If simulation cannot be measured structurally, it cannot be trusted as a training system.
Simulation Fidelity Rating (SFR) is a structured method for evaluating whether a system delivers physically and neurologically valid training. It is not a style score, a comfort score, or an immersion score. It is a training-validity framework.
SFR evaluates whether a simulation system preserves the structure, timing, and integration required for correct human learning. The goal is not visual believability alone. The goal is correct training.
Whether the system provides the required degrees of freedom in a physically meaningful way, including independence of axes and relevance to vehicle dynamics.
Whether the system delivers usable rotational and translational cues that the vestibular system can interpret correctly.
Whether motion, visuals, force feedback, and software outputs remain temporally aligned.
Whether the system behaves as a coherent whole rather than a collection of disconnected effects.
A simulator can feel intense and still train incorrectly.
Vestibular validity and neurological relevance in this layer are grounded in correct rotational perception and motion timing. Full treatment is on the yaw in simulation page.
Simulation is not neutral. If the architecture is wrong, the motion is wrong. If the motion is wrong, the learning is wrong. SFR exists to separate valid training systems from systems that only appear realistic.
Where laboratory or instrumented validation exists, SFR can be extended through additional measured performance variables.
Measured force output, only when instrumented data exists.
Neurological Accuracy or Equivalency, only when independently measured. Scientific basis on the yaw in simulation page.
These variables are optional and should only be used when validated by instrumented testing. Systems should not be penalized for absent lab data, but validated systems may be distinguished by it.
| System Type | Expected SFR Profile | Measurement Observations |
|---|---|---|
| True CoM Independent DOF System | High | All three measurement layers satisfy criteria independently |
| Stewart Platform / Hexapod | Moderate to Limited | Axis coupling reduces DOF score; yaw continuity limited by platform geometry |
| Seat Mover | Limited | Motion not CoM-referenced; reduced synchronization and vestibular layer scores |
| Four-Post / D-BOX Type System | Limited | Primarily vertical displacement; rotational layer scores incomplete |
| Static Simulator | Low | No motion layer present; vestibular and synchronization scores not applicable |
SFR produces a measurement outcome. Classification interprets that outcome within the framework's category structure. High SFR scores are generally associated with in-the-loop systems. Lower scores indicate increasing structural limitations. Formal category definitions are owned by the classification page.
For structural category definitions, system-type mapping, and the in-the-loop standard, see the classification page.
View Classification Standard →A simulation system is only valid if it preserves the structure, timing, and integration required for correct human learning.
If the timing is wrong, the training is wrong.
No. Correctness matters more than magnitude.
No. Independence, origin, and timing matter more than quantity.
Yes. Spectacle does not guarantee structural validity.
Because the brain depends on motion timing, not visuals alone, to build correct reactions.
See how systems are classified based on structural architecture and SFR profile.
View Classification →Understand what happens when simulation architecture does not match reality.
View Consequences →See which stakeholder groups are affected by simulation architecture decisions.
View Stakeholders →Framework-based interpretations highlight how different system architectures align with or diverge from training-valid standards.
Apply the framework to a real system, environment, or use case through a structured review pathway.
For teams, facilities, researchers, and organizations seeking structured classification or review.