DESC:4. DESCRIPTION
Technical Field of the invention

The invention relates to the field of educational and training means, namely, simulators for training driver mechanics in driving military tracked vehicles. Specifically, the invention relates to a driving simulator that transforms recruits into skilled drivers by phasing the training through increasing levels of complexity.

Background of the invention

BMP-2 is a Soviet-era infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). The BMP-2 is designed to be highly mobile and maneuverable, with a top speed of around 65 km/h on roads and good cross-country performance. It is powered by a 300-horsepower diesel engine and has a hydromechanical transmission with seven forward and one reverse gears. The vehicle is steered using a combination of track brakes and differential steering, which allows it to turn quickly and pivot in place.

Driving a BMP-2 can be challenging, as the vehicle is relatively large and heavy, and requires a skilled driver to operate it safely and effectively. In addition to driving on roads and off-road terrain, BMP-2 drivers must be able to navigate in combat situations, such as crossing obstacles and avoiding enemy fire.

Overall, driving a BMP-2 requires significant training and experience, and is an important skill for any soldier operating this type of vehicle.

Training a crew to drive a BMP-2 in an infantry unit requires a combination of classroom instruction, simulator training, and hands-on experience with the vehicle. Here are some of the key areas that would need to be covered in this training:

Vehicle familiarization: The crew must learn the basic components and systems of the BMP-2, such as the engine, transmission, steering, suspension, and brakes. They must also become familiar with the controls and instruments in the driver's compartment.

Driving techniques: The crew must learn the proper techniques for starting, stopping, accelerating, braking, and steering the vehicle. They must also learn how to shift gears, operate the handbrake, and use the vehicle's differentials to turn.

Navigation: The crew must learn how to navigate using a map, compass, and GPS, and how to recognize different types of terrain and obstacles. They must also learn how to plan a route and navigate in different types of weather conditions.

Off-road driving: The crew must learn how to drive the BMP-2 in off-road terrain, such as mud, sand, and hills. They must also learn how to cross obstacles such as ditches and small streams.

Combat driving: The crew must learn how to drive the BMP-2 in combat situations, such as under fire and in close proximity to enemy forces. They must also learn how to use the vehicle's armor and speed to avoid enemy fire and maneuver into advantageous positions.

Maintenance and repairs: The crew must learn how to perform basic maintenance tasks on the BMP-2, such as checking and changing the oil, replacing filters, and inspecting the vehicle for damage. They must also learn how to identify and troubleshoot common problems with the vehicle's systems.

Overall, training a crew to drive a BMP-2 requires a significant investment of time and resources, and must be ongoing to maintain proficiency and ensure the safety of the crew and the vehicle.

For training for BMP-2, simulators are proposed to be used to provide realistic and cost-effective training for crews, without exposing them to the dangers and expenses associated with live training.

To perform training to individual soldiers to drive the combat vehicle like BMP-2 is a complex exercise. Inventors identified a dire need to develop a near similar training device (simulator) for training the cadets to get trained to use BMP-2.

With the simulator disclosed in the present invention, drivers can be drilled exhaustively in a variety of situations to enhance their skills. All these can be achieved at a comparatively negligible cost by saving fuel and wear and tear of the actual equipment.

Brief Summary of the invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding to the reader. This summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure, and it does not identify key/critical elements of the invention or delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts disclosed herein in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

It is a primary object of the present invention, to improve the training of tank driving and familiarization with controls and operations of the driver's station for raw recruits and commanders.
It is another object of the present invention, to provide individual training controlled by an instructor and generate different types of reports.

It is another object of the present invention, to replicate controls, devices, and indicators of the driver's station.

It is another object of the present invention, to create 3D computer-generated image-based scenarios and realistic sound simulation.

It is another object of the present invention, to train in environmental effects such as day, night, fog, rain, etc.

It is another object of the present invention, to simulate battlefield sounds and motion feel through a 6 degrees of freedom motion platform.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide basic, continuity, and advanced training capsules and identification of faults online.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide a containerized driving simulator system that is easily transportable and comprises an instructor station, driver station, motion platform, sound simulation and audio system, projection system, and input-output station.

The present invention relates to a driving simulation model tank that improves the training of raw recruits and commanders in various functions relating to familiarization of the driving compartment, its controls, indicators, positions, purposes, and their operations of controls in the tank. The invention comprises a containerized trainee driving simulator system that includes an instructor station, a driver station, and a motion platform placed in a modular container for easy transportation. The simulator system also includes 3D computer-generated image-based scenarios and realistic sound simulation, training in environmental effects such as day, night, fog, rain, etc., and simulated battlefield sounds and motion feel through a 6 degrees of freedom motion platform. The invention provides basic, continuity, and advanced training capsules and identification of faults online. The driving simulator system includes an instructor station, driver station, motion platform, sound simulation and audio system, projection system, and input-output station, and provides individual training controlled by an instructor and generates different types of reports. The driver station is equipped with all the controls, devices, meters, and gauges of a tank in original shape, size, and in the right place, mounted on the motion platform for low maintenance and low cost.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be readily apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The invention will be further understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with an appended drawing, in which:

Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic of containerized diver trainee simulator, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 illustrates a block diagram of containerized trainee simulator with major stations according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3A and 3B illustrates a block diagram of instructor station and input output station, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 illustrates a block diagram of sound simulation system, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 5 illustrates a block diagram of projection system, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 6 illustrates a block diagram of a motion control unit with a motion platform, according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the invention

It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a field of educational and training means, namely, simulators for training driver mechanics in driving military combat vehicles.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present inventionthe driving simulator system replicates all the ergonomics of the driver cabin, look and feel of the driver‘s controls, indicators, viewing devices and instrument panels of the ICV BMP-II. The trainee skills are developed through comprehensive preparatory, starting and stopping procedures to basic and advanced driving skills. The special exercises prepare the driver for trailer/rolling stock loading/unloading and floatation maneuvers. Comprehensive 3D CGI visuals are provided for training in varied terrains and visibility. The motion platform is driven by synchronized terrain and vehicle dynamics provides the motion feel, which a trainee experiences when he is in a similar driving environment in real life.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the simulator consists of a driver station populated with controls that a driver may operate. These are sensed and used as inputs to a software model that replicates the motion of the ICV BMP-II, and gives the status of various controls. The sense of motion is provided by synthesized computer generated imagery in combination with an electric motion platform and audio cues. To give the driver a realistic feeling of the ICV BMP-II driving compartment, all the controls, indicators and instruments are replicated for feel and function. The training objectives of the system are basic skills, continuity training and advanced training.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention a raw recruiter is trained in basic BMP-II driving system familiarization. This includes familiarization with the driving compartment and its controls and indicators ‘positions, purpose and their operation. The basic training curriculum is as per the standards drawn by the training doctrine. The instructor can prompt the trainee through audio to identify every control, operate the controls and record for replay. The objective score analysis package records the instructions and the trainee‘s action. Similarly, the instructor can prompt the trainee to operate switches and controls and indicate the corrective actions for different readings of the gauges and indicators. During the basic skill, trainer starts with control and instruments familiarization, pre-start checks of the vehicle and preparation for driving. In drive mode, the trainee is taught to drive on a plain terrain, basic gear movements, negotiating angled curves, reversing etc.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the advanced module provides a set of scenarios to assess the skill level of the trainee for expert ranking. The scenarios typically exercise the driver with varying terrains wherein he has to drive in different visibility (including the time of the day), fog, and smoke, dust conditions. Obstacles such as rivers, canals, ditch-cum-bund scenarios of varying complexity will be presented. The crossing of bridges laid by the bridge laying tanks, loading and unloading of ICVs from TATRA trucks and railway wagons are a few of the challenging scenarios.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the IS houses workstation and multiple displays to facilitate effective monitoring and control by the instructor. The software enables the instructor to set up, initiate, record and terminate a training session. The instructor can replay a training session for after action review of a session. The system is operated with the help of a keyboard and mouse. The intuitive menu system of the user interface is designed for ease of use by the instructor and requires minimum learning time. The system is provided with at least 80/160 GB hard disk space, so that, the training sessions can be recorded and saved for either after action review or for management review about the total training outcome in a particular station or a unit.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the VS is a COTS workstation with high-end graphics adapter that can render texture and shaded 3D scenarios in high resolution. The VS projects the generated images for the driver in the desired resolution. The effective Field of View of the sighting devices is same as the original equipment of the ICV BMP. VS communicates with the IS workstation.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the input output station consists of the electronic interface unit and the communication software present in the IS computer. This unit receives data from the various sensors and transmits it to the VS and IS for appropriate action. The communication is through TCP/IP protocol.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the sounds for simulation are generated through a dedicated multi-channel digital sound card. These sounds are assigned dedicated channels, mixed, played and fed to the headsets and the speaker system situated in the driver‘s compartment. The Instructor can listen these sounds through the speaker system in the IS. Inter communication of the trainee and the instructor is through a dedicated, full duplex channel. Various sounds generated by the ICV-BMP during different phases of operation are faithfully reproduced.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the system generated sounds includes switching on/off of BMS and operation of relay, fuel priming, oil priming, cranking of starter motor, pneumatic starting combined air and battery starting, varying pitch of engine acceleration, deceleration with and without operation of clutch pedal, corresponding to various gear ratios, track movement sound on different types of terrain, gear shifting, horn, release of condensate from oil and moisture separator, activation of water protection mechanism, nuclear biological and chemical (NBC) system, raising and release of anti surge vane plate and air intake tube, sound of air liquid vision cleaning, radio mush, armament firing at various rates,
sound of vehicle in water, free rolling of vehicle from gradients, various warning sounds depicting faults, as in actual bmp-ii, sound of hull impact on grounding, hatches opening and closing.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the projection system provides a virtual environment of the condition under which, training is to be conducted in hatch out position. In hatch out training, Projectors receive computer-generated imagery from the visual station and project the same on the screens in front of the driver cabin. In hatch in training, liquid crystal diode (LCD) displays are used for training through periscopes.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the motion platform provided with ICV BMP-II driving simulator is an electric motion platform. This motion platform provides for translational and rotational motions by which, the trainee experiences effects of vehicle motion. The motion effects due to lateral slippage during slope maneuvering, spot turning etc are simulated. The motion platform (MP) can take load up to 2 tones. The driver‘s station is mounted on to the motion platform (MP), to provide realistic motion effects to the trainee.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the system would be able to provide the benefits of low maintenance and overall a low cost of ownership over the service life of the simulator vis-à-vis a hydraulic motion platform. The IOS and the vehicle dynamics model govern the motion platform (MP) motions. The vehicle dynamics receives the inputs such as the terrain on which ICV is driven, the gear, acceleration etc from the sensors. Such data is normalized and used to provide appropriate motion. The motions experienced by the driver during braking and sudden acceleration are provided through the motion platform (MP).

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the components of the driver cabin are functional and sensed to provide realistic behavior and have the same look and feel as in the original equipment which comprises of a horn button, a driver hatch opening mechanism, a parking brake handle, a gear shift lever, a hand throttle control handle, a throttle pedal, a fuel system cock handle, pre-heater fuel supply cock, an engine clutch pedal, a low range shift lever and a steering handle bar.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention some components are realistically simulated like vehicle roof, driver‘s hatch with cover,, drivers periscopes, instruments panel and associate illuminating dome light, turn indicator switch, engine compartment access door cover, driving light system control unit, dome light, first aid box, handle for removal of condensate from oil and moisture separator, air supply pipe from filter ventilating unit, compressed air cylinder, compressed air cylinder valve, driver seat and its adjustments, combination pneumatic control cock handle, pressure gauge of compressed air system, light panel release hand brake, air and liquid cleaning tank, power supply unit of device, bags for headsets and gyro direction indicator.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the object library is optimized hierarchical structure of objects and terrains, including the dynamic behavioral limitations of moving objects. The objects are accurate in size, shape, color & texture. A brief list of the objects are ditch-cum-bund, bridges, obstacles whose height is lesser/more than the ground clearance of vehicle, mine-fields with special effects of explosion, canals and nullahs, gradients, natural boulders and manmade tank obstacles, rural and urban buildings.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the terrain list of the object library is as follows. The list is not exhaustive and not limited to those mentioned below, however user can optionally request for change in the terrains before actual delivery of the system. The system provides the facility so that user can add the terrains and objects of his choice into the system like desert terrain with flats and undulations, plains with vegetation and flat farmlands, plains with undulation and vegetation, urban terrains, rural terrains, snow covered areas, terrains with rivers and canals.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the diagnostic module helps in diagnosing any system errors or problems with the simulator equipment. This has built in test programs, which perform a system health check whenever the system is powered on. The instructor can run this module independent of the program to see whether all the workstation hardware and the sensor electronics are working effectively. The system indicates board level errors, so that corrective actions can be taken.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention the steps for starting the simulator involves a procedure which includes switch on the single phase mains, switch on the ups of the systems, switch on IO controls, switch on the 3-phase mains, switch on the main circuit breaker (MCB) on 3-phase distribution box, switch on the starter on the 3-phase distribution box, switch on the MCB on the motion control unit (MCU), start the ?is.exe?, press the homing button, from the popup window, press ?yes? button, if homing is required otherwise, press no?, start the VS station and starting the exercise.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said visual station is a COTS workstation with high-end graphics adapter that can render texture and shaded 3D scenarios in high resolution. The VS projects the generated images for the driver in the desired resolution. The effective Field of View of the sighting devices is same as the original equipment of the ICV BMP. VS communicates with the IS workstation.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said sounds for simulation are generated through a dedicated multi-channel digital sound card. These sounds are assigned dedicated channels, mixed, played and fed to the headsets and the speaker system situated in the driver‘s compartment. The instructor can listen these sounds through the speaker system in the IS. Inter communication of the trainee and the instructor is through a dedicated, full duplex channel. Various sounds generated by the ICV-BMP during different phases of operation are faithfully reproduced.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said projection system provides a virtual environment of the condition under which, training is to be conducted in hatch out position. In hatch out training, Projectors receive computer-generated imagery from the visual station and project the same on the screens in front of the driver cabin. In hatch in training, liquid crystal diode (LCD) displays are used for training through periscopes.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said simulator is an electric motion platform. The motion platform provides for translational and rotational motions by which, the trainee experiences effects of vehicle motion. The motion effects due to lateral slippage during slope maneuvering, spot turning etc. are simulated. The MP can take load up to 2 tones. The driver‘s cabin is mounted on to the MP, to provide realistic motion effects to the trainee.

in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said driver‘s station realistically replicates all the internal controls, gauges and indicators. The instrument panel in its original form is simulated and the dynamic behavior of the gauges, indicators is sustained. The right from getting into the cabin, adjusting the seat and performing actions related to driving are similar to the actual simulator. Trainee will have same look and feel as in the original equipment.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said drivers station consists horn button, driver hatch opening mechanism, parking brake handle, gear shift lever, hand throttle control handle, throttle pedal, fuel system cock handle, pre-heater fuel supply cock, engine clutch pedal, low range shift lever, steering handlebar.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, trainee skills are developed through comprehensive preparatory, starting and stopping procedures to basic and advanced driving skills. Wherein special exercises prepare the driver for trailer/rolling stock loading/unloading and floatation maneuvers. Comprehensive 3D CGI visuals are provided for training in varied terrains and visibility.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the simulator consists of a driver station populated with controls that a driver may operate. These are sensed and used as inputs to a software model that replicates the motion of the ICV BMP-II, and gives the status of various controls.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the sense of motion is provided by synthesized computer-generated imagery in combination with an electric motion platform and audio cues. To give the driver a realistic feeling of the ICV BMP-II driving compartment, all the controls, indicators and instruments are replicated for feel and function. The training objectives of the system are basic skills, continuity training and advanced training.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the object library is optimized hierarchical structure of objects and terrains, including the dynamic behavioral limitations of moving objects. The objects are accurate in size, shape, color & texture. Those objects are: ditch-cum-bund, bridges, obstacles whose height is lesser/more than the ground clearance of vehicle, mine-fields with special effects of explosion, canals and nullahs, gradients, natural boulders and manmade tank obstacles, rural and urban buildings.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the Terrain list of the object library is as follows. The list is not exhaustive and not limited to those mentioned below, however user can optionally request for change in the terrains before actual delivery of the system. The system provides the facility so that user can add the terrains and objects of his choice into the system. Those objects are, desert terrain with flats and undulations, plains with vegetation and flat farmlands, plains with undulation and vegetation, urban terrains, rural terrains, snow covered areas, terrains with rivers and canals.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, Diagnostic module helps in diagnosing any system errors or problems with the simulator equipment. This has built in test programs, which perform a system health check whenever the system is powered on. The instructor can run this module independent of the program to see whether all the workstation hardware and the sensor electronics are working effectively. The system indicates board level errors, so that corrective actions can be taken.

Referring to the figures.Fig. 1 (100) illustrates a schematic diagram of the driving simulator system (100) is a state-of-the-art system that transforms recruits into skilled drivers by phasing the training through increasing levels of complexity. The system (100) provides the ergonomics of the driver station, look and feel of the driver’s controls, indicators, viewing device and instrument panelsof tank. The components comprising of a projector unit (1) to a projector stand (2), a display screen (3) coupled to said projector unit (1), an instructor console (4) comprising of an instructor input output unit and a plurality of visual stations. The system (100) also comprises of a motion control unit (5) conjugated with motion platform (6).

The said motion platform (6) comprises of a bottom mounting clamp (7) and top mounting clamp (8). An instructor station with 3 monitors (9) is assembled on top of a driver station (10) wherein trainees perform simulation training. The system (100) comprises of a plurality of mounting stands (11) for its operational requirements.

Figure 2 (200) illustrates a block diagram disclosing motion platform (21) which comprising six types of motion like pitch, roll, surge, heave, sway and yaw with a plurality of actuator units. The Driver station (22) comprises vision devices, projector and LCD units, driver cabin controls like steering mechanism, indicators, meters etc. wherein the master control unit (23) to control entire system. The system comprises a motion control unit (24) to control moments of motion platform. The Visual station (25) to provide plurality of visuals for training.

The instructor console (26) comprises of instructor station display, visual station display units, run by instructor station software module and input output station software. The system also disclosed a sound simulation system (27) to generate sounds with the help of audio communication system (28) to obtain sounds in respect with visuals obtaining for training.

Fig 3A and Fig 3B (300) illustrates a block diagram disclosing working of said system (100) comprising steps of an instructor station computer (31), a visual station (32), an input output unit (33), a plurality of instructor station monitors (34) coupled with a motion control unit (35) and a master control unit (36).

Fig 4 (400) illustrates a block diagram disclosing audio communication systems present in the invention wherein the sound tracks were generated from a sound mixer (41) to form a Creative audio (42) from head gear mike (43) and from instructor mike (44) the system gives information to a speaker unit (45) which is a sound unit and then to headgear speakers (46) and finally to speakers (47).

Fig 5 (500) illustrates a block diagram disclosing projection system working which comprises of A Visual station computer (51), an Instructor station computer (52),a Matrox card (53), plurality of KVM switches (54) and final output sends to VM 1 (video module) (55), VM 2 (video module) (56), VM 3 (video module) (57) to L1, L2, L3- LCD, P1,P2,P3- Projector, I1,I2,I3- Instructor station units respectively.

Fig 6 illustrates a block diagram of said motion control unit (MCU) wherein how the communication inside the motion control unit will be carried out the system (1000 comprising of an IOS PC (Input output station pc) (61), a Controller 1 (62) unit, a Controller 2 (63) unit, a Yaw drive (64), a Sway drive (65), a Surge drive (66),a Roll drive (67), Pitch drive (68),a heave drive to perform motion feels by controlling respective actuator assemblies. The system (100) also comprises a transformer assembly (69) to control input and output units.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the simulator system comprises of a motion platform, driven by synchronized terrain and vehicle dynamics, offers the motion feel the trainee is likely to experience when he is in a similar driving condition in real life on an original tank. The simulator is containerized to make it a plug-and-play type and environment-friendly. It can run on power from 3-phase mains or 30kVA generator. The simulator is rugged, and air-conditioned to be ready for training day in and out and almost all around the year.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said motion platform also comprises of a 6 degree of freedom electric motion platform to provide realistic motion feel during driving through rotation and translation motion controls.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the said simulator also comprises a sound simulation, audio communication and projection systems. Wherein the said three displays show an episcope and map views, IS and IO views, and driver and external view.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, trainee skills are developed through comprehensive preparatory, starting and stopping procedures to basic and advanced driving skills. Special exercises prepare the driver for trailer/rolling stock loading / unloading and floatation maneuvers. The comprehensive 3D computer generated images (CGI) visuals are provided for training in varied terrain, variable lighting and visibility conditions. A motion platform driven by synchronized terrain and vehicle dynamics cues provides the motion feel that the trainee may expect when he is in a similar driving environment in real life.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said basic training curriculum is as per the standards drawn by the training doctrine. The instructor can prompt the trainee through audio to identify every control, operate the controls and record for replay. The objective score analysis package records the instructions and the trainee‘s action. Similarly, the instructor can prompt the trainee to operate switches and controls and indicate the corrective actions for different readings of the gauges and indicators.
In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said continuity training, wherein trainee is made to drive through various scenarios and environmental conditions that are set by the instructor. Based on the results of each session the instructor can increase or decrease the complexity of the scenarios. operation of intercommunication equipment is also taught.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said advanced training provides a set of scenarios to assess the skill level of the trainee for expert ranking. The scenarios typically exercise the driver with varying terrains wherein he has to drive in different visibility (including the time of the day), fog, and smoke and dust conditions.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the said advanced training provides obstacles such as rivers, canals, ditch-cum-bund scenarios of varying complexity will be presented. Crossing of bridges laid by the bridge laying tanks, loading and unloading of ICVs from TATRA trucks and railway wagons are a few of the challenging scenarios.

The features and functions described above, as well as alternatives, may be combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements may be made by those skilled in the art, each of which is also intended to be encompassed by the disclosed embodiments.

The described exemplary embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. Variations in the arrangement of the structure are possible falling within the scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
,CLAIMS:5. CLAIMS
I/We Claim
1. A containerized driving simulator system (100) comprising:
a driver station (22) with a driver compartment mock-up, adjustable driver seat, all operational driver controls, indicators, instruments and gauges, and an intercom unit;
a motion platform (6) with a bottom mounting clamp (7) and top mounting clamp (8), a projector unit (1) to a projector stand (2), a display screen (3) coupled to said projector unit (1), an instructor console (4) comprising an instructor input-output unit and a plurality of visual stations;
a motion control unit (5) conjugated with said motion platform (6), and an instructor station with 3 monitors (9) assembled on top of said driver station (22) for trainees to perform simulation training;
wherein the motion platform (6) is driven by synchronized terrain and vehicle dynamics cues that provide the motion feel that the trainee may expect when in a similar driving environment in real life, and the comprehensive 3D computer-generated image (CGI) visuals are provided for training in varied terrain, variable lighting, and visibility conditions;
Characterized in that
the said system (100) further comprises a plurality of mounting stands (11) for its operational requirements, wherein said motion platform (6) consists of a servo motor with an endurance of 8 continuous hours and 12-16 hours operation a day and can take a load up to 2 tones;
the said driving simulator training is divided into basic skills training, advanced training, continuity and skill enhancement training to prepare the driver for trailer/rolling stock loading/unloading and floatation maneuvers; and
the said computer calculates the errors made by trainees during drills and exercises, and a performance evaluation report can be generated at the end of the firing session to provide realistic and cost-effective training for BMP-2 drivers without exposing them to the dangers and expenses associated with live training.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motion platform (6) consists of a servo motor with an endurance of 8 continuous hours and can operate for 12-16 hours a day with a 440V, 20 KW, 50 Hz 3 phase power supply.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the motion platform (6) simulates motion effects due to lateral slippage during slope maneuvering and spot turning, with a load capacity of up to 2 tons.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the exercises prepare the driver for trailer/rolling stock loading/unloading and floatation maneuvers. Comprehensive 3D CGI visuals are provided for training in varied terrains and visibility, with realistic sound simulation and environmental effects such as day, night, fog, rain, etc.

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the computer calculates the errors made by trainees during drills and exercises, and a performance evaluation report can be generated at the end of the session. The training is realistic and as close to actual as possible.

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the trainee driver station is mounted on the motion platform (6) for low maintenance cost.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the driving simulator training is divided into basic skills training, advanced training, continuity, and skill enhancement training.

8. A method of training soldiers to operate a BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle, comprising providing a containerized driving simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the method comprises steps of:
instructing the soldiers on vehicle familiarization, driving techniques, navigation, off-road driving, combat driving, and maintenance and repairs;
using the simulator to provide realistic and cost-effective training for the soldiers in a variety of driving situations, including varied terrains, lighting and visibility conditions, and combat scenarios;
using the motion platform (6) driven by synchronized terrain and vehicle dynamics cues to provide the soldiers with a realistic motion feel that they may expect when driving a BMP-2 in a similar environment in real life;
calculating the errors made by the soldiers during drills and exercises using the computer system and generating performance evaluation reports at the end of each session to improve their driving skills;
dividing the training into basic skills training, advanced training, continuity, and skill enhancement training to ensure ongoing proficiency and safety of the soldiers and the vehicle.

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE
Dated this24th day of March 2023

Signature

(Mr. Srinivas Maddipati)
IN/PA 3124-In house Patent Agent
(For., Zen Technologies Limited)