In reading the requirements of FAA approved computer training, one major item is that mouse clicks are not allowed. All functions, after starting the simulator have to be accomplished via physical/mechanical means.How would you suggest making knobs that have an outer ring, an inner ring, and also have the inner ring react to a push. This is the type of control it will take for a garmin 430/530 and many of the new glass cockpit emulation. The single push buttons would be no different then present and not a real challenge. But two rotary encoders and a push button on the same axis present a challenge. My thought is to mount the rotary encoders off center and drive them with a "key chain" drive sprocket - driven sprocket and only keep the push button function on the tuning knobs centerline axis. Or a nylon gear-idler-gear combination to move them off center? I think a GA glass cockpit like we are now seeing, Sirrus 22 for example, would be an interesting challenge and not require but three steam gauges for backup of the speed/altitude/pitch. It seems as if all of the GA offerings are going to have glass options before the year is over.Everything exists for the gamin530/430 except for the mechanicals. If I go back to the local Jr. College, I can take a design course that has access to a rapid prototyping machine and I can "make" all of the exterior hardware for the cost of three semester hours. Would have been a LOT less if I was still working. ;-)Your thoughts and advice welcomed.Regards,BobSSeems the rage to talk about the "size and speed" of each others computer. Beat this if you can for solving novel/unique problems.. ..Have K&E and know how to use it!

There have been a couple of approaches taken for making a concentric rotary encoder. This is perhaps the best documented: http://www.opencockpits.com/modules.php?na...=showpage&pid=5 Several months ago, maybe a year, "Capt Slarty" posted a gear based approach in the home cockpit thread on the flightsimNetwork forum.Alternatively, Flightdeck Solutions sells a dual concentric rotary encoder with an integral push switch.Mikewww.mikesflightdeck.com

Take the construction from opencockpits tha Mike linked to and change the back rotary to one of these:http://www.elfa.se/elfa/produkter/en/2028.htmThis, togheter with a Redec ecoder give you what you need/Olle

Take the construction from opencockpits tha Mike linked to and change the back rotary to one of these:http://www.elfa.se/elfa/produkter/en/2028.htmThis, togheter with a Redec encoder give you what you need/Olle