Glossary

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Core Simulation Terms – Control Loader Terms – Motion Behavior Terms – Software & Control Terms – Testing & Simulation Terms

FAA & Training Terms – Advanced Technical Terms

Glossary

Core Simulation Terms

Motion Simulation

The replication of real-world movement using a mechanical system, typically a motion platform, to simulate forces such as acceleration, rotation, and vibration.

Motion Platform

A mechanical system that produces controlled movement in one or more axes for simulation, testing, or entertainment applications.

Degrees of Freedom (DOF)

The number of independent directions in which a system can move. A 6DOF system can move in six axes: roll, pitch, yaw, surge, sway, and heave.

6DOF (Six Degrees of Freedom)

A motion system capable of full movement in all three rotational and three translational axes, providing the highest level of motion realism.

Stewart Platform

A common 6DOF motion platform design consisting of a base, a moving platform, and six actuators connecting them.

Glossary

Control Loader Terms

Control Loading

A system that applies realistic force feedback to controls such as yokes, pedals, and throttles to replicate real-world behavior.

Force Feedback

The application of dynamic resistance or force to controls or systems based on simulation inputs.

Servo System

A closed-loop control system that uses feedback to precisely control position, motion, or force.

Closed-Loop Control

A system that continuously monitors output using feedback and adjusts performance to match a desired command.

Open-Loop Control

A system that operates without feedback and cannot automatically correct for errors.

Actuator

A device that converts electrical signals into physical movement or force.

Drive Amplifier

A component that powers actuators and controls their behavior based on command signals.

Feedback Sensor

A device that measures position, velocity, or force to provide real-time data to the control system.

Glossary

Motion Behavior Terms

Roll

Rotation around the forward (longitudinal) axis

Pitch

Rotation around the side-to-side (lateral) axis.

Yaw

Rotation around the vertical axis.

Surge

Forward and backward movement

Sway

Side-to-side movement

Heave

Up-and-down vertical movement

Glossary

Software & Control Terms

Ride Profile

A programmed sequence of motion and effects used in entertainment or simulation systems

Ride Authoring Software

Software used to create and synchronize motion profiles with video and environmental effects

Host Interface Software

Software that enables communication between a host simulation computer and a motion control system, typically using UDP Ethernet

UDP Communication

A network protocol used for fast, real-time data exchange between systems

Control Computer

The system responsible for executing motion commands and controlling actuators

Iteration Rate

The frequency at which a control system updates and processes data, often measured in Hz (e.g., 1 kHz)

Glossary

Testing & Simulation Terms

Sea State

A classification of ocean conditions based on wave height and intensity, used in maritime simulation and testing

Motion Profile

A defined set of motion parameters used to simulate specific conditions or behaviors

Repeatability

The ability of a system to reproduce the same motion or behavior consistently over time

Bandwidth (Control System)

The ability of a system to respond quickly to input changes

Glossary

FAA & Training Terms

FAA Certification Levels (A–D)

Standards defined by the FAA to classify the realism and performance of flight simulators, with Level D being the highest

Level D Simulator

The highest certification level, requiring full motion, high-fidelity visuals, and accurate control loading for pilot training

Full Flight Simulator (FFS)

A complete simulation system that includes motion, visuals, and control loading for professional pilot training

Glossary

Advanced Technical Terms

Inverse Kinematics

The mathematical process used to determine how actuators must move to achieve a desired platform position

Non-Linearity

Mechanical or system behavior where output is not directly proportional to input, requiring compensation

Backlash

Mechanical looseness in gears or linkages that can affect precision and responsiveness

Coordinate System

A reference system used to define position and motion in space

Dynamic Evaluation

Real-time analysis of system performance based on sensor feedback and calculated motion data

What Is Motion Simulation?

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