Untethered Motion Simulator Frame With 360° Attitude Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motion platforms are limited to a maximum of ±25 degrees in rotational axes, hindering the realism and immersiveness of simulated experiences.
Innovation Solution
A motion simulator system with a hemispherical base and an untethered movable frame that allows for unlimited 360-degree motion in all three rotational degrees of freedom, utilizing an internal actuator system with momentum devices like control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) and low-friction interfaces such as transfer bearings to achieve precise attitude control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional linear or rotary actuators are used to achieve six degrees of freedom, then the platform can provide three rotational and three translational degrees of freedom, but the rotational motion is limited to a maximum of ±25 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional linear or rotary actuators with a reaction wheel system that uses conservation of angular momentum to achieve rotational motion. This substitution allows for unlimited rotational range while reducing mechanical complexity, as the reaction wheels can rotate freely without the mechanical constraints of traditional actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental operating parameter from limited angular displacement (±25 degrees) to continuous angular momentum exchange. By using reaction wheels that can rotate 360 degrees and exchange angular momentum with the platform, the system achieves unlimited rotational range while maintaining control through momentum management rather than mechanical positioning.
2Reliability
If the rotational motion range is extended beyond ±25 degrees, then the realism and immersiveness of simulated experience improves, but the mechanical constraints and friction from conventional actuators increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces friction-prone mechanical actuator systems with a reaction wheel system that operates on conservation of angular momentum. This substitution dramatically reduces energy loss to friction, as the reaction wheels rotate on low-friction bearings and transfer momentum through controlled acceleration and deceleration rather than continuous mechanical force application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic acceleration and deceleration of reaction wheels to achieve continuous rotational motion. By periodically changing the spin rate of reaction wheels, the system can induce rotational movement in the platform without continuous mechanical force, reducing energy loss and allowing for extended rotational ranges that enhance simulation realism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If unlimited 360-degree rotational motion is implemented using reaction wheels, then full rotational freedom is achieved, but the system requires precise momentum control and attitude management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control systems that continuously monitor the attitude and momentum state of the platform and reaction wheels. Sensors detect the current orientation and angular velocity, and this information is fed back to the control system, which adjusts reaction wheel speeds to achieve and maintain the desired attitude, ensuring precise control despite the unlimited rotational freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical position-sensing systems with momentum-based sensing and control. Instead of using encoders or mechanical position sensors limited to small ranges, the system uses angular momentum conservation and gyroscopic effects to detect and control attitude, enabling precise measurement and control over full 360-degree rotations.
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
Enables highly immersive and realistic simulations with full 360-degree rotational motion, synchronized with virtual reality systems, providing precise position, velocity, and acceleration control.
Implementation Method 1
An internal actuator system can be coupled to the movable frame and comprise a plurality of momentum devices that can collectively generate controllable torque vectors that can selectively induce rotation of the frame in three rotational degrees of freedom
Implementation Method 2
low-friction interfaces such as transfer bearings
Data Source
AI summary
A motion simulator system is disclosed that includes a freely rotatable movable frame supported by, but unattached to, a hemispherical base. The movable frame comprises a spherical enclosure constructed from rigid, lightweight materials such as composite materials or interlocking panels, providing unlimited 360-degree rotation in all three rotational degrees of freedom (pitch, roll, and yaw). An internal actuator system coupled to the movable frame controls attitude positioning while the center of rotation remains substantially fixed relative to the base. Low friction engagement between the movable frame and base is achieved through transfer bearings integrated into the base's outer surface or by pressure-vented air cushions. The system enables smooth, continuous rotation of the untethered movable frame for enhanced motion simulation applications.