hey all.I'm looking for a company that can CNC-engrave and cut. I'd preffer one that already has experience with the production of simulator panels, but if anyone knows a good one, let me know.I was going to go with DakenSkys first, but they are taking too long. Since I'm building a non-standard vehicle (a space shuttle), I need someone who wants to do a 1-time order for a reasonable price. I can offer the drawings in every requested format. I have the drawings from NASA here, so I can convert these and maybe change them a little if this is needed.I already tought about schaeffer.de, but they do not let me import the drawings...Preferably in Europa (Belgium) to limit shipment costs, but if there's a good one in the US or somewhere else... why not :)greets,Toine

Hi Toine,Maybe try Engravity http://www.737cockpit.com/ in the Netherlands.

Looks great, thanks!I sent them an email, but maybe someone else knows an alternative in case it turns out bad?I seem to remember contacting Engravity, but I don't exactly remember what for...edit:found the conversation again! I don't see why I didn't proceed at that time :s Will see now...Toine

I have a contact who owns a cnc business and has made real aircraft instrument panels before. He is a keen private pilot with his own Cessna 182. He is happy to make anything you need, just send a photo with dimensions or even better a drawing using any popular program. Don't know costs, but shipping will probably be expensive as we are in Sydney AUSTRALIA.Cheers,Peter.

Could you ask him for an estimate?

>I already tought about schaeffer.de, but they do not let me>import the drawings...One important thing to consider is not just the 1:1 real thing look. But also the switches and other hardware you intend to use. It makes very little sense if you make the panels 1:1 exact replica to the real thing, while you do not have fitting switches etc for it.So I would suggest you to first think about the hardware, acquire the switches etc (and perhaps do a pcboard behind the panel using spacers - a great way to reduce soldering work and wire mess) - and then plan the front panel according to what you have.It's best to do panel-at-a-time, thinking about the wiring and such as well. Also, before you do the whole bunch of panels, do one test sample so you know what kind of stuff the schaeffer front panel thing is.It can import HPGL, but I do not really think it is a good idea to just copy the original 1:1 unless you also have original switches and other hardware. The fit with your switches and the general layout is what counts more.//Tuomas

I had already taken the switches into account, so that's no problem. And of course, ordering all the panels at once would be stupid... :)Thinks for the tips anyway, I didn't know about HPGL...

You may want to contact Peter at FDS. They do a lot of custom work, their prices are very reasonable and they are a top notch outfit.Here is the link if you are interested:http://www.flightdecksolutions.com/

I agree with maurice, Peter is the man to go with. Top notch panels!!!