Powered Paraglider Virtual Reality Simulator

NEWS 7/22/10

The  linear wire pots are now at a reduced price:  $159 USD each!  I was able to make a large batch buy so I can now offer them at a discount.  See the web store for more information. 

NEWS 6/28/10

I've started a Paraglider/PPG Simulator forum through Yahoo Groups to discuss any simulator software, hardware, or construction questions or ideas.  Feel free to join at:

 http://games.groups.yahoo.com/group/PPGsim/ 

NEWS 6/15/10 

I brought the ppg sim to Terry Lutke's spring fly-in in Holland, MI, over the weekend of 6/4-6/6.  I got some very positive feedback, along with some great input for improvements!

I'm currently working on two new designs for the frame.  One will be a full paraglider simulator set-up, using an extruded aluminum constructed frame, that will allow for weight shift and lateral movement based on brake input for a very realistic experience.  The other will be a smaller frame (again, made from extruded aluminum) that can be used with your standard PC chair, but offers full brake and engine controls.

More information to come....

Important Information

The VR PPG Simulator Build Guide is available here:

http://ppgsimulator.webs.com/simulatorbuildingguide.htm

The web store is available to purchase the unique potentiometers noted in the build guide:

http://ppgsimulator.webs.com/apps/webstore/

Site Overview 

The intent of this site is to show you how to build a powered paraglider (PPG) simulator.  Not just any kind of simulator, mind you, but one that provides a completely immersive environment that will give you the feeling that you're flying a ppg without having to leave the ground.  You can also simulate non-powered flight (paragliding), as well as ppg trike flying.

Using the recommended simulator software called "Vehicle Simulator", by Ilan Papini, you can fly anywhere, anytime, in any weather pattern you select, and fly in either the 1st person or 3rd person perspective.  You can soar ridge lift off the coast of Corsica, or go cross-country across the heartland of America, hopping from thermal to thermal.  The software allows unlimited customization of the flying scenarios and scenery that you so choose.

Of course, flying a simulator would never take the place of piloting a real PPG or paraglider.  But, if the weather outside is blown out, or for those significant others or friends who would never think of flying a PPG, then a simulator just might suffice.  Use of the simulator might even draw non-pilots into stepping into the “real world” sport of flying a glider.  I've found the project to be a very satisfying endeavor. 

Internal Links

PPG Simulator Information  - Click here to see the Information Page for PPG Simulator Requirements, Elements of the Build, and Hardware/Software used

Archived PPG Simulator News - Click Here for Past News Updates to the Design and Build Phases

PPG Simulator Photos - Click Here for Photos of my Prototype PPG Simulator

PPG Simulator Videos - COMING SOON 

A "Real World" Powered Paraglider

 Me, flying my favorite wing, an Axis Power Pluto, near Saline, Michigan

Photo taken by John Nichols