Viperpit(s).org

Archives => Sy's F16 Cockpit Plans / Stencils 2015 => Topic started by: Symulate on August 18, 2015, 02:50:43 PM

Title: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 18, 2015, 02:50:43 PM
Hello all,

In the next few days I aim to release the first two modules of the cockpit plans.  These will be the centre pedestal and the LHS and RHS instrument panels.  These have been ready for a while but I have been in discussion with the admins as to the best way to make these available.

I have made it clear to a number of people who have contacted me along the way that the work I have been doing will take the form of two different threads.  The first will be a solid model, freely available to anyone that I will keep up to date and which will act as a reference to anyone who wants to construct using their own methodology.  This is currently available in the downloads section.  The second thread will be based on this initial solid model but will be a detailed set of plans/stencils that, in theory, will allow the user to stick the stencils onto board material (MDF or PLY) and then trim and fix together to create an accurate platform.  This second thread will be produced with the aim that only simple 2D cuts are required thus making it easy to manufacture at home with limited tools but equally suitable for CNC machining if required.  As this second thread is a considerable undertaking that as well as time involves a lot of my own design IP, it was always intended for the full plans to be a commercial offering.

A very small minority of people, who when they found out that there would be a commercial aspect to this, didn't want to provide information that I had requested.  I fully respect them for this.  Equally, I have had numerous people who have asked for the plans on a regular basis, offering to pay each time, so I can also see that there is an appetite for what I am doing even if there may be a cost associated with this.   Finally, the admins themselves, from our previous discussion have also wrestled with both sides of this venture.  Again, I fully respect that.

Before I make the plans available I wanted to make a number of things clear.  To get things this far the only dimensional help I have received, other than "freeware" sources, on this forum and elsewhere, has been from Mike (Ka-Bar03) in the form of his viperpanels offering.  This source alone has allowed me to make the full solid model and consequent platform plans.  I made it clear from the start to Mike that I planned this to be a commercial venture and he was fully supportive of this.  Hopefully he will offer his thoughts in due course here for reference.  With this in mind I feel justified in offering these plans on a commercial basis but am happy to have feedback from the wider community in the meantime.

Secondly I value a frank discussion on pricing.  I am hoping to have two tiers of plans available.  The first is a .pdf set with the aim being that the user can print and fix to board and cut accordingly.  The second is a .dxf set which could be CNC'd as required.  As the second tier leaves me more open to abuse it would be priced slightly higher.  In total I envisage there being four modules available.

(1)  Centre Pedestal and HUD Box
(2)  LHS / RHS Instrument Panels and Floor
(3)  LHS Console
(4)  RHS Console

From a pricing point of view I am currently consider £25 per module for the .pdf plan set and £35 per module for .dxf set.  I consider this to be reasonable but again value your feedback.

Finally I would add that I am not here to make a quick buck and disappear.  I will stand by the plans and if there are glaring issues make every effort to fix them accordingly.  I will also continue to support the solid model in the downloads section as well.  I believe this model alone, in conjunction with the build manuals which I have also made freely available, is already enough that the average user could construct a platform without the need to purchase anything.  As such I hope people will realise that I am trying to service both ends of the community.

I hope people will see that I have tried to be as up front and honest about this venture from the beginning, with Mike, the Admins, and now the wider community.  With this in mind I will hold back from releasing anything further until I hear what people have to say.

Thanks,
Sy

Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: tiger-31 on August 18, 2015, 03:20:55 PM
@Symulate

For many years people have been begging, nagging, cursing.... to be able to buy the plans that are now no longer available. These plans mind you were not cheap.

I never bought these plans so I can not judge price quality.

Then efforts were made to make "community plans" freely available to all members. Unfortunately that project, although well intended did not really fly, and seemed to take forever.

You spend a lot of time making your different versions of the plans (admittedly with some help of others), and succeeded where others could not manage, and finished the plans. Reading the prices you are suggesting for the plans I do not feel these are unreasonable. Especially not compared to what I "heard" the older plans costed. Furthermore you are also offering a solid model set that is free, but that with some effort can be adapted.

So basically people have a choice. A ready made plans set, at a modest cost, or a free set requiring some own work. Who can complain about this?

Of course this is just my opinion.   




 
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: CobaltUK on August 18, 2015, 04:08:11 PM
Totally agree with Tiger-31. As for the 2Tier pricing well I wonder if the higher price (that could yet be higher ultimately after full costings) might perhaps include both versions ? rather like some high end audio media include an mp3  or some such as part of the deal. If not then perhaps a discount for both. Just a thought.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 18, 2015, 04:11:31 PM
Hey,

Tier2 would include both .dxf and .pdf formats.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: henkie on August 18, 2015, 04:20:16 PM
Hi @Symulate

I am building my pit completely with my own ideas ... if you were around one year earlier, I would followed your plans, no doubt about that  :thumbsup:
So I am just a reader at the side line, but let me tell you that your pricing is VERY competitive. From what I understand, the no longer available plans were 3x ... 4x your asking figures!  I cannot say what the level of completeness was, nor its quality. Older members may have a better formed opinion about that.

It is a pity that the old plans are no longer available, that would have been good for continuity. You are offering that continuity and that alone is already worth something  :clap:

Maybe I could offer some electronic designs for a few $$ (or ££), but the amount of work that goes with the support is (to me) not worth all the extra work. So, I make my designs available, and write a manual to get guys started. Yes, I will do support, but as it is free and the designs are free, I have less feelings about being obliged to an immediate response  :whistle:

I still feel strongly that this community is full of people that want to do "good things". And most of them earn a lot of karma for the "next life" whereever that might be. Some guys have skills that are no good for pit building, but probably very good for something else. Together we can make the "pit building dream" real for all active VP builders.

I feel there is much more to say, but it basically comes down to  :clap: @Symulate
 :vprules:
- Henk
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: avn-tech on August 18, 2015, 11:34:52 PM
The main reason I decided to build an F-16 cockpit, was because of the support I found on this site. I think Rufus and I were the last builders to get Jason's planes.

I have seen builders come and go, after being frustrated at not being able to get plans. Having written several aircraft manuals, I think I have a good understanding of the work involved in making the plans. Following the group, it appears that only one or two people have been involved the community plans project and it has taken what seems like a long time.

I fully support charging for these plans, as a way to recoup the time and effort spent in there design. I doubt that anyone is going to get rich and retire from products they build for this community (look at dunk and what he has done). If Jason were making a living selling the plans, he would still be here and selling them. But the time he spent versus the pay was not worth the effort to him.

I was more then willing to pay Jason for his plans (yes, I saved my money to buy them), but the fact that they were available was worth what I paid. I have also been glade to pay dunk for his parts when I have the money to buy parts. I am sure that there others out there who will be raiding my piggy bank in the future as I work to complete my project.

Just my $0.02 worth.

I would also like to thank those who have organized the group meetings over the last couple of years. While unable to attend, I think they are worthwhile events for builders and hope to attend one in the future (if they continue to be offered).

Thank you
Avn-Tech
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Pekay on August 21, 2015, 11:46:23 PM
As said by myself and by others over this journey, we can't thank you enough. Like many others in this wonderful viper community who have the desire to build yet lack the skills (or software) to produce the artwork you have done, gives us a fighting chance to pursue a dream. Your prices are I think, dare I say, are too low. With all that time at the computer and doing the research, I myself would be understanding and willing to pay for the quality work you have shown us. Don't undersell yourself. After seeing some of the prices I have seen on Ebay...well I rant too much. Again thank you for the work you have done and am looking forward to your stencils, what ever price you decide

 I would also like to take the time to commend all the pit builders who built a pit without the aid of stencils and plans and I certainly don't want to belittle their efforts. Your experiences are a great resource for all us newbies. The combination of so many of the established (better word than old-timers :whistle:) pit builders coupled with the influx of new blood (stencils and drawings) have given us newbies a site full of great information and great friends. It can be easily said there is no other forum like Viperpit(s)!  :vprules:

Awaiting to soar the glory of the skies...

Pekay
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 22, 2015, 05:48:55 AM
Hello all,

Thanks for all the feedback thus far.  I'll leave this open for the rest of the weekend for any more comments and concerns and then make a final decision on how to proceed on Monday.

I appreciate everyone's honesty.

Regards,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 24, 2015, 07:56:13 AM
Hello all,

Thanks for everyone's feedback.  Having not heard had any negative comments regarding a commercial release I plan to double check everything and release the first two modules over the next few days.

Prices will be as originally stated, i.e. £25 per module for .pdf files only or £35 for .pdf and .dxf files.  Where possible I will support everything released, i.e. if you have any questions about construction then I will get back to you either individually or via this forum if I think the question will benefit other users.  If there are huge problems with the plans then I will aim to rectify ASAP and pass on updated plans at no extra cost.  Changes to allow fitment of individual pieces of hardware will not be supported. 

I have made every effort to ensure the construction methodology does not foul the larger components that would need to be fitted to have a high fidelity pit.  I have not taken into account every switch as I do not have accurate sizes for them all and there is also no standardisation for these parts across every different pit.  As such here may be some instances where small modifications will be needed to fit all your own specific switch gear.  I include this clarification as issues with switch gear will not be considered a design issue and as such will not be supported as such.  If you do have a specific concern please contact me first prior to purchase and where possible I will try and answer.

Rules and Regulations for Use

Apologies for this section but I think it important to clarify how you may and may not use these plans.

Firstly, All rights are reserved.  No part of these publications may be reproduced, (with the express exception that any reproduction is for your own individual use) distributed or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission.  For specific permission requests please contact myself directly.

You can:
Print and make copies for your own use
Pass on information to a CNC bureau for the express purpose of them producing a single set of parts for your own use only.

You cannot:
Make copies for friends
Make copies to spread the cost of the plans across more than one user.
Cut multiple panels from these plans for distribution to third parties, either yourself or via a CNC bureau. i.e. you cannot get an external company to make more than one platform for selling on or “group buys” unless everyone involved in the group buy has purchased original copies of the platform plans from myself.

If you have any questions about the above then please contact me directly.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: ReaperAT on August 24, 2015, 10:32:28 AM
Regarding the plans, for which thickness of the wood plates are these made?

There is the problem with inch and milimetres depending buying the raw materials in US or Europe ... :notes:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: CobaltUK on August 24, 2015, 12:18:48 PM
"The Centre Pedestal consists of 26 individual parts made from a variety of 6mm, 12mm and 20mm thick sheet material.  It is envisaged that construction will be with either MDF or Ply sheets although different materials can be used."

I would expect all the freely downloadable build plans yet to come will highlight intended thicknesses. So far it looks like 1/4, 1/2" and 3/4" (or 7/8th depending which way the cut tolerances work) as nearest equivalent.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 24, 2015, 01:47:35 PM
Hello,

The information provided by CobaltUK is correct.  I would also like to add that in most cases the material thickness is important due to the tight tolerances involved in the design phase.  Where possible you should always try to ensure that the specified sheet thickness is used to avoid issues in construction.  If you look through the build manuals you should be able to see where this is the case.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: ReaperAT on August 24, 2015, 03:53:50 PM
I checked some provider for sheet MDF, it seems standard thicknesses are 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 22 mm, no 20 mm.

Thats why i'm asking, 20 mm seems hard to get ....
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: CobaltUK on August 24, 2015, 04:17:53 PM
Interesting range. Many more sizes than UK major diy store has. No 3,4,5,8,10,12,14 etc there.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: greyfox on August 24, 2015, 04:39:18 PM
In Spain I can find only 12mm, no 6 or 20mm...

Being thickness so important, does anybody know a cheap way to find this measures?

Or maybe some company with a CNC router that can work with the different thickness and can send you directly the cut pieces?

Regards
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 24, 2015, 04:59:13 PM
Hi all,

I can get 20mm sheet through work easily so was unaware this was tough to source. For the CP the only 20mm piece is cosmetic and can be replaced easily. The floor is predominantly 20mm thick. This will require a slightly more in depth update. 

Please leave it with me.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on August 25, 2015, 02:27:50 PM
Hello all,

All plans to date have now been updated with 18mm sheet instead of 20mm.  The LHS Console is also now 18mm construction. 

Thanks for your feedback regarding difficulty sourcing the sheet material.

As promised I plan to support these platform files as much as possible so please do shout if you have any other concerns.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on September 03, 2015, 08:13:53 AM
Hello all,

I received a question yesterday regarding full cockpit sides which I have replied to in the LHS Console Development thread.  Rather than continue with the RHS Console, today I have modelled the cockpit sides and canopy seal which will form the basis for this fifth module.

The solid model in the downloads section has been updated accordingly and is now awaiting admin approval.  For those making your own platforms based on the solid model this will hopefully get you on your way if you want full cockpit sides.  I have not united it fully so if you wanted the simpler platform you should just be able to "turn off" the sides and sill and in essence revert to the 04 version of the release.

Any questions or comments please shout.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Lightning101 on September 03, 2015, 10:16:20 AM
Very very very nice job Sy!

The VP community as never been so close to get a complete cockpit plan kit since the Killn's one is not available.

A big thumbs up to you and I'm pretty sure that all those members who are wainting for a kit since many times now will be very gratefull.

Keep it up for the viper and community!
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on September 15, 2015, 02:39:15 PM
Hello all,

This evening I finished the blow-up of the RHS Console.  Just to check my intended methodology will work I have taken all of the current fully modelled platform parts and added the full sides and sill from the solid model.  This should give people a reasonable idea of what it will look like as a fully platform as opposed to the current simple platform.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on October 09, 2015, 04:10:52 PM
Hello all,

I had a spare 30 minutes this evening so I have quickly knocked up a glare shield.  I have done a lot of this by eye so I am not sure about dimensions but I am more than happy to modify this however people want as it is quite a simple parametric model.  For reference it is currently 3mm thick.

I need to knock a few more edges off it and then Ill put it in the downloads section with the solid model.

If there is a reference to dimensions anywhere I can modify before the upload?

Also, if people out there are handy with moulding then I am happy to release a buck model to lay up into.  Shout if this would be useful.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: tiger-31 on October 09, 2015, 04:18:46 PM
Is this helpful?

http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,1491.msg93095.html?PHPSESSID=4o78gaa3fratrvd2p7vsuu5rm6#msg93095
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on October 10, 2015, 03:39:23 PM
Thanks for this.  Ill try and update and then put into the download section.

Regards,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Pekay on October 10, 2015, 08:56:15 PM
@Symulate
Dug through my photos and found these dims from Thunder's build.
http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,8748.msg125539.html#msg125539 (http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,8748.msg125539.html#msg125539)

Also from Red Dog's build http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,537.msg41360.html#msg41360 (http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,537.msg41360.html#msg41360)

Pekay
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on October 13, 2015, 02:30:03 PM
Hello all,

I have added a glare shield representation to the solid model in the downloads section.  Now at V6 and awaiting admin approval.  Screen shot below for reference.

With the 01 Platform plans fully complete and available for anyone that wants them (please see individual threads in this section) and now this simple solid model finished and freely available in the downloads section this project is pretty much wrapped up.

I first started working on this on the 13th April this year and it has taken 6 full months to get to this point.  At 2-3 hours a day on average, with perhaps a little more at weekends, this represents an investment of somewhere in the region of 500-600 hours of work if not more. 

The net result is a complete, realisable platform consisting of 118 individual parts, 130 individual drawings and build manuals covering 68 pages with a total of 98 fully annotated steps.

Some people think this should be given away for free, lots don't and whilst everyone is entitled to their opinion, I think a small fee for this level of commitment is not unreasonable.

I have provided the build manuals for free.  A solid model from which everything above is derived from for free.  Clear examples of how the platform parts can be created without purchasing the plans for free.  I have updated the solid model at peoples request and promised to continue to do this as required.  At every step of the way I have asked for the forums input on whether they wanted this work doing and whether they supported it being a commercial venture. 

I believe I have acted fairly, honourably and in the "spirit of the community".  Maybe I am being over sensitive but from the side-swipes I feel I am getting in other threads it seems, what I hope is a minority of people, disagree.

If people don't want to purchase the plans that's fine.  If people don't want me as a forum member just say and I'll go.  In the meantime I'll keep a lower profile and hopefully this will offend less people.   My next project is an 02 platform based on 1.6mm (16swg) Alu, folded net construction.  My hope is this will be useful and well received.  If not then I am sure I will enjoy the engineering challenge regardless.

Thanks to the large majority of you all for your support and good will.
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: henkie on October 13, 2015, 04:29:06 PM
I have said it before, and I say it again @Symulate

Hats off to you   :hail:  and   :clap:  for all the outstanding work you accomplished in so little time.
And the payment you ask is just a small fee. I cannot call that little amount a payment.

If people say your plans are too expensive (or worse: should be freely available), they
a) selected the wrong hobby
b) don't have a clue how much effort is involved in your work
c) better forget about pit building, get a branch from a tree (that's free) and go fishing
    (that might be free)

So please stay and completely ignore the "I want it all for free" fools guys!

- Henk
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: CobaltUK on October 13, 2015, 05:00:11 PM
+1
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Lightning101 on October 13, 2015, 05:59:29 PM
+1 henkie and a big thumbs up to Sy for his tons of hours and nice plans.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: mg102279 on October 13, 2015, 07:17:01 PM
@Symulate I do have to say that your plans are a real piece of work!!!  :yihaw: The prices for your plans are a hell of a lot more cheaper than Killn's plans. You can purchase 2 to 3 of your plans for the price of his. Initially under the assumption that these plans were going to be a free community item from the posts, I can see why you did put a small price on a big item.

To all,
As for my (VIPER44's parts) I will be making them available once completed but for a small price I can assemble them from mostly complete to complete kit. I am glad to contribute as well. As for the electronics will have to be at a small price. Ask @sagrzmnky which he can verify that I am trying to help make this hobby as cheap as possible for others as well as myself.

VIPER44....out!
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: sagrzmnky on October 13, 2015, 11:56:29 PM
@Symulate I do have to say that your plans are a real piece of work!!!  :yihaw: The prices for your plans are a hell of a lot more cheaper than Killn's plans. You can purchase 2 to 3 of your plans for the price of his. Initially under the assumption that these plans were going to be a free community item from the posts, I can see why you did put a small price on a big item.

To all,
As for my (VIPER44's parts) I will be making them available once completed but for a small price I can assemble them from mostly complete to complete kit. I am glad to contribute as well. As for the electronics will have to be at a small price. Ask @sagrzmnky which he can verify that I am trying to help make this hobby as cheap as possible for others as well as myself.

VIPER44....out!
What??? :o
Don't ask me nuthin...... :whistle: :biggrin:
Yes, Matt has told me many times about how he wants to help the VP community. I know for a fact, like many in here, that he is not out to make a big profit off of anything. I am sure that you will see that when he starts putting prices on stuff.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: tiger-31 on October 14, 2015, 01:32:45 AM
I have said it before, and I say it again @Symulate

Hats off to you   :hail:  and   :clap:  for all the outstanding work you accomplished in so little time.
And the payment you ask is just a small fee. I cannot call that little amount a payment.

If people say your plans are too expensive (or worse: should be freely available), they
a) selected the wrong hobby
b) don't have a clue how much effort is involved in your work
c) better forget about pit building, get a branch from a tree (that's free) and go fishing
    (that might be free)

So please stay and completely ignore the "I want it all for free" fools guys!

- Henk


Fully agree with Henkie.

There is nothing dishonest about the modest fee you are asking for the mountain of work you have done.

Nobody is being forced to buy. People that don't want to pay what you are asking should start doing cad or sketching by themselves.

I keep on repeating great job @Symulate

Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Moon on October 14, 2015, 05:49:55 AM
I also agree with Henkie.

The build manuals and solid model are available for free.  The many hours of skilled work required to produce these items represents a generous contribution to this community.

A small fee for full plans seems perfectly reasonable to me.

Thanks @Symulate for a great job!  :hail:  :vprules:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Frog12 on November 14, 2015, 10:09:21 AM
It is very reasonable for me too, when you do things that take a lot of time I think it is ok to ask for some compensation back.

Keep up the good work!  :countingmoney:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Chill on November 16, 2015, 07:18:22 PM
At my current budget of about $400 US/year for pit building I'll still need $2k - $3k to finish it when I retire...  I want to take the time to personally thank you for your time and contributions to my dream.  Looking forward to squeezing your plans into my budget.

TC
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: sagrzmnky on November 17, 2015, 11:14:41 AM
I have said it before, and I say it again @Symulate

Hats off to you   :hail:  and   :clap:  for all the outstanding work you accomplished in so little time.
And the payment you ask is just a small fee. I cannot call that little amount a payment.

If people say your plans are too expensive (or worse: should be freely available), they
a) selected the wrong hobby
b) don't have a clue how much effort is involved in your work
c) better forget about pit building, get a branch from a tree (that's free) and go fishing
    (that might be free)

So please stay and completely ignore the "I want it all for free" fools guys!

- Henk

Here in the U.S you would have to buy a fishing license.... :D
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: HaJa on November 18, 2015, 07:00:10 AM
I agree  :outthewindow: nothing in this world is free unless it is worthless.
Keep up the great work.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Tiffy on April 19, 2016, 07:50:24 AM
I've been dithering around for years about starting a cockpit build with the biggest issue being a set of plans to build too.  I had resigned myself to having to draw my own due to not being able to get Killin's plans anymore - and this had been the biggest bump in the road.  Now Sy has come along with his plans.

I contacted Sy and got a set of plans from him and having looked over them and read the construction manuals I have to say how impressed I am with how professional and clear these are.  There is a clear Bill of Materials provided and the build instructions are very clear.  If you built Airfix model kits as a kid (or still do) then you can follow these instructions to produce a excellent result only dependant on your ability to cut the required parts from stock.  If cutting parts accurately is an issue for you then the provided DXF files in the top range plans can be used to have these parts CNC cut for you - at that point it really is like a plastic model kit.

Sy discusses alternate ways to assemble the parts, pointing out areas with each that could be problematic.  The main assembly method is to use glue and counter-sunk screws to hold it together but, as pointed out be Sy, you could consider using dowels and glue.

The cut outs for the different instruments have been designed with using either actual parts or those provided by Mike over at ViperPanels.  Each build manual, at the end, has a section indicating which ones of Mike panels (or TM's in the case of the MFD's) would be suitable to finish your construction.

My only criticism I would have of the plans is with the PDF's.  I am assuming that these need to be printed at 100% size but am unsure as I know the PDF panels from XFlight need to be printed at 103% to be actual size.  Having said that a quick test print would indicate the size these need to be print at.

On the whole this is an excellent product, well worth the money, and I would highly recommend it to anyone thinking of starting a pit build.

Now with my main excuse for not starting remove by Sy I had better get my arse in gear and build some kind of pit ;)
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on April 19, 2016, 05:31:55 PM
Tiffy,

Many thanks for the kind words and I am glad you are happy with the product!

I take on board your criticism about printing pdf's and you are correct that you may have to play around with the print settings to make sure you are getting the correct sizes.  It is for this reason why I included at least one X and one Y dimension on every part so you can confirm what you are printing is correctly sized.  It is not ideal I know but .pdf is a universal format which can be readily scaled.  It also allows tiled printing so even people with an A4 printer can produce properly scaled plans with ident marks for lining up all of the smaller printed pages (fiddly... but I did do it myself to prove it could be done!)

If people have suggestions for other more printer friendly formats I am more than happy to listen and I have done a few specials for people who wanted drawing frames removed etc.

Please keep the feedback coming as I am keen to make sure these are as user friendly and helpful to the community as possible.

Thanks again Tiffy and good luck with your build!
Sy

Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Lightning101 on April 19, 2016, 05:37:54 PM
I often receive some msg about my pit and where to get plans. I always refer to Sy's email. Hope you have make some sale with me.

Nive job!
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Pekay on April 22, 2016, 12:29:34 AM
I just got my plans from Sy last week and want to thank him publicly in the forum for a job well done. The plans are written in a very clear and concise way and are easy to follow. Very professional in every way. I too had been too late to acquire Jason's plan and we as a community are very lucky to have someone who can provide plans that can be built in any number of set-ups from the control panel to a seat with the mains and aux panels all the way to full up and skinned. Something for everyone's taste and wallet. I bought the full set (pdf and dxf files) and am truly satisfied with the quality and price. This community rocks because of people like Sy and so many others who share the dream. My hat off to you Sy! :beer:

Pekay
Of course now that everyone knows I have my plans, they are going to expect to see some results. Got to get busy I guess.  :digger:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: henkie on April 22, 2016, 01:56:51 AM
Stop digging, start building  :harhar:

Indeed looking forward to see pictures!
- Henk
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: ramazoti on April 22, 2016, 05:53:53 AM
+1 i got them also .. but still working on PS Cockpit, to be more familiar with the Connections and so on.
Symulate thanx mate a Job well done  :hail: :clap:
I just got my plans from Sy last week and want to thank him publicly in the forum for a job well done. The plans are written in a very clear and concise way and are easy to follow. Very professional in every way. I too had been too late to acquire Jason's plan and we as a community are very lucky to have someone who can provide plans that can be built in any number of set-ups from the control panel to a seat with the mains and aux panels all the way to full up and skinned. Something for everyone's taste and wallet. I bought the full set (pdf and dxf files) and am truly satisfied with the quality and price. This community rocks because of people like Sy and so many others who share the dream. My hat off to you Sy! :beer:

Pekay
Of course now that everyone knows I have my plans, they are going to expect to see some results. Got to get busy I guess.  :digger:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on April 22, 2016, 08:17:14 AM
Thanks to you all again for your kind words and support.  I'm always here for questions and help if you need it!

Good luck with your builds!

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on June 28, 2016, 08:03:29 AM
Hello all,

As promised I will always try and support these plans and following some feedback there are a number of updates I have made to the build manuals.  These are small inconsistencies with part names and thicknesses but obviously incorrect so I apologise to everyone who may have had difficulties with this regard.

To make things absolutely clear.  All drawings, either .pdf or .dxf were 100% accurate, if you built to the drawings you would have had no problem whatsoever.  The only issue was in a few incorrectly described parts in the build manuals only.  Full details are below and the updated build manuals are also uploaded for people that want them.  I will also update the individual summary page.

Many thanks to @Spirit-49th for his feedback in noticing these inconsistencies.

(1)  Centre Pedestal.
Several part numbers on the BOM page of the build manual were incorrect.  These have been updated.

(2)  Floor Construction
Several part thicknesses on the BOM page were incorrect in the build manual.  These have all been updated and now match the drawings and assemblies.
Consistency across all drawings and build manuals for Outer Spa descriptions (was OB Spa in some instances).

(3)  RHS Instrumental Panel
Part 5 thickness updated in build manual to 12mm (the drawing and assy were correct)

(4)  Cockpit Sides
Several part thicknesses were incorrect in the build manual.  These have all been updated and now match the drawings and assemblies.

Again, issues were in the build manuals only.  Drawings and Assys are all correct and unchanged.

Apologies one last time and good luck everyone with your builds.

Thanks,
Sy

Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Peten on June 28, 2016, 08:16:31 AM
Thanks for helping the community  :thumbsup:

Asi
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Kukki on June 28, 2016, 12:01:17 PM
Super cool, and a BIG THANKS mate  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :vprules:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Spirit-49th on June 28, 2016, 01:37:14 PM
Hello Sy,

first of all i have to say a BIG THANK YOU  :yihaw: to you for giving us an opportunity to make a big step forward to realise this dream!!  :vprules:

And i'm glad to help in every way!

When you come to Germany, then let me know and i'm happy to spend you some  :beer:.

Regards,

Jens
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Hammer.PT on August 14, 2016, 07:37:09 AM
Hey Sy,
Here are the first few photos of the CP, LHS, RHS assembled according to your plans.
I choosed MDF because when cutting it with a laser I think its gets better edges, altough is much more fragile when attaching bolts in its cross section. Have to drill it first.
Nevertheless, I was very pleased with the end result. Now, filling, sandind and painting
Then I have to find some kind of plans to build the two glareshields

http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,10614.msg154005.html#msg154005 (http://www.viperpits.org/smf/index.php/topic,10614.msg154005.html#msg154005)

After this I will move to the Floor.
Then I need to buy the Left and Right consoles from you, and back to business :)

Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Willy on August 15, 2016, 05:24:48 PM
@Hammer.PT
I think you have a file permission problem with your pictures causing them to not display.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: ramazoti on August 16, 2016, 04:10:52 AM
same to me i can't see any.
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Hammer.PT on August 16, 2016, 09:31:08 AM
Linked to my building thread
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Kukki on August 16, 2016, 09:56:31 AM
still private  ;)
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Spirit-49th on August 16, 2016, 11:35:26 AM
can see all photos  :thumbsup:
the parts look great.
when i get my parts from the shop i will post some pics too but that will take some weeks.  :beer:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Lightning101 on August 16, 2016, 12:08:32 PM
Can see them too. Nice job mate!
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: MrWell on August 17, 2016, 06:42:29 AM
can´t see them  :'(
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: supportguy on January 22, 2017, 05:47:29 AM
where to purchase plans I don't see a link
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on January 26, 2017, 07:53:23 AM
Hi Sparrow,

Apologies I've only just seen this.  Please PM me for more details if you remain interested.

Thanks,
Sy
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Graphic on November 30, 2017, 05:40:14 AM
Hi guys,

and another happy customer! I contacted Sy last week, and he explained all the details about the plans and conditions. I ordered the whole pakage, and everything went as described. Very kind, to the point - if everything was that easy!  :beer2:

I recommend it  :clap:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: LunarOrbiter77 on November 30, 2017, 12:26:35 PM
Hi Pilots,

i received the complete set of plans yesterday which means dxf's as well as pdf's for 5 main cockpit modules to build. With no problems i was able to open the dxf files in TurboCAD 2015 to review them and to start working. Sy did a very very professional job. These plans are the perfect introduction to something really special that you will start working on - you know it from the first sight! There are pdf formated construction manuals included also. Every step is very well documented - literally as well as visually. That's tons of passion for every single cent.

So yes! A professional finish must have a professional starting point and that's what Sy's plans are: A must- have for a serious cockpit builder!!

Thank you so much,Sy!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: Symulate Cockpit Plans
Post by: Symulate on November 30, 2017, 02:05:26 PM
@LunarOrbiter77 and @Graphic,

Many thanks for your kind words and I'm glad you are happy with the product. 

I've seen a few finished examples now and I have to say that you can get a very professional looking result if you spend a bit of time at it. 

I really can't wait to see what you both come up with!

Thanks again and happy building!

Sy
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