the mind of the user; microelectronics; and a programmable controller, the simulator being operable to translate the user forward and backward in the first, second, and third linear directions and the first, second, and third rotational directions simultaneously.