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Seven-Axis (7DOF) Motion Base Platforms
Antenna Testing Motion Base Platforms
We spent years designing our Antenna Testing Motion Base Platform to meet the toughest testing standards for all antenna types. It actively simulates a wide range of sea states—from calm waters to turbulent conditions—delivering precise, reliable results in dynamic environments.
Specifically built for maritime but can be useful for other demanding applications, the platform enables comprehensive testing that ensures your antenna systems perform at their best, no matter the conditions.
With high-precision motion control and customizable testing protocols, it empowers research institutions, defense agencies, and commercial enterprises to push the limits of antenna technology. Its rugged construction and advanced features ensure consistent performance and deliver critical data for communication, navigation, and surveillance testing.
Elevate your testing capabilities. Our platform equips you to validate and optimize antenna systems with confidence—ready to take on the complexities of the real world.
Antenna Testing Motion Platforms
At Servos & Simulation, we offer precision-engineered Antenna Testing Motion Platforms designed to meet a wide range of testing requirements.
To begin with, our platforms are available in two advanced configurations:
- A six-axis (6DOF) system
- A seven-axis (7DOF) system, which includes an additional azimuth rotational table for enhanced rotational control
Moreover, both systems are offered in two angularity options:
- Standard angularity: ±20° for roll and pitch
- High-angle versions: Expanded range of ±35° or more for pitch and roll
In addition, multiple payload options are available for either configuration, enabling greater customization to meet your specific testing needs.
Applications - Industries
Seven-axis motion base platforms are highly versatile and used in a variety of sectors, including:
- Military training simulations
- Commercial entertainment systems
- Medical and research testing environments
For example, in the entertainment industry, these platforms power immersive virtual reality experiences that rely on precise motion feedback. In military settings, they simulate real-world scenarios to enhance training effectiveness. Thanks to their adaptability, these platforms are a valuable asset in any professional simulation environment.
Customization Options
At Servos & Simulation, we understand that no two projects are alike. That’s why we offer extensive customization options, including:
- Payload capacities
- Platform dimensions
- Control system configurations
- Motion profiles
Whether you require a specific stroke length, angular range, or integration with existing systems, our engineering team will work closely with you to deliver a solution that fits seamlessly into your operational framework.
Key Benefits
Investing in a six-axis motion base platform provides several advantages:
- Enhanced training realism
- Servo-Driven motion architecture
- Greater user engagement
- Improved operational flexibility
- Durability and long-term reliability
Moreover, our platforms feature advanced motion control technology for smoother, more responsive movement—critical for high-stakes environments such as flight simulation and medical testing.
Servos & Simulation platforms are engineered to support FAA FTD, CPT, and FFS certification requirements when integrated into qualified simulator architectures.
Weight Capacities
We offer a range of standard payload capacities to suit different applications:
- 500 lbs (227 kg) – Ideal for gaming rides, VR setups, and small equipment testing
- 1,000 lbs (454 kg) – Suitable for rides with 1–4 passengers
- 2,000 lbs (907 kg) and up – Designed for multi-seat configurations with walkways
- 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg) and 8,000 lbs (3,629 kg) – Built for large-scale entertainment rides
Custom stroke and payload combinations are also available upon request. High payload motion platform designs are customizable.
Technical Specifications
Each six-axis platform includes the following motion axes:
Roll, Pitch, Heave, Yaw, Surge, and Sway
All systems are servo-controlled with a closed feedback loop between the motor and controller, ensuring precise, real-time response to input signals—whether from a computer or analog control voltage. Notably, our systems operate without the need for encoders, limits, or stops typically required in linear systems.
Versatility Meets Precision
Thanks to their adaptable design, these platforms support comprehensive and precise antenna testing, ensuring your systems perform reliably under varied and demanding conditions.
Furthermore, the flexibility to choose between standard and high-angle configurations enables tailored testing scenarios that align perfectly with your project goals.
Mechanicals and Dynamics:
| Product Number | 710-6-500-220 | 710-6-1000-220 | 710-6-2000-220 | 710-6-4500-220 | 710-6-8000-220 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payload Specification | 250 Kgs or 550 Lbs | 500 Kgs to 1100 Lbs | 1000 Kgs or 2200 Lbs | 2000 Kgs or 4400 Lbs | 3628 Kgs or 8000 Lbs |
| Standard Top Dimensions (customizable) | 304mm (12″ sq) triangle | 660mm x 914mm (26″ x 36″) | 660mm x 914mm (26″ x 36″) | contract dependent | contract dependent |
| Bottom Dimensions for floor loading | 711mm sq (28″ sq.) | 2133mm (84″) circular footprint | 2133mm (84″) circular footprint | contract dependent | contract dependent |
| Standard Height (customizable) | 482mm (19″) | 812mm (32″) | 812mm (32″) | contract dependent | 1828mm (72″) |
| Vertical Translation (Heave) | ±50mm (±2″) | ±100mm (±4″) | ±100mm (±4″) | ±200mm (±8″) | 762mm (30″) total |
| Standard Angularity (customizable) | ±10 degrees (not-modifiable) | ±20 degrees (up to ±32 degrees) | ±20 degrees (up to ±32 degrees) | ±20 degrees (up to ±32 degrees) | ±20 degrees (up to ±32 degrees) |
| Standard Velocity (customizable) | ±60 deg/sec | ±100 deg/sec | ±100 deg/sec | ±100 deg/sec | ±100 deg/sec |
| Standard Acceleration (customizable) | ±100 deg/sec/sec | ±100 deg/sec/sec | ±100 deg/sec/sec | ±100 deg/sec/sec | ±100 deg/sec/sec |
| Standard Vertical Velocity (customizable) | ±10″ /sec | ±10″ /sec | ±10″ /sec | ±10″ /sec | ±10″ /sec |
| Standard Vertical Acceleration (customizable) | 0.75g | 0.75g | 0.75g | 0.75g | 0.75g |
| Center of Gravity (overhung loads can be accommodated) | center of top | center of top | center of top | center of top | center of top |
Optional Control Systems
All motion base platform systems from Servos & Simulation are plug-and-play ready, offering flexible control options to suit a wide range of applications and user preferences.
With several six-axis (6DOF) models available—starting at 500 lbs (227 kg) and scaling upward—each system is designed to operate using a simple ±7.5VDC analog control input, making integration straightforward and versatile.
Included Components
Every motion base platform system includes:
- Integrated electronics in a COTS rack-mount chassis
- Up to 50 feet of interface cabling
- Hubbell 220VAC plug, mating input connector, and generic system manual
- Integrated safety braking system and e-stop integration
- Full system manual (ICD and maintenance) with complete drawing set
- One-year warranty and lifetime email/phone technical support
Computer Control
If the customer chooses to purchase the computer system for motion base control, the package includes:
- Custom Interface Control board
- Input cable
- Operating system
- Keyboard and mouse
- Maintenance software for the motion base
Additionally, for entertainment ride profile playback, the computer can broadcast video while simultaneously controlling the motion base. Customers may specify video card output requirements at contract time (additional cost applies). Systems rated at 8,000 lbs or larger include the computer as a standard component.
Sensoray 826 Card
The Sensoray 826 is our standard interface card, included with the computer control option. It supports:
- ADC and DAC functions
- Digital I/O
- Watchdog capabilities
This card ensures reliable and precise control across all supported motion base platforms.
The customer is more than welcome to choose their interface. Be aware that if you require excellent movement of the system, 16-bit resolution on the DAC output is required. We are here to help with engineering and advice where and when you need it.
Raspberry Pi & Phidgets
Because the system accepts analog signals, it can also be controlled using:
- A Raspberry Pi with a 16-bit DAC installed
- A Phidget card, such as the 1002_0B or OUT1002_0
This option is ideal for home-built flight simulators and supports integration with platforms like Prepar3D, Flight Simulator Steam, and X-Plane. Note: This option is not recommended for larger systems due to limited fidelity.
Measurement Computing Devices
All Measurement Computing ±10VDC analog output devices are compatible with our motion base systems. For optimal performance, we recommend consulting our engineering team to identify the fastest available device to avoid any limitations in motion responsiveness.
FAQ
What is a 7DOF motion platform?
A 7DOF (Seven Degrees of Freedom) motion platform includes all six standard axes of motion—roll, pitch, yaw, surge, sway, and heave—plus an additional degree of freedom, typically for extended travel or enhanced motion capability.
What are 7DOF motion platforms used for?
They are used in advanced applications such as high-end flight simulation, research and testing, and specialized simulation environments requiring extended motion range or additional motion capability.
Why choose a 7DOF system over 6DOF?
A 7DOF system provides increased motion capability, such as extended travel or enhanced cueing, which can improve realism and performance in specialized or demanding applications.
How does a 7DOF platform work?
It builds on a 6DOF system by adding an additional actuator or motion axis, allowing greater flexibility in movement and expanded motion envelope.
What are the limitations of a 7DOF system?
7DOF systems are more complex, larger, and typically more expensive than lower DOF platforms, and are generally only required for specialized or high-performance applications
Can 7DOF systems be customized?
Yes. 7DOF platforms are typically highly customized, with the additional degree of freedom configured based on application requirements such as extended heave, surge, or specialized motion profiles.