CXC’s haptic rig simulates “the violence, the vibration, the physical effort” of a real race.
Professional racing sim manufacturer CXC Simulations has been providing advanced simulation equipment for motoring clubs, racing schools, specialized, retail environments, and racing hobbyists for years now. Normally, these professional-grade setups have users viewing the action via a standard 2D monitor combined from the seat of a powerful haptic rig.
Earlier this week, the company revealed the latest addition to its lineup, a full-motion kart racing simulator complete with vibrating haptics and realistic wind simulation. Unlike past releases, however, this latest venture incorporates VR technology for an enhanced kart racing experience.
“This simulator is really specific to one type of racing, ” says Chris Considine, CXC founder and CEO, in an official release. “And this one type of racing also happens to be completely unique in racing alone. [The simulated kart] is the answer to the question, ‘what could we do to a kart simulator — knowing all the things we know about haptic feedback, VR, every type of technology we have — and say how realistic can we get?’ We replicated the violence, the vibration, the physical effort needed to turn the steering system, in a slick little package that can be put into a corner and easily driven.”
Much like an actual go-kart, this kart racing rig positions drivers several inches above the ground, allowing for a wide range of motion. Haptic vibrators and a powerful suspension system simulate the violent bouncing and shaking of an actual race; meanwhile, two high-powered fans provide realistic wind simulation, delivering a genuine sense of speed as you race around tight corners against a slew of digital opponents.
According to CXC, the rig is compact enough to fit in a small corner while still providing a captivating racing experience. Unfortunately, this particular rig is unavailable for purchase directly, though customers can order their own custom simulators online.
Image Credit: CXC Simulations
