The idea to create SIMKA (Simulator Kereta Api or Train Simulator) came up from the wish to have a train simulator that gives not only visual display but also motion cue. The development of SIMKA was supported by PT Len Railway System, Academy of Indonesian Railways, and Ministry of Transportation who want a train simulator that give motion cue.

How SIMKA Works
One member of the team, Mukhtar Amin explained, “SIMKA is a cabin-shaped train simulator mounted to a platform. The simulator does not only simulate visual train travel but also add motion sensation of a moving locomotive.” He added, “When in operation, simulator cabin is moved by motor on the platform so that it gives motion cue to the users that simulates a moving locomotive.”

Development Process and Cost
About the beginning development of SIMKA, Mukhtar explained that it began on March 2017. “The hardware is ready since November 2017. Development of motion cueing, motor drive, and control lever by our team began on October 2017 and finished on May 2018.” Mukhtar said. About the cost, “The simulator costs around 124 million rupiah. The number is the recap on April 2017.”

Besides a team from students, development of SIMKA also involves staff of LSKK (Laboratory of Control Systems and Computers) of ITB, Dr. Ir. Hilwadi Hindersah, M.Sc. and Egi Muhammad Idris Hidayat ST, M.Sc., Ph.D as mentors, dynamic model developer from students of master’s program of Electrical Engineering, and visual development team from Microsoft Innovation Center.

SIMKA was displayed for the first time on EEDays (Electrical Engineering Days) 2018, a final project exhibition of Electrical Engineering students class of 2014. The exhibition consisted 40 final projects that carried various topics. The exhibition was held on 22th-24th May 2018 at Aula Timur ITB from 08.30 – 15.30.

Reporter: Qinthara Silmi Faizal

Photo: EEDays 2018 Committee