A non-linear motion base math model refers to the mathematical representation of a motion platform which is typically a Stewart platform or similar 6DOF system—where the relationship between actuator lengths and platform position/orientation is non-linear. This means that small changes in actuator length do not result in proportional changes in platform position or rotation, and the system’s behavior cannot be…
This blog was written by Mr. Tom Bryan ES31\ GNC Hardware Team Lead – RF, Electromagnetic Effects, GNC Hardware Branch, Senior Engineer, Flat Floor Robotics Lab & 6DOF Dynamics Sim Lab for NASA. He worked on the Navigation system for the Artemis SLS system and did the testing for it with our motion base. His…
The Motion Base Requirement (As seen through the eyes of a Feedback Control System Engineer) Written by E. Bruce Baker Over the last several years, there has been much discussion about the need for motion bases for aircraft simulators. Several times, an attempt has been made to prove or disprove the need for a motion…
Why DIY Motion Base Platforms Aren’t as Simple (or Safe) as They Seem In my time exploring the internet, I’ve come across countless DIY motion base projects—built from everything from drill motors to plywood. While many of these builds are undeniably creative, they often raise serious concerns about safety, longevity, and performance. Let’s take a…
Motion Base Platforms have been apart of the flight simulation industry for a very long time. Longer than one might think… The simulation industry is relatively old (almost 100 years!), but not quite as old as planes have been in the sky. The follow article is an except from wikipedia in regards to the history of…
Twelve Years Later: A Motion Base Platform Still Going Strong In 2015, the Servos & Simulation team returned to Harris Corporation in Melbourne, Florida to inspect a high-angle six-axis motion base platform we originally installed in 2003. The system had been in continuous use for over a decade, supporting Sea State 6 antenna testing for…
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…
Engineering the Impossible: A Custom Six-Axis Motion Base with Extreme Offset CG Over the past several decades, Servos & Simulation has delivered hundreds of motion base platforms—most of them custom-built, and many still in operation decades later. Recently, we were challenged with one of our most demanding builds yet: a custom six-axis motion base platform…
Last week, FIT’s Human Spaceflight Lab had an article written about what they were doing. A few years ago, Mr. Doule came to us with an idea… an idea of something that he required, but wasn’t quite sure as to how to get there. Take a look at the article and how Servos helped them…
What should one look for when purchasing a Motion Platform… Here’s a short list. How long has the manufacturer been in business? Does the manufacturer actually do their own in-house engineering or are they reselling the system (this matters)? What does the motion platform use for moving the axis? Is it hydraulic, electric, pneumatic or…
