MEASURE OF SMOOTHNESS FOR MOTION ACTUATOR TRAVEL

The dynamics of an actuator is an important consideration in the design of a motion cueing system for pilot training. The dynamic properties include the quality of actuator travel, as well as its speed and force capabilities. An actuator with smooth motion supplies higher-fidelity cues than one that provides noticeably grainy motion. Motion smoothness is most often evaluated subjectively. However, an objective measurement of actuator smoothness is advantageous because it improves the consistency and precision of smoothness measurements. This results in increased confidence in system performance. This paper presents a method of measuring smoothness objectively on a dynamic seat motion simulator.