Full Motion Racing Simulator

A Motion Racing Simulator or Racing Motion Simulator is a motion simulator that is purposed for racing. In this context, the term "simulator" does not refer to the simulation software or game, but rather the physical hardware device that the driver sits in, typically manufactured from steel or aluminum. Racing simulator hardware systems are often referred to as "rigs", "chassis", "cockpits", or "the sim".

To qualify as a racing simulator, the hardware device must have the following requirements:

• mounting mechanisms for a steering wheel, typically with force feedback
• mounting mechanisms for pedals (usually a throttle, a brake and a clutch pedal)
• mounting mechanisms for an H-Pattern or floor mounted sequential shifter
• mounting for a seat
• ergonomics that attempt to replicate the vehicle being simulated

To qualify as a motion based racing simulator, the device must meet the requirements for a racing simulator and contain a motion simulation mechanism on at least 1 degree of freedom. In this case, the cockpit or the occupant's seat, is moved in coordination with a graphical output. Different examples of racing simulators with motion exist, some of which provide motion to the driver's seat, and others that move the entire simulator cockpit. Further differentiation exists regarding visual display technology and whether the simulators graphical output moves with, and stays relative to the sim, or is static and motionless.

In total, there are six degrees of freedom in Earth physics, three rotations of Roll, Pitch, and Yaw and three translations of Surge, Sway, and Heave. To qualify as a Full Motion Racing Simulator, the device must provide motion simulation on all six degrees of freedom (6DOF), as the aviation simulator industry defined many decades ago.

The SimCraft APEX6 GTS ^[1] and Cruden ^[2] are examples of full motion racing simulators implemented in different ways, but both offer motion simulation on all 6 of the degrees of freedom. The Cruden system utilizes a Stewart Platform while SimCraft utilizes a proprietary "Physics based" approach with independent degrees of freedom.

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