Flight Vehicle Patents (Class 434/30)
  • Publication number: 20090246741
    Abstract: A flight control structure for supporting various components of a flight simulator. The flight control structure includes a plurality of elongated members, the plurality of elongated members being adapted to receive a plurality of connectors for connecting the plurality of elongated members and for mounting a plurality of components of the flight simulator. One or more of the plurality of connectors are movable and/or removable so that the flight control structure assumes a first flight simulator configuration adapted to simulate a first aircraft or a second flight simulator configuration adapted to simulate a second aircraft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: MARK SOODEEN, Marc Goudreault
  • Patent number: 7577501
    Abstract: Methods and systems for automatically tracking information during flight are disclosed. A method in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes receiving first information corresponding to a proposed aspect of a flight of the aircraft and including at least one target value. The method can further include automatically receiving second information that includes an actual value corresponding to the at least one target value, as the aircraft executes the flight. The at least one target value and the actual value can be provided together in a common computer-based medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: William D. Tafs, John C. Griffin, III
  • Patent number: 7476154
    Abstract: A illumination device comprises a transparent member in which a lenticular lens of a cylindrical shape is disposed in a longitudinal direction; and light emitting members disposed in a vertical direction at prescribed intervals inside the transparent member; in which a visual illusion of existence of light emitting rings, respectively arrayed in a horizontal direction and respectively disposed in a vertical direction inside the transparent member, is created by light emitted from the various light emitting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Aruze Corp.
    Inventors: Junichi Kogo, Jun Hirato, Masato Ishikawa, Yasuaki Tanabe
  • Publication number: 20080286727
    Abstract: A computerized method and/or system for training over a network is provided, the method and/or system comprising: sending an item, over the network for evaluation related to a trainee; requiring an evaluator to evaluate the item in an evaluation, the evaluation including information on why the evaluation was given; receiving the evaluation over the network; generating a report comparing the evaluation to other evaluations performed by other evaluators, the report including the information on why each evaluation was given; determining needed change(s) based on the report; determining how to achieve the needed change; and providing materials over the network on how to achieve the needed change to the evaluator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: Lou Nemeth
  • Patent number: 7347779
    Abstract: A computer game controller (1) includes a tripod (12) from which a game player is suspended in a chair harness (52), or the like. A bearing (20) allows movement of the chair either back and forth and side to side, or rotationally about a vertical axis. Movement of the chair is monitored by a sleeved stem which moves in the same manner as a joystick plus rotational controller. Adjustable handlebars (24) including control means are fixed to the frame. A player supported by the chair or harness may move the chair or harness to control a car, plane, bike, avatar, or other sprite in the computer game. Other control functions are mounted on the handlebars and are operably by the player's hands. In use a player gasps the handlebars and controls the game's sprite by moving his or her body to move the sleeved stem's joystick type control. Thus the player is able to utilise their entire body to control action in the computer game, and exercise at the same time as playing the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Australian Simulation Control Systems Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert James-Herbert
  • Patent number: 7284984
    Abstract: An AutoTrim function automatically adjusts the trim of the elevator of a simulated aircraft to compensate for pitching moments that are not caused by a user affirmatively controlling the elevator. A flight simulator program determines a sum of the pitching moments acting on the simulated aircraft, excluding the user setting of the elevator. The sum of the longitudinal pitching moments is then set equal to zero to solve for a desired position for setting the AutoTrim control. A time lag is applied in setting the AutoTrim control to the desired position, to provide greater realism. Use of the AutoTrim control provides enhanced control authority to the user in controlling the longitudinal pitch of the aircraft. The AutoTrim control functionality is stopped as the angle of attack of the aircraft approaches a stall condition, but resumes when the plane is flying in a substantially safer flight condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Kyle Zyskowski
  • Publication number: 20070162192
    Abstract: A trainer system for radio-controlled vehicles in general, aircraft in particular, and more specifically for helicopters. A buddy-box slave unit utilizes a signal transmitted by a master unit to mimic the movements of the control inputs of the master unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Inventor: Vincent Russo
  • Patent number: 7236914
    Abstract: In a flight simulator program, a flight dynamics editing module enables the user to input parameters for modifying an existing aircraft design or creating an aircraft design. Starting with the type and purpose of aircraft, the user is able to specify parameters defining the configuration, and various other aspects of the aircraft, including the number and type of engines, properties of the flight controls, type of landing gear, etc. Once the user has input the parameters, an aerodynamic coefficients generator module included with the flight simulation program determines aerodynamic coefficients for the aircraft design, using classical formulas and determining the coefficients in an appropriate order. The aerodynamic coefficients and certain parameters input by the user are then output as two flight model data files, in a format usable by the flight simulator program, so that the user can evaluate the aircraft design by flying it within the simulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Michael K. Zyskowski
  • Patent number: 7228258
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a training system comprising at least one real asset having real asset data, a transceiver coupled to the real asset, at least one simulator adapted to simulate an asset; and a bridge coupled between the at least one simulator and the transceiver, whereby training can be carried out using both the at least one real asset and the simulated asset in concert. The bridge uses a piecewise polynomial interpolation algorithm to transform the real asset data into the proper format for use in the simulated environment. The present disclosure is also directed to the real asset-to-simulated environment bridge itself and a method of providing a bridge between at least one real asset and a simulated environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Donald B. Farr, Thomas G. King, Joel J. Maleport
  • Patent number: 7039571
    Abstract: A process that takes converted system software code as input to a program created with a commercial compiler to produce a simulated Operator System Interface. An Operator System Interface is produced using program data structures rather than extensive emulation or updating of program source code. These files can then be modified or updated and converted back to both drive the system software and the Software Specification. This eliminates extensive manpower intensive emulation, and significantly reduces update work on actual system source code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventors: Robert J. Munger, Nathaniel H. Jennings
  • Patent number: 7033177
    Abstract: A motion simulator includes a stationary frame, a movable frame pivotally connected with the stationary frame, an operating chamber formed at a lower side of one end of the movable frame, a first actuator for pivoting the movable frame, and a second actuator arranged between the operating chamber and the movable frame, for rotating the operating chamber in forward and backward directions with respect to the movable frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Eui-sok Kim
  • Patent number: 6902402
    Abstract: Flight simulator with the ability to subject a passenger in a passenger compartment to sudden and possibly substantial horizontal and vertical thrusts in addition to a full 360 degrees of motion along a pitch, roll and yaw axes is described. In some embodiments, sustained G forces are also possible by mounting the passenger compartment in a support arm which includes an additional boom around which the passenger compartment is rotated to provide sustained acceleration to passenger compartment occupants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: MaxFlight Corporation
    Inventor: Frank McClintic
  • Patent number: 6893262
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventor: Gregg Stockman
  • Patent number: 6851950
    Abstract: A control frame for accommodating various control devices in different aircraft cockpit and vehicle configurations used with computer flight simulation programs and diverse games. The control frame allows realistic placement of control devices, simulating different cockpit configurations consistent with actual aircraft types and vehicles. Ergonomic consideration in the design reduces fatigue. The modular properties enable a quick change of the configurations. Stable mounting of device controllers and to fix in place a common computer/office chair will optimize control performance. The light, sturdy and small apparatus enables ease of handling and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Inventor: Kurt Gamnig
  • Patent number: 6813595
    Abstract: A portable flight simulator is installed upon a conventional vehicle trailer for storage and transportation to various sites. The apparatus includes a folding video screen which when erected provides a relatively wide and long field of view for the operator of the simulator, rather than a relatively small and close video monitor display. The screen and video projector are immovably affixed to an operator cab or cockpit when the simulator apparatus is erected for operation, with cockpit movement and attached screen and projector being controlled by the operator in the cockpit. A conventional personal computer and flight simulator program provide the video signal for the projector, which projects the video program onto the screen. The operator reacts to the video program by using a control stick to control the orientation of the video program conventionally. Audio output may also be provided for realistic sound effects, or music for the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Allen G. Edgar
  • Patent number: 6790041
    Abstract: A method of training an aircraft pilot using a flight simulator having a controller that generates a plurality of simulated fault conditions and a fault analysis guide. The fault analysis guide includes a fault procedures section printed with a plurality of fault procedures each corresponding to a fault condition, and further includes a visual procedure locator section and a nonvisual procedure locator section. The visual procedure locator section includes printed indicator symbols that are arranged in the same general spatial orientation as the arrangement of a plurality of indicators a warning light panel. Each printed indicator symbol is graphically representative of a single indicator and has an associated locator symbol indicating the location of an appropriate fault procedure in the fault procedures section. The nonvisual procedure locator section includes a list of the physical error conditions not associated with the plurality of indicators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Fountain & Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip J. Fountain
  • Patent number: 6749431
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Control Products Corporation
    Inventors: Hoke Smith, James Johnson, Eric Dickey
  • Publication number: 20040029081
    Abstract: Airborne simulator for methodological rehearsing and training of the partial elements and combined activities in various versions of airborne landing. The airborne simulator comprises a basic structure (1) formed by a crane (4) with travel. Suspension modules (2) are attached to the carrying rope (5) of the crane (4). The basic structure (1) is located in the area containing terrain elements (3). The arm of the crane (4) is rotatable within 360° circle and thus allowing both the horizontal movement of the anchoring point of the carrying rope (5) along the arm and the vertical movement of the carrying rope (5) by means of a winch with an electric and manual control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Inventors: Vladimir Jaros, Ladislav Kubalek
  • Patent number: 6684182
    Abstract: A spacecraft emulation system that can emulate both the attitude control subsystem and the non-attitude control subsystem is integrated into a single compact unit. The unit includes an emulated spacecraft control processor for processing attitude control information and an emulated central command and telemetry unit for interfacing simulated spacecraft data. The inlet also includes a first simulation engine that is operative to simulate the spacecraft attitude control system and a second simulation engine that is operative to simulate the spacecraft power, thermal, propulsion and payload subsystems. Both the first and second simulation engines are connected to the emulated spacecraft control processor via a respective bus. A host computer provides the command data and receives the telemetry data from the emulated spacecraft control processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Hughes Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Gold, David L. Koza, Michael J. Surace, Steven R. Zammit
  • Patent number: 6638071
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Inventor: Gregg Stockman
  • Patent number: 6634885
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Fidelity Flight Simulation, Inc.
    Inventors: Graham L. Hodgetts, Gary L. Van Drie
  • Patent number: 6612840
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: L-3 Communications Corporation
    Inventor: James A. Turner
  • Patent number: 6592374
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventor: Eui-sok Kim
  • Patent number: 6572376
    Abstract: An avionics maintenance training device to train cognitive and psychomotor skills is disclosed. The training device is a physical mock-up of an actual aircraft's cabin assembly. The avionics maintenance training device includes actual avionics components and non-functional and functional physically replicated avionics components of the actual aircraft. The avionics maintenance training device further includes an instructor workstation, a simulator/stimulator, and an interactive electronic training manual. The training device runs the actual operational flight program of the aircraft. The replicated components are three-dimensional components with physical characteristics similar to the avionics components they replicate to teach component removal and replacement skills. The actual and replicated avionics components are located in the training device in positions similar to positions of the avionics components in the aircraft to replicate accessibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Craig D. Saunders
  • Patent number: 6499005
    Abstract: A system for enabling an operator to select a signal indicative of an air mode and a ground mode of an airplane is provided. The air mode is a state of the airplane when the airplane is in the air, and the ground mode is a state of the airplane when the airplane is on the ground. The system includes a plurality of sensors that sense parameters indicative of whether the airplane is sensed in the air or sensed on the ground. Sensed mode logic that determines whether the airplane is sensed in the air or sensed on the ground is provided, The sensed mode logic generates a signal indicative of a sensed ground mode when at leant two sensors indicate the airplane is sensed on the ground. The sensed mode logic generates a signal indicative of a sensed air mode when less than two sensors indicate the airplane is sensed on We ground. An operator interface is also provided. A simulated air mode and a simulated ground mode are selectable via the operator interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Denis P. Gunderson, Todd B. Brouwer, Launa B. Molsberry
  • Publication number: 20020187460
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Applicant: Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Jan Luttmann, Erwin Burlafinger
  • Patent number: 6478581
    Abstract: An external method for addressing the trainer-unique functions in a flight training system allows a Control Display Navigation Unit (CDNU), loaded with an actual Operational Flight Program (OFP), to function properly in a Flight Simulator environment of a trainer system without sacrificing the trainer-unique functions. A CDNU Trainer Interface Unit (CTIU) is defined to realize the external method. The CTIU is installed between the CDNU and the trainer system. The communication between the CDNU with an OFP and the trainer system is thus controlled by the CTIU. The trainer-unique functions are controlled externally by the CTIU, thus eliminating an OTP in the CDNU. The CTIU connects the CDNU and the trainer system. It communicates with both the trainer system and the CDNU/OFP using two sets of MIL-STD-1553B Buses. To the CDNU/OFP, it acts like the real navigation and communication systems. To the trainer system, it acts like a CDNU OTP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Assignee: American GNC Corporation
    Inventor: Ching-Fang Lin
  • Patent number: 6445960
    Abstract: A motion platform comprises a base, a top, a pair of positioning motor assemblies mounted to the base, and an arm assembly extending between each of the positioning motor assemblies and the top of the platform. Each of the arm assemblies is responsive to rotary motion of a respective one of the positioning motor assemblies and includes a rotating arm mounted at one end on the motor shaft and rotatable over a full 360-degree arc. Sensors detect the position of the arm assemblies and the speed and amount of rotation of the positioning motor assemblies. The motion platform further comprises a microcontroller, electrically connected to the positioning motor assemblies and responsive to input commands and to signals from the sensors, for controlling rotational speed, rotational direction and rotational extent of the positioning motor assemblies and thus angular displacement of the top of the motion platform relative the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Ronbotics Corporation
    Inventor: Ronald T. Borta
  • Patent number: 6443733
    Abstract: Enhanced realism of a real-time simulator having multiple computer-controlled units results from making the units capable of reacting to only those other units that each of them can be aware of because of their spatial relationships to the unit. Awareness is based upon probabilities; it can persist after a relationship changes; and it can be influenced by a unit's designation of a target. Each unit selects a target based upon a score incorporating multiple aspects of its tactical situation, and can change targets when the situation changes. A unit selects a strategy in response to which of a set of tactical configurations exist between the unit and its target; the strategy can change short of completion when the configuration changes. A plan produces guidance commands from the high-level strategy. The guidance commands are converted into control settings for guiding the subject unit using a physics engine for simulating the physical dynamics of the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Jeremy D. Stone
  • Publication number: 20020115043
    Abstract: A reliable, cost effective motion simulator system wherein a motion platform controlled by three inexpensive fractional horsepower induction AC motors to provide n-axis of motion where n is two, three, four, five or six. A dynamic boost is applied to maintain the position of the motion platform at low speed or zero speed and to handle transient motion demands without use of an encoder. The personal simulator motion base includes a support structure for positioning a rider coupled to the motion platform. A support pedestal and a plurality of linkages support the motion platform. A plurality of motor assemblies 114 is coupled to the motion plate by the linkages. A control algorithm enables the use of low cost power electronics to drive the AC motor-linkage assemblies. The personal simulator may be controlled in response to user-initiated commands, remote-user initiated commands or by commands embedded in game software or the audio track of a video stream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Applicant: Provision Entertainment, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward-Bruce Baker, Michael K. Forster, Jeffrey L. Vrachan, Curtis L. Thornton
  • Patent number: 6425762
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Wind River Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Johannes Ernst
  • Patent number: 6406299
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Taiyo Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshio Murao, Kenji Koubuchi, Satoshi Tadokoro
  • Patent number: 6331114
    Abstract: An apparatus for operating a remote controlled airplane including a frame, a remote control unit received within the frame and having first and second joystick elements, a joystick controller cantably mounted to the frame so as to have a forward/backward movement and a side-to-side movement, a first linkage connected to the joystick controller and to the first joystick element and adapted to cause an up-and-down movement of tie first joystick element relative to the forward/backward movement of the joystick controller, and a second linkage connected to the joystick controller and to the first joystick element. The second linkage is adapted to cause a side-to-side movement of the first joystick element relative to the side-to-side movement of the joystick controller. A pedal structure is pivotally mounted to the frame so as to be pivotable about a central axis. A third linkage connects the pedal structure to the second joystick element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Inventor: Fred Massey
  • Patent number: 6319008
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Lockheed-Martin Tactical Defense Systems
    Inventors: Carl T. Mickelson, Scott B. Powell, Chris G. Horattas
  • Patent number: 6298318
    Abstract: A real-time IMU emulation method for GNC method includes the step of receiving real-time flight data from a 6DOF flight simulator and generating simulated IMU electronic signals according to the IMU measurement modules and error modules defined by the user, and injecting said simulated IMU electronic signals into an on-board GNC system which causes the on-board GNC system into “thinking” that the vehicle is really moving. The on-board GNC system which is installed on the vehicle is motionless during the emulation test, so that the testing can be carried out in a laboratory or in an anechoic chamber facility and the IMU emulation can achieve the easy, effective, and least intrusive injection of emulated IMU signals into the INS computer. The present invention has features supporting the final integration of a developmental Guidance, Navigation, or Control (GNC) system installed into a vehicle. It assures testers that GNC avionics on-board vehicle work properly before and during a flight test.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Ching-Fang Lin
  • Patent number: 6261100
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Dowling College
    Inventor: Clifford R. Bragdon
  • Patent number: 6234799
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: American GNC Corporation
    Inventor: Ching-Fang Lin
  • Patent number: 6196919
    Abstract: A CPU of a control system controls a signal processor to effect various calculations to move a player's spaceship on a projection display screen, orient the player's spaceship toward a shooting direction, move a camera position at a rear viewpoint toward the player's spaceship, and orient the shooting direction outside of the projection display screen, based on shooting game data including image data, audio data, and program data stored in recording medium. The CPU also controls an image processor to write image data and audio data into a RAM based on the calculated results from the signal processor. The image data thus written in the RAM is displayed on a television monitor and projected onto the projection display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Okubo
  • Patent number: 6179618
    Abstract: Enhanced realism of a real-time simulator having multiple computer-controlled units results from making the units capable of reacting to only those other units that each of them can be aware of because of their spatial relationships to the unit. Awareness is based upon probabilities; it can persist after a relationship changes; and it can be influenced by a unit's designation of a target. Each unit selects a target based upon a score incorporating multiple aspects of its tactical situation, and can change targets when the situation changes. A unit selects a strategy in response to which of a set of tactical configurations exist between the unit and its target; the strategy can change short of completion when the configuration changes. A plan produces guidance commands from the high-level strategy. The guidance commands are converted into control settings for guiding the subject unit using a physics engine for simulating the physical dynamics of the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Jeremy D. Stone
  • Patent number: 6149435
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a system which is portable and attache the body of a trainee so that the trainee can practice navigating of a model airplane at an arbitrary location, contrary to the system of a large-sized airplane. According to an object of the present invention there is provided a trainee navigates a model airplane virtually by simulating a model airplane using a computer by combining the three-dimensional virtual image of a model airplane and the actual image of the training site by a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Chan Jong Park, Jin Sung Choi, Man Kyu Sung, Ji Hyung Lee, Sang Won Kim, Dong Hyun Kim, Jung Kak Kim, Chan Su Lee
  • Patent number: 6106298
    Abstract: A modular, reconfigurable and easily deployable simulator system includes a plurality of vehicle personality kits and at least one frame to support a single crewstation. Members of a selected kit are coupled to the frame. A multi-platform control system provides on-the-window and in vehicle instrument displays in real-time in response to the crewperson manipulating platform controls. An editor with a graphical user interface provides a capability to modify program segments of the control system thereby altering the behavior of the simulated platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Eytan Pollak
  • Patent number: 6079982
    Abstract: A new interactive simulator ride for providing an entertaining interactive visual, audio, and motion simulation. The inventive device includes a guidance track comprised of a plurality of laterally spaced guidance rails, a simulator vehicle housing having an interior and having lateral side walls having a plurality of support wheels mounted thereon for supporting the simulator vehicle housing on the spaced guidance rails. A seat for seating by a person is provided within the interior of the simulator vehicle housing. A viewing screen is provided within the simulator vehicle housing interior for providing a computer generated visual image for viewing by a person located in the simulator housing. The invention also includes a projection means for projecting a computer generated visual image on the viewing screen, a means for providing computer generated visual images to the projection means, and a user input device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Gregory M Meader
  • Patent number: 6077077
    Abstract: A system for flight training and simulation that reduces the time spent by a student or pilot inside the simulation cockpit in programming navigation systems. The system comprises a simulation workstation that interfaces with one or more automated navigational devices inside the cockpit. From the workstation the student enters and stores a flight plan and other flight conditions which are communicated to the automated navigational devices during training. A frame relay device redirects data flow inside the cockpit from the onboard aircraft communications and reporting system to the simulation workstation. The simulation workstation contains a flight data interface board that is configured to communicate with the automated navigational devices. The board contains a transmitter/receiver chip set that supports known avionics communications protocols for data transfers with the automated navigational devices inside the cockpit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: American Airlines
    Inventor: Myron H. Geipe
  • Patent number: 6059574
    Abstract: A trainer for teaching the operation of aircraft fuel systems comprised of a fuselage frame portion and fuel tanks mounted to a platform. The trainer utilizes a fuel look-alike with a viscosity below 2.8 cs and a flashpoint above 200.degree. F.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Charles J. Wharton, Jeffrey E. Hunt
  • Patent number: 6053737
    Abstract: A method for tutoring a trainee in a simulator comprises the steps of defining an expert system simulating an activity, and using the expert system to provide instructional feedback to the trainee. The step of defining an expert system comprises constructing a decision support system so as to define a human factors engineering module, programming a plurality of training scenarios, and establishing automated performance measures. The method for tutoring of the present invention eliminates the need to have an expert trainer available and the consequent expense associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Bettina A. Babbitt, Helen Barbara Sorensen, Herbert Harrington Bell, Douglas Shields Elder, Peter Marston Crane
  • Patent number: 6050823
    Abstract: A control system for a motion simulator and the associated method of operating the motion simulator. The control system contains a memory. Within the memory is a plurality of pre-programmed maneuvers that are capable of being simulated by the motion simulator. An interface is provided that enables a person to select some of the pre-programmed maneuvers from the memory in a desired sequence, prior to that person entering the motion simulator. Once a certain sequence of maneuvers is selected, the motion simulator simulates those maneuvers in the chosen sequence. This enables each rider of the motion simulator to design his/her own simulation each time that person uses the motion simulator. The control system also enables a rider to program the motion simulator at the sight of the motion simulator or at home, via a personal computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: Frank McClintic
  • Patent number: 6000942
    Abstract: The experience of parachute flight is simulated including parachute release and malfunctions. The parachutist trainee is suspended in a harness and a control line provided for the parachutist to operate. The parachutist's actions are sensed by an action sensor actuated by the control line. Force and position sensors sense position and force factors effected by the parachutist. The parachutist's head motion can be tracked by a head mounted sensor. The outputs of the sensors are converted to digital signals which are fed to a computer. The computer is programmed with a mathematical and logical model of parachute dynamics and environmental factors. The computational results are displayed to the parachutist on a monitor or on a head mounted display, the scene viewed containing a variety of three dimensional representations of objects on the ground such as buildings vegetation roads, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Systems Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Hogue, Fritz G. Anderson, Randal Danta, Cecy A. Pelz, Frank C. Debiasio
  • Patent number: 5980255
    Abstract: A new motion cueing scheme has been found and adapted to an actual aircraft production seat to provide both transient and sustained heave acceleration cues. The mechanism is simple and compact enough to be easily implemented on G-seats. Changes in seat pan pitch angle synchronized with seat back vertical displacement result in a cue which feels realistic and reproduces consistently a number of the physiological and physical effects experienced by the pilot submitted to a real heave acceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Cae Electronics Ltd.
    Inventors: Louis-Joseph Mathieu, Pascal Le-Huu
  • Patent number: 5947824
    Abstract: A flight simulation game apparatus allows a game player to simulate hang glider maneuvers through physical sensations. A control lever which can be gripped by the hands of the game player is mounted on a framework and extends in transverse directions of the frame work. The control lever can be moved in longitudinal directions of the framework by a control lever moving mechanism mounted on the framework. While in simulated flight, the game player can view at least a front simulated scene image is displayed by a display monitor. A control system vertically scrolls the front simulated scene image displayed by the display monitor in response to movement of the control lever in the longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kojiro Minami, Katsunori Okita
  • Patent number: 5947740
    Abstract: A simulator includes a base plate, a platform, a plurality of actuators, each of the actuators having a hydraulic cylinder, a sensor, a servo valve and a pair of universal joints, and a weight supporting actuator including a pressure sensor and designed to support a specific weight of the platform and the substance thereon. The sensors and the pressure sensor sense the variation of length and weight imposed on each of the hydraulic cylinders, respectively. The servo valve selectively passes a high pressure fluid to an upper and a lower portions of the cylinder and the pair of universal joints have a three degrees of freedom to allow the platform to have six degrees of freedom. A controller controls the servo valve of both actuators to vary the length of each of the hydraulic cylinders thereof, thereby lessening the load imposed on the actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Daewoo Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeoung-Tae Kim