PORTABLE IN-THE-VEHICLE ROAD SIMULATOR

摘要

The portable simulation system is a computer-based driving simulator, which uses an actual vehicle as an input device, and a portable display to present a Virtual Driving Environment (VDE) to the driver. Vehicle's steered wheels are placed atop of the turntables permitting free operation of the steering wheel. The vehicle remains immobile while its engine and power steering can be turned off during simulation. External non-invasive sensors can be placed under the gas and brake pedals, permitting any vehicle to be used in the simulator, including the driver's own vehicle. A digital interface to the vehicle's systems, like OBD II, can be used to increase the fidelity of the simulation. A portable computer used for driving simulation and VDE presentation provides a low cost simulation option. A simple configuration of the portable simulator does not require an external power source and can be set-up and operated at any parking space.

主权项

1. A driving simulation system for use with an actual stationary vehicle comprising:
at least two drive-on ramps; wherein each ramp comprises a rotating steering sensor-actuator capable of engaging a wheel of the vehicle, following the wheel's steering motion, and providing feedback to a user; a brake pedal sensor-actuator capable of providing anti-lock brake feedback to the user; a gas pedal sensor; a head-mounted display comprising a head-tracking position sensor and headphones; a computer connected with the steering sensor-actuator, the brake pedal sensor-actuator, the gas pedal sensor, and the head-mounted display; and Turn plates for wheel alignment as means for relieving friction; wherein the computer comprises software simulating a video and audio driving environment via the head-mounted display and simulating vehicle-road interaction via the steering sensor-actuator and via the brake pedal sensor-actuator.