Armored Turret Simulation via Interface Box and Virtual Environment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current immersive simulation methods for training armored vehicle turret crews lack sufficient realism, leading to inadequate training experiences and high costs associated with field maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
An immersive simulation method where a real armored vehicle turret is connected to a simulation computer, allowing motorized equipment to function in simulation mode, producing visual, auditory, and acceleration effects, and an avatar of the turret is piloted by the crew within a virtual environment, with the option for multiple turrets to share the same scenario.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simulation computer is connected to the vehicle's central computer to provide immersive simulation training, then the training realism is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interface box as an intermediary device between the simulation computer and the vehicle's central computer. This interface box manages the communication and data exchange, simplifying the connection architecture. The interface box receives simulation parameters from the simulation computer and transmits them to the central computer, while also capturing vehicle operation data and transmitting it back to the simulation computer, thereby reducing the complexity of direct computer-to-computer integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the simulation system into distinct functional modules: the simulation computer that generates virtual scenarios, the interface box that manages data exchange, and the vehicle's existing control systems. This segmentation allows each component to be developed and maintained independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining training realism.
2Ease of operation
If all vehicle operation functions are inhibited during simulation mode and solely the simulation computer calculates system state, then the simulation control is simplified, but the training realism deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic simulation mode where vehicle operation functions are not completely inhibited but selectively adapted. The system can operate in different modes: in a first mode, the vehicle's own computer calculates system state based on student inputs; in a second mode, the simulation computer takes over the calculation. This dynamic switching allows the system to maintain realism by utilizing actual vehicle systems when appropriate while providing centralized control when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle's central computer is designed to perform multiple functions: it operates as the primary control system during normal vehicle operation and also serves as part of the simulation system when needed. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for completely inhibiting vehicle functions during simulation, as the same hardware can serve both training and operational purposes, thereby maintaining realism while simplifying control architecture.
3Reliability
If hardware simulators are acquired and maintained to provide realistic training conditions, then the training realism is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the vehicle's operational environment through software simulation on the vehicle's existing computer systems. Instead of acquiring physical hardware simulators, the system generates virtual scenarios and displays them on the vehicle's existing screens, using the vehicle's own display and audio systems. This copying approach provides realistic training conditions while eliminating the need for expensive dedicated hardware simulator facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle itself serves as the simulation platform, utilizing its own computer, screens, loudspeakers, and other onboard systems to provide the simulation training environment. This self-service approach means the vehicle trains itself and its operators without requiring external simulator infrastructure, thereby significantly reducing costs while maintaining realism by using the actual equipment that will be operated in field conditions.
4Reliability
If the vehicle fleet is used for field maneuvers only and parked in hangars during peacetime, then the operational readiness is maintained, but the training opportunities are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle's computer and display systems are designed to serve dual purposes: supporting normal operational functions during field maneuvers and enabling simulation training when the vehicle is parked. The same screens display both operational data and simulation scenarios; the same audio system plays both operational alerts and simulation sounds. This multi-functionality allows the vehicle fleet to provide both operational readiness and training capacity without requiring separate dedicated training vehicles.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicles train themselves and their crews during periods when not deployed for field maneuvers. By utilizing the vehicle's own onboard systems for simulation training, the fleet converts idle parking time into productive training opportunities. The vehicles serve themselves as training platforms, eliminating the need for separate training facilities and maximizing the utilization of the existing fleet for both operational and training purposes.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a turret simulation method and device. The invention presents an immersive simulation method for training a crew in the use of an armoured vehicle turret. The turret comprises a control computer, as well as acquisition and rendering interfaces. The computer and the interfaces are connected to one another by a computer bus. According to the method, the control computer is connected to a simulation computer, to which it communicates the status of the turret; the simulation computer produces a virtual environment which is presented at least partially to the crew by means of rendering interfaces; one or more motorised devices of the turret are found in operational state; and the commands entered by the crew via the acquisition interfaces towards the motorised devices in operational state are transmitted thereto, so that the movements of these devices caused by said commands produce optical, auditory and/or acceleration sensations for the crew.