SIMULATION EXCELLENCE AT AUTOSPORT INTERNATIONAL

The importance of simulators to race driver training, vehicle set-up and design, as well as race strategy, will be illustrated at Autosport International by the latest introduction from Dutch company, Cruden B.V.

Cruden, a regular exhibitor at January's NEC-based show, originated as part of the Fokker Aircraft Company; prior to 2006, it was known as FCS Racing Simulation. The company makes interactive (including both driver and hardware 'in-the-loop'), dynamic, 1-to-6 degrees of freedom (DoF), electromechanically-driven driving/racing simulators. Its package consists of sophisticated motion-cueing algorithms, realistic vehicle dynamic models and detailed state-of-the-art graphics.

The latest generation Hexatech simulator will be on display and - like its predecessor - it is an interactive, motion-based simulator, which has been developed for professional and top-level motorsport, including Formula One.

It is easily distinguishable, the older version having sat fairly high off the ground to ensure the motion. The seat on the new one is located further down and within the motion structure, thus making it easier to access. The possibility also exists to install one or two passenger seats, making it more versatile and adding functionality. The company realises that offline race car development, driver training and circuit reconnaissance is a growth business. A new three-seater simulator, called 3CTR, will allow the coach to sit in and guide from a second seat or coach from the driver's seat. The feature can also be used to allow vehicle dynamics engineers to sit in on a lap.

The company's engineers have a background in flight simulation development, having worked on products for both commercial and military aircraft (including Apache helicopters) and submarines. This has allowed them to develop algorithms which translate driver input into motion response. Its track visualisation is said to accurately mirror any racetrack, in any conditions - from heat, rain, and humidity to daylight or night-time driving, and virtually any combination thereof.

"If you want to work in motorsport, you have to know people. Autosport International provides an unbeatable opportunity to network with our main target market of the professional motorsports industry," said Cruden's Commercial Director, Frank Kalff.

"With the decrease in the amount of track time available for a team to go testing, simulators have become increasingly important to the racecar industry. Autosport International is an ideal way for Cruden to show its latest technology to the sector," said Autosport International Show Director Ian France.