Hello from the USA

[AerospaceEnjoyer]

Hello everyone! I'm a current Aerospace Engineering college student studying at Purdue here in the US. In my free time during the summer I am working on building my F-16 simpit.

My main goal for this cockpit is to build almost everything myself. I'm laser cutting and 3D-printing all of the components in my cockpit save for a few - rudder & stick for instance.

My college has some great machining facilities but unfortunately it's a nearly 8 hour drive to my college so its logistically hard to manufacture metal parts for the cockpit.

I've (attempted to) attach a few pictures of my progress already. Most of what I've attached is from when I started my cockpit last summer. I'll probably make a build log on here once progress gets going again. Finishing the ACES II is my first big step, and one that I'll hopefully have completed within the next week or two.

I'm looking forward to seeing others builds on here and some insights from everyone on the forums!

[Snoopy]

Hi, welcome here.

Nice to see someone with your study background!

Great pictures, you are already on your way. Keep the pictures coming.

Best wishes!
Hans/Snoopy

[mihi4]

Welcome to the nuthouse!

My main goal for this cockpit is to build almost everything myself. I'm laser cutting and 3D-printing all of the components in my cockpit save for a few - rudder & stick for instance.

I'm in the same boat as you, trying to make as much as possible by myself.
You're starting at the right time, it's never been easier to do this by yourself than now.
25 years ago I had to do most parts through cutting/drilling/filing by hand, nowadays I just model it in CAD and start the 3d printer/laser/desktop cnc

[Atlas]

Welcome to the nuthouse and prepare to 

[AerospaceEnjoyer]

Welcome to the nuthouse!

My main goal for this cockpit is to build almost everything myself. I'm laser cutting and 3D-printing all of the components in my cockpit save for a few - rudder & stick for instance.

I'm in the same boat as you, trying to make as much as possible by myself.
You're starting at the right time, it's never been easier to do this by yourself than now.
25 years ago I had to do most parts through cutting/drilling/filing by hand, nowadays I just model it in CAD and start the 3d printer/laser/desktop cnc

Totally agree. Having the laser has been great for doing both panels and parts of the cockpit. Can't imagine doing the build without it. I've been in the 3D printing game for probably 8 years now but it is super handy - in fact, my whole throttle is 3D printed and lasercut. The friction mechanism on it feels super nice.

[Wolverine]

Hello and welcome.  I am also completing the seat which I build entirely by hand following Brenda's plans, I will post a progress step soon.  Greetings from Italy.

[Rufus]

OSKIE-WOW-WOW, Big Ten - even if they have forgotten how to count since I graduated!  Illinois grad myself...Aero and Astro Engineering.  Quite a few recent Perdue hires in my shop, you're in a good school.  Can't wait to see you roll - welcome!

[salaxi54]

Welcome aboard! You're deffinitely off to a good start it seems, and yes, nowadays with technology reaching more homes, it all makes life easier. Keep them pictures coming. 

[henkie]

Finishing the ACES II is my first big step, and one that I'll hopefully have completed within the next week or two.

Welcome, you've come to the right place!  Great people here 

Love to see your work, so post lots of pictures.
Personally, my estimations when something gets "done" are waaaayyyy to optimistic 
So, let's see how optimistic you are/were with the ACES II 

[Foghorn]

Welcome aboard!

[Nigel]

Welcome, I LOVE handbuilt anything

[ChrispyBiscuit99]

Welcome onboard and it looks like you're making great progress already. I love your 3D printed throttle and mechanism! 

[jelkand]

Welcome! I'm very impressed by what you've built so far (and a bit jealous as well!)