Abstract: A motion simulator for simulating the working characteristics of motion vehicles is based on the synergistic `six degrees of freedom` system. The apparatus of the simulator comprises a main frame 10 mounted on three pairs of extensible and retractable legs 11 by means of a corresponding number of universal pivots. The pairs of legs 11 are arranged in a triangular formation on the underside of the frame 10 such that adjacent legs 11 from adjacent vertices of the formation converge to a common foot, to which they are secured by further universal pivots 13. Movement of the frame 10 is achieved by the relative extension and retraction of the legs 11.Supplementary longitudinal acceleration effects are simulated by means of a surge frame 14 slidably mounted on the main frame 10 and independently actuated by means of a piston and cylinder device 17 to move in a fore/aft sense with respect to the frame 10.

Abstract: The disclosure describes an image pick-up assembly for use in a vehicle training simulators and the assembly has an optical system to detect images in a direction of travel and to transmit these images to an electronic camera. A terrain-following head unit is formed to traverse a terrain model and contains the optical system. A gimbal joint couples the terrain-following head unit with the electronic camera to permit relative universal movement between the two. Releasable locking device is described to lock the terrain-following head unit in an operating position relative to the electronic camera so that it is releasable by a force when the terrain-following head unit engages an obstacle on the terrain model.