3DOF direction decided

Had a major shift of direction after reading a post by BigTallTim suggesting to another poster a motion platform using a Sarrus hinge... Previously I had only considered a 2DOF platform (yaw axis not considered necessary) mounted on a automotive universal joint. After looking at Roland van Roy's motion platform IV http://www.simprojects.nl/diy_motion_platform_iv.htm , I realized that even vertical motion can be had even within the 7-foot confines of my basement ceiling. I now can have pitch, roll, and heave!
After a lot of asking/looking around, I finally am able to import my original gmax cockpit sketch into 3ds max (That cockpit has been constructed and waiting for going on 4 years). I also imported van Roy's Google Sketchup file. I think i have a winning combination here!

great work goonbird..keep it up :hi:

Even though this website is primarily concerned with the motion part of the simulator, I've decided to chronicle the cockpit part anyway. Besides, laying my cards on the table in front of the community adds that extra incentive to make good :lol: . Since I've discovered vanRoland's motion platform, I've been so jazzed, I've compiled parts, suppliers, and price lists so as to be able to continue the project ASAP on my return from my tour of duty (yes, I got an all-expense-paid-vacation to sandy places :yes: ). I'll continue the chronicle as I progress thru the project...

I call this project SP-5 (Simulator Project #5). It was (is still) to progress thru 3 stages: 1-structural/electrical (cockpit & internals), 2-mechanical (motion system & wiring), 3-electronic (interfaces).
The project stalled at the structural and part of the electrical stage after a company that was to manufacture for me an oversized fresnel lense disappeared :? . I since found a supplier and it is now awaiting my return :thbup: .




The project will continue with switching out the present seat with a racing seat I got real cheap at a yard sale, mounting the monitor, cutting and mounting the fresnel, placing the controls, installing the AC circuitry for cockpit lighting, monitor, environmental controls, and USB hub

Then on to Stage #2.... Many Thanks to vanRoland! :