Motion Simulator Seat Assembly With Inflatable Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current motion simulators rely on hydraulically operated telescoping cylinders or pneumatic platforms, which may not efficiently handle shear stress and weight distribution, limiting the realism and safety of passenger experiences.
Innovation Solution
A seat assembly utilizing inflatable actuators as the sole motive force, supported by a mechanical linkage and stabilizing members, allowing for controlled movement in multiple directions and weight support, with a pressure source and valve assemblies to manage inflation and pitch adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If hydraulically operated telescoping cylinders are used to move seats, then motion control is achieved, but shear stress handling and weight distribution efficiency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional hydraulic telescoping cylinders with pneumatic inflatable actuators (air bags) to drive the motion platform. The pneumatic system uses compressed air stored in a reservoir to inflate and deflate the air bags, providing motion forces. This pneumatic approach improves shear stress handling and weight distribution efficiency compared to the hydraulic cylinder system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and properties of the actuating medium from hydraulic fluid to pneumatic gas. The inflatable actuators use compressible gas instead of incompressible hydraulic fluid, allowing for more efficient weight distribution and shear stress handling through the compressibility and flexibility of the pneumatic system.
2Force
If pneumatic platforms are used to allow open center handling, then shear stress is managed, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a pneumatic platform with inflatable actuators distributed at predetermined locations between the base and deck. This pneumatic system manages shear stress effectively while the distributed actuator configuration simplifies the overall platform structure compared to traditional mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion platform is divided into multiple segments with individual inflatable actuators positioned at specific locations. This segmentation allows each actuator to independently manage local shear stresses, simplifying the overall structural design while maintaining effective shear stress management across the entire platform.
3Weight of moving object
If inflatable actuators are used as sole motive force, then weight support and motion control are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses inflatable actuators as the sole motive force to support the full weight of seats and passengers during operation. The pneumatic system provides both weight support and motion control functions, improving capability while the integrated design manages system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The inflatable actuators serve multiple functions simultaneously: they support the weight of the platform and passengers, provide motive force for motion, and control the position and orientation of the seats. This multi-functionality improves weight support capability while reducing the need for separate systems, thereby managing overall device complexity.
4Ease of operation
If mechanical linkage is added to provide track and limit movement, then motion control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical linkage system as an intermediary between the inflatable actuators and the seats/platform. This linkage provides the track along which seats travel and limits movement to defined patterns, improving motion control precision while acting as a mediator that simplifies the interaction between the pneumatic actuators and the motion platform.
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 seat assembly provides a more realistic and safe motion simulation experience by efficiently distributing weight and managing motion patterns, ensuring passenger safety and comfort through precise control of inflatable actuators and stabilizing members.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of spaced apart inflatable actuators are drivingly connected to the passenger support member. The inflatable actuators may provide movement in one, or more than one, direction.
Implementation Method 2
A passenger support member is moveably mounted along the plurality of stabilizing members. The plurality of stabilizing members may comprise a plurality of generally vertically extending members.
Data Source
AI summary
A seat assembly comprises a plurality of stabilizing members mounted to a base. A passenger support member is moveably mounted along the plurality of stabilizing members. A plurality of spaced apart inflatable actuators are drivingly connected to the passenger support member.