On May 4, 3:44 pm, "Bill Daniels" bildan@comcast-dot-net wrote:
Hey, Paul

If you get that pitot/static airdata air pump thingy working, I'd like to
hear about it. It would be a really great way to learn to use a new
vario/flight computer.

Hi Bill,

I joined the Condor group and posted my thoughts on the subject in a
little more detail on the cockpit builder's forum (then had to update
my post after reading your original post on the subject...) On the
Condor forum I saw your original inquiry as to an interface device to
turn sim signals into the correct pressures (to enable the use real
pneumatic instruments for a sim/etc) seemed to be abandoned due to
'perceived' difficulties in achieving the correct pressures since they
were dubbed too small to be precisely controlled. I do not see this as
a problem, but an asset. Rather than the pump idea (which does seem
problematic) my proposed system is based on C-N-C controlled (via ball
screw lead) plungers. Since the values are rather small, rather small
components are required to build it. It is actually quite easy to make
extremely small and precise pressure changes with a plunger, and with
a pressure transducer feedback loop will remain exactly on desired
target.

I fully agree that this would be a great way to test out new
instruments and such in addition to being a damn fun sim tool! If
coupled to Condor, (or other soaring sims with NEMA outputs?) even
complicated flight computers could be tricked into going through all
their functions, although some may also require tricking the compass
as well (a C-N-C controlled steel bar to generate a "false north" in
axis around heading sensor if so equipped?). I'll definitely share
when I have more to tell.

Paul Hanson