DIY Motion Simulator for Flying RC Planes: A Journey

Introduction

• Built a DIY motion simulator to fly RC planes using telemetry from the plane.
• Simulates real aircraft movements.
• Control using realistic flight controls combined with FPV for an immersive experience.

Project Background

• Passion for flying RC planes and a desire to feel more connected to the aircraft.
• Aim: Use telemetry data to simulate cockpit experience.
• Plan: Build and test the motion simulator and showcase it at Flight Fest.

Construction Process

Initial Steps

• Turned plywood into a DIY motion simulator in 5 weeks.
• Used a CNC router to cut plywood.
• Chair made up of two sections: base and upper chair.
• Base: Complex shape, CNC cut, pre-drilled, assembled with glue.

Actuators and Motors

• Mounted NEMA23 closed-loop stepper motors and right-angle gearboxes.
• Control horn made of 3/8 aluminum to turn torque into movement.
• Linkage system to connect actuators to the chair.
• Universal joint supports chair's weight.
• Motors control pitch and roll axes.

Flight Controls

• Built joystick and throttle using resin 3D printer.
• Added buttons and switches for aesthetics and potential functionality.
• Enclosed electronics with printed plates.

Electronics and Software

• Plane uses Ardupilot flight controller, 900 MHz radio for telemetry.
• Ground control software: QGroundControl on a laptop.
• Python script converts telemetry into position commands for the chair.
• Microcontroller sends step and direction signals to actuators.
• Flight controls (joystick and throttle) read by microcontroller, transmitted using ELRS.
• Buddy box mode allows switching control between transmitter and chair pilot.

Testing and Challenges

Initial Test Flight

• First test: faced issues with trim and took off by skidding along the ground.
• Successfully controlled plane using telemetry and FPV system.
• Challenges in visibility and control in low light.
• Successfully landed the plane using simulated cockpit.

Flight Fest Presentation

• Reassembled chair at Flight Fest with the help of volunteers.
• Demonstrated chair’s movements synced with plane.
• Added joystick control mode for demos.
• Gathered feedback from other RC enthusiasts.

Feedback and Reactions

Testers and Reactions

• Nick Ree tested and initially apprehensive, but found it immersive.
• Peter Sripol tried it out and was amazed by the realism, feeling