DESC:4. DESCRIPTION

Technical Field of the Invention

Training individual soldiers to drive military combat vehicles is a complex exercise. With this simulator, 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.

Background of the Invention

The T-72 battle tank has been used in conflicts around the world. It features a 125mm smoothbore gun that can fire different ammunition types, as well as a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and a 12.7mm anti-aircraft machine gun. The tank has a relatively low profile, making it hard to spot and target, and its advanced armor protection is also a key feature.

Simulators are available fortraining gunners on the T-72 tank. However, there is a need for a domestically manufactured training simulator for driving the T-72 tank in India to enable cost-effective training and customization of training programs for specific operational requirements.

Prior art tank simulators like Steel Beasts Pro, Virtual Battle Space (VBS), and Arma 3 are not as realistic and immersive as required to prepare drivers for actual operations. As a result, the inventors designed the T-72 tank driving simulator to provide a realistic and immersive training environment for drivers. It replicates the controls and layout of the T-90 tank driver's compartment, features high-quality 3D graphics, customizable scenarios, an after-action review system, and multi-crew training. The simulator is networked with other simulators to allow for multi-crew and multi-vehicle training exercises, improving crew coordination and teamwork skills.

Some prior art patents for T-72 simulators include US Patent 5,820,246, US Patent 6,162,053, US Patent 7,271,926, US Patent 7,647,948, and US Patent 8,469,733. The inventors of the present invention identified a need for accurately replicating the T-72 tank's gunnery system, including its advanced targeting systems and ammunition types, and simulating the tank's mobility and terrain capabilities, particularly its ability to navigate challenging terrain types.

The prior art systems fail to provide a realistic and immersive training environment to prepare drivers for actual operations.

Inventors identified the need that the simulator ought to replicate the driving conditions of an original tank so that to give the trainees the needed intuitive interest. The T-72 tank driving simulator designed by inventors aims to provide a realistic and immersive training environment to prepare drivers for actual operations.

Brief description 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 an object of the present invention, to provide a realistic and immersive training environment for drivers of T-72 tanks.

It is another object of the present invention, to replicate the controls and layout of the T-72 tank driver's compartment to familiarize trainees with the vehicle's operation.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide a motion platform assembly capable of generating realistic feels in 6 degrees of freedom like pitch, roll, surge, heave, sway, and yaw.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide an instructor station with 3 display units for monitoring trainee operations and assigning exercises.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide a simulator system that is transportable, power-efficient, plug-and-play type, and environmental-friendly.

It is another object of the present invention, to simulate the T-72 tank's gunnery system, including its advanced targeting systems and ammunition types, and its mobility and terrain capabilities.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide customizable scenarios and training exercises to simulate various terrains, weather conditions, and operational situations to challenge and prepare trainees for real-world missions.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide an after-action review system for instructors to review trainees' performance during the simulation, identifying areas for improvement and providing constructive feedback.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide a multi-crew training capability that can be networked with other simulators, allowing for crew coordination and teamwork skills enhancement.

It is another object of the present invention, to provide a training simulator that is cost-effective and domestically manufactured, contributing to the development of domestic defense technologies and manufacturing capabilities in India.

The present invention is a driver simulator system for the T-72 tank, which is housed inside a container assembly. The system includes a driver station, a motion platform assembly, an instructor station, an instructor console rack, a motion control unit, a ladder weldment, an air conditioner arrangement, and a station inlet assembly. The driver station is designed to replicate the controls and feel of driving the T-72 tank, and is located on the motion platform assembly, which can generate realistic movements in six degrees of freedom. The instructor station features three display units and an instructor console rack for assigning exercises and monitoring trainee drivers.

The system also includes components such as a visual station, input/output units, a sound simulation system, and a projection system. A block diagram is provided to show the system configuration, including hardware components like the input/output control unit and software components like the instructor station module, visual station module, input/output station module, and diagnostic and calibration module.

The input/output control unit contains relays, analog PCBs, stepper motor drives, and other components, and is controlled through software modules like the input/output station software, instructor station software, and visual station software. The system also includes a classroom training kit with a projector, wall-mounted screen, and PA speaker, and the instructor can select exercises and views to be presented to trainees outside the container. The instructor station software enables the instructor to set up, initiate, record, and end a training session, and includes an after-action review feature.

The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in several ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for description and should not be regarded as limiting.
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 discloses the perspective view of the said driving simulation system in accordance with the present invention wherein the said process is to be carried out in a procedure as shown indicatively inside the container assembly.

FIG 2 illustrates the perspective view of said driver station in accordance with the present invention.

FIG 3 illustrates inside view of said driver station (1) disclosing various controls in accordance with the present invention.

FIG 4 illustrates a block diagram disclosing components in accordance with 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.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a containerized driving simulator system is disclosed. The system comprises a driver station replicating the controls of a T-72 driver tank assembly located on a motion platform assembly capable of generating 6 degrees of freedom. The system comprises a gear selector interlock mechanism, a front fuel tank, a driver footrest, a front brake pedal, an accelerator pedal, right and left steering levers, a driver seat, a steering lever right assembly, a shutter control handle, a left steering lever assembly, a clutch pedal, a brake locking handle, a fuel distribution unit, an emergency first aid box, a fire extinguisher, and a cabin weldment.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system comprises an instructor station with three display units, an instructor console rack, and a motion control unit. The system also comprisesa ladder weldment for accessing the driver station. The system further comprisesan air conditioner arrangement and a station inlet assembly.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system comprisesa plurality of episcope and periscope units, a front brake pedalgenerating brake effect with the help of a brake sending unit, and an accelerator pedalgenerating acceleration effects.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system comprisesa gear selector interlock mechanism applying gears for the simulator, an input output control unit communicating with the instructor station, instructor console rack assembly, and motion control unit to manage events during exercises.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system characterized in that,the instructor station console rack assembly includes two battery cabinets, a VGA multiplier, a KVM switch rack, an audio amplifier rack, a printer, and two 3 KVA uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system characterized in that,the motion control unit comprises a plurality of actuator units for performing six degrees of motion within the motion platform assembly.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system characterized in that,the motion platform assembly is capable of generating realistic motion effects in six degrees of freedom, including pitch, roll, surge, heave, sway, and yaw, to provide trainees with a realistic simulation of operating a T-72 tank.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system characterized in that,the input output control unit comprises two relays, analog PCBs 1 and 2, stepper motor drive, input expander 1 and 2, timer and relays, power distribution and gear PCBs, meters control PCB, output expander, and input expander 3.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system characterized in that,the input-output station software comprises an electronic interface unit and communication software present in the instructor station computer to receive data from various sensors and transmit them to visual station and instructor station CPUs for appropriate action.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the driver station is equipped with all the controls, devices, meters, and gauges of a tank in the original shape, size, and in the right place.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the six degrees of freedom are pitch, roll, surge, sway, yaw, and heave.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the driver station is mounted on the motion platform for low maintenance and cost.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the instructor station software enables the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor and control the training sessions effectively.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein sound simulation faithfully reproduces various sounds generated by a tank during different phases of operation.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the container assembly (9) is transportable, power efficient, plug-and-play type and environmentally friendly.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, wherein the instructor station software enables the instructor to replay a training session for After Action Review (AAR) and provides an intuitive menu system designed for ease of use by the instructor with minimum learning time.

Figure 1 (100) depicts a driver simulator system embedded inside a container assembly (9), featuring a driver station (1), a motion platform assembly (2), an instructor station (3), an instructor console rack (4), a motion control unit (5), a ladder weldment (6), an air conditioner arrangement (7), and a station inlet assembly (8). The driver station replicates the controls of a T-72 driver tank, located on the motion platform assembly capable of generating realistic motion in 6 degrees of freedom. The instructor station includes three display units, an instructor console rack, and a motion control unit for monitoring and assigning exercises to trainees.

The instructor console rack includes several units for operational requirements, and the motion control unit controls a plurality of actuator units performing 6 degrees of motion within the motion platform assembly. The simulator is installed inside a transportable, power-efficient, plug-and-play container assembly, and the instructor station features an instructor operation console with three displays, a joystick for driver control and guidance, and a sound simulation system.

Figure 2 (200) displays a perspective view of the driver station (1), featuring an input-output control unit (21), a stopper unit (22), driver episcope units for right and left (23, 24), a driver day periscope (25), front, rear, side, and top weldments (26-29), and a ladder weldment (6). The input-output control unit communicates with the instructor station, console rack assembly, and motion control unit to manage exercise events.

Figure 3 shows an inside view of the driver station (1), with controls including a gear selector interlock mechanism (31), front fuel tank (32), driver footrest (33), front brake pedal (34), accelerator pedal (35), right and left steering levers (36, 43), driver seat (37), steering lever assembly (38), and shutter control handle (39). The system also includes a clutch pedal (41), brake locking handle (42), fuel distribution unit (44), emergency first aid box (45), fire extinguisher (46), and cabin weldment (47), replicating the controls of an original T-72 driver tank.

Figure 4 (400) presents a block diagram of the system configuration, featuring hardware components such as an instructor station, console rack, and input-output station, as well as software components including instructor station module, visual station module, input-output station module, and diagnostic and calibration module. The diagram also includes driver station components, such as a motion system with 6 degrees of motion controlled by a motion control unit assembly, as well as sound simulation, audio communication, and projection systems.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of using the containerized driving simulator system (100) is disclosed. The methid using the system comprises the steps of:
a. entering the trainee into the driver station (1) using the ladder weldment (6);
b. replicating the driving unit of T-72 driver tank assembly with the controls in the driver station (1) to provide realistic feel for trainees operating the simulator system (100);
c. generating realistic feels in 6 degrees of freedom (6 DOF) like pitch, roll, surge, heave, sway, and yaw within the motion platform assembly (2) located beneath the driver station (1);
d. assigning a plurality of exercises from the instructor station (3) comprising of 3 display units and monitoring the exercises performed by trainee drivers with the help of instructor console rack (4) and motion control unit (5) located inside container assembly (9);
e. simulating the feel of controlling the simulator system (100) by using the front brake pedal (34) and accelerator pedal (35) to generate brake and acceleration effects respectively, while the plurality of steering levers generate steering feels to the left side and right side respectively;
f. applying gears using the gear selector interlock mechanism (31) for the simulator as in the original tank;
g. operating the simulator towards the left side with the left steering lever assembly (40); and
h. performing training exercises with the emergency first aid box (45), fire extinguisher (46) and the cabin weldment (47) present in the simulator system (100).

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a method of manufacturing a containerized driving simulator system (100), comprising the steps of:
a) fabricating a container assembly (9) to house the driving simulator system (100);
b) fabricating a driver station (1) with all the controls replicating the driving unit of a T-72 driver tank assembly;
c) fabricating a motion platform assembly (2) capable of generating realistic movements in 6 degrees of freedom (DOF);
d) fabricating an instructor station (3) with 3 display units, an instructor console rack (4), and a motion control unit (5);
e) replicating all the controls in the original T-72 driver tank in the present simulator system (100) to generate realistic feels to perform training as like in original war tank;
f) installing the driver station (1) on the motion platform assembly (2) for generating realistic movements in 6 DOF;
g) installing the instructor station (3) inside the container assembly (9);
h) installing the instructor console rack (4) and the motion control unit (5) inside the container assembly (9);
i) installing a ladder weldment (6) for facilitating a trainee to enter into driver station (1);
j) installing an air conditioner arrangement (7) and a station inlet assembly (8) inside the container assembly (9);
k) connecting all the controls of the driver station (1) to the motion control unit (5) through an input output control unit (21);
l) installing a plurality of episcope and periscope units to the simulator system (100) for realistic views; and
m) programming a plurality of software modules to operate the simulator system (100).

In accordance with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the driving simulator system allows for comprehensive training of individual soldiers in the operation of military combat vehicles. The simulator provides realistic motion feel through a 6 DOF motion platform, replicated controls, devices, and indicators of the driver station, simulated battlefield conditions, 3D CGI-based scenarios, realistic sound simulation, a wide variety of Indian sub-continent terrains, environmental effects, audio communication system for instructor and trainee, basic and advanced training capsules, identification of faults online, different types of reports, option to customize report, turnkey solution, and comprehensive support. By using this simulator, drivers can be trained exhaustively in a variety of situations, which enhances their skills while also saving the fuel and wear and tear of actual equipment at a negligible cost.

The driving simulation system comprises of an instructor station, a driver station, and a motion system preassembled in a container assembly. The system can be operated with the power supply of 3 phase, 415 volts, 30 kva, 50 hz ac and comprises of major and sub-assembly components embedded in the container assembly, including power, stabilization, and environmental systems, hardware and software components, driver station, motion system, sound simulation, audio communication and projection systems. The container assembly includes a dome assembly, outside ladder, cabin access ladder, fire extinguisher, hygrometer, ecus, container power cable, whiteboard, tool kit, florescent lights, emergency lamp, ups, power distribution box, servo stabilizer, and wall-mount rotating fan.

The instructor station comprises of three monitors, a wired desktop set, joystick, switching interface, emergency stopper, power extension spike, and instructor chair. The instructor console rack comprises of 3 CPUs, printer, batteries, electronics rack 1, power supplies and master PCB and Ethernet switch, electronics rack 2, VGA multipliers and KVM switch for projector, electronics rack 3, audio amplifier. The input output control unit comprises of four relays, two timers, analog 1, analog 2, stepper motor drive, input expander 1, input expander 2, input expander 3, output expander, meters control PCB, gears PCB, 12V power distribution PCB, and CB tripping control PCB.

The driving station comprises of driver station atop motion platform, ladder and stairs, view of driver station from the rear, driver day periscope, driver IR periscope, master fuse box, emergency circuit breakers, slave starting socket, battery master switch (BMS), driver headgear socket, inspection lamp socket, dome light, remote control unit (light panel), driver hatch with locking handle, gear selector and interlock mechanism, range selector interlock and side indicator, interior light, roentgen meter (CBR), detection unit (CBR), decontamination bottle, blower control box, relay box, air bottle, air pressure gauge, hydro pneumatic cleaning (HPC) device, water tank, and dose meter, accelerator, brake and clutch, steering lever, driver circuit breakers, air bleed valve, hand priming pump, fuel distribution cock, fuel drain plug, coarse fuel filter, centrifugal fuel pump, and front fuel tank. The motion system comprises of a motion platform and motion control unit, which enables six degrees of freedom.

The motion input output unit comprises of a power extension spike, PMAC power supply, 24V DC power supply, Ethernet to serial converter PCB, 17A drive (pitch, surge and heave), 8.5A drive (roll, sway and yaw), MCB, and bus bars with RGB distribution. The instructor station comprises of sound simulation, audio communication, and projection systems. The equipment can withstand normal transportation shocks.

While various embodiments have been described above, they have been presented by way of example and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope. In fact, after reading the above description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement alternative embodiments. Thus, the present embodiments should not be limited by any of the above described embodiments.

In addition, any figures which highlight the functionality and advantages are presented for example purposes only. The disclosed methodology and system are each sufficiently flexible and configurable such that they may be utilized in ways other than that shown.

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 (1) replicating the controls of a T-72 driver tank assembly, located on a motion platform assembly (2) capable of generating 6 degrees of freedom, and including a gear selector interlock mechanism (31), a front fuel tank (32), a driver footrest (33), a front brake pedal (34), an accelerator pedal (35), right and left steering levers (36, 43), a driver seat (37), a steering lever right assembly (38), a shutter control handle (39), a left steering lever assembly (40), a clutch pedal (41), a brake locking handle (42), a fuel distribution unit (44), an emergency first aid box (45), a fire extinguisher (46), and a cabin weldment (47);
an instructor station (3) with three display units, an instructor console rack (4), and a motion control unit (5);
a ladder weldment (6) for accessing the driver station;
an air conditioner arrangement (7) and a station inlet assembly (8);
a plurality of episcope and periscope units;
a front brake pedal (34) generating brake effect with the help of a brake sending unit (49);
an accelerator pedal (35) generating acceleration effects;
a gear selector interlock mechanism (31) applying gears for the simulator;
an input output control unit (21) communicating with the instructor station, instructor console rack assembly, and motion control unit to manage events during exercises;
Characterized in that,
the instructor station console rack assembly includes two battery cabinets, a VGA multiplier, a KVM switch rack, an audio amplifier rack, a printer, and two 3 KVA uninterruptible power supplies (UPS);
the motion control unit (5) comprises a plurality of actuator units for performing six degrees of motion within the motion platform assembly (2);
the motion platform assembly (2) is capable of generating realistic motion effects in six degrees of freedom, including pitch, roll, surge, heave, sway, and yaw, to provide trainees with a realistic simulation of operating a T-72 tank;
the input output control unit (21) comprises two relays, analog PCBs 1 and 2, stepper motor drive, input expander 1 and 2, timer and relays, power distribution and gear PCBs, meters control PCB, output expander, and input expander 3; and
the input-output station software comprises an electronic interface unit and communication software present in the instructor station computer to receive data from various sensors and transmit them to visual station and instructor station CPUs for appropriate action.

2. The simulator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the driver station is equipped with all the controls, devices, meters, and gauges of a tank in the original shape, size, and in the right place.

3. The simulator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the six degrees of freedom are pitch, roll, surge, sway, yaw, and heave.

4. The simulator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the driver station is mounted on the motion platform for low maintenance and cost.

5. The simulator system (100) of claim 1, wherein the instructor station software enables the instructor to set up, initiate, record, monitor and control the training sessions effectively.

6. The simulator system (100) of claim 1, wherein sound simulation faithfully reproduces various sounds generated by a tank during different phases of operation.

7. The simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container assembly (9) is transportable, power efficient, plug-and-play type and environmentally friendly.

8. The simulator system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the instructor station software enables the instructor to replay a training session for After Action Review (AAR) and provides an intuitive menu system designed for ease of use by the instructor with minimum learning time.

9. A method of using the containerized driving simulator system (100) according to claim 1, comprising the steps of:
a. entering the trainee into the driver station (1) using the ladder weldment (6);
b. replicating the driving unit of T-72 driver tank assembly with the controls in the driver station (1) to provide realistic feel for trainees operating the simulator system (100);
c. generating realistic feels in 6 degrees of freedom (6 DOF) like pitch, roll, surge, heave, sway, and yaw within the motion platform assembly (2) located beneath the driver station (1);
d. assigning a plurality of exercises from the instructor station (3) comprising of 3 display units and monitoring the exercises performed by trainee drivers with the help of instructor console rack (4) and motion control unit (5) located inside container assembly (9);
e. simulating the feel of controlling the simulator system (100) by using the front brake pedal (34) and accelerator pedal (35) to generate brake and acceleration effects respectively, while the plurality of steering levers generate steering feels to the left side and right side respectively;
f. applying gears using the gear selector interlock mechanism (31) for the simulator as in the original tank;
g. operating the simulator towards the left side with the left steering lever assembly (40); and
h. performing training exercises with the emergency first aid box (45), fire extinguisher (46) and the cabin weldment (47) present in the simulator system (100).

10. A method of manufacturing a containerized driving simulator system (100), comprising the steps of:
a) fabricating a container assembly (9) to house the driving simulator system (100);
b) fabricating a driver station (1) with all the controls replicating the driving unit of a T-72 driver tank assembly;
c) fabricating a motion platform assembly (2) capable of generating realistic movements in 6 degrees of freedom (DOF);
d) fabricating an instructor station (3) with 3 display units, an instructor console rack (4), and a motion control unit (5);
e) replicating all the controls in the original T-72 driver tank in the present simulator system (100) to generate realistic feels to perform training as like in original war tank;
f) installing the driver station (1) on the motion platform assembly (2) for generating realistic movements in 6 DOF;
g) installing the instructor station (3) inside the container assembly (9);
h) installing the instructor console rack (4) and the motion control unit (5) inside the container assembly (9);
i) installing a ladder weldment (6) for facilitating a trainee to enter into driver station (1);
j) installing an air conditioner arrangement (7) and a station inlet assembly (8) inside the container assembly (9);
k) connecting all the controls of the driver station (1) to the motion control unit (5) through an input output control unit (21);
l) installing a plurality of episcope and periscope units to the simulator system (100) for realistic views; and
m) programming a plurality of software modules to operate the simulator system (100).

6. DATE AND SIGNATURE

Dated this 24thMarch 2023
Signature

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