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GoFly: A Portable VR Flight Simulator

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OVERVIEW

I had the honor of representing Pace University at the PD6 Product Development Workshop hosted by Aalto University in Finland. PD6 is a prestigious global initiative that brings together multidisciplinary students from around the world to collaborate on real-world product development challenges.

Product Designer

Role

Team

12 Members

Duration

6 Months

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PROBLEM STATEMENT

Current flight simulator systems are often large, bulky, and complex, making them difficult to transport and set up in varied locations. This lack of portability poses significant challenges for training accessibility and scalability. Additionally, the development, maintenance, and operation of these simulators require substantial resources, limiting their widespread deployment and adaptability to different training environments.

DESIGN CONCEPT

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The proposed flight simulator system is built around a highly portable and modular design, featuring a durable, easy-to-transport case that serves as the foundation for all simulator components. The setup is engineered for rapid on-site assembly and disassembly, enabling flexibility across various training environments. Central to the system is a joystick and throttle combo modeled after the A-10C Warthog aircraft, offering users intuitive and precise control for enhanced realism.

To elevate the immersive experience, the simulator is fully compatible with the Meta Quest 3 VR headset and seamlessly integrated with Microsoft Flight Simulator software, delivering a highly realistic and engaging virtual flight environment. The system also incorporates a DOF Reality M2 motion platform, providing two degrees of freedom, pitch and yaw, to replicate the physical sensations of flight and further enhance the training experience.

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VR Setup

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Portable Setup

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Flight Simulator Setup

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Varjo Markers

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Joystick

Solution & Results

GoFly delivers a next-generation flight simulation experience by combining VR & XR technology, a modular and upgradeable setup, and a portable, compact design. The system is built for flexibility, realism, and ease of use, whether for training, education, or entertainment.

Results:

  • Delivers immersive, flight-like training with virtual reality

  • Enables quick customization and upgrades to suit different users or aircraft types

  • Offers easy transportation and setup, making high-quality simulation accessible anywhere

Reduction in

setup time

75%

Increase in training accessibility across locations

60%

Future Aspect

  • Develop a foldable chair that fits inside the transport case.

  • Use lightweight materials to reduce overall weight.

  • Optimize compact component layout within the box.

  • Add wireless connectivity for quick setup.

  • Create standardized connectors for easy assembly.

  • Integrate Mixed Reality (Varjo markers) for enhanced training.

  • Enable remote instructor access for monitoring and guidance.

  • Explore motion sensing & haptic feedback for portability and realism.

  • Improve battery efficiency for longer portable use.

  • Conduct usability pilot testing to gather feedback and iterate.

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