Toolless Mission Reconfigurable Trainer with Auto-Locking Mount
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
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
1Reliability
If simulation training systems use fixed installation and tool-based assembly, then setup precision and structural stability are improved, but portability and ease of deployment deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation training system is divided into modular components including a base frame, universal mount tower, and multiple fidelity assemblies that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation enables the system to be transported in sections and reconfigured for different training scenarios while maintaining structural integrity through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal mount tower and base frame are designed with standardized mounting interfaces that can accommodate various fidelity assemblies (high-fidelity, medium-fidelity, low-fidelity) and different vehicle-specific assemblies. This universal design allows the same structural platform to support multiple training configurations without requiring specialized installation tools or procedures.
2Strength
If simulation systems use tool-based assembly and disassembly, then connection strength and assembly precision are improved, but ease of operation and setup time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional tool-based mechanical fastening systems are replaced with toolless quick-connect interfaces featuring cam-locked levers and bayonet-style connectors. These mechanisms provide connection strengths comparable to bolted joints while allowing assembly and disassembly through simple hand-operated locking actions, eliminating the need for wrenches, screwdrivers, or other assembly tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection interfaces are designed to be self-aligning and self-locking, where the geometry of the mounting interfaces guides proper alignment during assembly and the cam-locked mechanisms automatically secure components when engaged. This self-service design allows operators to assemble and disassemble system components without requiring external tools or specialized assembly procedures.
3Manufacturing precision
If simulation training systems use high-fidelity assemblies only, then training realism is improved, but adaptability to different skill levels and tasks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation training system is designed with dynamic fidelity capability, allowing the fidelity level of assemblies to be changed based on training requirements. The universal mount tower accepts multiple versions of assemblies ranging from high-fidelity (with full tactile feedback and realistic controls) to medium-fidelity (with simplified controls) to low-fidelity (with basic functional representation), enabling instructors to select the appropriate fidelity level for each training scenario and skill level.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the fidelity parameter of training assemblies to match training objectives. High-fidelity assemblies provide realistic tactile feedback, force resistance, and detailed control mechanisms for advanced training, while low-fidelity assemblies provide basic functional representation for introductory training. This parameter change capability enables the same physical platform to support multiple fidelity levels through interchangeable assemblies.
4Reliability
If simulation systems require complex assembly procedures, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but productivity and deployment speed deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Connection interfaces are pre-designed with built-in alignment features, locating pins, and self-centering mechanisms that guide components into proper position during assembly. This preliminary action built into the hardware design ensures correct alignment and secure connection without requiring complex assembly procedures, multiple operators, or specialized tooling, thereby maintaining assembly reliability while dramatically reducing deployment time.
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.