Vector Simulations and Scalable Display Technologies Drive the Future of Automotive Training

Switzerland-based Vector Simulations AG has developed an advanced driving simulator that delivers highly immersive, realistic training across multiple vehicle types and scenarios. Using a spherical projection screen powered by five projectors, the system relies on Scalable Display Technologies for precise projection mapping and edge blending. This ensures seamless visuals, accurate geometry, and consistent brightness, critical for maintaining realism, especially on a motion platform.

The simulator supports a wide range of applications, from military and emergency driver training to automotive R&D and cognitive testing. Scalable’s automated calibration simplifies setup while delivering high accuracy, reducing manual effort. With strong technical support and proven reliability, the integration enhances both performance and usability, enabling Vector Simulations to expand its solution across industries where immersive, high-fidelity visuals are essential.

Based in Switzerland, Vector Simulations AG has engineered an advanced driving simulator that delivers fully immersive, lifelike experiences across a wide range of vehicle types and training scenarios. Designed to engage all essential sensory cues, the simulator creates a deeply realistic environment for users. The system is built on a spherical projection screen brought to life by five projectors. To ensure perfect visual continuity across this complex canvas, Vector Simulations turned to Scalable Display Technologies for projection mapping and edge blending.

“In front of the motion platform, we’ve integrated a spherical-shaped projection screen,” explained Marcel Koebeli, founder and chief executive officer for Vector Simulations. “The seamless calibration is produced by Scalable’s software. Scalable adjusts the geometry of a projected image and blends it seamlessly when using multiple projectors to deliver a unified, calibrated visual experience.”

While the simulator was originally conceived for automotive training, its versatility opens the door to countless applications. “It could simulate anything from a Formula One car to an amphibious military vehicle,” said Koebeli. “It’s a dynamic simulator designed for a wide range of applications. It’s highly agile and delivers the necessary stimuli to create a fully immersive and realistic driving experience.”

The use cases for Vector’s simulators span from tactical driver training for military, police and emergency services to automotive hardware and software development to cognitive research applications. “One use case is driver licensing,” Koebeli shared. “For example, in Switzerland, elderly drivers are required to be assessed by a general practitioner. Instead, they could take a 10-minute simulator test to assess reaction time and decision-making in real-world scenarios.”

For the simulator to deliver lifelike experiences, the visuals must be flawless. “Scalable’s software plays a big role here,” explained Koebeli. “First, Scalable offers automated calibration, which simplifies and speeds up the setup process. Some companies offer automated calibration, but you often need manual input and fine-tuning. Scalable’s calibration is reliable and produces accurate results.”

He emphasized the importance of precise calibration, especially with a moving platform. “If the calibration is off, the image wobbles during movement. Scalable ensures this doesn’t happen, which is vital for immersion.”

Scalable’s software automatically adjusts the geometry, brightness, and color of the projected image across multiple projectors, resulting in one continuous, high-resolution display. The software simplifies setup through true automated calibration, reducing the need for manual fine-tuning while maintaining remarkable accuracy.

Founded in 2004, Scalable is the original inventor and patent holder of camera-based automatic warp and blend technology. Its innovation stems from research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) by Dr. Rajeev Surati and Dr. Tom Knight. Today, Scalable holds 12 patents and leads the industry with cost-effective, user-friendly solutions that support seamless projection across complex surfaces.

Beyond performance, Koebeli praised Scalable for its strong technical support. “This is a complex system with multiple projectors and PCs, as each projector has its own PC rendering the image,” he explained. “While occasional issues arise due to system complexity, Scalable has always provided fast, effective support. Their teams’ responsiveness, agility and reliability have made them an outstanding partner for this project.”

By integrating Scalable Display Technologies into its immersive simulator, Vector Simulations has enhanced the training experience and broadened the simulator’s scope across industries. Whether used for tactical driver training or testing automotive components, the system’s visual integrity and immersive quality are made possible by Scalable’s industry-leading software.