Why Some in the Simulation Industry Dislike Motion Platforms—And What You Can Do About It

Motion platforms are powerful tools in simulation, but they often come with a reputation that sparks hesitation—or even frustration—among professionals in the industry. Let’s explore some of the most common concerns and how they can be addressed.

---

1. Cost: Why Are Motion Platforms So Expensive?

Motion platforms are complex systems that require specialized engineering across mechanical, electrical, and control disciplines. Each system is typically custom-built to meet specific customer requirements, which adds to the cost.

The total price includes:

High-grade materials
Skilled labor
Precision assembly
Painting and finishing
System testing and checkout

At Servos & Simulation, we work to balance performance with cost-efficiency, offering systems that are competitively priced without compromising quality.

---

2. Installation: What Does It Take to Set One Up?

Large-scale motion platforms often require heavy equipment and expert teams for installation. In many cases, the facility must be prepared in advance, including:

Reinforced flooring to support the platform and payload
Proper mounting points to handle dynamic loads
Sufficient space for access and operation

We design our systems with installation in mind, ensuring that even large components can fit through standard doors or be transported via commercial aircraft when needed.

---

3. Maintenance: Why Is It So Costly to Operate?

Some motion platforms require dedicated maintenance teams or third-party contractors to keep them running smoothly, which can drive up operational costs.

To reduce this burden, Servos & Simulation uses sealed mechanical systems that are designed for low maintenance and long-term reliability, helping customers minimize downtime and service expenses.

---

4. Motion Cue Accuracy: Why Doesn’t the Platform Follow the System Properly?

A motion platform must accurately follow motion cues from the host system (e.g., X-Plane, Prepar3D, MS Flight Simulator). If the center of gravity (CG) is misaligned or the system isn’t properly tuned, the platform may:

Fail to reflect realistic motion
Cause pilot overcorrection
Lead to simulator sickness

Proper calibration and tuning are essential. A well-designed system should allow a pilot to fly the simulator with or without motion enabled—without needing to adjust their technique.

---

5. Simulator Sickness: Why Does It Happen—and Can It Be Prevented?

Simulator sickness often occurs when the motion platform and visual system are out of sync. This mismatch can confuse the brain, leading to nausea, disorientation, and reduced training effectiveness.

To minimize this, the motion platform must:

Be properly tuned to match the visual system
Respond fluidly and dynamically to motion cues
Avoid lag or delay in movement

In entertainment applications, even though motion cues are less critical than in flight training, synchronization with visuals is still key. A smooth, responsive system enhances immersion and reduces the risk of motion sickness.

---

How to Avoid These Pitfalls

When evaluating a motion platform, consider the total value—not just the price tag. Ask:

What’s included in the system?
Can the manufacturer provide detailed cost breakdowns?
How well does the system follow motion cues?
What support is available post-installation?

A simple test: have a pilot fly the simulator with motion off, then with motion on. If they need to overcorrect with motion enabled, the platform likely needs tuning.

For entertainment systems, the motion should match the visual experience as closely as possible. A smooth base with injected motion frequencies is far easier to manage than trying to correct a rough or inconsistent system.

---

Final Thoughts

Motion platforms can be transformative—but only when designed, installed, and tuned correctly. At Servos & Simulation, we focus on delivering high-performance, low-maintenance systems that are engineered for precision and built to last.

Want to know what to look for when buying a motion platform? Check out our Ultimate Checklist for Buying a Motion Platform.

For more information on all of our products and services, please check out our complete product line here.