Motion Simulator Base

During Fall 2024, I served as the Captain for Motion Simulator Design Team. I oversaw both sub-teams — mechanical and electrical/software — and directly led the mechanical subteam through the process of designing a motion simulator seat and preparing for fabrication.

We started by defining our design requirements:

  • Three degrees-of-freedom

    • Roll (±15°)

    • Pitch (±20°)

    • Yaw (±40°)

  • Accomodates riders up to 300 pounds

  • $2400 budget

Then, we developed a concept and started to select the major components for the structure and the functions.

For the frame, we decided on aluminum tube. For the base, we decided on oriental strand board with framing lumber legs and support beams.

To generate the motion, we chose a pair of linear actuators for roll and pitch, along with a stepper motor and planetary gearbox for yaw.

To enable the desired movement, we selected a double-flanged universal joint, rod end bearings, and ball transfer units.

From there, we continued into detailed design, splitting into groups to focus on each sub-system.

We conducted analysis using detailed hand calculations and simulations to validate our final design.