Pivot Frame Race Simulator for Rally and Formula 1 Position Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current race simulator devices are not adaptable to simulate the distinct driving positions of different types of race cars, such as rally and Formula 1 cars, lacking a simple adjustment mechanism to switch between these positions.

Innovation Solution

A device with a pivot frame that supports the steering wheel console, pedal console, and chair connection, allowing easy pivoting between rally and Formula 1 positions, featuring a pin-hole connection for fixation and optional drive mechanisms for automatic adjustment, along with adjustable legs and display support for enhanced stability and ergonomics.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the device structure is made fixed and stable for accurate simulation, then simulation reliability is improved, but adaptability to different car types deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimulation reliabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different car types
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the frame pivotable between different positions (rally car position and Formula 1 car position) rather than fixed. The frame can be rotated about a horizontal axis to change the spatial relationship between the seat, steering wheel, and pedals, allowing the same device to adapt to different driving positions while maintaining stability in each position through fixation means.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate devices are used for different car types, then adaptability to different car types is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different car typesVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the universality principle by designing a single multi-functional device that can simulate both rally car and Formula 1 car driving positions. The frame structure with pivot capability and adjustable components allows one device to perform multiple simulation functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices for each car type while reducing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the device into independently adjustable modules: the pivotable frame, the seat with connection provision, the steering wheel console support, and the pedal console support. Each module can be adjusted or fixed independently, allowing flexible configuration for different simulation needs while keeping the overall device structure manageable and not overly complex.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Device complexity

If manual adjustment mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice complexityVSAvoidease of adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the self-service principle through the fixation means that allows users to easily lock the frame in desired positions without requiring complex tools or mechanisms. The self-adjusting nature of the fixation system enables users to quickly transition between simulation positions by simply engaging or disengaging the fixation means, making the device easy to operate while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3558480B2Device for placing thereon a steering wheel console and pedal console of a race simulator game, and a race simulator
Publication Date: 2024.12.25 VAN BEEK MAAS
  • EP3558480B2 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3558480B2 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3558480B2 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

A device (10) for placing thereon a steering wheel console (12) and a pedal console (14) of a race simulator game. The device comprises a base frame (24) configured to be set up on the floor and a pivot frame (26) which is connected with the base frame (24) in a manner pivotable about a horizontal axis. Further, the device is provided with a steering wheel console support (18), pedal console support (20) and a connection provision for connecting a chair (22), which are all directly connected with the pivot frame (26). Further, a race simulator is described, which includes a chair, a steering wheel console and a pedal console and possibly a display which are all mounted on the pivot frame of the device.