Trim input box build documentation video

[tjhowse]

I wanted a more authentic experience when trimming the P-51D, so I built myself a box with some custom-designed 3D printed trim wheels on it and hooked up a Teensy 2.0 microcontroller to provide the inputs. Works very very nicely.

 

 

I documented the whole process in this video. Links to the models used in the 3D prints, the place where you buy the microcontroller and the code are all in the description.

 

 

 

If I were to build another, I'd improve on the following:

 

• Print knobs in black,
  
• Design them exactly as per the actual knobs, with the markings in relief, and fill in the grooves with white paint,
  
• Use a nice solid aluminium enclosure, rather than plastic,
  
• Mount a USB-B socket on the rear, instead of just a hole,
  
• Daisy-chain the 5v and gnd wiring inside, rather than star wiring.
  

Otherwise, I'm pretty happy with the outcome. All comments are welcome.

[zaelu]

Nice job. I have a trim box also and I'm pleased with it. I used Bu0836 controller. But I had opted for "Digital Route" using encoders. This way I can count the clicks but for DCS P51 is not really useful for takeoff trims as I need a lot of clicks for 5 degrees right :)

 

How much does a 3D printer costs? I thought are some "experimental stuff a year ago but now I see them in peoples homes/sheds

 

 

Here is my trim boxy linked to throttle piece from G940 (the BU0836 controller is in the throttle actually as it fixes the axes bugs of logitech engineers :P ):

Edited April 4, 2013 by zaelu

[tjhowse]

There's a lot of options out there now. You can get a commercial one off the shelf and working for about USD$1000. If you're a bit of a DIYer you can get a kit of a more advanced model for much cheaper. I myself went the kit route a couple of years back and it's been great. I spent about $600 total on parts. Nowdays the designs are much simpler, more robust and cheaper. I would look into the Prusa Mendel iteration 3 if I were to build one today.

[bumfire]

I trim'd my wifes box last night, does that count as having a trim box ?

[zaelu]

Thanks tjhowse for reply! I'll look into it.

[Hawk_5]

Cool, nice job. I did the same sort of thing as well with the bits from an old Wingman Extreme 3D joystick. Works really well too.

[WildBillKelsoe]

hey tjhouse,

I'm looking to build a similar project to yours. Here are the components in mind:

 

http://uk.farnell.com/jsp/displayProduct.jsp?sku=1307115&CMP=KNC-GUK-***-GEN-LISTINGS&gross_price=true

 

and for the knob

 

http://uk.farnell.com/vishay-spectrol/11a11b10/counting-dial-10-turns-6-35mm/dp/1144732

 

I also will get teensy buy I don't know which model you recommend.

 

I also failed to locate the power distribution board.

 

Can you direct me to proper sites in the US so I can get all from one rather than many sellers?

 

For enclosure I'll use a Radioshack enclosure or build a wooden box (oakwood). Savvy?