Virtual Driving Simulators - driving one of these can be just like driving a racecar… but in your living room! Essentially, these are training -or just plain fun- devices that simulate the experience of driving a car, but in a safer and more controlled environment. Providing good times for amateurs and serious hobbyists alike, these simulators can range from full-frame bare chassis designs to elaborate finished cockpit rigs.
The design above is a combination of simplicity and functionality.
It’s built with a lightweight, durable aluminum frame (the chassis). The frame then supports a driving platform, a steering wheel, pedals, and virtual display screens that mimic the driving environment. The frame itself is light enough to move around, but sturdy enough to handle more “rigorous” use. And thanks to the nature of the 80/20 system, the whole frame is continuously customizable.
The best part: building one at home can be as easy as the actual driving! Just follow the simple steps below to get started, one piece at a time.
The base of your simulator is the natural place to start. First, you’ll want to grab:
Then, you’ll want to make sure you have enough floor or table space to lay everything out. As you do, try to ensure that your angle joints are on the correct side of their respective rails before connecting them. As you connect the rest of the pieces, just hand tighten them until the whole base is connected; at which point you can snug them up until your new base is rock-solid.
Now it’s time to think vertical.
You’ll need:
Here, you’ll probably want to attach and slide your 25” T-slot rails to the center before affixing the shorter vertical rails to either side.
Almost there, just need to add some additional support.
You’ll need:
For this step, it might be helpful to use a small level in order to make sure that your 14.5” side bracing rail is perfectly straight. Not to worry though: it will still function even if it isn’t.
The end (caps)
You’ll need:
As you add the finishing touches (the end caps) one-by-one, remember to check the entire structure for sturdiness. After all, it never hurts to make sure your new vehicle is roadworthy before taking it for a spin.
And that’s it. Congratulations! It’s now time to pat yourself on the back before adding your own personal gear, installing all the latest upgrades, and sharing your new creation with your fellow racers.
Enjoy!