Hydraulic problems. Anybody know a hydraulics "guru"?

So I have these simulators...they are heavy duty. They were originally built to train Military pilots on aircraft carrier landings. You can imagine how bomber these things are to have to recreate a carrier landing.

Problem is the software is obsolete AND the box that used to run it....well, I included a picture, judge for yourself.

As of right now, the software has "locked itself" because it does not sense the safety light system that used to be around to alert the user and perimeter watchers that they were about to start moving (for safety).

Questions:

1). Have any idea how the software interacts with the sims, or what would replace the "box" unit that communicates with the hydraulic?

2) idea how to rework the software so that it runs the beasts? or will the software available here work?

Thank in advance.

Gill

Below, find the units and the "box" that used to run the hydraulic systems. They are about 10 ft tall.

All I can say is wow, Hydralic systems are normally controlled with 24v relays to switch the hydralic values to alter the speed and direction of their travel, as well as limit switches so they dont go past their needed extension. I can spot the relays that controll the valves but the controllers look specifically designed for the units, a service manual for the units would help you greatly, I would be trying to track that one down, their is normally a good schematic that should show you how it all works.
But I feel you will be replacing the main controllers with either a plc unit or micro controller thats capable of driving 24v relays to drive the valves.
My expertise is in 12v dc gear, this is a little over my head.

But gotta say wow, can see some potential in these babies. Nice find.

Hi Gill,

I have no idea how to help you but I would absolutely love to see more details of the pods. What does the interior look like? Are they 3 DoF? Any shots of the back? As Rob said "Wow".

Wow what a project. Do you have the rest of the electronics for the system. Ie the smarts that plug into the right hand side of the control box? If it was a Defence system there would have been publications for it (Myself 20 years a Systems Tech in the AUS Airforce). It will be difficult if not impossible to sort this out without them.

NO COMMENTS! cool simulator
Plz. write specifications of hydraulic valves.
The best option to leave the power supply and replace the controller (I use H-bridge for controlling proportional hydraulic valves), and software you can use eg MFS X-plane, etc.
- and hydraulics probably will not have any problems except to replace the oil, if you have any problems I help you