The SimFeedback-AC DIY Motion Simulator thread

sjb266 · Sep 17, 2018

Hey guys. Thought I’d create a thread for those taking the plunge into this brilliant DIY project..
I will be starting mine soon and I know there are others thinking about it.. so feel free to share your knowledge and experiences so we can all enjoy this platform to its full potential. A huge thanks to the developers who have really knocked this one out of the park!

Website: https://opensfx.com/2019/02/20/welcome-to-our-new-site/

Github: https://github.com/SimFeedback/SimFeedback-AC-Servo/wiki

For all the internals for the actuator contact Amy - skye@ntl-bearing.com
She can supply everything you need. Just remind her you want the ends of the shafts chamfered and make sure she sends the right sized ball screw - we have had a couple of issues reported. She is very helpful though and the cost is pretty good.

Huge thanks to @RowanH for writing a comprehensive user guide which can be accessed here - https://www.rowanhick.com/sfx-100-build-and-running-guide

In addition, @anton_Chez has contributed a list of post numbers for some of the important settings etc..
Post #320 SFX-100 thread
Post #327 SFX-100 thread for Discord correlation
Post #339 SFX-100 thread
Post #418 SFX-100 thread
Post #424 SFX-100 thread
Post #439 SFX-100 thread
Post #449 SFX-100 thread
Post #517 SFX-100 thread
Post #554 SFX-100 thread
Post #580 SFX-100 thread
Post #826 SFX-100 thread
Post #837 SFX-100 thread
Post #864,866,867,868,870,887,889,897 SFX-100 thread
Post #911,914 SFX-100 thread
Post #988,992,998 SFX-100 thread
Post #1147 SFX-100 thread
Post #1492 SFX-100 thread
Post #1511,1517 SFX-100 thread

I will try to keep this page updated with links to source the parts in other parts of the world. Just post whatever links you have and i'll add them here.

Please note: Not all the parts listed below are essential for the project. For the essential parts refer to the original shopping list.

Australia:

Thanks to @AussieSim for the following links:

10A power lead(s) * 4
https://www.jaycar.com.au/2m-black-mains-extension-lead/p/PS4152

Top quality wire stripper
https://sydneytools.com.au/product/boxo-cutws205-multifunction-wire-stripper

RCD/safety switch power block
https://www.bunnings.com.au/arlec-4-outlet-heavy-duty-portable-safety-switch_p4420028

WD-40 lithium grease for the ball screws
https://www.bunnings.com.au/wd-40-specialist-300g-high-performance-white-lithium-grease_p6100408

Vibration pads
https://www.bunnings.com.au/whites-on-site-100-x-12-5mm-rubber-anti-vibration-mat-4-pack_p3961547

WD-40 Dry PTFE spray for the slider (free shipping)
https://au.rs-online.com/mobile/p/lubricants/7577134/

Arduino Leonardo (free shipping + frequent 10-15% off discount)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/a000057/arduino-corporation

DB25 cables * 4 (free shipping)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/ak401-2/assmann-wsw-components-inc

PETG * 3 (free shipping)
https://www.arrow.com/en/products/petg17bk1/mg-chemicals

WAGO-like connectors to avoid a breadboard (perhaps use genuine ones if you are doing 240V AC)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32906719488.html

D-Sub breakout boards * 4
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32297675967.html

3D printer Creality Ender-3 Pro
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32918302452.html

Wires from Arduino to D-Sub breakout (remove black plastic from the WAGO end)
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32887680826.html

Crimp connectors for AC wire leads
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32813550981.html

Snajrog · Aug 28, 2019

View attachment 321964

Michal Burisin said:
...Is there some advantage to dedicated EMI unit compared to that one built in APC power hub?

Don't use a bus bar for your power distribution. Look up WAGO connectors and then place the connectors in a junction box. With the WAGOs you can still run your single power wire and then have the four servo controller power wires connected to that WAGO. Run a dedicated EMI unit, and I wouldn't use the surge strips at all. All of mine power up using a 20a industrial power switch.

Eric Bergeron · Aug 28, 2019

Snajrog said:
View attachment 321964

Don't use a bus bar for your power distribution. Look up WAGO connectors and then place the connectors in a junction box. With the WAGOs you can still run your single power wire and then have the four servo controller power wires connected to that WAGO. Run a dedicated EMI unit, and I wouldn't use the surge strips at all. All of mine power up using a 20a industrial power switch.
View attachment 321965 View attachment 321966

It`s a power switch like that i'm looking for , do you have the model ?

Snajrog · Aug 28, 2019

Amazon to the rescue...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KPEFL2I/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Michal Burisin · Aug 29, 2019

Snajrog said:
View attachment 321964

Don't use a bus bar for your power distribution. Look up WAGO connectors and then place the connectors in a junction box. With the WAGOs you can still run your single power wire and then have the four servo controller power wires connected to that WAGO. Run a dedicated EMI unit, and I wouldn't use the surge strips at all. All of mine power up using a 20a industrial power switch.
View attachment 321965 View attachment 321966

Nice installation!

I'm looking at those WAGOs and they're mainly in 5x configuration like this:

I would like to have just two junction boxes. But with these, I would need to do 3, with 3 EMI filters etc.

I have found some other WAGOs - COMPACT 8x2,5, where I could plug 6 servos for the G-Seat, but cannot find information how to secure cables there. I suppose I would need some clamp? I'll try to search little bit more or ask in shop.

Or I could order some 8x WAGO knockoffs from Aliexpress, which might be easiest, but would take a long time to get here.

Do you have any recommended EMI filter?

Is there reason not to run SurgeArrests? I would be worried for example during storm, that it could fry all the controllers (they might have own fuses - but would be lot of hassle to change them in case of accident). It seems to me easier and safer to use SurgeArrest. So you would recommend plain extension cord with multiple plugs without any SurgeArrest functionality?

I have to use one, because I wouldn't have enough outlets in the walls.

Snajrog · Aug 29, 2019

Don’t buy imitation WAGOs
Buy this kit and they’re good forever.
Wago (25) 221-412 (25) 221-413 (25) 221-415 Lever-Nut Assortment Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018MGMFDI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_LInTLdXUwoxob
The EMI filter part number is in this thread, just do a search. As far as needing a plug for each, you don’t, just daisy chain wire them with the WAGOs.
You could use a surge protector but it’s just one more piece that could cause interference. Don’t overthink it, all of the heavy lifting has been done for you.
If you haven’t read every post in this thread, I would recommend that you do.

Michal Burisin · Aug 29, 2019

Snajrog said:
Don’t buy imitation WAGOs
Buy this kit and they’re good forever.
Wago (25) 221-412 (25) 221-413 (25) 221-415 Lever-Nut Assortment Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018MGMFDI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_LInTLdXUwoxob
The EMI filter part number is in this thread, just do a search. As far as needing a plug for each, you don’t, just daisy chain wire them with the WAGOs.
You could use a surge protector but it’s just one more piece that could cause interference. Don’t overthink it, all of the heavy lifting has been done for you.
If you haven’t read every post in this thread, I would recommend that you do.

Allright, thanks for help!

EsxPaul · Aug 29, 2019

@Michal Burisin

The genuine WAGOs look like this. They have their own built in clamping mechanism that grabs the wire as it's pressed into the recepticle. That doesn't work so well with thin, multi strand wire as it doesn't have the stiffness to stay straight as it's being pressed in. In cases like that, it helps to tin the wire before inserting. You should be fine with the mains stuff though.

Michal Burisin · Aug 29, 2019

EsxPaul said:
@Michal Burisin

The genuine WAGOs look like this. They have their own built in clamping mechanism that grabs the wire as it's pressed into the recepticle. That doesn't work so well with thin, multi strand wire as it doesn't have the stiffness to stay straight as it's being pressed in. In cases like that, it helps to tin the wire before inserting. You should be fine with the mains stuff though.

View attachment 321985

Thanks, I looked for some videos and saw it's meant to be used with rigid cables.

So I'll either tin the ends of flexible cables or use those WAGOs with clamps @Snajrog recommended - I didn't thought about daisy chaining them to get more outlets before as @Snajrog suggested, so it might be easiest way to do it for my application.

Jasje · Aug 29, 2019

is anyone else having issues with ordering from Kinetik? I have ordered on June (!) 20 and still haven't received my profiles... I called them 4 weeks ago and they said the profiles were out of stock but would arrive the week after. 2-3 weeks later and still nothing. I'm from Belgium so shipping is not the issue.

saxxon66 · Aug 29, 2019

SimFeedback 00.09.08 – Multi Controller Release

Exactly one year after the first public release and just in time for the SimRacing Expo the time has finally come, after several beta phases the new release is ready to download.

https://github.com/SimFeedback/SimFeedback-AC-Servo/releases/tag/00_09_08

Here are the important highlights at a glance:

More supported games:

Assetto Corsa Competizione
Assetto Corsa
iRacing (360hz)
iRacing (60hz) by JamesClonk
Project Cars 1 and 2
Dirt Rally 1 and 2
F1 2018, 2019
DIRT4
RaceRoom
RFactor 2
no limits 2
DCS
KartKraft
Automobilista
RFactor 1
Forza Horizon 4
Forza Motorsport 7
Kart Racing Pro

New functions:

Multi Controller Support
Multiple controllers are now supported. So it is possible to use SimWind, belt tensioner, traction loss, ... all systems can be controlled via one software.
SimFeedback Extension API support
With this it is possible to create your own extensions for SimFeedback.
Control SimFeedback with a button box or joystick, access SimFeedback via a web interface, have SimFeedback as a VR-Overlay, ... and what else can you think of?
Change the telemetry value by selecting from a list of all values, in the same way you can change the type of effect (Pitch, Roll, Heave, ...).
Drag&Drop is now supported across profiles, just drag and drop the effect into a new profile to copy it.
Now much more micro controllers are supported
The sound generation for the bass shaker has been completely overhauled.
It is now possible to turn it off globally by setting the soundcard to "non".
Changing the profiles is now much easier, the system shuts down automatically and restarts if necessary.

Have fun and maybe I will see you at the SimRacing Expo

ThugUK · Aug 29, 2019

Just download and ran it, and it wont let me go expert mode, its saying my licence doesnt allow it despite it working fine for the previous 2 builds (including the last beta).

EDIT, I found my original email and replaced the file and now it works ok.
I cant remember doing that with the beta.

Wmacky · Aug 30, 2019

Micha, Thanks for the update!

DJ_Psymon · Aug 30, 2019

Hi guys,
I'd like to do some testing before mounting the actuators onto the rig. What's the best way to playback a clip to test the actuators? Thanks.

ThugUK · Aug 30, 2019

Just fire up a game and run them that way.

dedraro · Aug 30, 2019

saxxon66 said:
SimFeedback 00.09.08 – Multi Controller Release

Exactly one year after the first public release and just in time for the SimRacing Expo the time has finally come, after several beta phases the new release is ready to download.

https://github.com/SimFeedback/SimFeedback-AC-Servo/releases/tag/00_09_08

Here are the important highlights at a glance:

More supported games:

Assetto Corsa Competizione

Assetto Corsa

iRacing (360hz)

iRacing (60hz) by JamesClonk

Project Cars 1 and 2

Dirt Rally 1 and 2

F1 2018, 2019

DIRT4

RaceRoom

RFactor 2

no limits 2

DCS

KartKraft

Automobilista

RFactor 1

Forza Horizon 4

Forza Motorsport 7

Kart Racing Pro

New functions:

Multi Controller Support

Multiple controllers are now supported. So it is possible to use SimWind, belt tensioner, traction loss, ... all systems can be controlled via one software.

SimFeedback Extension API support
With this it is possible to create your own extensions for SimFeedback.
Control SimFeedback with a button box or joystick, access SimFeedback via a web interface, have SimFeedback as a VR-Overlay, ... and what else can you think of?

Change the telemetry value by selecting from a list of all values, in the same way you can change the type of effect (Pitch, Roll, Heave, ...).

Drag&Drop is now supported across profiles, just drag and drop the effect into a new profile to copy it.

Now much more micro controllers are supported

The sound generation for the bass shaker has been completely overhauled.
It is now possible to turn it off globally by setting the soundcard to "non".

Changing the profiles is now much easier, the system shuts down automatically and restarts if necessary.

Have fun and maybe I will see you at the SimRacing Expo

unfortunately I can't get it to work, this writing always appears:

deleted everything and downloaded the license from the original email but nothing, always appears, tried to start everything as an administrator and started the "remove_blocking" but nothing, it does not work.
Any suggestion?

saxxon66 · Aug 30, 2019

@dedraro If you get this message, the license is not valid.
This can be due to pc hardware changes.
The license is only valid on the pc you created the license on and is bound to the UID.
Please send me a message with your new UID (setup tab) so I can create a new license for you.

GeniFx · Aug 30, 2019

Michal Burisin said:
Thanks, I looked for some videos and saw it's meant to be used with rigid cables.

So I'll either tin the ends of flexible cables or use those WAGOs with clamps @Snajrog recommended - I didn't thought about daisy chaining them to get more outlets before as @Snajrog suggested, so it might be easiest way to do it for my application.

Dont tin the ends of the cabels with things that draw alot of watts that May be A bad idea.
Seen ppl have hade fire in powersupplyes for 3d printer becouse of tinned wires that get hot and get loose becouse of the tin soften

Just use wires with one core and you be fine.

GeniFx · Aug 30, 2019

saxxon66 said:
SimFeedback 00.09.08 – Multi Controller Release

Exactly one year after the first public release and just in time for the SimRacing Expo the time has finally come, after several beta phases the new release is ready to download.

https://github.com/SimFeedback/SimFeedback-AC-Servo/releases/tag/00_09_08

Here are the important highlights at a glance:

More supported games:

Assetto Corsa Competizione

Assetto Corsa

iRacing (360hz)

iRacing (60hz) by JamesClonk

Project Cars 1 and 2

Dirt Rally 1 and 2

F1 2018, 2019

DIRT4

RaceRoom

RFactor 2

no limits 2

DCS

KartKraft

Automobilista

RFactor 1

Forza Horizon 4

Forza Motorsport 7

Kart Racing Pro

New functions:

Multi Controller Support

Multiple controllers are now supported. So it is possible to use SimWind, belt tensioner, traction loss, ... all systems can be controlled via one software.

SimFeedback Extension API support
With this it is possible to create your own extensions for SimFeedback.
Control SimFeedback with a button box or joystick, access SimFeedback via a web interface, have SimFeedback as a VR-Overlay, ... and what else can you think of?

Change the telemetry value by selecting from a list of all values, in the same way you can change the type of effect (Pitch, Roll, Heave, ...).

Drag&Drop is now supported across profiles, just drag and drop the effect into a new profile to copy it.

Now much more micro controllers are supported

The sound generation for the bass shaker has been completely overhauled.
It is now possible to turn it off globally by setting the soundcard to "non".

Changing the profiles is now much easier, the system shuts down automatically and restarts if necessary.

Have fun and maybe I will see you at the SimRacing Expo

Have to say you do A awsome Job her. And love mine after i got it up Running last week.

But you have to stop this

i was shure i was done with the rig but seems like i aint

Is IT posible to use other servo motors for belt tension?

Need to donate for expert this weekend thats for shure

And hope some Come up with a solution for traction loose and belt tension

then ill be all over it

Michal Burisin · Aug 30, 2019

GeniFx said:
Have to say you do A awsome Job her. And love mine after i got it up Running last week.

But you have to stop this i was shure i was done with the rig but seems like i aint

Is IT posible to use other servo motors for belt tension?

Need to donate for expert this weekend thats for shure

And hope some Come up with a solution for traction loose and belt tension then ill be all over it

You'll be able to run multiple servos with new version. There are already some prototypes for belt tension.

For example I'll be running SFX100 with G-Seat and it will all be powered by SimFeedback

I also have some solution for seatbelt tensioner, link here, but I'm using 2 servos and belts and pulleys to save some space. There are simpler designs using 1 servo instead, so it's best to look there first - here is Henks solution.

I can share my design if anyone would be interested, but as I said, it's probably overcomplicated

metalnwood · Aug 30, 2019

@GeniFx here is my belt solution using multi controller. It works really well, you are going to be super happy.

here is a cut and paste from a post I made somewhere else..

This might give you some ideas how to add something to your own rig. One thing I read early on was that the straps should be high so it feels like you are being pulled back in the seat rather than pulled down on your shoulders. So a lot of the effort went in to this arrangement that kept the seatbelt high when coming off the seat. An 8020 rig makes it pretty easy to add on though.

I am using one motor and controller, I think from memory thats about 200usd + shipping and you will need an arduino which can be had quite cheap as well.

As you can drive the shaft you put the seat belt on directly it can be a simple thing to do. I just got a 20mm piece of stanless steel tube and was able to put that direcly over the shaft of the servo with some slots for the seatbelt to go in to. I dont have have to secure them as once the system turns on and the seatbelt centers itself they dont come out of the slots. I have some tape on them in case I accidentally pull them out, this way I know where to put them back to so I dont have to adjust the straps when I do them up. Never needed to do that though.

The effect is really nice and you get used to it quickly. It blends in with the experience and after a while you are not thinking about it but it certainly adds to everything. It's all wrong when it's not there.

When I did forget to turn it on I got on to the track and at the first heavy braking corner I went right off the road completely underbraking.. Right away I realised that it was because I was not getting the feedback that I was also relying on from the seatbelt. I was so used to brake pressure and the feedback loop of how much pressure was on the belt that I immediately thought my brakes had broken and didnt know what to do for a second.. then went off the road. Was really amazed how unconsciously it was all working together.

When I bought the motor I also got the two motor mounts you can see I used. I think they were about $12 each.

So, something else, easy to do and with a system (SFX) thats not complicated

You will find others have soultions they will post as well, some using 3d printed parts and most of us have a 3d printer now.