This Full-Motion Flight Sim Was Built Specifically for RC Planes

Training pilots isn’t an easy, as the consequences that can occur as a result of typical learning mistakes have the potential to be catastrophic. Flight simulators help to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world experience, with full-motion flight simulators providing an even more realistic experience. Michael Rechtin wanted to use similar technology to enhance RC plane piloting immersion and he built this crazy motorized chair to make it happen.

FPV (first-person view) goggles are already very popular among drone and RC plane enthusiasts, as they’re a relatively affordable way to hop in the tiny pilot’s seat. A typical arrangement consists of a very small camera mounted on the aircraft and paired with a video transmitter. That sends a video signal to a ground station receiver, which the pilot can then view on FPV goggles similar in style to VR headsets — minus most of the hardware besides the displays.

Rechtin took that concept a massive step forward with the addition of a motorized chair similar to what you’d find in a full-motion flight simulator. That moves to match the aircraft and when paired with the FPV goggles, it creates a truly immersive experience. Some test users reported genuine fear, as they felt as though they were really inside the RC airplane.

The key to this whole project was the motorized chair and it needed to handle the weight of the pilot. Rechtin constructed it from CNC-cut plywood, with the base in a very strong pyramid shape. Huge NEMA 23 stepper motors (with closed-loop feedback) actuate the chair through integrated 10:1 gearboxes. There are two motors, allowing for pitch and roll. There isn’t any yaw movement, but that wouldn’t have been very noticeable anyway. CNC-cut aluminum servo horns connect the motor output to the chair, which rests atop the pyramid on a universal joint.

Moving the chair to match the aircraft was relatively simple, as modern flight controllers are happy to transmit flight telemetry data. Rechtin set this up for use with an Ardupilot controller. A laptop receives the telemetry data and then sends movement commands over serial to the microcontroller that oversees the motors.

Flight controls follow a similar path, but in reverse. A 3D-printed joystick and throttle attach to armrests next to the chair. They contain potentiometers monitored by another microcontroller development board, which can be transmitted as flight commands to the aircraft. A buddy system also lets another person take over control with a standard RC transmitter if it seems like disaster is looming.

Rechtin took this to Flight Fest, where it seems to have been a big hit. People clearly loved the feeling of immersion, which tricked their brains into thinking they were really inside the aircraft.