NFS Force Feedback Controls

We are excited to announce the release of the NFS force feedback flight control system!  Available in both 2-axis (pitch/roll) and 3-axis systems (Yaw damper). This system utilizes industrial quality 3-phase servo motors, offering both precision and long term reliability in the commercial environment. With this system, users can now enjoy a much more realistic hand flying experience.

Why use servo motors? In the world of robotics there are two common types of motors that accomplish a similar task but in different ways: stepper motors and servo motors. While these related technologies may seem similar from the outside, what sets them apart is how they function. Because servo motors tend to be more expensive and complicated to use, some competing force feedback systems on the market today rely instead on stepper motors. While our aim is not to disparage competing products, here are a few reasons why we chose to not utilize this technology.

1) Maximum operating torque: because of their internal structure, stepper motors can actually hold a much higher load at zero speed compared to a servo motor. This feature is helpful for certain applications but in a force feedback system there is always a small amount of motion making this holding advantage obsolete.  In addition to a significantly reduced operating torque capacity, stepper motors can often introduce a “gritty” feel to the controls, leading to an unrealistic sensation.

2) Overheating: Stepper motors are much less efficient than servo motors and are therefore better suited for rapid movement, low moving torque applications. Because of this inefficiency, when being used in a high torque environment (such as a force feedback system), stepper motors are prone to overheating.

When the autopilot disengages and you feel the click on the rudder pedals in the real airplane? Yep, that's felt in the new NFS force feedback flight control system!