Category Archives: Homecockpit

First Version of MCP and some additional Informations

i think it is time to provide some updates for my project.

After i got my CNC machine running (with fixed chinese controller card TB6560) it is possible to do my own parts. So far the MIP structure is nearly finished and the first panel is backlighted. I use the SMD LED stripes for backlighting.

At the moment i work on the MCP. The front panel is finished and engraved (with 0.5 mm end mill) and backplate also ready. I do not use a 45 or 60 degree engraving mill because i have issues with the height of the panel. What i do is to set Z Axis to Zero for each new block of letter i want to engrave. The workbed is not 100% even so this is the solution which works good for me.

I did test with a self constructed engraving head but no big success.

Last week i received my first 500 € shipment from Open Cockpits with important components like master card, output card, switches, buttons and knobs. I did some molding tests to make my own knobs with silicon form and epoxy resin and you can see in the picture what comes out if you can´t wait till the mold is dried.

I try to get the MIP, MCP and EFIS Panels finished till i´ll move the whole structure into my cockpit room. For software i discovered the PROSIM 737 solution which seems perfect for my needs – not to mention that the package is free at the moment. Next steps will be all the wiring and of course many hours learning SIOC.

 

MCP Ver 1 front panel on the MDF router

MCP Ver 1 front panel on the MDF router

 

Engraved Letters and Backlighting

Engraved Letters and Backlighting

Gear LEver Panel and Backlighting

Gear LEver Panel and Backlighting

My first knobs fresh out of the mold

My first knobs fresh out of the mold

MIP Panel

The MIP (Main Instrument Panel) is probably the first part for any Homecockpit. It is the basis for the installation of important parts like the big displays or the landing gear lever. My MIP is made out of 10mm MDF material. The MIP consists of 3 parts which have been milled out on my old CNC machine. It would have been possible to make a single part panel (the CNC Worktable was big enough) but i prefer a modular approach.

 

The MIP attached to the basic structure

The MIP attached to the basic structure