1MTS Systems Corporation, 14000 Technology Drive, Eden Prairie, Minnesota (MN) 55344/2290, USA
2Solidica, 5840 Interface Drive Suite 200, Ann Arbor, Michigan (MI) 48103
Abstract
Developed by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS) has many unique capabilities, including a large excursion envelope motion system with high performance. MTS Systems Corporation was responsible for the manufacture of the thirteen degree of freedom motion system driven by forty-five actuation channels. The motion system features a redundantly actuated ± 10 meter X and Y longitudinal and lateral steel belt drive for high stiffness and smoothness. A Stewart platform hexapod designed for taking advantage of the large X-Y travel rides on top the translation system. The hexapod supports a redundantly actuated ± 330- degree yaw turntable for more effective maneuver simulation and washout coordination. Finally, four high frequency vibration actuators beneath the cab feature self-reaction to minimize vibration to the graphics display dome and the projector support structure. This paper discusses the real-time control and mechanical design solutions that support the high motion envelope capacity of the NADS, including representative performance data.