computer2cockpit interface

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computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Thu Jan 23, 2014 4:00 pm

Hi everyone,

We are developing flight simulation hardware. The heart of our system is an Flight Simulation Interface designed to connect full twin engine piston cockpit.
By full we mean every switch, knob and control found on actual cockpit. It is an input only interface.

You can find out more about the interface here:
http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=108
http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=61

And what you can connect to it here:
http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=222

We are developing this product with cockpit builders in mind. Our goal was to allow for connection of entire cockpit to a single device.
We are posting on this forum to get some feedback, and to let you know what we are working on. We are NOT selling anything.

You can help us by starting the discussion, and giving us your feedback. Feel free to post or send us an e-mail if you have any questions or suggestions.

Regards,

Miroslav Šegvić
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby gcompc123 » Sat Jan 25, 2014 12:36 pm

This looks great and just what is needed depending on pricing should perfectly cover a niche that is missing with current equipment. Keep up the good work.
Thanks,
Greg <<q
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Sat Jan 25, 2014 1:40 pm

Thanks Greg,

We are early in development, but still it is nice to get some feedback from community. Everyone is a bit shy when we post on forums.

Best Regards,

Miro
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby ermias » Tue Jan 28, 2014 11:49 pm

Hi,

Basically your product and its intent is a good idea. I have some reservations around central interfaces that lock users in to specific product. It leaves them with a specific product line than different products and eventually shy away from the products.

Why not just make all the switch panel, rudder pedals, throttle and yoke with USB connection? In my opinion that would buy you more customers than the model you have chosen. I am not saying this doesn't exist. Many still do, but .... you know it has its down sides. Think of Saitek products; its products are USB and nearly every simmer with limited budget can pick one and buy one more product instead of spending money on a central interfacing unit or hub. But I can be dead wrong as I am not perfect.

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ermias
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Wed Jan 29, 2014 6:13 pm

Hi,

First reason why we chose the interface model is that we want to sell interface to cockpit builders. People that want only the interface, and are building their own cockpit.

Second reason is the certification costs. Every device that has microchip in it needs to be certified with fcc/CE before you put it on a market. The costs of certification are high. So by placing the only micro-controler in the interface, we reduce the price per product about 30%. (Since the first series we plan to produce will be 60 to 100 sets)
We are trying to reduce start-up costs to minimum and crowd-fund the start of production.(in fall 2014)

Third, many users report problem connecting more than two usb devices to their simulation software.

When it comes to affordability for new users: For example, they will have to pay for the interface and the yoke the same amount they would pay for just USB yoke made by competition. But every next product they buy form us, will be cheaper than competition.
Furthermore, every product that makes this twin engine cockpit has more functions than similar product from competition on the market, and if you add the lower price, we assume that we will be the first choice for our buyers, when they decide to upgrade.

So the concept is to offer the chapest complete twin engine cockpit on the market. We are not targeting the people that want just the yoke or yoke and pedals, but the people that want the whole package, and they don't want to waste a fortune on it. People like student and fresh pilots that want to practice and maintain their flying skills.

Enthousiasts on the other hand maybe will not like this concept. However we are here to show you what we are working on.

We appreciate your opinion, and we will try to implement your suggestions!

Thanks

Miro
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Wed Jan 29, 2014 6:20 pm

There is a topic computer2cockpit here http://forums.simviation.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=169066

if you want to discus our hardware.

This topic was supposed to be for cockpit builders that want to discuss the interface.

I don't mind you posting here, but it will get messy. :)

So for questions and sugestions about computer2cockpit hardware other than interface, please go here

http://forums.simviation.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=169066
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby ermias » Thu Jan 30, 2014 12:11 am

Hi,

Thanks for the quick reply. From marketing point of view your point probably makes sense. My reply was from a user point point of view.

computer2cockpit wrote:many users report problem connecting more than two usb devices to their simulation software.


I have been building a home built simulator for the past eight years. USB is not the problem. Problem is the hub we use. If it is self powered and good quality it will definitely work. The other problem is ,as much as you can, it is best to configure devices via FSUIPC than let them be decided by FS. FS simply assigns different devices for the same purpose. I have 4X GoFlight, 4X CH Products (2 Pedals & 2 Yokes), 8X Saitek and 5X generic devices on my overhead panel. I have learned my lesson and configured them using fsuipc and I am happy. I will post updated pictures in this forum soon. But for now, if you are interested, you can check this: http://www.flightsimshowcase.com

Thanks,
ermias
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Thu Jan 30, 2014 5:29 am

Thanks for the information, i think it is useful for cockpit builders.

I am amazed by your cockpit. Some things are solved very nicely here.
Can i ask, i see more so far 3 pc-s around it, i'm one is guessing one is running simulation and that other two are for instrument displays?
Which software do you run? FG?
I love these modified TQ handles. I see you didn't want to get plastic go flight handles?
And the overhead panel is your design? or market product?
Amazing.
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby ermias » Sat Feb 01, 2014 12:15 am

Hi,
Thank you for the comment. Most of the pictures in the website are a several months old. I use FSX and ProSim 737 Glass cockpit software for the instrument and overhead panel.

Yes I use one powerful computer to run FSX and addon scenery. In the current setup which is not in the website I am running three flat screen monitors replacing the 32" monitor. I did this because the big monitor only increases the size, but three monitors run by by Soft Th (Freeware) for wider paranoiac view.

I have three additional computers in the network; two of them run two monitors each (for in total) for the MIP and the third computer runs audio via eight speakers.

The throttle quadrant too is also changed a bit. It has one more throttle quadrant added to it. Totally it comprises of three TQs and one Trim wheel. I didn't choose to buy GoFlight or another throttle lever because I thought I could build one myself. Currently I am making a better lever to replace the current one.

The pedestal too has more addition that you can't see on the website. I have added four real aircraft panels which I bought from ebay. They are Radar, SELCAl, XPonder and Audio selection panels. I am in the process of rewiring them to be used via Prosim software along with FSX.

I always try to make things by myself unless I can't at all. It saves money and it part of the fun. I should update the website so that things can be clear.

The overhead panel is just a 1:1 scale print of 737 OH panel. I sandwiched the print between plexi glasses. It was a mess to build but rewarding at the end. The legends are from open cockpits and two of the panels (voice recorder and evacuation panel) are taken from a real 737.This panel is also configured with prosim software.

Thanks again,
ermias
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Sat Feb 01, 2014 6:14 pm

I can see only imagine what kind of efford did you invest into making all this real. I like your modifications to the "off the shelf" hardware. Overhead panel is great looking. I'm on the trip for few days so i dont have much time to study your pictures more until i return. So i will have more questions about it then.

Thank you for your detailed explanation. You gave me a lot of good references(specialy about software).

How much time do you spend flying this sim a month? If it is not inapropriate for me to ask(i'm curious), can you estimate how much did you invest in your simulator so far?(hours and money)

If you are google+ user i invite you to come to our group (computer2cockpit project supporters) and post your cockpit. We have some cockpit builders already in the group but they havent posted their pictures so far. Since we target the DIY comunity also, we would like to se what cockpit builders are really doing. So im hoping this would encourage them post their cockpits also.

Regards
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby ermias » Sun Feb 02, 2014 9:39 am

Hi again,

Thank you very much for the comment. I will send you a private message about some details. I think I have a lit of bill of materials. Honestly you can find most of the prices on line. But I am a bit stingy and I search as much as I can before I commit to buy and in the process I bought most of the materials with a difference of at least $ 10 to 30. People also forget they can buy brand new material off ebay which can be cheaper.

When it comes to flying it depends but there is not three days passed before I do something on the simulator. Family, children and work take much time, but I tend to find time. I can really be addiction. As born to aircraft technician father mine is a lifelong one I will also try to post on your site.

Enjoy your trip and have a nice day,
ermias
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Mon Feb 03, 2014 11:06 am

I understand your passion. I'm trying to make a living from it :)

When i was asking about the expenses of building such simulator i was thinking if you have some general number, didnt want to waste your time finding bill of materials. PM will be ok.

Anyway, thank you for your time.
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby ermias » Mon Feb 03, 2014 1:22 pm

computer2cockpit wrote:I understand your passion. I'm trying to make a living from it :)

When i was asking about the expenses of building such simulator i was thinking if you have some general number, didnt want to waste your time finding bill of materials. PM will be ok.


Hi,
I have the paper which I keep record of things I bought not collecting of bills. I will find that and send you. I think I have roughly spent about $5000. Hours? I am not sure simply a lot.

Here is a link to pictures showing updates on the simulator.
viewtopic.php?f=10&t=169143

Thanks,
ermias
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby computer2cockpit » Tue Feb 04, 2014 7:59 am

Ok, thanks.

I must ask you, since i don't know much about 737, and if it is not too much trouble, can you explain the handles on central console, what are they used for.
I get the throttle handles. But the two outside white handles, two black ones on the right and the bottom ones are used for what?

Anyway, your simulator is very detailed and professional built, you could charge people for using it :)

I guess that you are a type of person that enjoyed building this and that you have knowledge and you are handy with tools.
We are planing on expanding the business to full cockpits, not just simulation hardware, once the simulation hardware business kicks off.
Your simulator is a proof that there is a market for such products. For people that want finished product.
Computer2cockpit - Flight Simulation Hardware designed for Flight Preparation and Training
Web: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/
Project updates: http://www.facebook.com/computer2cockpit
FAQ: http://www.computer2cockpit.com/?page_id=771
Thank you for Support!
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Re: computer2cockpit interface

Postby ermias » Tue Feb 04, 2014 9:31 am

Hi,

Thank you for the kind comments. Since I use two saitek throttles on top; the far two levers are extra. But I use them as propeller pitch control when I fly propelled aircraft. (Some time you get tired of the jets and fly props right?) The bottom throttle three levers are parking brake and fuel cut offs. These days many people are discovering saitek throttles are good alternatives to boeing 737 replica throttles which cost $$$s. I will get my flying licence before I go that route.

Image

Image

Yes, you are right I like to do things by hand and where is the joy if you are going to buy everything? That is OK level of details for me. Of course it would look a lot nicer but I personally would feel it would not sound mine.

You read my mind about expanding your business. The other day I meant to write you about it. You could design something that would aggregate all your modules except the rudder pedals. So all of them would be fixed on the module to build a desktop setup. I recommend you should be thinking of trim wheel to your setup too. That wold make it rich and complete.

I will write more if I come back with more ideas.

Thanks,
ermias
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