Abstract: An integrated evaluation and simulation system for advanced naval gun systems interactively evaluates concept design decisions and design requirements in the context of a virtual representation of an operational advanced naval gun system. The combat effectiveness of an advanced naval gun system may also be concurrently tested by virtual simulation. A computer system is programmed to implement a causal network model comprising an integrated collection of analysis models for creating a virtual representation of an advanced naval gun system. The integrated evaluation and simulation system also includes a user interface operatively connected to at least the computer system, for selectively inputting data into the causal network model and receiving information therefrom, and preferably at least one virtual simulation system.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling onboard equipments, which can make a driver certainly understand operations of alarms corresponding to various functions of a vehicle, and which can make the functions of the vehicle give full effects. When drive guide data corresponding to a set vehicle condition and simulated vehicle condition data concerning the set vehicle condition are stored in a memory (700), and a navigation device (400) plays the drive guide data stored in the memory (700), a system control unit (100) makes a vehicle condition advise unit (200) warn a driver of the set vehicle condition by a simulation on the basis of the simulated vehicle condition data. Accordingly, the driver can know an alarm operation of the vehicle condition advise unit corresponding to the set vehicle condition by the simulation.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for training pilots by simulating the operation of gauges in aircraft. The self-contained device can be installed into training aircraft to be used during instruction. Alternatively, the device can be used during classroom and ground school training. A switch box control panel simulates the controls and indicators of aircraft. A logic circuit and program simulate normal operations and common malfunctions of aircraft. During malfunctions the program and circuit will evaluate the pilot's corrective control input, continuing the malfunction if the pilot's response is incorrect. The device's ability to accept inputs and to emulate characteristics of specific aircraft increases the realism of the simulation and training.

Abstract: A motion simulator for transmitting motion with respect to a floor as a function of motion signals associated to a video output. The motion simulator comprises a seating portion for accommodating a viewer viewing the video output. Actuators each have a first member and a second member interrelated by a degree of freedom. Each of the actuators has a degree of actuation connected to the seating portion for displacing the first member with respect to the second member along the degree of freedom as a function of actuation from the actuators in relation to the motion signals. The first member of each of the actuators is secured to the seating portion The second member of each of the actuators comprises a leg supporting the motion simulator on the floor, whereby the seating portion is movable as a function of actuation from the actuators.

Abstract: The present invention provides a visual display system that comprises an image generator and a plurality of adjacent video display modules. The image generator may be adapted to generate a video image viewable by an operator of the visual display system, where the video image may be representative of a portion of a composite display image. The plurality of adjacent video display modules include displays that may be adapted to display the portion of the composite display image, where the video display may be remotely coupled to the image generator and may be responsive to the video image generated by the image generator.

Abstract: A mobile confined space rescue training simulation unit having a simple adjustable modular construction that may be set up in any of a number of different confined space rescue scenarios to meet a variety of specialized training needs. The unit is preferably trailer-mounted for portability and has an elongated upper work area and two interior modular sections in communication with each other. The first section allows for establishing different labyrinths through which rescue trainees must travel, and the second section has a retractable sloping floor that may be replaced by simulated machinery such as a rotating shaft with blades. Multiple combinations of training rescue scenarios are possible.

Abstract: The invention concerns a computer-assisted learning method for driving a vehicle wherein the digital simulation model uses a digital representation of physical laws, monitoring laws and control laws linking the digital representations of physical quantities, monitoring signals and/or control signals.

Abstract: A training system and method for use of simulated night vision goggles (NVG) which provides the full dynamic range of NVG simulation including low intensity, medium intensity and high intensity irradiance images of night-time terrain. Each of three 12-bit video signals are allocated to a preselected portion or all of the total irradiance range representing scene elements corresponding to low, medium and high light intensity and a video camera scans and converts the resultant generated image to preserve its resolution and dynamic range. The image is viewable in the simulated goggles.

Abstract: A device for prompting a scan pattern. In many circumstances it is important that an individual be able to follow a learned scan pattern in highly stressful situations. It is therefore important that an individual be taught a particular scan pattern in a way that is most likely to be remembered by a user in these stressful situations. A pilot flying by instruments must appropriately scan the instruments and control the aircraft in accordance with information obtained from the instruments. An improper scanning pattern can cause the pilot to lose control of the aircraft. Consequently, a device that utilizes multiple sensory inputs will more quickly and permanently impress a scanning pattern on a user. Here, a flight instrument scanning pattern is prompted by this device, which selectively illuminates each instrument in the desired scanning pattern to attract a user's attention to that particular instrument.

Abstract: A free fall simulator with a flight chamber, a fan system to generate airflow in the flight chamber, and a noise attenuation housing substantially enclosing the fan system.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for connecting simulator instruments to a simulator host computer includes a plurality of panel modules, a data bus having a connection to each panel module, and a control computer connected to the data bus and to the host computer. Each panel module further comprises at least one simulated instrument and a local computer. The local computer runs a computer program adapted to the instrument or instruments controlled by that panel module, so that the local computer communicates with the data bus for bi-directional communication between the instrument and the control computer. Each panel module has a unique address on the data bus.

Abstract: A road simulation apparatus wherein front excitation means capable of exciting a front axle of a motorcycle upwardly and downwardly as well as forwardly and rearwardly is connected to the front axle of the motorcycle while rear excitation means capable of exciting a rear axle upwardly and downwardly is connected to the rear axle so that a road load proximate to that experienced by a motorcycle actually running on a road can be reproduces. A bendable link mechanism L comprised of a plurality of links La and Lb are disposed in the forward and rearward directions of the motorcycle for permitting mutual bending motion therebetween is connected for pivotal motion to a stationary support member S. The posture of the test vehicle body is maintained while the regeneration accuracy of road loads is augmented.

Abstract: A turbo-charged vehicle engine sound simulator (10) that is designed to function in combination with a vehicle having a coil (92), a tachometer (94), an alternator (96), an engine manifold (98) having a manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor (100), and a battery (90). The simulator (10) utilizes an engine RPM source (12), a vacuum pressure switch (14), a turbo-sound storage unit (28), a power amplifier (30), a loudspeaker (32) and a regulated power supply (34) to accurately reproduce the sound that is heard from a blow-off valve on a turbo-charged engine. The simulator (10) allows a person to provide the appearance that his/her vehicle is equipped with a turbo-charger.

Abstract: The invention relates to a driving simulator, particularly for simulating the movements of earthbound vehicles. To take into account the special features of the movements of earthbound vehicles, the proposed driving simulator has a carrier unit that has a rigid floor platform, on which a test vehicle can be mounted. The carrier unit also includes at least one projection surface and at least one projector, and at least three movement modules, each of which has a wheel that rolls on a floor surface. The wheel can be steered, relative to the axis extending perpendicular to the floor, via a first drive, and can be driven by a respectively associated second drive.

Abstract: The invention relates to systems and methods for implementing vehicle simulation. The present invention also relates particularly, though not exclusively, to flight/aircraft simulation.

Abstract: To realize an accurate evaluation of the riding quality of a railway vehicle In a riding quality simulation system (1), a control unit (60) controls a drive unit (50) such that vibrations along a plurality of axes arbitrarily selected among six axes can be simultaneously applied to a simulated passenger room (10) simulating an interior of a railway vehicle. The control unit (60) makes control in such a manner that, among an up-down component, a left-right component, and a forward-backward component of the vibration applied to the simulated passenger room (10), upper limits of vibration acceleration and frequency range of the forward-backward component are made smaller, thereby making higher upper limits of vibration acceleration and frequency range of the up-down and left-right components.

Abstract: A vehicle-based headway collision avoidance training system (300) is provided that includes a sensor system (350) mounted to the training vehicle (200), a processing system (330), and an interface unit (340) coupled to the vehicle's wiring. The combination of processing system (330), a graphical display (332), a data input device (334), and an audio output device (336) provides a collection of special auditory and visual displays attended to by the student, and controls and displays used by the instructor that are unique for teaching headway safety in the context of a moving vehicle.

Abstract: The invention involves a taxidermy form comprising opposing face pieces having eye openings and nostrils which overlay an inner core having eye sockets, eyeballs, nasal cavities, and a nostril septum to form realistic eye settings and noses. The core is molded as a single unit with eye sockets, a nasal cavity, and a septum and the desired style eyeballs are adhered to the eye sockets and the nasal cavity are detailed and painted to replicate those of a living animal of the type to be mounted. Once the core is prepared, the outer face pieces are attached in an overlying relationship to expose a portion of the eyeballs through the eye openings and the underlying nostril cavities and septum through the nostrils, thereby creating a more realistic taxidermy mount which is easy to prepare. In an alternative embodiment, the two face pieces can be molded as a single unit, which can be easily slipped over the nose of the core and affixed in place in the same manner as the separate pieces.

Abstract: A simulator, comprising a cabin including a control mechanism and a plurality of windows. A screen is disposed proximate the cabin windows, and the screen includes a viewing area disposed beneath the cabin. At least one window may be disposed on the bottom of the cabin. A plurality of projectors is used to project images on the screen. The cabin is suspended downwardly from a motion actuator that is adapted to move the cabin in response to adjustments made to the control mechanism. The simulator may be used for operator training on container gantry cranes, straddle carriers, portal or harbor cranes, or tower cranes, as examples.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for training pilots by simulating the operation of retractable landing gear in aircraft. The self-contained device can be installed into fixed landing gear aircraft to be used during takeoff and landing. Alternatively, the device can be used during classroom and ground school training. A switch box control panel simulates the landing gear controls and indicators of retractable gear aircraft. A logic circuit and program simulate landing gear operation, in “simulator” mode, and common landing gear errors of retractable gear aircraft in “trainer” mode. In “trainer” mode, the program and circuit also randomly alert the pilot to common landing gear errors and evaluate the pilot's corrective control input, outputting an error indication if the pilot's response is incorrect.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for scaling a large commercial flight simulator into a more compact flight simulator, without losing the look and feel of a corresponding aircraft in-flight, by modifying movement of the motion platform to conform to the recommendations of one knowledgeable of the actual aircraft.

Abstract: The present invention provides a visual display system that comprises an image generator and a plurality of adjacent video display modules. The image generator may be adapted to generate a video image viewable by an operator of the visual display system, where the video image may be representative of a portion of a composite display image. The plurality of adjacent video display modules include displays that may be adapted to display the portion of the composite display image, where the video display may be remotely coupled to the image generator and may be responsive to the video image generated by the image generator.

Abstract: A motion simulator provided with a movable housing, preferably carried by a number of length-adjustable legs, in which housing projection means are arranged for visual information supply, while in the housing a control environment of a motion apparatus to be simulated is situated, the control environment being incorported in a removable unit, which unit is exchangeable for another, comparable unit having a different control environment to be simulated.

Abstract: A vehicle simulation system has an image system for projecting a simulated out-the-window scene and symbology as produced by a head-up display onto a viewing screen. A dummy beamsplitting or combiner structure is positioned so that the user can view the scene with the head-up display symbology through it. A filtering structure is provided on the combiner structure to prevent the user from viewing the head-up display symbology outside the combiner structure.

Abstract: A road simulation apparatus wherein front excitation means capable of exciting a front axle of a motorcycle upwardly and downwardly as well as forwardly and rearwardly is connected to the front axle of the motorcycle while rear excitation means capable of exciting a rear axle upwardly and downwardly is connected to the rear axle so that a road load proximate to that experienced by a motorcycle actually running on a road can be reproduces. A bendable link mechanism L comprised of a plurality of links La and Lb are disposed in the forward and rearward directions of the motorcycle for permitting mutual bending motion therebetween is connected for pivotal motion to a stationary support member S. The posture of the test vehicle body is maintained while the regeneration accuracy of road loads is augmented.

Abstract: A vehicle simulation system includes a sound resonant chamber assembly for simulating audio sounds representative of the sounds produced during the operation of the simulated vehicle, comprising a speaker and a sound resonant tube attached to the speaker for enhancing and directing the audio sounds.

Abstract: A motion simulator having a stationary frame and a movable frame below the stationary frame in the direction of gravity. A passenger car is attached to the bottom surface of the movable free. A driving device is located between the stationary frame and the movable frame and rotationally or linearly moves the movable frame.

Abstract: The present invention aims at providing a game device comprising a body moving mechanism for rapidly moving a body in accordance with the game program development. In order to achieve such aim, the game device according to the present invention comprises a handle unit for operating the movements of a virtual vehicle in a game program, and controls the movements of such vehicle in correspondence with the operating signal from the handle unit. For these purposes, a movable body is supported by a fixed body in a freely tilting position. The pulley of the handle unit rolls along a belt when the rotation torque of the AC servomotor is high, and the rudder input from the steering wheel is directly communicated to the movable body.

Abstract: A system and method for interpreting a plurality of sets of program instructions of an avionic flight computer are implemented on a general-purpose commercially available computer having multi-processing capabilities with a greater number of processors than the avionics computer. The system and method include assigning each of the avionic computer processors to a corresponding one of the processors on the commercial computer and loading each set of program instructions into one of a plurality of cache memories each associated with one of the commercial computer processors. The system and method further include executing a shared process including the interpreter instructions on each of the commercial computer processors associated with one of the avionics computer's processors. Each shared process interprets only those program instructions intended for its associated processor.

Abstract: A flight instruction educational system and method for learning proper operation of selected aircraft or other types of machinery comprising a plurality of rigid panels forming an upper control deck cantilever assembly, a lower control deck assembly, a plurality of pictorial displays depicting instrumentation affixed to the rigid panels, video player and monitor disposed within the boundaries of the panels, and audio/video storage medium such as a video cassette or DVD containing the instructions and selected scenes for viewing during instructions. The system may also include a central processing unit for administering and tracking instructions and a plurality of switches, levers and gauges that may be actuated to further simulate the feel of operating the aircraft or machinery, wherein the switches, levers and gauges may be electrically coupled to the CPU for monitoring.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for reproducing a recorded flight mission of an aircraft, in particular a helicopter, from an observer position by means of a flight simulation system. Flight data, which are recorded by a storage medium of a simulation computer and whose purpose is reproduction, can be retrieved by the flight simulation system. Furthermore, there is a device for carrying out the method. The object of the invention is to further improve, during reproduction of a recorded flight mission, the intuitive detectability of a deviation from a desired target flight path from an observer position by means of a flight simulation system for an aircraft.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for training pilots by simulating the operation of gauges in aircraft. The self-contained device can be installed into training aircraft to be used during instruction. Alternatively, the device can be used during classroom and ground school training. A switch box control panel simulates the controls and indicators of aircraft. A logic circuit and program simulate normal operations and common malfunctions of aircraft. During malfunctions the program and circuit will evaluate the pilot's corrective control input, continuing the malfunction if the pilot's response is incorrect. The device's ability to accept inputs and to emulate characteristics of specific aircraft increases the realism of the simulation and training.

Abstract: Interactive simulation including force feedback. The system includes a computer game display unit programmed with simulation rules. A control unit is connected to the computer and provides information and control signals to the computer to interact with the stored simulation rules and to receive information and control signals from the computer. A movable structure for movement in at least two degrees-of-freedom by an operator is interconnected to the control unit by actuators. A programmable unit processes signals and information from the computer to generate signals to drive the actuators so as to apply forces in the at least two degrees-of-freedom to the movable structure and thereby to the operator. The applied forces are based on internal programming within the programmable unit, events occurring in the simulation and movements of and forces applied to the movable structure by the operator.

Abstract: An electronic game includes a housing supporting a pair of handles and a pivotable turn table. A model bulldozer is supported upon the turntable while each handle supports a moveable squeeze activated control lever. A liquid crystal display is positioned upon the housing and includes a miniature bulldozer image element together with a scrolling background image set. A microprocessor control circuit within the game unit responds to the actuation of the control levers to scroll the image display appropriately. A mechanical linkage mechanism coupled to the turntable is operated by the control levers to appropriately pivot the turntable and model bulldozer thereon to further simulate steering of the bulldozer.

Abstract: A cockpit is supported by a motion base in a state of being capable of making swinging movement. A host computer calculate vehicle motion information in accordance with operation of various operation equipments performed by a driver accommodated in the cockpit. A simulation image is formed, the cockpit is controlled for swinging movement, and various meters or the like in the cockpit are controlled on the basis of an obtained result of the calculation. Thus, the drive simulation is carried out in a state approximate to that of a real vehicle.

Abstract: A cosimulation system formed from a hierarchy of simulation objects. Each simulation object, other than the root object, is coupled to a respective parent simulation object by a respective, individual parent-child binding. Each parent-child binding defines a source in the respective parent simulation object for each input signal associated with the respective child simulation object, and also specifies a destination in the parent simulation object for each output signal generated by the child simulation object. Synchronization of simulation objects is handled on an individual parent-child basis, rather than a global basis. Each of the simulation objects has an interface for communicating with its respective children and parent simulation objects. These interfaces all use the same predefined protocol, and send messages to each other via a common protocol communications medium.

Abstract: A six-degree-of-freedom travelling system, wherein a solid is driven by eight suspending lines in six degrees of freedom. The six-degree-of-freedom travelling system can be provided as a bodily sensing machine comprising a human-riding cage: eight suspending lines in connection with the cage; eight actuators hauling and veering the respective lines for vary the position and attitude of the cage, and a controller controlling the eight actuators for constantly holding the eight lines under proper tensions, wherein the cage is travelled in six degrees of freedom.

Abstract: A self contained electronic system for manual or automatic control and navigation of fixed winged aircraft using electronic position sensing such as GPS, DGPS, WAAS, and the like, as the primary sensor and making use of known flight characteristics of the aircraft to determine aircraft attitude without any interaction with the aircraft, its controls, or the outside environment and without any moving mechanical devices other than switches, dials and connectors. The automatic and visual interface between the system and the pilot provides for simplified flight controls, and a new solution to the hazard of disorientation, and will reduce the time needed for a pilot to become proficient in VFR and instrument flying. A single instrument replaces many of the conventional instruments used for flight. Navigation data is provided in an easy to understand graphical format. The pilot is told explicitly where to move aircraft controls.

Abstract: An interactive, vehicle simulator system receives input signals indicative of actions of a user who is located in a driver module. The simulator system also displays images and moves the driver module in accordance with the input signals. The simulator system comprises an input device for generating the input signals, an image generator, an image presentation apparatus, a motion base, a motion base controller and a game controller.

Abstract: An avionics simulator is provided in which an operational flight program processor is provided as a functional equivalent to a central processing unit of an avionics system of an aircraft being simulated. Accordingly, the Operational Flight Program may be run in the operational flight program processor in the same manner in which it would be run in the central processing unit of the avionics system of the aircraft itself. Accordingly, identity of operation is attained without the necessity of complex programming and/or interface generation. The remainder of the avionics simulation computer is software or firmware configured to replicate aircraft operation, responses, and data input.

Abstract: A method of technical education comprising an educational process of simulating behaviors of a flying object through a simulation program of flight functions based on basic equations of hydrodynamics, an educational process of designing the flying object and manufacturing the same, an educational process of confirming behaviors of the flying object through experimentation, and an educational process of optimizing the flying object to present targeted functions. Creative activities for obtaining an improved flying object can be performed during an educational process of experiencing effective and proper designing, manufacturing and test flying of a flying object as a teaching material. With this arrangement, the level of comprehension of hydrodynamics can be heightened from a level of passive comprehension to a level with which intellectual productive activities in the sense of creative activities can be achieved. A technical educational system and a flying object are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for a computer to perform a vehicle operation proficiency test and based upon the results, to transfer performance features upgrade data to a vehicle controller. The vehicle controller combines the functionality of an RC controller with that of a “joystick” within the same device by controlling an RC vehicle when used as an RC controller and controlling a computer virtual vehicle game when used as a “joystick.

Abstract: Full motion interactive simulator for use by two or more persons that can play a simulation game running on a display screen, where each player can alternate controlling the pitch and roll of a motion base platform supporting a vehicle on which the players sit. A joystick mounted in front of each player can be moved forward, backward, side-to-side, and in 360 degree circles to cause the platform to pitch and roll along any angle. The joystick can have separate buttons for firing weapons at targets on the display screen, controlling the position of images on the screen and answering questions by the system such as yes, and no to certain questions. Each player can have a set of foot pedals in front of their seats, where a left pedal can cause the screen image to rotate to the left, and the right pedal can cause the screen image to rotate to the right. The active player on the joystick controls both pedals at one time.

Abstract: A simulator system including a first agent, at least one second agent and a position server. The first agent represents a first simulated body and each of the second agents represent second simulated bodies. The first agent includes position and orientation information of the first simulated body and is adapted to update the position and orientation information of the first simulated body based on a first set of predetermined control routines and to produce a first output signal indicative thereof. Each of the second agents calculate and recalculate position and orientation information of a respective second simulated body and are adapted to update the position and orientation information of the respective second simulated body based on a predetermined set of control routines and to produce a second output signal indicative thereof.

Abstract: A method of optimizing train operation and training in a moving train includes determining the train's conditions and calculating a desired response to the present conditions of the train to achieve a goal. The engineer's response is determined and the train's conditions resulting from the engineer's response is determined and may be displayed on the train. The desired response, for example brake and propulsion settings, may be displayed after determining the engineer's response. The engineer is qualified from the comparison of the engineer's response to the desired response to the condition. Access to the locomotive controls may be controlled using a user identification and determining the qualification level of the user. The qualification level can be updated based on the training session.

Abstract: An intermodal transportation simulation system comprising a ground transportation simulation node, a rail transportation simulation node, a maritime transportation simulation node and an air transportation simulation node. Each of these simulation nodes are interactive, interconnected and designed to provide a manned multi-sensory, e.g. visual, auditory, olfactory and tactile simulation.

Abstract: A real-time IMU simulator for an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) of an installed avionics system of a vehicle includes a 6DOF flight simulator; an IMU computer; and a 6DOF(Degree of Freedom) interface. The 6 DOF interface is connected between the 6DOF flight simulator and the IMU computer for transferring flight trajectory data from the 6DOF flight simulator to the IMU computer. The IMU computer is adapted for receiving flight state data and calculating IMU simulation data and outputting the IMU simulation data to an IMU signal generation board. The IMU signal generation board is adapted for receiving the IMU simulation data and generating IMU signals and injecting the IMU signals to the installed avionics system.

Abstract: A motion simulator comprises a cabin (10) which is supported on the ground (14) by at least three feet (12). Each of the feet can swivel about an essentially horizontal axis, the cabin (10) having a swivel drive (26) for each foot. Each foot (12) bears a wheel (30) by which it rolls along the floor (14).

Abstract: A game display method displays a driving game which permits characters to be present in a city and can prevent cruel images of collisions with characters. Characters in a dangerous area are intentionally moved away from a motorbike B. Those H1, H2 of the characters behind the motorbike B as viewed in a moving direction of the motorbike B are intentionally moved away from a current position 01 of the motorbike B, a position of the center of the motorbike B. Those H3, H4, H5 of the characters in front of the motorbike B as viewed in the moving direction of the motorbike B are intentionally moved toward the back of the motorbike B, i.e., directions normal to a straight line interconnecting the position 01 of the center of the motorbike B and the characters H3, H4, H5. The characters H3, H4, who are forward left of the motorbike B, are moved left, and the character Hr, who is forward right, is moved right.

Abstract: A motion base device for simulators is disclosed. In the motion base device, an upper plate is positioned above a base plate with a simulating cabin being carried on the upper plate. Three cylinder actuators are positioned between the base and upper plates so as to heave, pitch and/or roll the upper plate relative to the base plate. Of the three cylinder actuators being respectively placed at apexes of a regular triangle, the first one is fixedly mounted to the base plate and is jointed to the upper plate using a universal joint. Each of the second and third cylinder actuators is jointed to the base and upper plates using a universal joint and a joint block. A hydraulic pressure supply unit supplies pressurized oil to the three cylinder actuators so as to allow the three cylinder actuators to be independently operated.