Direct-drive sim racing wheel

A direct-drive simulator steering wheelbase (sometimes abbreviated "DD wheel") is a simulator steering wheel with a direct-drive mechanism between the drive and output, i.e. without gearing (as opposed to simulator steering wheels with reduction gearing via gears or belts[1][2][3][4]), and is used similarly as with other simulator steering wheels for providing torque feedback (often called ""force" feedback", or FFB) so that the driver, through movement in the steering wheel, gets an interface for sensing what is happening to the car in the simulator. It is an example of human–computer interaction in driving simulators, racing simulators, and racing video games, and is an example of haptic technology

Direct-drive steering wheels typically differ from geared or belted sim racing wheels by being stronger (having more torque), and being able to more accurately reproduce details from the simulator. They are typically constructed using a 3-phase brushless AC servomotor (on more expensive models), or sometimes a hybrid stepper-servomotor, or only a stepper motor[5] (on very affordable models).

In a direct drive simracing steering wheel system, the wheelbase and the wheel rim are typically separate, so that is possible to switch between rims according to the use case, for instance formula wheelrims, GT wheelrims, oval racing or truck wheel rims. The base and the rim are typically connected through a quick release system.


History

See also: Direct-drive mechanism

Direct-drive mechanisms for use in industrial arms began to be possible in the 1980s, with the use of rare-earth magnets,[3] of which today the most commonly used are neodymium magnets.[6]

Before the 1980s, servo motors were not powerful enough (did not have enough torque) to be used directly, and therefore reduction gears or mechanical belts were added to the motor to leverage and multiply its power.[3] Higher-power motors were not feasible due to the expensive rare-earth materials needed to build them. This problem was surpassed in the 1980s, with the development of less-expensive high-power magnets.[3]

In 2013, direct-drive sim steering wheels were introduced in large scale to the consumer mass market as a more advanced alternative to gear- and belt-driven steering wheels. The first commercially broadly available direct-drive wheel base was released in 2013 by the UK-based Leo Bodnar Electronics, after having been retailing to racing teams and professional centers since 2008.[7] It was followed in 2015 by the US-based SimXperience AccuForce V1, and by the first do-it-yourself open-source hardware OpenSimwheel or "OSW" kits for users with good technical knowledge.

In 2015, a preliminary comparison of gear-driven and direct-drive wheels in the 0–30 Hz frequency range, for a study on hard real-time multibody simulation and high-fidelity steering wheel force feedback, concluded that direct-drive wheels are preferable.[8]

Simucube was one of the manufacturers who previously provided Open Sim Wheel kits, and is a brand name owned by the Finnish manufacturer Granite Devices, which also supplies driver electronics for controlling servomotors and stepper motors, both for sim racing and industrial use. Granite Devices started as a hobby project by the Finn Kontkanen Tero when he was building a CNC milling machine, and realised that there was many alternating current servomotors of high quality on the market, but that driver electronics for controlling such motors was expensive or hard to come by. He investigated the operation of AC servos, and realized that it was possible to make usable control electronics with a handful of the latest electronic components and some real-time algorithms. The development of the controller then took around a year. The electronics are based on an IONI motherboard and STM32F4, and a proprietary firmware called MMos. An open source version of this software has been planned for release, but has not yet been released as of 2022.[9]

Performance metrics

Issues, quality, and performance indicators of direct-drive wheels, and of sim racing wheels in general, include detail and fidelity of force feedback, smooth torque transmission, nearly-zero backlash, rotary encoder resolution, clipping, dynamic range, torque ripple,[2] cogging torque,[10] drivers and digital signal processing with control electronics,[2][11] signal filtering,[8] backdrive friction,[10][12] low inertia,[12] damping,[12] fast response, precise positioning, electromagnetic interference,[13] and latency.

Construction

Motors

Industrial servomotors and gearboxes, with standardised flange mountings for interchangeability.

The Leo Bodnar, OSW kits, Sim-pli.city and VRS systems are based on industrial servo motors (typically MiGE, Lenze, or Kollmorgen motors), while SimXperience's AccuForce, Frex, Simucube (which initially used a MiGE motor), Fanatec, and Simagic use custom-made motors. The types of motors used vary between high-end 3-phase brushless servomotors[14] and lower budget hybrid stepper-servo motors.[1] In-runner servo motors are typically smoother and more expensive than stepper or outrunner motors.[15] Outrunner motors typically can produce more torque than inrunner motors,[16] but need more cooling at higher torque levels.

Control electronics

Other than the motor, other parts of a complete direct-drive wheelbase include a rotary encoder (the position sensor), a controller board (that translate the FFB data from the game into steering wheel forces), and a motor driver board (servo drive), which fits into a slot of the controller board, and that controls the position, velocity and torque output of the motor.[17] Examples of encoders are the Biss-C and the SinCos encoders, an example of a controller board is the Simucube board, and some examples of motor driver boards are the IONI and the Argon ones.

The motor encoder reads the position and/or motion (torque and rotation) of the shaft.[16] The resolution of the encoder is typically measured in PPR (pulses per revolution), but sometimes CPR (counts, or steps, per revolution) is used instead, where 1 pulse equals 4 counts.[18][19][20][21] The main advantage of very high resolution encoders is the ability to implement more advanced firmware or software FFB filters to the force feedback signal; for instance, encoders with a 21-bit resolution or more (2M steps or cpr), like the SinCos encoder, allow the servo-motor electronics to handle the filters more smoothly, and also allow to have more nuances in the FFB signal.[22]

One of the main purposes of FFB filters is to optimize the FFB signal for a given wheelbase and rim device.[23][24] The most basic FFB filters include the reconstruction filter, damper, friction and inertia. The reconstruction filter is included even in non-directdrive wheelbases, and has the effect of interpolating and smoothing the FFB signal from the game, to reduce the noise and artifacts from the FFB signal caused by the low update rate of a racing game.[23][25][26] The wheel rim weight and size also have a significant effect on the perceived FFB signal, with lighter and smaller wheels being able to move faster and deliver more details.[23]

More advanced FFB filters include static force reduction and slew rate reduction filter. The static force reduction filter was introduced to address a problem that emerged with high-torque DD wheelbase, due to their force output making too difficult to even turn the wheel with some cars in high-speed corners.[23] The static force reduction filter introduced with Simucube 2 wheelbase allowed to address this issue while keeping a fully linear signal. A side-effect of this filter however is that while turning the wheel one feels a weakening of the FFB signal, which some drivers might dislike.[23][27] Similarly, the slew rate reduction filter reduces or dampens sudden acceleration spikes in FFB torque, due for example to hitting kerbs or bumps.[27] Therefore, the static force reduction and slew rate reduction filters make feasible to drive with higher maximum torque settings, which can enhance micro-details in the FFB signal.[27]

Torque

The torque says something about how "powerful" the engine is, and can be specified in two ways:

  • Continuous torque, the greatest load of which the motor still can perform continuous movement at a continuous speed, and thus performing continuous work
  • Stall torque, the load which will cause the motor to stop so that it can no longer move, and thus produces a holding torque, but not performing any work

The latter always gives a higher number in newton-meters, and is therefore the number that usually is communicated the most by manufacturers to consumers, but is actually a less useful specification since the steering wheel in theory does not perform any work when rotation has stopped. One must therefore be aware of the type of torque specification given when comparing two motors. The relationship between the continuous torque and stall torque can vary between motors, and can say something about the motor characteristics (responsiveness versus strength).[citation needed]

For comparison, usually around 7-10 Nm is experienced in a street car, and on steering wheels with very high torque (e.g. 20 Nm) it may therefore be appropriate to adjust the torque down in the software. However, the stronger motors will often have a faster slew rate (the time an amplifier takes to respond to a signal) which gives better steering response and more realism.

Steering wheel mount

Similar to many real-world racing cars, sim-racing steering wheels usually come with a bolt circle of 6×70 mm, which means the wheel is mounted to the base via 6 evenly spaced out screws along a 70 mm circle on the steering wheel. Other bolt circles are sometimes used.

Some steering wheels attach to the base via quick release, as is commonly seen on many real-world racing cars, and these come in many varieties: Proprietary quick releases (e.g. Fanatec QR1 or Simucube SQR, the latter which has a wedge-shaped dovetail), or standardized quick releases such as the D1 spec (used by many manufacturers, including SimXperience, Simagic, Moza, IMMSource). D1 spec couplers are built to the same pattern as the NRG quick coupler approved for use in real-world racing cars per SFI Spec 42.1.[28] Formerly, another common aftermarket quick release has been the Q1R type (not to be confused with the Fanatec QR1). Some quick releases have (often proprietary) integrated contact pins for transferring power and data to buttons and displays on the wheel, but these usually do not work across manufacturers. Others instead use wireless transmission via Bluetooth and inductive (magnetic) power transfer via the quick release. If using a steering wheel and base from two different manufacturers, it is usually possible to connect the steering wheel electronics to the base via a separate USB cable, for example connecting between USB-C, Micro, Mini, or Type B interfaces on the base and wheel.

Base mount

On bases with a high torque, the most robust mounting is usually achieved using an industry-standard front-mounted flange mount, and this is often preferred among sim racers, as such base mounts usually are less inclined to bend during heavy steering movements. This typically gives a shorter lever and therefore more sturdy mounting due to less torque on the mounting interface. A de facto industry standard among sim wheels, which again stems from a widely used mechanical industry standard, is a front mount with a bolt circle measuring 4×130 mm diameter and metric M8 screws, which means that four screws are evenly placed along a circle measuring 130 mm in diameter. This roughly corresponds to a square of 91.9 mm × 91.9 mm, which is often quoted as a square pattern with 92 mm long sides.

There are also a number of other proprietary patterns for mounting the base to a sim racing cockpit or table. Some of these instead have mounting on the sides or underside of the base.

List of direct-drive bases

Main specifications

Sorted chronologically by time of introduction:

Model Introduced Peak torque (stall torque) Holding torque Slew rate (Nm/ms) Encoder Resolution Motor
LeoBodnar Sim Steering 2013[7][29] 16 Nm[30] 8 Nm 12-bit (40k cpr / 10k ppr) EJ encoder[30][31][32] Kollmorgen AKM52G-ANCNEJ00,[33] brushless servomotor, ⌀ 24.2 mm shaft
LeoBodnar Sim Steering 2 (standard 52 version) 2015[7][30][34] 16 Nm[1] 8 Nm[30] 24-bit (16.7M cpr) C resolver ("SFD, Smart Feedback Device")[30] Kollmorgen AKM52G-ANCNC-00,[30][35] brushless servomotor, ⌀ 24.2 mm shaft
LeoBodnar Sim Steering 2 (53 version) 2015[7][30][34] 20.5[36] missing data 24-bit (16.7M cpr) 16.7M cpr C resolver ("SFD, Smart Feedback Device")[30] Kollmorgen AKM53G, brushless servomotor, ⌀ 24.2 mm shaft
"OSW" DIY kit, Lenze 2015[37] 29 Nm[38] 11.4 Nm[38] 16k ppr[38] Lenze MCS12H15L[1][38]
"OSW" DIY kit, M15 2015[37] 30 Nm[38] 15 Nm[38] 10k ppr[38] MiGE 130ST-M15015 (large MiGE),[38] ⌀ 22 mm shaft
"OSW" DIY kit, M10 2015[37] 20 Nm[38] 10 Nm[38] 10k ppr[38] MiGE 130ST-M10010 ("small MiGE"), ⌀ 22 mm shaft
"OSW" DIY kit, Hobbystar 2015[37] 20 Nm[38] 10 Nm[38] 10k ppr[38] MiGE 130ST-M10010 ("small MiGE"), ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Reimer Motorsports OpenSimwheel Premium[39] 2015[citation needed] 29 Nm[39] 20 Nm[39] 16k cpr[39] Lenze MCS12H15L[39]
Reimer Motorsports OpenSimwheel Premium AKM52[14] 2015[citation needed] 24 Nm[14] missing data 32k cpr[14] Kollmorgen AKM52 3-phase AC servo,[14] ⌀ 24.2 mm shaft
SimXperience AccuForce V1 2015[40] 16 Nm 13 Nm[40] 16k PPR encoder[40] Stepper motor, ⌀ 14 mm shaft
Frex SimWheel DD 2016[41] 16 Nm missing data MiGE servomotor
Sim-pli.city SW20 2017[42] 20 Nm[42] 10 Nm 10k ppr encoder[43] MiGE 130ST-M10010 (small MiGE),[43] inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
SimXperience AccuForce V2 2017 15.6 Nm 13 Nm 16k resolution Hybrid stepper/servomotor,[1] ⌀ 14 mm shaft
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit (large MiGE) (before 2018) 30 Nm[44] 15 Nm[44] 5k or 10k ppr encoder[44] MiGE 130ST-M15015, inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit (small MiGE) (before 2018) 20 Nm[44] 10 Nm[44] 5k or 10k ppr encoder[44] MiGE 130ST-M10010, inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit Biss-C (2018 version), M15 2018[45] 30 Nm 15 Nm 22-bit (4.2M cpr) in the 2018 version[45] MiGE 130ST-M15015,[45] inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit Biss-C (2018 version), M10 2018[45] 20 Nm 10 Nm 22-bit (4.2M cpr) in the 2018 version[45] MiGE 130ST-M10010 or MiGE 130ST-M15015,[45] inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
simracingbay "OSW" DIY kit 2018[46] 20 Nm[46] 10 Nm[46] 22-bit (4.2M cpr)[47] (originally 2.1M cpr)[46] MiGE 130ST-M10010,[46] ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Augury Simulations SimuCube OSW Kit 2018 18 Nm[35] 6 Nm MiGE servomotor, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Sim-pli.city SW7C 2018[35] 7.1 Nm[35] 2.4 Nm Mige 80ST Series Motor,[35] inrunner,[48] ⌀ 21.5 mm shaft
Sim-pli.city SW20 V3[49] 2019 20 Nm[1] 10 Nm 23-bit (8M cpr)[50] MiGE 130ST-M10010,[1][50] inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Simucube 2 Sport 2019-04-03[15] 17 Nm missing data 4.8 22-bit absolute (4.2M cpr)[51] ultra low torque ripple Brushless Servomotor, inrunner
Simucube 2 Pro 2019-04-03[1][15] 25 Nm missing data 8.0 22-bit absolute (4.2M cpr)[52] ultra low torque ripple Brushless Servomotor,[53] inrunner
Simucube 2 Ultimate 2019-04-03[15] 32 Nm missing data 9.5[15] 24-bit absolute 24-bit, 16M cpr[15] ultra low torque ripple Brushless Servomotor, inrunner
Fanatec Podium DD2 2019[54] 25 Nm missing data 16-bit (65k cpr) (was 8-bit initially)[55][56] Custom-made outrunner servomotor,[53] hollow ⌀ 1+1⁄4 in (32 mm) shaft with USB-C for data and power
Fanatec Podium DD1 2019[54] 20 Nm missing data 16-bit (65k cpr) (was 8-bit initially)[55][56] Custom-made outrunner[nb 1] servomotor,[57][53] hollow ⌀ 1+1⁄4 in (32 mm) shaft with USB-C for data and power
Fanatec Clubsport DD 2023 12[58]
Fanatec Clubsport DD+ 2023 15[58]
Simagic Dynamic M10 2020-01[59][60] 10 Nm[61] missing data Servo-Stepper Motor[61]
Sim-pli.city SW8C+ 2020[citation needed] 8 Nm[61] 6 Nm 23-bit (8M cpr)[50] MiGE 110ST-M06030,[1][50] inrunner
VRS DirectForce Pro 2020[1] 20 Nm 10 Nm 22-bit (4M cpr)[55], absolute Biss encoder[62] MiGE 130ST-M10010, inrunner, ⌀ 22 mm shaft
Simagic Alpha 2020-12-05 15 Nm[1] missing data 18-bit[55][63] based on hall sensor 3-phase servomotor[1]
Simagic Alpha-U (or Alpha Ultimate) 2021-10-13[64] 23 Nm[63] missing data 18-bit[63]
CAMMUS DDWB 2021 2021-11[65] 15 missing data servomotor[66]
Fanatec CSL DD (with optional 180 W power supply) 2021-04-21[67][68] 8 Nm missing data Brushless inrunner servomotor,[69][70] hollow ⌀ 1+1⁄4 in (32 mm) shaft with USB-C for data and power
Fanatec CSL DD (with base 90 W power supply) 2021-04-21[67][68] 5 Nm missing data Brushless inrunner servomotor,[69] hollow ⌀ 1+1⁄4 in (32 mm) shaft with USB-C for data and power
Simagic Alpha Mini 2021-06-27 13 Nm[71] 10 Nm[71] 256k ppr, 40Khz response rate 3-phase servomotor optimized for sim racing use,[72] outrunner
Moza R21 2021-06-23 21 Nm missing data 18-bits (256k ppr)[73] Servomotor, slanted-pole design[74]
Moza R16 2021-06-23 16 Nm missing data 18-bits (256k ppr)[73] Servomotor, slanted-pole design[74]
IMMSource (IMMS) ET5 2022-02-12[75][76] 17 Nm (8 Nm in low torque mode) missing data 18-bit encoder (262 144 steps) Servomotor
IMMSource (IMMS) ET3 2022-02-12[75][76] 10 Nm missing data 18-bit encoder (262 144 steps) Servomotor
Moza R12 2023-06-26[77] 12 Nm 12 Nm 15-bit (32k ppr)[73] 16-pole Servomotor[78], slanted-pole design[74]
Moza R9 2022-03-10[79][80] 9 Nm missing data 15-bit (32k ppr)[73] Outrunner servomotor
Moza R5 2022-08-30[81] 5.5 Nm missing data 15-bit (32k ppr)[73] Outrunner servomotor
Moza R3 for Xbox 2024-07-04[82] 3.9 Nm 3.9 Nm 15-bit encoder Servomotor
Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel 2022-09-21[83] 11 Nm Missing data Outrunner servomotor
Asetek Invicta 2022-11-10[84] 27 Nm ~18 Nm[85] 9.4[86] 22-bit absolute (4.2M steps) MiGE servomotor[87]
Asetek Forte 2022-11-10[84] 18 Nm missing data 6.7 22-bit (4.2M steps) MiGE servomotor
Asetek La Prima 2022-11-10[84] 12 Nm missing data 4.0 22-bit (4.2M steps) MiGE servomotor
Thrustmaster T818 2022-11-17[88] missing data 10 Nm[89]
CAMMUS C5 2023-06-09[90] 5 Nm 7 Nm [91] Servomotor
CAMMUS C12 2024-02[92] 12 Nm Servomotor
VNM Direct Drive Xtreme 2024-03[93] 32 23-bit (8M CPR),[26] absolute 5-pole servomotor
Thrustmaster T598 2024-10-19 5 Direct Axial Drive
VRS DFP15 2024-12 15 Nm 21-bit (2.1M steps), 10 kHz response rate[94] 5-Pole Servomotor
VNM Direct Drive Supreme 2025-01 25 23-bit (8M CPR), absolute 5-pole servomotor
VNM Direct Drive Elite 2025-01 18 23-bit (8M CPR), absolute 5-pole servomotor
VNM Direct Drive Premier 2025-01 13 23-bit (8M CPR), absolute 5-pole servomotor
Model Introduced Stall torque Maximum continuous torque Slew rate (Nm/ms) Resolution Motor

Mount options and quick release

Model Introduced Wheel bolt circle Wheel quick release Front base mount Other base mounts Other notes
LeoBodnar Sim Steering 2013[7][95] 6×70 mm Not included 4×140 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 99 mm × 99 mm) 		No 3000 r/min[30]
LeoBodnar Sim Steering 2 (standard 52 version) 2015[7][30][34] 6×70 mm Not included 4×140 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 99 mm × 99 mm) 		No 3000 r/min,[30] rated speed 5600 r/min,[96] rotor inertia 4.58 kg-cm2[96]
LeoBodnar Sim Steering 2 (53 version) 2015[7][30][34] 6×70 mm Not included 4×140 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 99 mm × 99 mm) 		No Rated speed 5100 r/min, rotor inertia 6.64 kg-cm2[96]
"OSW" DIY kit, Lenze 2015[37] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No 1500 r/min, rotor inertia: 7.3 kg cm2[38]
"OSW" DIY kit, M15 2015[37] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No 1500 r/min, rotor inertia: 27.7 kg cm2[38]
"OSW" DIY kit, M10 2015[37] 6×70 mm Q1R (optional) 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No 1000 r/min, rotor inertia: 19.4 kg cm2[38]
"OSW" DIY kit, Hobbystar 2015[37] 6×70 mm Q1R (optional) 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No 1000 r/min, rotor inertia: 19.4 kg cm2[38]
Reimer Motorsports OpenSimwheel Premium[39] 2015[citation needed] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No Granite Devices Argon electronics[39]
Reimer Motorsports OpenSimwheel Premium AKM52[14] 2015[citation needed] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No Granite Devices Argon electronics[14]
SimXperience AccuForce V1 2015[40] 6×70 mm D1 spec No Under, rectangle:
▭ 79.4 mm × 135 mm (M5)
Frex SimWheel DD 2016[97] 3×50.8 mm Frex quick release 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No Mini USB
Sim-pli.city SW20 2017[42] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No Controller: Granite Devices IONI Pro and SimuCUBE;[43] 1000 r/min; rotor inertia 19.4 kg cm2[38]
SimXperience AccuForce V2 2017 6×70 mm D1 spec No Under, rectangle:
▭ 39.4 mm × 135 mm
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit (large MiGE) (before 2018) 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No IONI Pro HC (25A)[44] controller, SimuCUBE motherboard; 1500 r/min (MiGE M15); 27.7 kg cm2 (M15)[38]
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit (small MiGE) (before 2018) 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No IONI Pro (18A)[44] controller, SimuCUBE motherboard; 1000 r/min (MiGE M10); rotor inertia: 19.4 kg cm2 (M10)[38]
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit Biss-C (2018 version), M15 2018[45] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No Biss-C encoder;[45] 1500 r/min, 27.7 kg cm2 rotor inertia[38]
Simucube-based pre-assembled OSW kit Biss-C (2018 version), M10 2018[45] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No Biss-C encoder;[45] 1000 r/min, 19.4 kg cm2 rotor inertia[38]
simracingbay "OSW" DIY kit 2018[46] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No SinCos encoder;[46] driver board: Granite Devices IONI servo drive, IoniProHC 25A;[46][47] 1000 r/min, 19.4 kg cm2 rotor inertia[38]
Augury Simulations SimuCube OSW Kit 2018 6×70 mm Quick release directly on axle (option)[98] 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No
Sim-pli.city SW7C 2018[35] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No
Sim-pli.city SW20 V3[99] 2019 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No 1000 r/min, 19.4 kg cm2 rotor inertia[38]
Simucube 2 Pro 2019[1] 6×70 mm Simucube SQR hub 4×145 mm bolt circle
(□ 102.5 mm × 102.5 mm) (M8) 		No
Simucube 2 Sport 2019 6×70 mm Simucube SQR hub 4×145 mm bolt circle
(□ 102.5 mm × 102.5 mm) (M8) 		No
Fanatec Podium DD2 2019[54] Requires adapter Fanatec QR1 quick release No Under, triangle:
▽ 78.4 mm (b), 66 mm (h) (M6)

Side: ◦ Two screw holes on each side (M8) 		12-bit MHL200 rotaty position hall encoder[100] (Hall-position-sensor)
Fanatec Podium DD1 2019[54] Requires adapter Fanatec QR1 quick release No Under, triangle:
▽ 78.4 mm (b), 66 mm (h) (M6)

Side: ◦ Two screw holes on each side (M8) 		12-bit MHL200 rotaty position hall encoder[100] (Hall-position-sensor)
Fanatec Clubsport DD 2023 Fanatec QR2 quick release
Fanatec Clubsport DD+ 2023 Fanatec QR2 quick release
Simagic Dynamic M10 2020-01[59][60] 6×70 mm D1 spec No Side, rectangle: ▭ Via slots for T-nuts (M6) LME2500FE encoder[101]
Sim-pli.city SW8C+ 2020[citation needed] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No
VRS DirectForce Pro 2020[1] 6×70 mm Not included 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No 1000 r/min; rotor inertia 19.4 kg cm2[38]
Simagic Alpha 2020-12-05 6×70 mm D1 spec 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No
Fanatec CSL DD (with optional 180 W power supply) 2021-04-21[67][68] Requires adapter Fanatec QR1 quick release No Under: ▭ 3 T-slots, 40 mm and 80 mm c-c (M6)

Side: ▭ 2 T-slots, 70 mm c-c (M6) 		Flux Barrier Rotor, hall-position-sensor
Fanatec CSL DD (with base 90 W power supply) 2021-04-21[67][68] Requires adapter Fanatec QR1 quick release No Under: ▭ 3 T-slots, 40 mm and 80 mm c-c (M6)

Side: ▭ 2 T-slots, 70 mm c-c (M6) 		Flux Barrier Rotor, hall-position-sensor
Simagic Alpha Mini 2021-06-27 6×70 mm D1 spec 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		Side, two holes: ─ (50 mm)

Under, rectangle: ▯ 67 mm × 80 mm
Moza R21 2021-06-23 6×70 mm D1 spec No Under, rectangle:
▯ 78.5 mm × 66 mm (M6) 		480 W, 262 144 ppr resolution, 1000 Hz USB, wireless wheel
Moza R16 2021-06-23 6×70 mm D1 spec No Under, rectangle:
▯ 78.5 mm × 66 mm (M6) 		360 W, 262 144 ppr resolution, 1000 Hz USB, wireless wheel
IMMSource (IMMS) ET5 2022-02-12[75][76] 6×70 mm D1 spec 4×130 mm bolt circle (M8)
(□ 92 mm × 92 mm) 		No
IMMSource (IMMS) ET3 2022-02-12[75][76] 6×70 mm D1 spec 4×130 mm bolt circle
(□ 92 × 92 mm) (M8) 		No Wireless wheel, with USB-C as an alternative
Moza R12 2023-06-26[102] 6×70 mm D1 spec 4×70 mm bolt circle (M6) Under, rectangle:
▯ 78.5 mm × 66 mm (M6) 		216 W, 1000 Hz USB, wireless wheel
Moza R9 2022-03-10[103][104] 6×70 mm D1 spec No Under, rectangle:
▯ 78.5 mm × 66 mm (M6)[105] 		180 W power supply, wireless wheel
Moza R5 2022-08-30[106] 6×70 mm D1 spec No Under, rectangle:
▯ 78.4 mm × 40 mm (M6)[105] 		Wireless wheel, with USB-C as an alternative
Moza R3 for Xbox 2024-07-04[107] 6×70 mm D1 spec 4×60 mm bolt circle (M6) Under, rectangle:
▯ 78.5 mm × 66 mm (M6) 		72 W, 1000 Hz USB, wireless wheel
Logitech G PRO Racing Wheel 2022-09-21[108] 6×44.5 mm (1.75") Logitech quick release No Table clamp Separate models with support for either Xbox or PlayStation. The paddles can be used for gear shifting or for throttle/braking. Separate paddles for dual clutch operation.
Asetek Invicta 2022-11-10[84] missing data Asetek quick release (with USB and power) Front: Proprietary (M5) Under: ▭ 2 T-slots, 87 mm c-c (M6) Power and USB to the steering wheel through the quick release, via a hollow drive shaft and a slip ring. Integrated measurement of the motors torque output. Initial models only for PC via USB-C. USB-C hub with 5 ports for extra peripherals (pedals, levers, etc.). Integrated control electronics. External power supply via Molex connector.
Asetek Forte 2022-11-10[84] missing data Asetek quick release (with USB and power) Front: Proprietary (M5) Under: ▭ 2 T-slots, 87 mm c-c (M6) Power and USB to the steering wheel through the quick release, via a hollow drive shaft and a slip ring. Integrated measurement of the motors torque output. Initial models only for PC via USB-C. USB-C hub with 5 ports for extra peripherals (pedals, levers, etc.). Integrated control electronics. External power supply via Molex connector.
Asetek La Prima 2022-11-10[84] missing data Asetek quick release (with USB and power) Front: Proprietary (M5) Under: ▭ 2 T-slots, 87 mm c-c (M6) Asetek's entry-level model. Power and USB to the steering wheel through the quick release, via a hollow drive shaft and a slip ring. Integrated measurement of the motors torque output. Initial models only for PC via USB-C. Only one USB-C connection directly to PC. Integrated control electronics. External power supply via Molex connector.
Thrustmaster T818 2022-11-17[109] No New proprietary Thrustmaster quick release No Under: ▭ 4 scrw holes, spaced 79 mm c-c lengthwise, 63 mm c-c widthwise (M6) 168 W power supply, RJ-45 and USB-C interface in the base, proprietary 3-pin contact for electric signals via wheel connector.
CAMMUS C5 2023-06-09[110] No No No First direct drive wheel top integrate motor and wheel integrated together
CAMMUS C12 2024-02[111] 6×70 mm No Uses C5 Technology
Model Introduced Wheel bolt circle Wheel quick release Front base mount Other base mounts Other notes

Legend:

  •   Industry standard or de facto standard
  •   Proprietary
  •   Missing

See also

Notes

  1. ^ Fanatec argues that outrunner motors "increase the moment arm of the motor" and "give more space for higher quality magnets"[57]

References

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  3. ^ a b c d Asada, H., & Kanade, T. (1983) Design of direct-drive mechanical arms in Journal of Vibration, Acoustics, Stress, and Reliability in Design, Volume 105, Issue 3, pp.312-316
  4. ^ Direct Drive vs Belt Drive vs Gear Drive, SimXperience News at simxperience.com (archived on July 5th, 2021)
  5. ^ Open FFBoard |Hackaday.io
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  40. ^ a b c d AccuForce Review, at mockracer.com, January 16, 2015
  41. ^ Frex Simwheel DD (Direct Drive), at simrace-blog.com, 23 Jan 2016
  42. ^ a b c William Marsh GamerMuscle Reviews SimPliCity SW20 DD Wheel, at simracingpaddock, June 13, 2017
  43. ^ a b c SW20 (20Nm Direct Drive Wheel) - (Discontinued), Sim-pli.city official product page
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  45. ^ a b c d e f g h i j Sim Cube 30nm Direct Drive Wheel Base Review By The Simpit, at bsimracing.com, 29.6.2018
  46. ^ a b c d e f g h Sim Racing Bay OSW Wheel Kit Review, at Sim Racing Garage, Apr 17, 2018
  47. ^ a b SimuCUBE based OSW kit Biss-C – with CM110 case Archived 2022-01-17 at the Wayback Machine at simracingbay
  48. ^ High-end wheel guide at simracer.es
  49. ^ Richard Baxter Test drive: SimPlicity SW20 V3 DD, at simracingcockpit.com, September 9, 2020
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  51. ^ Simucube 2 Sport Official product page
  52. ^ Simulator Racing Wheels, at rightstuffracing.com
  53. ^ a b c The 5 Best Direct Drive Wheel Bases By FLOW RACERS
  54. ^ a b c d Podium series will arrive finally 30th April, by Gonzalo at boxthislap.org, March 13, 2019
  55. ^ a b c d What is going on with the encoder resolution of DD wheelbases? at forum.fanatec.com
  56. ^ a b Marcel Pfister Fanatec Beta Driver V352/356 [DD Performance Update] for Podium Bases ONLY (all steering wheels), Dec 2019
  57. ^ a b Podium Direct Drive Motor Dynamics | FANATEC, Apr 29, 2019
  58. ^ a b Fanatec Clubsport DD (DD+) Full Review - A Great Mid/High-Range Direct Drive Option by ECGadget
  59. ^ a b Laurence Dusoswa Simagic Alpha Review | 15nm Direct Drive Steering Wheel | LONG TERM review | World Exclusive, December 2020
  60. ^ a b Laurence Dusoswa Simagic Dynamic M10 Unboxing | Chinese technology has arrived in Sim Racing, Dec 31, 2019
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  62. ^ VRS DirectForce Pro DD Wheel System Review, Sim Racing Garage, May 25, 2020
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  64. ^ https://www.reddit.com/r/simracing/comments/qakygg/simagic_23nm_alpha_u/
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  66. ^ CAMMUS 15Nm Direct Drive Wheel Base – First Impressions, Laurence Dusoswa at bsimracing, 11/04/2022
  67. ^ a b c d Fanatec's CSL DD is a cost-effective direct drive wheel base | Traxion
  68. ^ a b c d Fanatec Reveals New CSL DD: Entry Level, $350 Direct Drive Wheel Base – GTPlanet
  69. ^ a b REVIEW - Fanatec CSL DD, boostedmedia
  70. ^ Hands On with the Fanatec CSL DD - Detailed First Look & Driving Tests, boostedmedia
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  78. ^ R12 Receives NexGen 3.0 FFB Firmware Update and New Pricing, August 15, 2024
  79. ^ MOZA Racing Launched 2 New Products | MOZA Sim Racing
  80. ^ MOZA Racing launches GS Steering Wheel R9 Direct Drive Base | Traxion
  81. ^ Moza's New Budget Direct Drive Bundle - R5 Bundle First Look
  82. ^ Moza R3 Racing Wheel and Pedals for Xbox Review
  83. ^ "Logitech G Launches Professional-Grade PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals". ir.logitech.com. Retrieved 23 September 2022.
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  86. ^ "Torque Slew Rate for Sim Racing (Plus Q&A with Asetek) - FLOW RACERS". 13 July 2023.
  87. ^ Asetek Announces Exclusive Supply Agreement with Motor Manufacturer HangZhou MiGE, 15 Feb, 2022
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  90. ^ [2]
  91. ^ (Rumored and measured by reviewers)
  92. ^ https://boxthislap.org/cammus-c12-the-evolution-of-c5-now-available/
  93. ^ VNM direct drive wheelbase simracing review, Alan Quan, Mar 25, 2024
  94. ^ https://vrs.racing/product/dfp15-r295-bundle
  95. ^ SimSteering Wheel by Leo Bodnar – Released Archived 2022-01-18 at the Wayback Machine, at virtualr.net, June 5, 2013
  96. ^ a b c AKM2G Servo Motor - Specifications, accessed September 3, 2021
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  98. ^ "Augury Simulations18Nm SimuCube OSW Kit Review" (in Norwegian Bokmål). Retrieved 2022-09-02.
  99. ^ Richard Baxter Test drive: SimPlicity SW20 V3 DD, at simracingcockpit.com, September 9, 2020
  100. ^ a b FANATEC DD1/DD2 TEARDOWN - How a Fanatec Direct Drive Wheel Base Works (at 41min 47s), BoostedMedia, Feb 2, 2021
  101. ^ Simagic M10 GT1 DD FFB Wheel Kit Review, Sim Racing Garage, Oct 31, 2020
  102. ^ MOZA R12 Review: The best mid-range DD base around
  103. ^ MOZA Racing Launched 2 New Products | MOZA Sim Racing
  104. ^ MOZA Racing launches GS Steering Wheel R9 Direct Drive Base | Traxion
  105. ^ a b MOZA R5 - The New Cheapest Direct Drive Sim Racing Wheel
  106. ^ Moza's New Budget Direct Drive Bundle - R5 Bundle First Look
  107. ^ Moza R3 Racing Wheel and Pedals for Xbox Review
  108. ^ "Logitech G Launches Professional-Grade PRO Racing Wheel and Pedals". ir.logitech.com. Retrieved 23 September 2022.
  109. ^ Mjolnir (2022-11-17). "Thrustmaster T818 Launch - Brand New Direct Drive Racing Wheel". Sim Racing Setups. Retrieved 2023-03-06.
  110. ^ [3]
  111. ^ https://boxthislap.org/cammus-c12-the-evolution-of-c5-now-available/

Further reading