In training simulation programs, the closer you can simulate motion the better. Sarnicola Simulation Systems Inc., develops these programs for entertainment, military, research, and education applications. At the heart of each of these simulators is a 3 Degree-of-Freedom (Triad series) or 6 Degree-of-Freedom (Hexad series) motion platform. The controls that guide these programs are Galil DMC-4030 3-axis Ethernet motion controller for the Triad series and a DMC-4060 6-axis controller for the Hexad series.
Suitable for vehicle driver, machine operator training, and similar applications, the Triad series handles 1,200 to 4,500 lb payloads and moves in three degrees of freedom using three
independent axes of motion: Roll (X), Pitch (Y), and Heave (Z).
The Hexad platform handles 2,000 to 30,000 lb payloads and can move in six degrees of freedom including three rotations and three linear movements, making it ideal for duplicating an
aircraft in flight.
The three rotations are: Pitch for nose up and down, Roll for rotating in either wing direction, and Yaw for turning left and right.
The three linear movements are: Heave for up and down, Sway for left and right sideways motion, Surge for longitudinal acceleration and deceleration.
Sarnicola engineers collaborated with engineers at InMotion Simulation to download the X, Y, Z, Yaw, Pitch and Roll motion parameters from the host computer into the DMC-4060, which computes the platform’s “leg” extensions from the motion transform equations.
Using the controller’s Position Tracking Mode, new positions are sent to each “leg” on the fly at a rate of 50 Hz or better. The controller then executes an on-board program which computes inverse kinematics equations–calculations that translate the X, Y, Z, Yaw, Pitch and Roll data into target positions–for each individual axis.
“What is important in simulators is the ‘feel’ that relates to the acceleration,” said John Sarnicola, president. “For example, roller coasters have a bumpy feel, jet fighter simulators have an intense feel, and vehicle transport simulators have a more sluggish feel. The ‘feel’ must be translated into the proper set of equations and we develop programs for each specific application. The role of the Galil controller is critical to enact these motions.”
Galil Motion Control, Inc.
www.galilmc.com
::Design World::
Filed Under: Aerospace + defense, Motion control • motor controls