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Six-Axis (6DOF) Motion Base Platforms
Servos & Simulation offers a comprehensive line of six-axis (6DOF) motion base platforms, engineered to support a wide range of applications and payload capacities. Each system is fully customizable, featuring an integrated top platform that can be modified to meet your specific requirements. For added convenience, we also offer pre-drilling services for mounting seats, cockpits, cabins, or other equipment (additional costs apply).
A 6DOF motion platform provides motion in all six axes of movement. These six degrees of freedom motion are foundational to professional simulator motion base platforms used in training and research environments.
Applications - Industries
Six-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.
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.
Power Requirements
Servos & Simulation’s motion platforms are fully electric and designed to be environmentally green, offering flexible power configurations to suit a variety of operational environments. By default, standard power requirements are 220VAC, though other voltage options are available upon request.
Power Configurations by Platform Size
Smaller Bases
Can be configured to operate on a standard 120-volt, 20-amp circuit using a transformer. Note: The transformer may be supplied by the customer or provided by Servos & Simulation at an additional cost.
Mid-Size Bases (1,000 to 4,000 lbs)
Require 220 volts, available in either single-phase or three-phase configurations.
Large Bases (6,000 lbs and up)
Require 220 to 440 volts, three-phase power.
Additionally, we can wire the system to meet customer-specific electrical requirements, ensuring seamless integration into your facility’s infrastructure.
FAQ
What is a 6DOF motion platform?
A 6DOF (Six Degrees of Freedom) motion platform is a system capable of movement in six independent axes: roll, pitch, yaw, surge, sway, and heave. This allows it to fully replicate real-world motion in three-dimensional space.
How does a 6DOF platform work?
It uses six actuators working together (typically in a Stewart platform configuration) to control position and orientation by extending and retracting in real time.
What are 6DOF motion platforms used for?
6DOF systems are used in applications requiring high realism and precision, including:
- Flight simulation (including FAA-certified systems)
- Military and defense training
- Research and laboratory testing
- Automotive dynamics testing
- High-end entertainment and simulation systems
Why are 6DOF platforms used in flight simulation?
6DOF platforms provide the full range of motion required to accurately simulate aircraft behavior, including acceleration, turbulence, and orientation changes. This level of realism is critical for advanced training and certification environments.
Are 6DOF systems required for FAA Level D simulators?
Yes. FAA Level D simulators require full-motion capability, which is typically achieved using 6DOF motion platforms with precise control and repeatable performance.
What advantages does 6DOF have over 2DOF or 3DOF?
6DOF systems offer complete motion capability, higher realism, and more accurate motion cueing, making them suitable for certification-level and high-performance applications.