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Just starting out

Discussion in 'DIY Motion Simulator Building Q&A / FAQ' started by Haldus, Sep 17, 2013.

  1. Haldus

    Haldus New Member

    Joined:
    Sep 16, 2013
    Messages:
    7
    Balance:
    261Coins
    Ratings:
    +1 / 0 / -0
    My Motion Simulator:
    2DOF, DC motor, Arduino, Joyrider
    Ok I've decided to I want to build a motion simulator as my next project and you guys seem to know tons about it. I am looking to build a sim that can be used for racing or flight so I was thinking the Joyrider design looks right up my street. Currently I am planning and pricing different options to see what is best, pvc or aluminum, motor control boards etc, so I thought I might try to tap some of the wealth of knowledge on this forum.

    First off I'm looking to make a good sim but I don't have very much money to throw around so cheaper is better :). As far as control boards go for the motors, what are the options? I have heard Pololu Jrks mentioned but they are quite pricey, is arduino with a motor shield an option? I have just finished building a Prusa Mendel 3D printer and have an arduino mega lying around so I don't mind getting into slightly more involved solutions.

    All advice and discussion welcome!
    Haldus
    Haldus, Sep 17, 2013
    #1
  2. Historiker

    Historiker Dramamine Adict Gold Contributor

    Joined:
    Dec 16, 2010
    Messages:
    2,158
    Occupation:
    Retired
    Location:
    Michigan USA
    Balance:
    9,176Coins
    Ratings:
    +2,159 / 19 / -1
    My Motion Simulator:
    3DOF, DC motor, Arduino, Motion platform, 6DOF
    Hi Haldus and welcome aboard!

    I recently completed my own 2DoF motion platform using an Arduino (with RacingMat's 4 DOF sketch), 2 Pololu 755 driver boards, two 12v boat winches and a deep cycle battery. Plus a bunch of square tube steel. Total price was around 500.00.

    Arduino is 100% doable. I am sure RacingMat will chime in, you should check out his build thread he did a great job and very well detailed.

    I would love to see a build thread on your 3D printer if you have one!

    Again, Welcome to XSimulator.net!
    Historiker, Sep 17, 2013
    #2
  3. bsft

    bsft

    Balance:
    Coins
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    Hello and welcome.
    Yes if you are code handy, arduino.
    If you are code useless, like me, Pololu JRK 12v12. Cost about $99US each.
    Arduino can be used on bigger h-bridges, so if yo want to go 24v or bigger , that can be done.
    research is being done into the Kangaroo control board as well, it is self tuning, and less code complicated I believe.
    Frame build, take your choice of material. Ive done at least 10 different variations in 2DOFs , started with a Joyrider design, then went to full frames and seat movers.
    Motors for 12v, boat winches as Historiker says, a few guys have used them. Or 12v 200watt big worm gear motors http://www.motiondynamics.com.au/worm-drive-motor-12v-24v-200w-180-rpm-20nm-torque.html or ebay dayton equivalent.
    PVC is sturdy enough, but use PN18 or class 18.
    Steel, well, most popular.
    Aluminium as well I have seen done.
    Do you have a particular design in mind for a frame?
    bsft, Sep 17, 2013
    #3