360° Dome Simulator for Expo 2010 Shanghai

Seamless Architectural Retrofitting Under Tight Deadlines

For the prestigious Shanghai Pavilion at Expo 2010, Simtec Systems was commissioned to tackle an extraordinary engineering feat: delivering a customized high-capacity simulation attraction in a record-breaking timeframe of just six months. Adding to the challenge, the entire motion system had to be retrofitted into an already completed building. This required navigating extremely rigid architectural conditions, tight spatial tolerances, and complex structural interfaces without compromising safety or guest throughput. Simtec’s team applied specialized structural engineering to adapt every mechanical component and support frame to fit the existing architectural layout precisely. By streamlining manufacturing workflows and maintaining strict real-time project management, Simtec fulfilled all technical prerequisites within the compressed schedule, paving the way for a flawless installation right on time for the grand opening of the world exposition.

Dynamic 6-DOF Kinetics and Immersive 360° Visuals

At the heart of this landmark attraction was the FUNRIDE® 360, a sophisticated 6-DOF motion platform designed to accommodate approximately 60 guests simultaneously. To deliver an unprecedented level of immersion, Simtec combined full six-degrees-of-freedom kinetics with continuous 360-degree rotation and dynamic linear shuttle movement. This complex motion profile was synchronized down to the millisecond with an immersive dome projection system, wrapping passengers in a breathtaking virtual journey. By engineering a hybrid drive concept that seamlessly translates spatial shifts, rapid acceleration, and continuous rotations, Simtec provided riders with an unmatched sense of weightlessness and flight. The precise synchronization between visual media and multi-axis movement set new standards for high-density simulation entertainment at global exposition events.

End-to-End System Reliability for High-Profile Global Events

The successful delivery of the Expo 2010 project represented a pivotal milestone as Simtec’s first flagship reference in the Chinese market. Executing such a complex installation under an uncompromising event deadline proved Simtec’s capability as a trusted global partner for high-performance ride systems. From initial structural adaptation and hardware manufacturing to final software calibration and on-site commissioning, Simtec assumed total responsibility for operational readiness. The ride became one of the central highlights of the Shanghai Pavilion, captivating millions of international visitors throughout the world expo. Today, this successful installation stands as physical proof of Simtec’s ability to execute highly specialized motion simulation projects under extreme time and spatial constraints, reinforcing its status as an industry leader in ride engineering.