Andy's Rec Room R/C

Ho Ho Ho

2011-12-25T08:55:00.000-08:00

A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!

Single Stick First Timer

2011-10-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

I've been offering members of our club a chance to try out my single stick radio. Non of them had any sim preparation or practice, just a cold handover of the tx in flight.

This time I nabbed our club Prez and he did great! He has never flown ss before!

Catch Up!

2011-09-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

Been a kinda crazee summer so I'm way behind on my TX and Stick building. Prepping for teaching at the moment but should be more active in a few weeks. Keep flying while the weather is good!

Keep well,
Andy

Dean McInnis Flies His Trex 550E 3G With New Kraft/MS2K SS

2011-06-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dean posted a quick vid of him flying his new heli. Some great flying 'til the battery in the heli popped out but he will be back very soon with more videos! Great work Dean and it's awesome to see some single stick heli flying.

Cheers,
Andy

A Woody for the Summer!

2011-06-11T13:02:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my second MS2K. I found some great walnut veneer and had to give this baby the California Surfin' Vibe. This one will be for helis as well planes so I needed a few switches for throttle hold, flight modes and that kinda stuff. Had to build a voltage regulator circuit to protect the Spektrum module from the über-massive lipo powah ;-) Hope to have a few vids in a week or so. Keep flyin'!

Cheers,
Andy

Good fun!

A couple more wires than the first one.

The counter-lipo voltage regulator.

Lucky 7 Update

2011-06-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

I am still working on refining the spring system. At the moment the feel is not to my liking so I will keep working on the design until it rocks. Sorry 'bout the delay but I will not release it until it's up to my personal requirements. Promise to post updates soon.

I am currently amusing/distracting myself with my second personal MS2K and should have a few snaps in week.

Cheers & keep flying,

Andy

A Cool Radio Indeed!

2011-05-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Tom's new radio with one of my V1 gimbals. It has DX7 electronics in a custom case. Nice work Tom!!!

Super cool combo!

Just havin' some fun!

2011-04-09T21:58:00.001-07:00

Lucky 7 Rough Install to Demonstrate Mechanics

2011-03-29T16:56:00.000-07:00

This is a simple video to show how the gimbal will mount. I have had more than one request to explain the install so here it is :-) This is just the gimbal with no springs, pots or wires.

Cheers,
Andy

The Test Parts Are In And This Ain't Your Daddy's Singlestick!!!

2011-03-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

I got the test parts back from waterjet cutting. A big thanks to Burak at Flexyshop! The following photos show the basic parts. I will assembly the unit week and post some snaps of the complete stick. It will allow for a case as shallow as 1.5" and only requires two screws to mount. The bezel will come in a week or so once all throws are finalized.

Parts place in position.

The reason it's called Luck Seven.

Elevator bock close up.

What it does

Next Big Project

2011-03-04T21:47:00.000-08:00

The main design work is done and first units will be started next week! Still some decisions to be made but things are very animated in the Rec Room. The name will make sense too!

Cheers & Stay Tuned,
Andy

Next Batter Up Is...

2011-02-17T22:20:00.000-08:00

My next transmitter project will be a poor old Proline that was a wee bit neglected but shall be given the love it deserves. Here are some initial snaps of the before and initial take-apart.

Have fun,
Andy

Stick it to the man!

What!!! No Fluoride???

Nice packs!

The stick is still very, very nice.

A little dirty and tired but all that will be fixed at Andy's spa.

Huge thanks to MAN!

2011-02-07T18:45:00.000-08:00

I wanted to thank Model Airplane News for giving my gimbal project a four page spread in the March 2011 Canadian Edition of Model Airplane News. I was informed that it is also available for online subscribers. It is not in the US print version.

They are some of the nicest people I have ever dealt with and featuring a small project like mine gives great hope to myself and others looking to start building r/c equipment locally.

A sincere thank you,
Andy

Thank you Debra and John!

The Kraft Single Stick is Complete!

2011-02-07T17:55:00.000-08:00

Got the Kraft SS finished and had a hoot testing it with my Blade mSR this weekend. Man it's fun to fly a micro heli with a single stick! Here are some snaps of the final transmitter and some build shots.

Keep Flyin'

Andy

Front with covers in place

Covers off

Easy access to computer interface

Spektrum DM9 module for compatibility

Custom levers

This one was set up mainly for heli use

Throttle hold and DR switches also handle option and preset
via a momemtary position at the bottom of the switch

Spock! I think I got your brain back in!!!

Setting up the ppm/serial cable. Gotta talk to the world!

Centering pots

Lcd bumper and encoder mounts

Encoder mounts. These get CA glued to the case

Lcd bumper

E-trim resistance networks

Custom levers and pot mounts

Lever Prep & Installation

2011-01-22T15:38:00.000-08:00

Got the levers prepped and installed. Will move on to final soldering tomorrow. Here are some snaps of the prep and final install. This might be a keeper for future transmitters!

Final install and thanks to George at Orca Waterjet

Brush finishing sides

Hole is intentionally undersized in waterjet and reamed to size

Tap routine ;-)

Drill 'em right!

Woohoo!!! The levers are here.

2011-01-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

Just got the custom levers for the Kraft project. These are a hybrid of a Proline shape, Kraft size and Ace oversize thumb gripper.

Hybrid throttle/collective levers

Dry fit and progress of Mr. Kraft

2011-01-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

The holidays are done and the new year's first born is due soon. Here are some photos of a dry fit and progress including successfully finding a replacement pot for a Kraft SS!!!

Cheers,
Andy

Dry fit of transmitter parts

Module hole

Some of the new bits

New bracket...gotta match just so!

Old ceramic pot base and new 10k donor.

Those old Krafts were completely adjustable. Very nice!!!

The Reno Continues!

2010-12-16T18:40:00.000-08:00

Got a bit more done this week while waiting for the custom throttle levers.

Gotcha. This will become something very funky!

Client requested the same spacing as the Ace transmitter.

Oh no! Mr. Bill!!! LCD goes here.


Stick in original condition.

Return of the Nibbler.

Trim this!

X-Files.

X-Files. Wait a minute...that's deja vu!

Commencement of Cool Client's Nifty Kraft Single Stick MS2K Conversion Project

2010-11-30T17:27:00.000-08:00

Last week was a very exciting time at Andy's Rec Room and I promise a full disclosure at the appropriate point in time unless Wiki-leaks gets hold of the info first. This week the new design is still under way and I have commenced this conversion of a 1977 Kraft single stick transmitter to a MS2K. A very cool feature will be the client requested dual throttle/collective levers on both sides of the transmitter. This will allow left or right handed use of the radio via a switch. A very cool request that will be a challenge but tons of fun. Here are the first day snaps.

Stay cool fellow RC cats,
Andy

Greetings Mr. Kraft!

Backside upon arrival.

Original inside parts.

OK you dirty rat, spill your guts!

Oh dear, so many parts. Spock where do they go?!!!

The keepers.

Unleash the "Nibbler"!

Module in case.

Spektrum DM9 module all fitted.

Woody the Mule!

2010-11-18T12:49:00.000-08:00

Here are some snaps of the new design prototype's progress. It is in it's first, ultra rough incarnation and a hint of crazy possibilities are here too! The shots do not have the collar installed in the top hole yet. There will be "wings" on the side of the open "cap", for lack of a better description.

The other cap design will be kept as well but this concept would deliver a much lighter rudder assembly and space for buttons or other stuff.

Cheers,

Andy

Back

Front

Throttle mock-up

Top 1

Top 2

Wood was chosen to get going

First Rough Drawing ot the New Rudder Block

2010-11-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

This is a very rough concept of the aluminum bearing block that will house 2 sealed bearings and the Bourns 1 million rotation conductive plastic pot. Much work ahead!

Stop The Presses!

2010-11-09T10:37:00.000-08:00

I will be halting production of the current stick because I have completed a new design for the rudder assembly and need the time to finish designing and prototyping the unit.

This new design will have the shaft completely isolated from the pot, run on 2 ball bearings and be lighter and simpler. It is the difference between continuing the project and stopping as the current design is simply too time intensive. I will continue special orders if someone absolutley wants the original over the new design but in very limited numbers.

I am extremely excited about this first stage of the design and will have images soon. The two axis lower assembly will be redesigned as well in a similar manner with full BB support.

Please stay tuned,
Andy

Revival of a Classic American Beauty

2010-11-04T22:07:00.000-07:00

The Micropro 8000 is possibly the last of a truly majestic breed. This striking example has been restored with Gordon Anderson's MS2K encoder and a full metal gimbal and rudder assembly. I enjoy the purpose built design that was punched up by some of the best graphic design of the 1980s. It will serve duty as a 3D single stick. Great work!

Reporting for duty!

A Beautiful Retrofit Project

2010-11-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a snap of a super clean installation of the precision metal rudder assembly in a Multiplex Evo 12. Great work! Hmmm...might have to try fitting one in a DX7.

Cheers,
Andy

Some great work done here!

Project L-Stick

2010-11-03T12:09:00.000-07:00

In case anyone is looking for an über-cheap way to get into Single Stick flying and has basic metal working ability, I present the L-Stick. I will not be selling this or making accurate drawings as it is intended as a fun DIY, use at your own risk project. Yes, improper use can result in waking up in Vegas with a very strange bed partner, driving a DeLorean, visiting Mr. Trump's hair stylist or a sudden, uncontrollable urge to use mouthwash!!! For details, please check out the user group. If you use the correct, high tech cap, it evens has instructions on how to use the stick (last photo) ;-)

Cheers,
Andy

First Ocean Crossing Beastie!

2010-10-26T22:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some snaps of 3/16" aluminum shaft rudder assembly. This will be a retrofit for a Multiplex Evo 12 and I am very stoked to see the results when completed! It is also the first one to leave the continent.

Cheers,
Andy

School

2010-10-19T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a snap of where inspiration is drawn from. I tried to get a good cross section of classic American and even a couple Canadian radios too see production techniques, variations in products and really get the vibe of these gems.

The Spektrum DX7 is a great workhorse and shall be part of the stable once all the design work is done. The herd will be culled at some point but there a few guys, like the S&O and Proline SS, that are going nowhere.

The strange one in in the middle is no classic just an homage to the greats and something that I like to fly :-)

Have a great one,
Andy

Friday Update

2010-10-15T13:41:00.000-07:00

Had a great meeting with the local cnc shop owner. The next small run will be as was but the the future possibilities look very promising. Saw some of his sample work and it was stellar.

Have a great one,
Andy

Friday Update

2010-10-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

I will be meeting with a local CNC shop owner today and hopefully have good news regarding the cage and bezel production. The waterjet cutting has been very successful for the cap and cup parts as well as the scissors.

Weekend Edition

2010-09-10T20:28:00.000-07:00

Here is number 5 about to head out tomorrow. I also added a few shots of the bezel prep. The shape is water jet cut but the angle has to be hand cut.

Cheers & Happy Weekend,
Andy

The Kit

Finished Bezel

Fine Finishing File

Visible Shaping

Coarse File Work

Friday's Child

2010-09-03T10:26:00.000-07:00

Got another one going to a good home!

I just wanna fly!

Another One Is Born!

2010-08-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

Here is another gimbal about to leave the nest.

Gimbal with optional bezel.

Assembly Time!

2010-08-22T19:52:00.001-07:00

Here are the bits for this week's final assembly. All cut, drilled, tapped sanded and polished.

Parts ready for assembly.

Hole-E Caps 'n' Cups

2010-08-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

Well, here are the drilled caps and cups. You can also see the pins in the cup. They go through the press fit, bonded, assembly right through the shaft.

Next step soldering, assembly and finishing. We're getting close!

Cheers,
Andy

Caps 'n' Cups.

Phew, one of the hard jobs done.

2010-08-04T18:05:00.000-07:00

Since I am still hemming and hawing over which mill to get, for now, the parts still have to be hand cut. Here are some some snaps of the finished brushed frames and a shot of the high tech prosess used to make them.

Cheers,
Andy

The frames ready for a tasty stuffing of yokes, bails & springs.

Yep..that's a jeweler's saw in action!

Ramping back up.

2010-07-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

Got some bits prepped and the next 5 units are under way.

Top Cap Ver 3.0

2010-07-15T16:12:00.001-07:00

And with the waterjet cut plate here is the latest top cap design.

Cheers,
Andy

Top Cap Ver. 3.0

New Batch of parts.

2010-07-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

Here are the parts I had waterjet cut. The bit on the right is the new top cap design.

Cheers,
Andy

Boss, boss zee parts!

Post Your Beauties!

2010-07-08T16:03:00.001-07:00

Got a user group set up. Everyone is welcome so long as they have a sense of humour :-)

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/andysrecroomrc/

Cheers,
Andy

First Flight of the MS2K SS!

2010-06-20T21:58:00.000-07:00

Got out this evening and my friends Yanni & Natasha were my patient audience as we waited for a lull in the wind. Natasha kindly offered to be my camera person and captured the footage. Great work on a $67 Kodak digital camera! I have not flown outdoors in 20 years so a foamy in the wind to fly with was a real hoot! Man things have changed from balsa, balsa & more balsa! The single stick is very natural and comfy and reduces any panic reflex that one might get flying a short sticked duallie. Will definitely take it out again on a calm day give it a real workout.

Cheers,
Andy

You Tube link here for better quality

Some snaps of the my first MS2K

2010-06-05T23:00:00.000-07:00

“Now witness the fire power of this fully armed and operational Micro Star…fire at will commander.”

2010-06-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

Virtual & real at the same time. Please watch the servos too.

You Tube Link for better picure quality.

Trim Lever Prototype based on Proline

2010-05-30T23:26:00.000-07:00

Can't find it?...Gotta make it. Might make a small run of these guys. Based on a Proline lever. Will have cut out in inside if produced.

Aluminum trim lever & mount. Hand cut to try out before cutting.

Number 2 Ready To Go!

2010-05-30T14:09:00.000-07:00

Here a snap of unit 002 ready to ship tomorrow. After a few days being out of commision due to a bad back, the action fires up again!

Fly little one, fly.

Serial Number 001 Ready to Go!

2010-05-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

The semi-custom first production unit is ready to leave home. This baby features the Ver 2 BB system and the client requested 5k pots, sealed/ceramic bb, 3/16" shaft (for compatibility with other gimbals) and a grip. I used a very tacky rubber intended as track bicycle grips.

Now on to the next units!!!

View from top

View from bottom

View from right


View from left

Time to leave home!

Elevator pot prep detail

Finished Ver 2 Bale & Yoke

Pot adjustment is a snap!

Serial Number 001 Ready to Assemble!

2010-05-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

And finally, all the parts are in to complete the first production unit serial number 001.

Here are the parts for 001. Should ship Monday!

While waiting for a couple parts...I built my MS2K encoder!

2010-05-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

Got this beastie built and tested. And it works like a hot Dang! I'll try to post a video in the near future.

Ooh la la.

No Antonio, you're too sexy!!

Now it's just gratuitous!!!

Removable base plate for encoder (is held in place with 2 sided hook & loop).

Grommets behind bolts for added gentleness.

In place with foam sandwich. It can now travel from transmitter to transmitter.

BB Ver. 2.0!

2010-04-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

This is the final ball bearing version. Loctite in the frame is 100% effective but this version is much more user serviceable. Unlike a set screw that deform the small ball bearing's race, this version gently cradles the bearing but keeps it in place very well with a screw holding the split frame together.

Here is Ver. 2.0 in it's unfinished state.

Update on progress.

2010-04-26T20:49:00.000-07:00

The group of 4 is getting close!

Bale pot hole...all those shavings!

Another view of the carnage.

Cap hole burring.

Ready?

Cap hole drilling...gotta get it light!

Yoke back removal...old school dude.

Yoke BB clamp screw hole.

Yup, that's how they're gettin' done.

The buffed one.

2010-04-17T20:57:00.000-07:00

The guy from last time, just a wee bit more buffed.

High quality, made in the USA, seamless tubing sure helps!

Elbow grease baby!

April 7th, first run of 4 units begins!

2010-04-07T22:45:00.000-07:00

Mmmm, yummy! The deli tray of r/c.

Let's go.

The humble center finder.

Drilling the lightening holes.

Four top caps ready for next step.

This is Ver. 2.0 of the big knob. Thinner walled and lighter!

The raw state,,,but just wait until the next report!!!

Photos and pricing of the stick

2010-04-04T16:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of the stick mounted in its case. This radio will use the amazing Microstar 2000 system developed by Gordon Anderson. This amazing encoder allows us to build custom, computer radios! Now the vibe of the old systems and the functionality of new tech can play together...nicely!

This is the link to the site: http://mstar2k.com/

I've also got some initial pricing for the stick alone. It will be $199.99. I know it seems high as you can buy complete systems for less but please consider the pots alone cost me $40 and aside from the scissors, which are waterjet cut, the work is done by hand. The units will be wired, tested and ready to install.

I will have a run of 4 units ready to ship in 2-3 weeks. I will post progress shots of the build. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

2010-03-18T13:05:00.000-07:00

I went ahead and got a batch of scissors cut with a cnc waterjet. I will hand finish them to a brushed finish. The results are super nice! I will be using them to outfit the Dunham style sticks that I plan to sell as well as offer them for sale as a part.

If anyone is interested I can sell them in pairs for $12.99 plus $2 SH.

You can contact me at andy@bigairproductions.com

Cheers,
Andy

99designs is #1 for Logo Design

The Ball Bearing Version

2010-03-11T15:17:00.000-08:00

Here is a series of photos of the ball bearing version of the Dunham style stick.

Build Process

2010-02-26T11:07:00.000-08:00

Raw materials. North American 6061 high quality aluminum and brass.

Initial cuts.

Brass Bits

Back

Side view

Top view

Scissors

All scissors and stops installed.

View of scissors and linkage.

An original Dunham precision metal open gimbal assembly and my prototype.

Preview

2010-02-23T12:12:00.000-08:00

Here is a sneak peak at the stick assembly.

Welcome fellow vintage r/c fans!

2010-02-22T20:01:00.000-08:00

This blog will showcase new parts for vintage radio control systems! The first offering will be the Dunham style precision metal open gimbal stick. So please stay tuned!