Motion Simulator with Independent Occupant Loading Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motion simulators fail to accurately replicate the independent loading of free parts of the body during simulations, especially in applications like motorcycle or racing car simulations, where high body loads are significant, as they typically anchor the user to the platform or use limited frequency response systems like inflatable suits.
Innovation Solution
A motion simulator design featuring a movable carrier with a first drive mechanism for platform motion and multiple loading elements actuated by a second drive mechanism, controlled by a controller to apply loads that simulate the difference between estimated platform loads and body loads, using flexible or rigid members attached to the occupant, allowing non-coplanar load application from various angles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the user's body is anchored to the platform (e.g., by being in a close-fitting seat), then the platform motion can be effectively transmitted to the occupant, but the free parts of the occupant's body are not loaded independently, reducing simulation fidelity
Solution Approach 1:
The loading system is segmented into multiple independent loading elements (cables, straps, or rigid members) that can be attached to different parts of the occupant's body. Each loading element is independently actuated by separate actuators, allowing independent control of loads on different body segments. This segmentation enables realistic simulation of how different parts of the body experience different loads during motion events.
2Force
If inflatable pockets contained in a suit worn by the occupant are used to load the user's body, then body loading is achieved, but the frequency response is limited to relatively low frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pneumatic/hydraulic inflatable pocket system with a direct mechanical actuation system. Actuators (such as motors or cylinders) are directly coupled to loading elements that physically pull or push on the occupant's body. This mechanical substitution eliminates the compliance and response delays inherent in inflatable systems, enabling high-frequency dynamic loading while maintaining full body loading capability.
3Force
If cords are attached between a static frame and the limbs of a dummy to apply loads, then body loading is achieved, but the system cannot dynamically adapt to different motion events and occupant configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The loading system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable. The loading elements can be attached to different locations on the occupant's body depending on the simulation requirements. The actuators can dynamically adjust the magnitude and direction of applied loads in real-time based on feedback from sensors and control algorithms that model the specific motion event being simulated. This dynamic adaptability allows the same physical system to accurately represent different vehicle types, motion events, and occupant positions.
4Reliability
If multiple actuators are used to apply loads from non-coplanar locations, then realistic multi-directional loading is achieved, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuators are designed with universal functionality to handle multiple loading scenarios. Each actuator can operate independently to apply forces in different directions, and they can be coordinated to create complex multi-axial loading patterns. The control system uses a unified mathematical model that treats all actuators symmetrically, simplifying the control architecture despite the physical complexity of having multiple actuators positioned at non-coplanar locations.
Data Source
AI summary
A motion simulator for imposing loads on an occupant, the simulator having: a movable carrier for supporting the occupant; a first drive mechanism for moving the carrier; multiple loading elements configured for attachment to the occupant when the occupant is supported by the carrier; a second drive mechanism for actuating the loading elements to apply loads to the occupant; and a controller, the controller being configured to implement a simulation of a motion event by: (i) estimating a motion of the carrier consistent with the motion event and controlling the first drive mechanism to cause the carrier to adopt the estimated motion; (ii) estimating a first load on the occupant consistent with the motion event; (iii) estimating a second load on the occupant due to the motion adopted by the carrier and (iv) controlling the second drive mechanism to cause the second drive mechanism to apply to the occupant a load that is the difference between the first estimated load and the second estimated load.