Mechatronics, Design, and Modeling of a Motorcycle Riding Simulator

This paper describes a new motorcycle riding simulator whose purpose is twofold: 1) it can be used as a training tool for new riders in different scenarios, such as a normal traffic environments or in dangerous riding situations (avoidance, emergency braking, nearly failing or slipping situations, and bad weather conditions) and 2) it can be used to study motor cyclist behavior in such situations and rider-motorcycle interaction. Our studies have led to the development of an original five DOF mechanical platform including double haptic feedback on the handlebar. The remaining components are the basic movements consisting of pitch, roll, and yaw. These components are gathered in a parallel kinematics-type platform to enhance the movement bandwidth of the two-wheeled riding simulator. Despite its simplicity, the particular appeal of this simulator lies in the possibility of reproducing important motorcycle movements and inertial effects, which allow for the perception of sensations close to reality. The motivation behind the choice of platform movements and system actuation are described. Also, theoretical issues (modeling, identification, and control aspects) and performance results are provided.