Abstract: A route followed by a person is managed. A data store is configured to store data streams corresponding to different kinds of information of a route followed by a person. Data output means is operable to output the data streams to a user such that they are co-related to the route followed by the person. Data handling means is operable to provide the stored data streams to the data output means. The data streams correspond to different route information and can be cross referenced. The data handling means is operable to provide a first data stream and further data stream in a predetermined manner to the data output means and in dependence upon the cross-referable data such that the first and further data streams are output by the data output means in a substantially co-related manner.

Abstract: An adjustable video game cockpit that facilitates a number of independent adjustments to accommodate users of all sizes. The video game cockpit may include a video monitor stand and a universal video game console mount. The inclusion of the video monitor stand and universal video game console permit the cockpit to operate as a single gaming unit. The video game cockpit collapses down to a low profile for convenient relocation and storage.

Abstract: The driving skill evaluating apparatus is an apparatus that evaluates the driving skill of a driver who drives a vehicle. The evaluating apparatus includes: driver load measurement means for measuring the degree of physical load on the driver in a driving operation activity of the vehicle; driving operation quantity measurement means for measuring the quantity of driving operation performed by the driver for the vehicle in the driving operation activity; and evaluation means for evaluating the driving skill of the driver by using the degree of the physical load on the driver and the quantity of driving operation.

Abstract: A system and method for driving assessment includes multiple data sources, wherein results of tests from at least some of the multiple data sources are integrated. A driving assessment report including a driving recommendation is provided based on the integrated results. The multiple data sources may include cognitive tests, a background/medical data source, a visual/spatial skills data source, and a motor skills data source. A driving simulator may also be included.

Abstract: A pair of opposed inflatable bladders form a false floor, ceiling or wall having a seam through which an object support is propelled, deforming the inflatable bladders around the support, thereby giving the appearance that an object mounted on the support above the bladders is self-propelled above the false floor, ceiling or wall.

Abstract: A method of operation of a toy cockpit for use with a carrier vehicle, comprising receiving an operator input and providing at least one of an audible output and a visual output in response thereto; and receiving a carrier vehicle input and providing said at least one of the audible output and the visual output in response thereto.

Abstract: A controller of a portable game machine comprises a steering wheel having a body and a rotary unit; a base for locating a portable game machine; a supporting frame for supporting the seat to the steering wheel; and a steering wheel seat for supporting the rotary unit of the steering wheel to a body. The piezoelectric switch is placed on the base, by mechanic linear power transfer, functions of the portable game machine is controlled by operation the steering wheel. By levers to transfer power, the function keys of the steering wheel are corresponding to function keys of the portable game machine.

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.

Abstract: In order to easily generate a control signal when a motion in accordance with an image is applied to a chair for an observer, a motion vector is detected from an image signal input to an image processing apparatus by a feature information detection section. By using the motion vector, a horizontal component, a vertical component, a magnification component, and a rotation component are determined. A feature information processing section generates a control signal to be supplied to a driving section from these determined components.

Abstract: The cockpit and external appearance of a racing car are accurately simulated. A spherical mirror display is attached to the underside of the hood of the simulator. When the hood is raised, a video presentation is projected onto a display screen via first and second mirrors and the image on the display screen is reflected off of the spherical mirror to the player “driving” the simulated racing car. In the preferred embodiment, the spherical mirror is a thin acrylic sheet molded to the desired curvature. A mirror surface is formed on the concave surface of the molded sheet and a sheet of foam plastic is scored on one side so that the foam plastic sheet conforms to the reverse concave side of the molded acrylic sheet. The foam sheet is molded to the thin acrylic sheet mirror to rigidly support the acrylic sheet mirror in the desired curvature.

Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method for simulating the movement of motor vehicle and bicycle traffic in an environment. Among other things, the system and method scan all traffic signals in the environment over a predetermined time interval, and then update parking activity, pedestrian movement, and motor vehicle and bicycle movement in the environment. The system and method also check whether any parking activity was generated for the predetermined time period, and simulates pedestrian movement in the environment. Finally, the system and method simulate motor vehicle and bicycle movement in the environment using predetermined acceleration and deceleration rates, a motor vehicle following model, and a lane changing model.

Abstract: A vehicle crash simulator employs a plurality of actuators to simulate motions or forces of a crash event. The vehicle crash simulator includes a simulation platform supporting a test specimen or vehicle for analysis. The platform is accelerated along a crash acceleration trajectory and forces are imparted to the platform to simulate a crash pulse or event. Forces are imparted to the simulation platform by a plurality of actuators “on-board” or coupled to the simulation platform for dynamic motion simulation. Multi-axial forces Fx, Fy, Fz are imparted to simulate complex crash motions or forces for realistic crash testing.

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: 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: A driving game, wherein players having various driving skills—from beginners to those advanced—may enjoy both aspects of amusement and simulation in consistency. The game device of the present invention has an element for providing to a player a plurality of different movement modes upon moving the vehicle along a traveling line. Upon selection of a desired movement mode, a vehicle-driving game relating to the driving mode selected by the player is executed. Included in this plurality of driving modes are an assist mode in which auto-brake control is performed and a training mode in which various indications, such as the timing of the braking point, are given.

Abstract: A propelled-pivoting motion base with a rotating disc that provides an occupant with an unlimited range of motion on the horizontal plane of movement and a method for manipulating the inertia of a center mass by physically following a natural path of motion as it occurs in realtime. The vehicle chassis base is propelled and steered upon and along the available operating floor area using two main drives which alternatively propell and pivot each drive assembly in a manner that shifts the center mass and its' inertia when changing directions on the horizontal plane of movement along its' realtime motion path, thus reducing the computational resources normally needed to remove un-natural movenment.

Abstract: An information system for providing explanatory information on functional elements or controls in motor vehicles. The respective functional element or control which is of interest is located with a hand-held computer-supported pointer and the locating data are transferred to a computer-supported controlled and output unit in which a stored information text is selected, using this locating data, and is output to the user via a voice response system.

Abstract: Input data comprising dynamics data taken from at least one actual dynamic vehicle, and position data of the at least one actual dynamic vehicle, and data relating to the environment of the at least one actual dynamic vehicle is acquired and at least the dynamics data is utilized by computer game software to generate a user controlled dynamic vehicle. At least the environmental data is converted into a form suitable for display on a display device. User input means provides control signals for the user controlled vehicle to facilitate competing in the same environment as the actual dynamic vehicle as reproduced on a display device before the user. More particularly, the input data is converted into a graphical form to display the at least one actual dynamic vehicle in their actual environment or as modified to accommodate the position of the at least one user controlled dynamic vehicle.

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: An information system for providing explanatory information on functional elements or controls in motor vehicles. The respective functional element or control which is of interest is located with a hand-held computer-supported pointer and the locating data are transferred to a computer-supported controlled and output unit in which a stored information text is selected, using this locating data, and is output to the user via a voice response system.

Abstract: A method and device to simulate travel is disclosed. A user may simulate a travel, which can be for either business or for pleasure, before the user actually travels. By simulating the travel before hand, a measure of predictability is introduced for the user during the actual travel. The travel simulation may simulate conditions such as the weather and traffic patterns for cars, trains, buses, planes, and the like. The conditions are dynamically adjusted in response to the user's inputs. The travel may be simulated for individuals who are not able to take an actual trip due to health and or other reasons.

Abstract: An amusement device for use in a traveling vehicle, includes a housing having a paper holding area defined by side walls and a bottom wall for receiving and holding a piece of paper therein, a transparent top wall in overlying relation to the paper holding area such that the piece of paper is viewable through the transparent wall, the transparent wall having an outer surface which can be written on and then erased, and a slot in one side wall for receiving the piece of paper into the paper holding area and for removing the piece of paper from the paper holding area; a mounting assembly for mounting the housing to a seat of the traveling vehicle so that the piece of paper is viewable by a person to the rear of the seat, the mounting assembly including two hook members connected with the housing for hanging the housing from the seat of the traveling vehicle; a plurality of light emitting diodes mounted in spaced relation to an inner surface of the transparent wall for providing an indication as to predefined po

Abstract: A control pedal assembly for a vehicle. Two or more control pedals are engaged to a pedal mounting system base component through a number of components that are slideably engaged to one another. The construction and arrangement of the components that are slideably engaged to one another and the engagement of those components to the control pedals and the pedal mounting system base component is such that the position of at least two control pedals is adjustable relative to one another. One or more positioning actuators are engaged to the components that are slideably engaged to one another. The positioning actuators, when activated, slide the slideably engaged components relative to one another and thus change the position of one or more control pedals. One or more position control apparatus are connected to the positioning actuators so that an operator of the vehicle can activate the positioning actuators to adjust the position of the control pedals.

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: A propelled-pivoting motion base with rotating disc and method for dissipating inertia as means to provide unlimited motion to an occupant on a horizontal plane of movement during the simulation process. The vehicle chassis base is propelled and steered using two main drives which pivot about the operating area freely and disperse the inertia of the center mass over a wide area. A rotating disc sits atop the vehicle chassis base with 360 degrees of rotation propelled by a third drive assembly. The vehicle chassis base and rotating disc operate in conjunction with each other to provide motion to an occupant in any direction on a horizontal plane of movement during the simulation process. The direction and range of movement of the center mass is not mechanically limited and so the inertia can be physically dispersed over a wider operating area using the same path of motion as it occurs in real-time.

Abstract: A driving game machine provided with a road data memory for storing coordinate data of a road set in a game space, a player's car controller for controlling the running of a player's car on the road according to a player's operation, and a display processor for displaying an image within a field of view set in advance. The road has a start point and a goal point, a running course from the start point to the goal point has a plurality of branched roads in its intermediate positions. The player's car controller causes the player's car to run in a direction selected at each branching point in accordance with a player's operation. This makes it possible for a player to freely choose the course while competing with his rivals.

Abstract: An integrated evaluation and simulation system for ground combat vehicles interactively evaluates concept design decisions and design requirements in the context of an operational ground combat vehicle. The combat effectiveness of a ground combat vehicle 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 a ground combat vehicle. The integrated evaluation and simulation system includes a user interface operatively coupled to at least the computer system to selectively input data into the causal network model and receive information therefrom, and at least one virtual simulation system. The system can further include either a virtual simulation system operatively coupled to the causal network model or, as part of the computer system, a virtual simulation system interface to communicate with a separate virtual simulation system.

Abstract: A method and system is disclosed for a staged learning process for situational awareness training using integrated media wherein a mix of classroom lectures, computer-based training and immersive simulation is used to advance the student from an operational stage to a tactical stage to a strategic stage. During the simulation exercises, the student is presented with a realistic interactive driving environment and external stimuli. The simulator measures and records the student's performance, generating a score based on various factors. The student is then able to review his or her performance or parts thereof from multiple perspectives. The process teaches, tests and reinforces situational awareness in drivers through an orderly, consistent “preview, drive, review” procedure and gives the student a level of situational awareness generally achieved by a driver with greater experience.

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 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: 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 dimensionally adjustable vehicle component and/or a simulated entire vehicle includes body panels and vehicle components arranged in a simulated vehicle position and movably mounted on internal support structure for dimensional adjustment in fore/aft, up/down and lateral directions to form a variety of different spatial relationships between the vehicle components. A drive mechanism, typically including a motor and a rotatable drive shaft, is coupled to each dimensionally adjustable vehicle component support structure for adjusting the dimensional position of a selected component via control signals from a central controller. An encoder is coupled to each rotatable shaft output and generates actual travel position information for the controller to determine the actual position of the selected, dimensionally adjusted component.

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: A system for computer dynamometer testing while running an auto racing simulation. The combination increases the entertainment value of testing through a real-time interactive racing simulation. The system includes a vehicle testing station such as a conventional chassis dynamometer with digital feedback and load control for automatically increasing or decreasing the load applied to the vehicle wheels under test, a programmable test controller connected to the digital feedback unit for collecting data, and also connected to the load control assembly for controlling the dynamic load applied to the wheels of the vehicle. In addition, a simulation computer is connected to the programmable test controller and includes diagnostic software for analyzing said data, simulation software for running a synchronized race simulation based on the data, and report generation software for generating the diagnostic report based on the analyzed data.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to provide a game apparatus allowing for an accurate determination of a collision of a player's moving object traveling at high speed with an obstacle. A relative coordinate calculation section 21 calculates the relative coordinates of another movable object by using the position of the player's movable object as the origin. A relative speed calculation section 22 calculates the relative speed of the player's moving object and the other movable object. If the relative speed exceeds a predetermined value, a hit check position decision section 23 equally divides a distance traveled by the player's moving object at the relative speed in {fraction (1/60)} seconds into segments, each of the segments not exceeding the length L of the player's moving object, to determine the number of hit checks, and sets one or more hit check positions between the player's moving object and the other movable object on their trajectory.

Abstract: A system for adjustably recreating an interior architecture of a vehicle and a method of constructing the interior architecture. A platform is constructed of a plurality of planar shaped floor plates arrayed in coplanar fashion. A cage is constructed upon the platform and includes first vertically extending and telescoping supports which are secured at selected locations along edges of the platform. Second horizontally extending supports interconnect top ends of the first vertically extending supports and both the first and second supports are axially adjustable in length to define a specified interior volume of the cage. A series of generic form patterns corresponding to interior/exterior components of a vehicle are assembled upon the platform and within the interior volume of the cage and are further capable of being easily and manually repositioned relative one another to ergonomic testing without regard to particular styling or ornamentation.

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: Methods, systems and computer program products are provided which transport a user in a virtual reality environment from a first location to a second location by providing a transportation vehicle that receives the user at the first location, receiving a destination signal from the user which indicates the second location as a destination, transporting the user in the transportation vehicle to the second location independent of any user input, and providing customized information to the user when the user is in the transportation vehicle. The transportation may be inter-world or intra-world. The customized information can take any number of forms such as dynamic visual scenery, audio messages, static visual graphics, video images, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A reconfigurable hardware interface for driving simulators that uses a field programmable gate array for interfacing with driving controls and instruments. The field programmable gate array is interposed between the input/output of the computer system of the driving simulator and the vehicle cab of the driving simulator. This provides convenience in quickly adapting a driving simulator to a particular type of cab and controls, as well as other functions.

Abstract: An apparatus and method consisting of a model of a vehicle dashboard, steering wheel, windshield area and illustration of a driving situation or location attached to and extending in front of the vehicle simulator. The student driver follows highlighted arrows imprinted on the illustration to view the driving area and the dashboard instruments with a specific eye movement pattern. The specific eye movement pattern taught is to look at the center, scan left, look to the center, scan right, look to the center, check the mirror, look to the center, and check the instruments. The windshield of the apparatus contains a center mark comprising a small hole directly in front of the student driver that indicates the very small area of central vision that can be viewed and maneuvered effectively simulating a scanning eye movement pattern. The student driver moves his “central vision” from area to area systematically in order to be aware of all that is happening in the surrounding driving vicinity.

Abstract: Operation of a car viewed on a screen of a computer having a controller in a car driving game by pressing or continuing to press simple on-off switches by a user is made into an interface that is easier to use.

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 system for operator training and evaluation may detect and record information about various actions taken by an operator. For example, the system may record what the operator looks at in the course of operating the vehicle to determine whether the operator is looking at the things which the operator should appropriately be checking. In addition the system may provide other information about other aspects of the operator's performance including speed and use of controls and indicators. This information may be correlated and provided in the form of an evaluation. Alternatively, the operator may be prompted in the course of operating the vehicle to correct the operator's performance to improve the operator's skill.

Abstract: A game machine for a moving object having both a position detecting device being operable to detect a position of a person riding on the moving object on a course of movement to obtain position information and a direction detection device being operable to detect a direction of a field of vision of the person to obtain direction information. The game machine also has a memory being operable to store visual and auditory information regarding a change in the course of movement and a central processing part being operable to select visual and auditory information corresponding to the position of the person and the direction of the field of vision of the person riding on the moving object based on the position information of the position detection device and the direction information of the direction detection device. A speaker and a display are used to output the selected auditory and visual information, respectively.

Abstract: In a race game comprising a preliminary round and a main race, a player can start the game without waiting for other players, the boredom of waiting time is eliminated, and skillful players can be satisfied with the game. An image processing device for generating game images, and a plurality of game units each provided respectively with communications control devices connected to this image processing device, which control communications with other devices, are provided, and the communications control devices are connected to each other. When any of the players inserts a coin, the corresponding communications control device immediately starts a preliminary round, and when this preliminary round is completed, it displays a demonstration screen during the waiting period before the start of the main race.

Abstract: A photoelectric control unit installed in a video game machine and operated to control the motion of a controlled object in the screen of a display unit of the video game machine, the photoelectric control unit including a housing, a steering column installed in the housing and rotated with a steering wheel, a torsional spring mounted on the steering column, the torsional spring having one end fixedly fastened to the steering column and an opposite end fixedly connected to a fixed spring holder inside the housing, and a photoelectric controller formed of an optical transmitter and detector assembly and a signal processing circuit board for detecting rotary motion of the steering column and outputting to the display unit of the video game machine a signal indicative of rotary motion of the steering column.

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.