A simulator cabin that moves +/-45 in all directions occupies a very large theoretical 'spatial envelope'. But safety regulations require the building to be sized according to its maximum possibilities. Of course, the 6 DOF will be limited to 7 degrees for its 'rail simulation' use. Whereas a 6 DOF offers +/-45 degrees in all directions: this is essential to reproduce the movements of an aircraft or to offer thrills to ride customers. Above all, it is designed for railway simulation, where the amplitude of motion never exceeds 7 degrees. Volume : 5 DOF has the advantageĪ 5-axis motion system is about 70 cm high, compared to 1m20 for a 6 DOF system. But don't jump to conclusions: ask yourself where you will install your simulator. Despite their less sophisticated electronics, their mechanics are more complex and they cost almost twice as much. Used for aircraft simulators, fun parks, fairs etc., the 6 DOF are mass-produced and available on catalogue.Ĭonversely, the 5 DOF are only used for railway simulation and are manufactured on demand. The movements are decoupled, not constrained by mechanics: it is possible to more faithfully represent real driving situations, in particular the sensations of acceleration and braking which are critical for a driver. However, the 5 DOF consists of a tripod placed on a cradle that moves back and forth and left to right. An experienced driver will immediately notice the difference with reality. The desired movement of some cylinders is then prevented by other cylinders that have already reached the end of their stroke. On the other hand, it reaches its limits on very marked movements, for example emergency braking in a tight curve on a slope. This configuration is appropriate for movements of low or medium intensity. It should be specified that it is made up of a hexapod of 6 cylinders, which are attached to each other: for each movement, they are all put to use. The 6 DOF motion system is not the most realistic because of its design. This is the debate we wanted to shed light on 5 criteria. Pragmatists believe that a 5 DOF is sufficient and offers other advantages. Realism advocates plead for the 6 DOF, which is more comprehensive and therefore supposedly more faithful to driving conditions. However, this minor difference is the source of real debate. They move the cab back and forth, left or right, up or down, and tilt it to the side (roll) or back and forth (pitch). For the rest, both systems have the same possibilities. What is the difference between a 5 DOF and a 6 DOF, from the user's point of view? Not much, just one degree of freedom: the 6 DOF can turn a cab to the right and left. 5 DOF is more realistic, less bulky and not necessarily more expensive. No, the 6 DOF motion system is not necessarily the best choice for a full-scope train, subway and tramway simulator.

6 dof simulation