Abstract: A chair device, a mattress device, and a propping device are provided. The chair device includes a support stand, a seat module disposed above the support stand, a connection module disposed at one side of the seat module, a back support module connected to the connection module and disposed at one side of the seat module, a first pressure adjustment module disposed in the seat module, a second pressure adjustment module disposed in the back support module, a first pressure sensing module disposed in the seat module, a second pressure sensing module disposed in the back support module, and a control module. The control module adjusts the first pressure adjustment module according to first sensed pressure signals from the first pressure sensing module, and adjusts the second pressure adjustment module according to second sensed pressure signals from the second pressure sensing module.

Abstract: A theatre construction comprises a seating area (120) for an audience, a circular support structure (134) surrounding the seating area and mounted above the seating area and a plurality of arcuate screens (135) suspended from the circular support structure. The screens (135) are mounted to the circular support structure (134) on rails for allowing movement of the screens about the seating area.

Abstract: Embodiments herein describe a headset that simulates accelerations that correspond to a visual presentation being viewed by the user. The headset includes a force system that applies a force on the head of the user to simulate an acceleration being viewed by the user. The force system may include an actuator that moves a weight to different locations on or around the headset. By moving the weight to different locations, the weight can apply a force that simulates acceleration. For example, the headset can move the weight to apply a force that lifts the head of the user up, which is similar to a force that would be applied if the user was physically accelerated forward. By moving the weight, the force system can simulate accelerations in any number of directions—e.g., front, back, left, right, etc.

Abstract: An aircraft passenger seat that includes a seat frame including a seat back and at least one armrest, a seat bottom that includes a seat pan and a foam seat cushion positioned on the seat bottom above the seat pan, a pneumatic cushion positioned on the seat bottom between the seat pan and the foam seat cushion and adapted to maintain a predetermined level of inflation determined by air pressure within the pneumatic cushion, and a pneumatic inflation device communicating with the pneumatic cushion for permitting the air pressure within the pneumatic cushion to be varied as desired to provide additional comfort to the seat occupant. The pneumatic cushion may include at least first and second laterally-separated cushion chambers providing lateral articulation of the first and second cushion chambers relative to each other.

Abstract: First and second pads are configured to be arranged at a front of a vehicle seat. First and second passive movement devices are provided to be respectively arranged under, and to cause movement of, the first and second pads. The first and second passive movement devices are configured to be actuated independently of one another.

Abstract: A plurality of pads are configured to be arranged in a vehicle seat. A plurality of passive movement devices are provided to be respectively arranged behind, and to cause movement of, the plurality of pads. The passive movement devices are configured to be actuated independently of one another.

Abstract: A display assembly, comprising: a display device (30); a microlens array (34); and an eye tracker (8), for example a pupil tracker (8), and/or a head tracker; wherein plural pixels (150) or sub-pixels of the display device (30) are provided for each microlens (160) of the microlens array (34). The display may be adapted such that only certain pixels/sub-pixels (150) are activated/selected for any particular determined pupil/eye/head position, for example such that for each microlens (160), only one respective pixel/sub-pixel (150) is activated/selected for any particular determined pupil/eye/head position. The display device (30) may be a transparent display device (30), the microlens array (34) may be a switchable microlens array (34), and the display assembly may further comprise a light blocking device (32) that is switchable between a substantially light blocking state and a substantially light passing state.

Abstract: A system and method for minimizing or eliminating Coriolis-tumbling sensations on a trainee in a centrifuge-based simulator is described. In one example methodology, a simulator transitions its rate of rotation to replicate flight conditions in which G-forces are unloaded on a trainee from a first-G-force value to a nominal-G-force value. Before reaching the nominal-G-force value, an intermediate-G-force value—which is more than the nominal-G-force value, but less than the first-G-force value—is imparted and maintained on the trainee for a suitable duration of time. This intermediate-G-force value may be determined based on several factors including: (i) the angle of rotation of a gondola at during the first-G-force value, and/or (ii) the first-G-force value. After the intermediate-G-force value is imparted and maintained for a suitable duration of time, the G-forces imparted on the trainee may be further unloaded till the nominal-G force value is reached.

Abstract: A motion and vibration cuing system for use with a motion simulator provides vibratory, impulse, onset and sustained motion cuing, independently or simultaneously, by operation of a frame assembly capable of producing vibration and six degrees-of-freedom of motion in coordination with one or more motion seats, mounted to the frame assembly, which produce surge, sway, heave and roll motions.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for training a subject to recognise the onset of hypoxia, the system including (i) a flight simulation system, and (ii) a hypoxia induction system, wherein the flight simulation system is operably linked to the hypoxia induction system. The system provides a tool for pilot training to a pilot, allowing for the delivery of standardised training programs where the tasks required for the operation of an aircraft are able to be coordinated with an induction of hypoxia in the subject. Such a system is also able to provide an assessment tool to demonstrate when a pilot has had sufficient training in recognising the effects of hypoxia.

Abstract: A process for providing upset recovery training (URT) includes using a sustained-G multi-axis platform (e.g., a centrifuge-based simulator). Various embodiments of the present invention address an important aspect of URT that is not present in the prior art, namely the placing of physiological stresses on the trainees during URT, such as sustained motions including, but not limited to, sustained, elevated G-forces and continuous rotational cues. Elevated, sustained, G-forces and continuous rotational cues can create many physiological challenges to aircrew. These challenges can include motion discomfort, disorientation, and visual disturbances. Embodiments of the present invention provide URT that includes physiological stresses on the pilot. If a pilot learns the correct procedures for recovery from an upset, as in the prior art URT programs, but cannot execute the procedures in the real world because he or she has not been prepared for the physiological environment to be faced, then safety is compromised.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention comprise a dynamic motion seat with at least five directions of motion for vehicle simulation.

Abstract: A system and method for minimizing or eliminating Coriolis-tumbling sensations on a trainee in a centrifuge-based simulator is described. In one example methodology, a simulator transitions its rate of rotation to replicate flight conditions in which G-forces are unloaded on a trainee from a first-G-force value to a nominal-G-force value. Before reaching the nominal-G-force value, an intermediate-G-force value—which is more than the nominal-G-force value, but less than the first-G-force value—is imparted and maintained on the trainee for a suitable duration of time. This intermediate-G-force value may be determined based on several factors including: (i) the angle of rotation of a gondola at during the first-G-force value, and/or (ii) the first-G-force value. After the intermediate-G-force value is imparted and maintained for a suitable duration of time, the G-forces imparted on the trainee may be further unloaded till the nominal-G force value is reached.

Abstract: A free fall simulator includes a self-contained air circuit and a hover chamber in which persons can hover as a result of an air stream directed vertically upward. A lower opening is located at a lower end of the hover chamber and an upper opening is located at an upper end of the hover chamber. A substantially closed air guide channel includes at least one fan. The channel connects the lower opening and the upper opening of the hover chamber. At least one air inlet opening and at least one air outlet opening allow for exchanging air within the air guide channel. The simulator includes redirecting lamellae which redirect an air stream within the air guide channel in corner areas or areas of high curvature, wherein at least one air outlet opening is disposed within the redirecting lamellae.

Abstract: The invention relates to a teleoperation method and a human robot interface for remote control of a machine by a human operator (5) using a remote control unit, particularly for remote control of a drone, wherein a vestibular feedback is provided to the operator (5) to enhance the situational awareness of the operator (5), wherein the vestibular feedback represents a real motion of the remote-controlled machine.

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 housing and an output shaft interrelated by a degree of freedom. Each of the actuators has a motor connected to the seating portion for displacing the housing with respect to the output shaft along the degree of freedom as a function of actuation from the actuators in relation to the motion signals. The housing of each of the actuators is secured to the seating portion. The output shaft 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: Some implementations include a method for operating a centrifuge-based-flight simulator in at least one of several different modes: a heightened G-force mode, a normal G-force mode; and transition modes (i.e., ramp-up or ramp-down modes) between the heightened G-force and normal G-force modes. During the normal-G-force mode the simulator ceases planetary motion altogether or substantially decreases rotations to replicate a plurality of flight conditions that physically imparts, on the trainee during operation of the simulator, a G-force that is not greater than approximately one (1) G. The reduction of planetary motion while maintaining realistic motion and force sensations that are appropriate for the virtual-flight conditions being experienced allows realistic flight simulation experience for the trainee and reduces the negative effects of constant planetary motion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method to control the movements of a flight simulator involving linear and angular accelerations perceived at a pilot's seat and involving mathematical transformations of a lateral position y and a roll angle ? for said accelerations, wherein mathematical transformations are used with at least one of the following corrections: —Feed-forward of a specific force error due to the y-position wash-out into a roll angle transformation function; —Decomposition of specific force at pilot's position and addition of complementary filters to reproduce suitable side forces in the pilot's seat due to lateral accelerations; —Mathematical transformations linking a pilot's position in an aircraft and flight simulator to a motion base centroid.

Abstract: A tinted mirror which has been treated to reflect a modified image of skin is used to allow a subject to consider a potential change of the appearance of his/her skin, which would follow from the application of a cosmetic product such as self-tanning product. The mirror may be tinted with a brown hue so as to reflect an image that corresponds to the change of coloration of skin after the application of a self-tanning product. The invention may be used in beauty parlor or supermarket aisle to help a subject visualize the potential effect of a self-tanning product on his/her skin.

Abstract: A process for providing upset recovery training (URT) includes using a sustained-G multi-axis platform (e.g., a centrifuge-based simulator). Various embodiments of the present invention address an important aspect of URT that is not present in the prior art, namely the placing of physiological stresses on the trainees during URT, such as sustained motions including, but not limited to, sustained, elevated G-forces and continuous rotational cues. Elevated, sustained, G-forces and continuous rotational cues can create many physiological challenges to aircrew. These challenges can include motion discomfort, disorientation, and visual disturbances. Embodiments of the present invention provide URT that includes physiological stresses on the pilot. If a pilot learns the correct procedures for recovery from an upset, as in the prior art URT programs, but cannot execute the procedures in the real world because he or she has not been prepared for the physiological environment to be faced, then safety is compromised.

Abstract: A wind tunnel is provided usable for training of sportsmen-parachutists and entertainment purposes. The tunnel comprises a channel, including sequentially arranged and interconnected components: an input confusor, a first working zone, an intermediate confusor, and a second working zone. The working zones are shaped as diffusers, having different longitudinal flow speed gradients, so that the working zone having the lesser longitudinal speed gradient is shorter, whereas the working zone having the greater longitudinal speed gradient is longer. A honeycomb is arranged between the working zones. The entrances and exits of the working zones are equipped with safety nets. The structural design of the tunnel makes it possible to simultaneously train parachutists for team acrobatics and artistic types of parachuting under conditions, maximally adapted to a given type of training, thereby improving a training quality and substantially increasing the tunnel's cost effectiveness.

Abstract: A flight motion simulator includes a pitch frame pivotably mounted, and nested for pitching in a roll frame. The roll frame is pivotally mounted to, and nested for rolling in, a base frame. The roll frame and pitch frame are rotatable in unison so as to simulate a roll of an aircraft relative to the base frame. The pitch frame is rotatable relative to the roll frame so as to simulate a pitch of the aircraft relative to the roll frame. A control stick is pivotably mounted to the base frame and pitch frame for controlling and actuating the pitch and roll. A first coupler having at least two degrees of freedom is rotatably mounted to the lower end of the control stick and to the pitch frame. A second coupler also having at least two degrees of freedom is rotatably mounted to the control stick at a lower mid-section thereof to an upper end of a post mounted to the base frame.

Abstract: The invention concerns a free fall simulator, characterized in that it comprises: a lower compression chamber (22) proximate the lower periphery wherefrom emerge the outputs of a plurality of ventilators (24) arranged in centripetal configuration, and the tapered upper part of which is arranged a compression grid (30), a cylindroid chamber (36) defining a displacement space, which is located just above the compression chamber (22), and which is designed to be traversed by a homogeneous rising air stream having a gradient of constantly decreasing upward speeds.

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.

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: 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 test chamber is pivotably suspended in an aircraft, so that the center of gravity of the test chamber always self-actingly orients itself in the direction of the effective residual acceleration. To simulate a selected acceleration greater than 0 g and less than 1 g, the aircraft is flown along a parabolic flight path with a downward vertical acceleration such that the difference between Earth's gravitational acceleration and the aircraft's acceleration corresponds to the selected acceleration to be simulated. To simulate gravitational conditions on Mars, the aircraft is flown with a downward vertical acceleration of about ⅔ g, so that the residual acceleration acting on the test chamber is about ⅓ g. The atmospheric conditions, such as the gas composition, pressure and temperature, of Mars can also be established in the test chamber.

Abstract: A rotary-type exercise device in which the user jogs, runs, or walks within a cylindrical treadwheel. A safety harness attached to a horizontal stationary beam within the treadwheel above the user prevents the user from falling. A remote control baton controls a braking system for braking and selectively varying the rolling resistance of the treadwheel. Another embodiment provides a harness tied to the hull of a space station to simulate gravity when the exercise device is used in an outer-space, gravity-free environment. Additional embodiments include safety rails. Another embodiment forms the treadwheel in two mating semi-cylindrical sections for facilitating transportation and shipping of the treadwheel. An electronic console continuously apprises the user of his horizontal velocity, time, distance and load factor.

Abstract: A system for immersing a user in virtual reality comprises a closed sphere-shaped capsule defining a real environment, the capsule being installed on supports so that to rotate around its center and having at least one hatch equipped with a door to let the user in and out. The system includes virtual environment generating means and means for displaying the virtual environment to the user, connected to the virtual environment generating means. The system further comprises a unit for changing the virtual environment responsive to actual physical movements made by the user inside the capsule, and means for determining an amount and direction of user's movement relative to the capsule, connected to the virtual environment changing unit. The capsule rests on at least three wheel supports having pivot shafts directed toward the sphere center and offset relative to a rotational axis of the wheel.

Abstract: A centripetal acceleration movement apparatus includes a base support having a rotatable portion rotatably disposed about a first axis. A plurality of carrying pods are attached to the rotatable portion of the base support and are positioned remotely with respect to the first axis for carrying at least one passenger. A rotating device is provided for rotating the rotatable portion of the base support about the first axis and thereby causing the attached carrying pod to (i) orbit the first axis along an orbital movement path and (ii) apply a centripetal force to the at least one passenger. A motion picture device is provided for producing a motion picture display confined to orbital movement with the carrying pods in a manner sufficient to enable the motion picture display to be viewed by a seeing passenger being carried by the carrying pods.

Abstract: A virtual reality system provides effective exposure treatment for psychiatric patients suffering from a particular anxiety disorder. The system is characterized by a video screen disposed in front of the patient to display an image of a specific graphical environment that is intended to trigger anxiety within the patient as a result of the particular patient phobia. A headset is worn by the patient, and has sensors disposed to detect movement and positioning of the patient's head. A computer program controls the operation of the system, and is designed to control the display of the graphical environment on the video screen, monitor the headset sensors and determine the position of the patient's head, and controllably manipulate the graphical environment displayed on the video screen to reflect the movement and position of the patient's head.

Abstract: A virtual reality system provides effective exposure treatment for psychiatric patients suffering from a particular anxiety disorder. The system is characterized by a video screen disposed in front of the patient to display an image of a specific graphical environment that is intended to trigger anxiety within the patient as a result of the particular patient phobia. A headset is worn by the patient, and has sensors disposed to detect movement and positioning of the patient's head. A computer program controls the operation of the system, and is designed to control the display of the graphical environment on the video screen, monitor the headset sensors and determine the position of the patient's head, and controllably manipulate the graphical environment displayed on the video screen to reflect the movement and position of the patient's head.

Abstract: A realistic motion ride simulator comprising three stacked tiers pivotally supported by three legs. Each tier can be activated independent of each other while the entire apparatus is moved up and down, tilted laterally, pitched upwardly and downwardly and combinations thereof to simulate the various dynamic forces experienced by riders of a moving vehicle.

Abstract: A spatial disorientation detector system capable of warning a pilot of potentially disorienting flight conditions in response to Kalman filter modeling of human response characteristics. The Kalman filter models are representative of human semicircular canal and otolith responses and are capable of more accurate prediction of actual pilot disorientation conditions than are systems which respond with simple magnitude measurement of disorientation stress. Examples of disorienting environments are also disclosed.

Abstract: An enclosure having a horizon line, a scene, and lights is moved relative to a pilot to simulate vertigo during on-ground training of the pilot to overcome in-flight vertigo. Gravitational vertigo is simulated by a seat cushion inflatable to change the seated orientation of the pilot.

Abstract: A control mechanism for a simulator or stabilized platform comprising constant force spring device for supporting the weight of the platform and a plurality of impulsive force generating devices preferably in the form of electromagnetic linear rams although a rotary linkage driven by an electric motor would also work. The mechanism provides an agile arrangement at relatively low cost.

Abstract: A ride motion simulator comprising a first lower tier carried on at least three retractable and extensible legs secured to a base platform, the lower tier having support arms at edges thereof extending upwardly and outwardly a length approximately equal to the length which said legs may be extended. The upper ends of the arms are pivotally attached to upper ends of the legs. A middle tier is carried on the first tier and mounted thereto in a manner to allow forward and backward longitudinal motion of said second tier with respect to the first tier by a ram mounted at the rear of the first tier, and pivotally connected to the second tier. The second tier includes a plurality of seat supports. The seat supports have a rail running laterally on the tops. The tops also having an actuator mounted thereon with extensible and retractable rams secured to the seats mounted on the base and capable of moving the seats left and right laterally.

Abstract: An anti-G suit simulation system and especially pertains to an arrangement or system for simulating realistic acceleration conditions which are normally encountered during strenuous maneuvers carried out by pilots operating high-performance aircraft, such as jet fighter aircraft. More particularly, there is disclosed an anti-G simulation system wherein aircraft simulator pilots are exposed to physical conditions which rapidly and faithfully simulate and compensate for changes in high-intensity accelerations and gravitational effects or so-called G-conditions which are ordinarily encountered by the pilots of high-performance aircraft during the execution of aircraft maneuvers.

Abstract: An amusement machine including a display for displaying a picture, motion providing elements for providing a user with motion, a recording medium on which a video signal representing the picture to be displayed on the display and a control signal for controlling the motion providing elements are recorded, and a controller for reproducing the recording medium to control the display and the motion providing elements. The display and the motion providing elements are installed into an amusement unit while the controller for controlling these units is installed in a control center which is located separately from the amusement unit.

Abstract: A motion simulator uses an existing personal computer and off the shelf software to physically simulate and control the motions of a computer generated vehicle. The motion simulator is manually powered by the user and includes a control stick connected to an input to the computer whereby movement of the control stick is translated into movement of the computer generated vehicle. A rigid control arm connects the control stick to a base unit and to a cockpit frame to move the cockpit frame relative to the base unit as the control stick is moved. The control stick also contains buttons which provide additional inputs to the computer generated vehicle. Foot operated pedals are also connected to the computer program and to the cockpit to move the cockpit in conjunction with movement of a computer generated vehicle. A throttle lever unit is also connected to the computer to control the computer generated vehicle.

Abstract: An electronic control loading system to create tactile control feel for vehicles and vehicle simulators (especially aircraft) to provide a realistic reaction force by coupling a linear electro-magnetic actuator to a control element for real-time feedback from a preprogrammed computer controller. In an aircraft simulation system, a loadcell and position transducer are associated with the flight control element for measuring applied force and determination of flight control element position. The position transducer is integrated with an actuator, the actuator being capable of setting forth a drive force that reacts to the force and position data as manipulated by a preprogrammed computer based upon an aircraft data package used to construct real-time software models and a digital signal processor or the like high speed microprocessor used to manipulate flight control algorithms.

Abstract: A process for controlling a gimballed motion base system substantially duplicating operator perceptions in a simulated vehicle. Such vehicles may include but not be limited to, aircraft, automobiles, boats, roller coasters, bob sleds, and futuristic space vehicles. The process includes: a subprocess accounting for an effect of yaw on a motion base arm, a full-G bias function and a limited-G bias function, a low-G bias function, improved computation of pitch and roll gimbal commands to negate artifacts, a negative-G process, allowing various yaw gimbal positions, allowing various cockpit orientations, and a yaw gimbal control process.A perceptual model based on empirically observed human response data predicts perceived pitch, roll, and yaw, and accounts for the fact that a Gy component of linear acceleration affects both roll and yaw perception.

Abstract: A facility for conditioning people for transition between different gravitational environments. The facility comprises a static cylindrical vessel and a revolving cylindrical habitat within the vessel. Within the revolving habitat are supported a number of habitation levels formed or derived from concave-up circular paraboloids, each shaped and sized so as to produce local net acceleration vectors orthogonal to its upper surface. On any one such surface, the local net acceleration magnitudes within a certain band of radii from the axis of revolution of the habitat will approximate that of the native acceleration present in a particular environment, such as Mars or the Earth. Living areas may be constructed on these surfaces, particularly within the target zones. Access to the habitation levels is provided by a central elevator shaft and system. The habitat is supported hydraulically and caused to revolve by hydromechanical swirling applied at its bottom surface.

Abstract: A method, and apparatus, for rotating immobilized subhuman primate animal test subjects about one or more axes according to a preselected sequence to simulate weightlessness and to minimize trauma during simulated zero or micro-gravity studies is disclosed. The method includes intermittent rotation of the test subject ninety degrees every thirty minutes about an axis parallel to both the spine of the test animal and to the ground, and intermittent rotation of the test subject forty-five degrees every three to five minutes about each of two axes. The method is performed using a timed roto-positioning apparatus having a frame, a subframe rotatably attached to the frame, and a carrier for a primate restraint system rotatably attached to the subframe. Two motors, controlled by a programmable controller, individually rotate the subframe and the carrier according to a preselected sequence.

Abstract: An aircraft simulator including means for determining the g-force acting on the simulated aircraft in response to the operator's controls and means for applying to a helmet (3) worn by the operator a vertical force dependent on said g-force. The means for applying a vertical force to the helmet may comprise a pneumatic piston/cylinder arrangement (14, 15, 16) responsive both to a g-demand signal determined by the position of the controls and to means (22) for monitoring the force exerted on the helmet.The piston (15) conveniently acts across adjacent sides (8, 9) of a parallelogram linkage (6, 7, 8, 9) interconnecting a mounting (4, 5) for the helmet and a fixed support (12), enabling horizontal, vertical and rotational movements of the helmet to be made and monitored.

Abstract: A simulator system adaptable to an actual craft or existing simulator is disclosed. The system comprises computer hardware and software capable of simulation, combinations of simulations and networked simulations. Computer inputs come from sensors attached on or near control and operation members. Computer output is sent to overlay displays and other components. Visual, audio and motion cuing systems are added to increase realism where appropriate to the simulation. All equipment may be quickly and easily installed or removed so as to make maximum use of an otherwise inoperative craft or allow for diversity and upgrading of existing simulators. By the use of computer program modifications and component construction, the system may be used to simulate a wide variety of craft, including air, ground, naval and space craft.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for simulating a desired response in accordance with an external applied force. The apparatus includes a member which is responsive to the applied force, an actuator coupled to the member for exerting a torque on the member, a force sensor for detecting the applied force, and a torque sensor for detecting the torque exerted by the actuator. Signals from the force sensor are used to determine the system response based upon a desired relation. The force sensor signals also are used to determine the actual system response based upon the physical characteristics of the apparatus. The detected torque is compared with the desired and the actual system response, and as a result of the comparison the torque exerted by the actuator onto the member is adjusted accordingly so that the member performs the desired system response. The actuator is preferably an electric motor so that the apparatus can simulate any desired response, notwithstanding the physical characteristics of the system.

Abstract: A simulator dome for a motion base simulator comprises one or more fiber reinforced outer layers, inner layers of a similar material and an intermediate core. The intermediate core is preferably a structural foam of variable density to allow selectively lowering the dome center of gravity to enhance the simulation capabilities of the motion system to simulate various flight maneuvers. By producing the dome from fiber reinforced polymer and using a core of variable density, a dome of unitary construction with no through fasteners is produced, having high strength for withstanding high G maneuvers without cracking or distortion, enhancing simulator effectiveness and increasing the accuracy of the simulated flight conditions.

Abstract: A robust, lightweight g force trainer having low moment of inertia is powered by a relatively low horsepower motor. The trainer has an onset rate of 6 g/sec. or more and idle speed of approximately 13 rpm. The natural frequency of the trainer arm is in excess of 6 hz. The trainer includes a computerized target tracking and missile avoidance system, including a heads up display field at the pilot gondola, and a computerized medical monitor.

Abstract: A process for controlling a gimballed motion base system substantially duplicating pilot perceptions in a simulated aircraft. The process includes: a subprocess accounting for an effect of yaw on a motion base arm, a full-G bias function and a limited-G bias function, a low-G bias function, improved computation of pitch and roll gimbal commands to negate artifacts, a negative-G algorithm, allowing various yaw gimbal positions, allowing various cockpit orientations, and a yaw gimbal control process.A perceptual model based on emperically observed human response data predicts perceived pitch, roll, and yaw, and accounts for the fact that a Gy component of linear acceleration affects both roll and yaw perception.