QS-BT1
Driven by the same technology as breathtaking QS-220, QS-BT1 is a multi-purpose, dual channel, direct drive seat belt tensioner that increases sim racing immersion like no other device in its class and price range. It can complete not only force feedback offered by direct drive wheels, but also move up the level of overall experience offered by already really immersive QS motion platforms and if needed, it can even act as a standalone independent device.
Simulation of braking, lateral accelerations, high speed cornering, wheel locks and traction loss are among list of primary features of QS-BT1. Asymmetrical engine vibrations and road surface effects like rumble strips are also available for games that support them and despite being designed mainly for sim racing application, with its 200 N of force per channel, QS-BT1 can also successfully be used in flight simulators, to make you feel gigantic forces during high G maneuvers.
QS-BT1 significantly enhances the level of realism, providing you with an unparalleled opportunity to deeply engage in the intricate dynamics of braking.
This innovative device transforms car simulations into an exhilarating and exceptionally authentic experience, setting a new standard for the intensity and authenticity of virtual driving.
Enhance Car Braking Simulation Experience
QS-BT1 significantly enhances the level of realism, providing you with an unparalleled opportunity to deeply engage in the intricate dynamics of braking.
This innovative device transforms car simulations into an exhilarating and exceptionally authentic experience, setting a new standard for the intensity and authenticity of virtual driving.
Advanced Steering Simulation with Dual Tensioner Tech
The advanced technology of the dual-channel seat belt tensioner enables precise steering motion simulation, creating a dynamic and realistic experience when turning.
Feel subtle reactions on corners and have full control over the steering wheel, just like in a real vehicle.
Vibration to Increase Immersion
QS-BT1 is an advanced seat belt tensioner equipped with innovative engine vibration technology. With this device, you can literally feel the pulsation of the engine power, adding realism and intensity to their virtual driving experience.
Engine vibrations are precisely tailored to reflect changing road conditions, responding to dynamic accelerations and gear shifts. QS-BT1 allows you to fully immerse themselves in simulated automotive emotions, delivering unforgettable sensations for both racing simulator enthusiasts and those seeking realistic automotive experiences.
Gear Shifting Realism
QS-BT1 goes beyond traditional simulation experiences by introducing the sensation of gear shifting. Through its sophisticated technology, you can distinctly feel the transition between gears as the seat belts respond accordingly to gear changes.
This innovative integration enhances the overall realism of the driving simulation, providing you with tactile feedback that replicates the nuanced dynamics of a real vehicle, making the virtual driving experience even more immersive and engaging.
Compatibility with Other Devices
QS-BT1 alone is not able to create sensation of forward acceleration and high speed cruising, especially when driving electric vehicle, where engine vibrations are absent and there is only road noise.
Even with all effects tuned up, there is a feeling that something is still missing on long straight, in formula car, driving 300 km/h. Fortunately QS-BT1 is compatible with all motion platforms that are powered by Motion Systems technology (QS, PS, HS [1]) and also with our simple to build, fully OpenSource, DIY WindSim which can easily demonstrate you what it is like to drive a car without a roof… in winter… wearing a wig.
Beyond 4 Wheels
Being jet fighter pilot is your dream? You want to experience the overload (G) that pilot feels?
QS-BT1, with its astonish 41 kg/90 lbs of sustained pulling force, allows to experience and feel differences between 1G, 2G, 3G or even 9G. Positive G, negative G or both, everything depends on your preferences, sky it the limit, literally. Centrifugal forces, engine vibrations, cannon fire, missiles launch or flares dispose [2] – all of them generate a accurate feedback through QS-BT1 and immerse you deeply into the simulation. The missing factor that binds your body to the seat, the stress you feel on your body during tight maneuvers, making you wonder if you really wish to repeat the same maneuver, are all finally there to make the gap between reality and the simulation once again smaller.
LITTLE DETAILS THAT MATTER
The seat must be selected correctly to match to your body height and width as the position of the seat belt slots is key for realistic force feedback and immersion.
For optimal overall experience, the belt slots should align horizontally with your shoulder level (indicates as “CORRECT HEIGHT“).
Slots above shoulder level (indicated as ‘TOO HIGH’) reduce the realism and enjoyment of the feedback.
Slots below shoulder level (marked as ‘TOO LOW‘) give a downward pull, suitable for flight simulators to mimic downward G-forces, but not ideal for racing simulations.
NO PAIN, NO GAIN
Does NOT apply to here. The seat belts must be aligned in a way that prevents injuries.
Optimal solution is when the seat belts align directly above your shoulders but do not touch your neck (green dashed line).
Slots set too wide can cause unnatural shoulder pull, reducing realism and force feedback accuracy.
Narrowly set slots (inward red arrows) concentrate force uncomfortably on the chest and may restrict movement, diminishing racing simulation immersion and cause injuries.
HIGH-STRESS SIMULATIONS
Professional racing harnesses are built for extreme conditions, offering superior safety and durability over sim racing harnesses. Their robust construction withstands dynamic movements from the QS-BT1 platform, essential for realistic g-force simulation.
Unlike sim racing harnesses, which wear out faster and offer less safety, professional harnesses feature a secure locking mechanism that prevents accidental release during use, yet allows quick disengagement under load for safety. This balance ensures both security and ease of exit in high-stress simulations and easy of use.
READY FOR 24H ENDURANCE RACING
The QS-BT1 provides extremely quiet operation thanks to the technology used as in the QS-220. As a result, with the near-silent performance, QS-BT1 can be used at late hours without disturbing the rest of the household and is perfect for long endurance races where there is a driver changeover – your racing partner will be able to rest or sleep peacefully next to the running QS-BT1 [3].
WHEN NO MOTION IS JUST BETTER
Classical motion platforms have no choice and have to depend on Earth’s gravity when it comes to prolonged accelerations. Even having 20 deg pitch gives only about 3.3 m/s2 [4] of perceptible sustained acceleration, which assuming 50 kg as human’s chest weigh, equals to only 165 N of force. Doing any trail-braking, which requires both pitch and roll to simulate it correctly, reduces mentioned forces drastically. When compared to QT-BT1, which generates 200 N per channel [5], it is obvious that they belong to two different leagues. When both systems are combined, the motion platform does not need to emphasize that much on simulating prolonged accelerations anymore and can utilize the full extend of its capability on everything else.
QS-BT1 EFFECTS
TRUSTED SIMULATION SAFETY
The QS-BT1 is notable for its immersive experience and safety in simulating road conditions and vehicle behavior. Its design incorporates several safety features, including:
- Use of motors and power supply that balance pulling force and speed for safety (difference in nominal voltages).
- Optimal pulling force that is strong enough for realistic sensations but safe for humans.
- The dual-channel self-testing Motion-Lock [6] system, compatible with various QS motion platforms and QS-DD-20.
- Additional software watchdogs that enhance safety beyond the hardware solutions.
RACING APPLICATIONS EFFECTS
- Braking
- Lateral Accelerations
- Centrifugal Force during Cornering
- Wheel Slip and Wheel Lock
- Engine Vibrations / Rev Limiter
- Gear Change
- Side Slip, Traction Loss, Oversteer
- Vertical G-Force
- Road Harshness
- Pre-impact Protection
FLIGHT APPLICATIONS EFFECTS
- Positive G
- Negative G
- Lateral Accelerations
- Deceleration / Speed Brake
- Centrifugal Force during Roll/Bank
- Cannon Fire/Missile Launch
Flare/Chaff Dispose
TRUSTED SIMULATION SAFETY
The QS-BT1 is notable for its immersive experience and safety in simulating road conditions and vehicle behavior. Its design incorporates several safety features, including:
- Use of motors and power supply that balance pulling force and speed for safety (difference in nominal voltages).
- Optimal pulling force that is strong enough for realistic sensations but safe for humans.
- The dual-channel self-testing Motion-Lock [6] system, compatible with various QS motion platforms and QS-DD-20.
- Additional software watchdogs that enhance safety beyond the hardware solutions.
RACING APPLICATIONS EFFECTS
- Braking
- Lateral Accelerations
- Centrifugal Force during Cornering
- Wheel Slip and Wheel Lock
- Engine Vibrations / Rev Limiter
- Gear Change
- Side Slip, Traction Loss, Oversteer
- Vertical G-Force
- Road Harshness
- Pre-impact Protection
FLIGHT APPLICATIONS EFFECTS
- Positive G
- Negative G
- Lateral Accelerations
- Deceleration / Speed Brake
- Centrifugal Force during Roll/Bank
- Cannon Fire/Missile Launch
Flare/Chaff Dispose
- For seat movers application, QS-BT1 can be installed only to the motion platform’s top frame, close to pivot point and it will reduce allowed user weight.
- Not all games support all effects.
- This statement applies only to QS-BT1 operation and might not extent to other associated sim racing equipment.
- For simplicity, simplified physics formulas are used and different levels of human perception and tolerance to force simulations are omitted.
- Peak force generated by QS-BT1 per channel is 200 N (20.5kg/45lbs), combined is 400N (41kg/90lbs)
- Motion-Lock switch is not included in the box. When QS-BT1 is connected to existing Motion-Lock circuit (delivered by QS-210, QS-220, QS-V20, QS-S25 and QS-DD-20), no additional harness is needed. If the QS-BT1 is to work with a standalone Motion-Lock switch, an additional accessory is required.
- Powerful Performance: 321W rated power with 4A/115VAC and 2A/230VAC power source.
- Dual-Channel Capability: Two independent channels for a versatile and dynamic simulation experience.
- Advanced Protection: Class 1 protection for enhanced safety during operation.
- Versatile Connectivity: USB interface for seamless integration with Windows PC.
- Pulling Force: 20.5kg/45lbs/200N per channel, providing realistic feedback.
- Multifunctional RGB: Illuminated with customizable RGB lighting for a visually immersive experience.
- Compact and Lightweight: Streamlined dimensions and device weight for practical use.
- Motion Platforms Compatibility: Compatible with QS, PS, HS motion platforms for extended versatility and most cockpits available on the market.
- Effect Diversity: Supported effects vary based on the specific game in use.
- User-Friendly Setup: Maximum length of USB and Motion-Lock cables at 3m for flexible positioning.
Included:
- Main unit (QS-BT1)
- USB cable
- External power supply with power cord
- 2x Low friction inserts for seat belts slots
- Universal mounting adapter for aluminum cockpits with necessary hardware
- Motion-Lock jumper + interlink cable
Not included:
- Seat belts
- Cockpit
- Bucket seat
- Motion-Lock remote switch (sold separately)
- Dedicated adapter for other cockpits (sold separately)
GENERAL SPECIFICATION OF QS-BT1:
- Power Source: 4A/115VAC, 2A/230VAC
- Rated Power: 321 W
- Inrush Current: 20A/115VAC, 40A/230VAC
- Protection Class: 1
- Interface: USB
- Number of Independent Channels: 2
- Pulling Force: 20.5 kg/45 lbs/200 N per channel
- Storage Temperatures: +4°C to +45°C
- Full Performance Temperatures: +5°C to +35°C
- Computer Compatibility: Windows PC
- Supported Effects: Depends on Specific Game
- Multifunctional RGB
- Maximum Length of USB Cable: 3m
- Maximum Length of Motion-Lock Cable: 3m
- Motion Platforms Compatibility: QS, PS, HS [1]
MAIN DEVICES DIMENSIONS:
- Main Dimensions: 561 x 99 x 138 mm/22.13 x 3.90 x 5.43 in
- Main Device Weight: 12 kg/26.46 lbs
- Power Supply Weight: 2.8 kg/6.17 lbs
[1] For seat movers application, QS-BT1 can be installed only to the motion platform’s top frame, close to pivot point and it will reduce allowed user weight.
The set QS-BT1 includes an adapter designed for cockpits based on aluminum constructions. Additional adapters will be gradually introduced as dedicated kits, depending on demand.
- Powerful Performance: 321W rated power with 4A/115VAC and 2A/230VAC power source.
- Dual-Channel Capability: Two independent channels for a versatile and dynamic simulation experience.
- Advanced Protection: Class 1 protection for enhanced safety during operation.
- Versatile Connectivity: USB interface for seamless integration with Windows PC.
- Pulling Force: 20.5kg/45lbs/200N per channel, providing realistic feedback.
- Multifunctional RGB: Illuminated with customizable RGB lighting for a visually immersive experience.
- Compact and Lightweight: Streamlined dimensions and device weight for practical use.
- Motion Platforms Compatibility: Compatible with QS, PS, HS motion platforms for extended versatility and most cockpits available on the market.
- Effect Diversity: Supported effects vary based on the specific game in use.
- User-Friendly Setup: Maximum length of USB and Motion-Lock cables at 3m for flexible positioning.
Included:
- Main unit (QS-BT1)
- USB cable
- External power supply with power cord
- 2x Low friction inserts for seat belts slots
- Universal mounting adapter for aluminum cockpits with necessary hardware
- Motion-Lock jumper + interlink cable
Not included:
- Seat belts
- Cockpit
- Bucket seat
- Motion-Lock remote switch (sold separately)
- Dedicated adapter for other cockpits (sold separately)
GENERAL SPECIFICATION OF QS-BT1:
- Power Source: 4A/115VAC, 2A/230VAC
- Rated Power: 321 W
- Inrush Current: 20A/115VAC, 40A/230VAC
- Protection Class: 1
- Interface: USB
- Number of Independent Channels: 2
- Pulling Force: 20.5 kg/45 lbs/200 N per channel
- Storage Temperatures: +4°C to +45°C
- Full Performance Temperatures: +5°C to +35°C
- Computer Compatibility: Windows PC
- Supported Effects: Depends on Specific Game
- Multifunctional RGB
- Maximum Length of USB Cable: 3m
- Maximum Length of Motion-Lock Cable: 3m
- Motion Platforms Compatibility: QS, PS, HS [1]
MAIN DEVICES DIMENSIONS:
- Main Dimensions: 561 x 99 x 138 mm/22.13 x 3.90 x 5.43 in
- Main Device Weight: 12 kg/26.46 lbs
- Power Supply Weight: 2.8 kg/6.17 lbs
[1] For seat movers application, QS-BT1 can be installed only to the motion platform’s top frame, close to pivot point and it will reduce allowed user weight.
The set QS-BT1 includes an adapter designed for cockpits based on aluminum constructions. Additional adapters will be gradually introduced as dedicated kits, depending on demand.
QS-BT1 is doing excellent job without any motion platform in all fields except forward acceleration sensation. If you wish to feel forward acceleration, then it is recommended to have additional equipment like motion platform or DIY Wind Sim.
Yes, it is. It is compatible with all motion platforms powered by MotionSystems technology, including QS, PS and HS. Although for seat movers there are some limitations regarding mounting options (top frame only, close to pivot point) and it all cases QS-BT1 takes away piece of the supported payload.
Yes, it is, but additional mounting brackets are required which are not included in the standard box.
Yes, it is, but custom made mounting brackets are definitively required because PS motion platforms do not come equipped in standardized cockpits.
The module controlling QS-BT1 is fully integrated in ForceSeatPM/QubicManager and offers the same user interface and tuning capabilities as motion platforms.
No, it does not. QS-BT1 works purely on force control and position reading is used only to limit spin speed. It means that when the game is unpaused and force control request arrives, QS-BT1 tensions the seat belt to reduce any play caused by loose belts.
Technically yes, but there are some limitations and virtually no benefits:
– When you have a static rig, it does not really matter, but for all rigs that utilize motion platforms, it is always recommended to keep Center-Of-Gravity as low as possible, therefore QS-BT1 should be installed to the rig, not the seat.
– For seat movers, it is not allowed as it would increased moment of inertia drastically. QS-BT1 must be installed to the top frame as close to pivot point as possible, to keep moment of inertia in check.
– Installation location does not really affect if belt pull your shoulder down or back, as it is purely determined by your seat model.
No, there is only short section of belt coming out of QS-BT1 which you need to attach to seat belt of your choice. For example, for 4 points seat belt you attach the seat belt to your cockpit in 4 points as you normally do (A on the drawing), and then you attach QS-BT1 to the rear section of the seat belt (B on the drawing). This approach guarantees that safety features of your seat belt are not compromised by QS-BT1.
Unfortunately not all bucket seats are made equal and “bad” seat can ruin the experience. Following are some key guidelines:
– The seat must have slots for seat belt at the right height. If the slots are too low in comparison to your shoulders position, then the seat belt will pull your shoulder down, not back.
– The slots must be wide enough to the seat belt to fit and move freely, otherwise event with low friction inserts you will loose some fine details (vibrations, low amplitude forces). If your seat belt is too wide for the slots, then you can try to fold the belt in half, but we rather recommend to choose less problematic seat or seat belt model.
– QS-BT1 comes with low friction inserts that you install in seat belt slots and with a low friction bridge that you can (optionally) attach to the seat which also moves the belt up a little bit. Both can help with unexpected resistance and friction around seat belt slots, but not in all cases.
In theory 6-point is the best, but we are doing most of our testing with 4-point seat belt (3 in. width) because they are pretty popular and it works surprisingly well, as long as the belt’s section around waist is tight. For 5-point and 6-point seat belts make sure that the bottom-middle mount is placed correctly, otherwise you might feel the tension between your legs instead on shoulders.
The direction of the pull depends only on the seat belt slots position against your shoulder. As long the slots are at the right height, you will be pulled back. QS-BT1 comes with low friction inserts for the seat belts slots that reduce the friction (so you are pulled back, not the seat down) and with low friction bridge that might help you to adjust the rotation point height and compensate odd seat belt slots shape.
QS-BT1 comes with universal set of adapters (brackets) that allow the device to be installed to most of the aluminum profile based cockpits. For other cockpits, additional brackets might be required. We are working closely with our resellers to check compatibility with various cockpits and to provide them necessary guidelines so they (resellers) can create adapters for their bespoke cockpits if universal ones do not work. More details will be published in Q1 2024.
This is to be confirmed upon release, but at this moment the list of functions is as follows. Not all games support all options. If you wish to have additional function implemented for the RGB lighting, please do not hesitate to contact us.
– brake light
– emergency brake light – brake light combined with hazard lights, activated when front wheel slip during braking
– reverse light
– current force indicator – shows how much force is generated per channel
– yellow flag from the sim
– DRS
The list of supported games is as follows. If we miss some games that interested you, let us know. Please be aware that not all games allow to utilize QS-BT1’s capabilities to the fullest.
– Aerofly FS2, Aerofly FS4
– American Truck Simulator
– Assetto Corsa, Assetto Corsa Competizione
– Automobilista 1, Automobilista 2
– BeamNG.drive
– ChassisSim DIL
– City Car Driving EE
– Copa Petrobras de Marcas
– DCS World
– DiRT 3, DiRT 4, DiRT Rally 1.0, DiRT Rally 2.0
– Drift Cyber Sport
– Epic Roller Coasters
– Euro Truck Simulator 2
– eXpanSIM
– F1 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 22, 23
– Fernbus Simulator
– Formula Truck 2013
– Forza Horizon 4, Forza Horizon 5
– Forza Motorsport 7, Forza Motorsport (8)
– Flight Simulator X, Flight Simulator 2020
– Flight Sim World
– Game Stock Car, Game Stock Car Extreme
– GOATi Traffic Simulation
– GP Bikes
– GRID 2, GRID 2019, GRID Legends,f GRID Autosport
– GT Legends
– GTR 2
– iRacing
– KartKraft
– Kart Racing Pro
– Live For Speed
– Mission Combat Simulator
– MX Bikes
– No Limits 2
– PERRINN 424
– Prepar 3D 4, Prepar 3D 5, Prepar 3D 6
– Project CARS 1, Project CARS 2, Project CARS 3, Project CARS Pagani Edition, Project CARS Pro
– Race 07
– RaceRoom Racing Experience
– rFactor, rFactor2, rFPro
– Richard Burns Rally
– Simumak
– Steel Beasts Pro
– The Crew 2, The Crew Motorfest
– World Racing Series
– WRC 7, WRC 8, WRC 9, WRC 10, WRC Generations
– WRC (EA Sports)
– X-Plane 10, X-Plane 11, X-Plane 12
No, QS-BT1 is designed to work only with ForceSeatPM/QubicManager and carefully crafted profiles created individually for each of the supported games.
The necessary safety factors were included at each level of the design and they include, but are not limited to:
– selection of appropriate motors and power supply which combined generate enough pulling force but at the same time difference between nominal voltages prevents motors from spinning too fast
– selection the right amount of pulling force, which on the one hand is high enough to generate necessary sensations, on the other hand, it is still safe for humans
– implementation of our dual-channel self-testing Motion-Lock system that allows to link QS-BT1 to single fully integrated Motion-Lock circuit together with various models of QS motion platforms and QS-DD-20
– implementation of additional software watchdogs that add yet another layer of safety over hardware solution
Combination of QS-BT1 and QS-CH2 is fully supported by ForceSeatPM/QubicManager, but you cannot attach QS-BT1 directly to QS-CH2 as there is usually a cockpit (3rd party or QS-CH1) installed on top of the QS-CH2, so the real question is if your cockpit is compatible with QS-BT1.
If game provides necessary data, then the full list is as follows. Please note that this might change upon release.
– braking
– lateral accelerations
– centrifugal force during cornering
– wheel slip and wheel lock
– rev limiter
– engine vibrations
– gear change
– side slip, traction loss, oversteer
– vertical g-force
– road harshness
– pre-impact protection
The direct-drive is not there to have more pulling force, actually with gearbox you can usually achieve higher numbers, but to have better control over torque (and in the result force). With gearbox (planetary or even ball screw) in the middle, using motor current to estimate force on shoulders becomes a challenge, which can be solved usually in a two ways:
– The force applied to the shoulders is calculated from output shaft position (to be precise, from arm angle) meaning that the force on the shoulders is not controlled directly, rather the motor tries to rotate the output shaft to calculated position with specified torque limit.
– There is an additional sensor installed that measure the force (tension) of the belt and control algorithm adjusts arm angle and motor torque to generate specified force (tension) on the belt.
Both solutions include some kind of gearbox that introduces backlash and unwanted static resistance. Additionally the second one needs additional sensor mounted somehow between the arm attached to the output shaft and the belt. The control loop is pretty long, with many components that needed to be taken into account and even describing how it works is a challenge itself, as you can tell from this description.
If you compare it with direct-drive solution, whose principle of operation is the same as in steering wheel, it is like a night and a day. There is no backlash that eliminates fine details, there is no need for additional force sensor nor startup position calibration, the motor torque is directly proportional to force on the shoulders (minus friction and a few other factors) and system it is fully reversible (you don’t need to fight against the gearbox). The control loop is much shorter and looks exactly as in the steering systems.
All above is not just a random theory from the Internet, we are talking from our own experience. QS-BT1 took more than a year to be developed and we actually tied all motioned solutions and in the end we went with the technically the best direct-drive system that uses the same technology as in QS-220 and QS-DD-20, but appropriately suppressed (with help of physics laws) to make it safe in use in the seat belt tensioner application.
It means that just a few steps (8 to be exact) are required to fully enjoy the product and no specialized IT knowledge is required to configure the system and PC.
– attach QS-BT1 to your cockpits
– attach seat belt of your choice to QS-BT1 – be aware of limitations
– connect power source
– connect USB cable
– connect Motion-Lock circuit
– turn on the system
– download and install ForceSeatPM/QubicManager
– start a game – if the game has to be configured first, ForceSeatPM/QubicManager will do it for you.
At this moment only Window PC platform is supported.
Yes, it does. For most games is seamless but even if the game sends telemetry data only on single UDP port, then ForceSeatPM/QubicManager is equipped in UDP data forwarding module that will solve the issue.
QS-BT1 supports 3” seat belts, but the real limiting factors might be your seat and your neck diameter. As explained in Q-9, the seat capabilities are very important. With the seat of your choice, you should confirm if:
– seat belt slots are wide enough for 3” seat belt
– distance between left and right slot is great enough so when the belt (or your body) moves slightly front-rear, the belt does not hurt nor cause stress to your neck