Toolless Mission Reconfigurable Trainer with Auto-Locking Tower
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current simulation training systems for ground vehicle-based weapon systems lack adaptability and reconfigurability to provide multi-level fidelities, requiring tools for setup and not being portable.
Innovation Solution
A mission reconfigurable trainer simulation system featuring a transportable shipping container with an integrated common base frame, universal mount tower, and vehicle variant-specific assemblies that can be easily set up and modified without tools, allowing for auto-locking and multi-fidelity training.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If simulation training systems are made adaptable and reconfigurable with multi-level fidelities, then training effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation training system is divided into modular components including vehicle assemblies, weapon system assemblies, and fidelity modules that can be independently configured and reconfigured. Each module can be attached or detached from the common base frame to change training scenarios and fidelity levels without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The common base frame and universal mounting structures serve multiple functions by supporting various vehicle types, weapon systems, and fidelity configurations. The same physical infrastructure can accommodate different training scenarios through interchangeable modular assemblies, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high adaptability.
2Manufacturing precision
If simulation training systems require tool-based assembly and modification, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional tool-based mechanical fastening systems are replaced with toolless coupling mechanisms such as bayonet-style connectors, snap-fit assemblies, and cam-locked mounting brackets. These mechanisms maintain precise alignment and secure connections while allowing rapid assembly and disassembly by hand, eliminating the need for tools during setup and reconfiguration.
3Ease of operation
If simulation training systems are made portable and transportable, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The portable simulation training system is segmented into collapsible modular units that can be disassembled for transport and rapidly reassembled at the training location. The common base frame, vehicle assemblies, and weapon systems are designed as separate modules that can be packed efficiently and reconfigured without tools, balancing portability with system integrity.
4Device complexity
If simulation training systems use fixed fidelity configurations, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation training system incorporates dynamic reconfigurability where fidelity levels can be changed on-demand through modular assembly changes. The system transitions from static fixed-fidelity configurations to dynamic multi-fidelity capabilities, allowing trainers to adjust the level of realism and complexity based on training objectives without permanent system modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are that includes a frame and a weapon mount on the frame that receives a weapon mock-up. The method includes setting up a trainer simulator including opening a transportable shipping container, wherein the transportable shipping container includes a coupled integrated common base frame and a universal mount tower. The method includes assembling a seat and pivoting the universal mount tower from a horizontal position to a vertical position wherein the universal mount tower auto-locks into position. The method includes delivering ground vehicle based weapon system training to a user using a continuum of human interface fidelities that includes a first, second and third fidelity, wherein the user is first delivered training at a first fidelity, and then at a second fidelity and then at a third fidelity. A system for a mission reconfigurable trainer simulation is also presented.