Design and Development of a Low-Cost High-G Centrifuge System (Cyclone)

High-G Centrifuge Systems provide a safe and controllable environment for G motion fields required for fighters' pilots training. Lacking an operational Human Centrifuge System in Australia, the Institute for Intelligent Systems Research and Innovation (IISRI) at Deakin University has designed and built a low-cost High-G Centrifuge System, named Cyclone. Cyclone has the capability of generating a maximum sustained acceleration of 9G with an onset rate of 5G/sec. The system has an effective arm length of over 5m, which is actuated by a capable gear-motor. This paper addresses the main characteristics of Cyclone including modular design, self-balanced structure and rotating main drive. Moreover, the design and development of the system are discussed and the experimental results of two test scenarios will be presented. The developed system offers the highest level of operational and occupational safety to be rated as a human-capable system. The human-rating of Cyclone is currently investigated.