School Project Prepar3d flight Simulator

Hi all,

I have been given the amazingly terrifying task of overseeing a set of students at my school build a flight simulator - this is part of a competition that Boeing are running, and we have decided to try and make a 3DOF Arduino controlled design, using Prepar3d from Lockheed Martin.

I have seen all the amazing things you guys have been up to and have found the SMC3 software really interesting so far = I've been ordering parts to match RufusDufus sketch and diagram and will try that approach first.

Does anyone here have experience building such a device to work with Prepar3d? I don't have any experience with it other than flying the sim obviously, and apparently there is some sort of output software development kit available on the program that allows joystick movements to be outputted to the Arduino?

Anyway, I'll be lost in Arduino code for the next ten years, but if you can give any advice about this topic please get in touch!

(We have tried getting local companies and businesses involved but they are really, really, aggressively not interested!)

thanks

Steve
Essex
UK

I dont think youre going to get anyone reaching out to you for help. If there are things you have questions on and post them then folks can answer. Otherwise you can search the forum for the numerous posts on using an arduino.

The plugin for Prepar3d doesnt use joystick inputs. The SimTools software uses the data returned from the simulation and can translate that into numerical data that is leveraged against the movement abilities of your setup.

What 3 degrees are they requiring for the motion?

I know it seems daunting at first,
but the free Simtools makes things easier, particularly if there is a plug-in (link from noorbeast above).

My advice, would be to start with a small test rig, testing the bit you are most concerned with,
so maybe an Arduino linked to a couple motors on a bench.
You will be able to see what DOF is output / available from software
and will give you confidence, before building something full size.
I don't know, but imaging a moving cockpit.

I think your main issue will be funding, as 3DOF for a flight Sim normally includes heave. As such you would want adequately sized motors, gearboxes, and power supplies etc = $$$$ to lift/support the frame. As for a design - its all on this site (and others) - your students just need to look. Although as it is a competition for students I think it would be wrong for anyone here to help in the design of it. The whole idea of these competitions is to have the students research what is required and then build it, maybe with some help to ensure they do not injure themselves - and yes these SIM have the power to injure someone if you are not careful. Recommend that the students first build a working model with small/cheap components - which will test all the software/hardware concepts required. You could then take this working model to local business who may be then more inclined to invest, - remember it all about what they will get out of it - good publicity etc - not just funding some ones ideas that may lead nowhere.
Good luck.