Airmanager via pico-projectors

[vangyver]

[vangyver]

Airmanager via pico-projectors
I would rather do display panels but mounting multiple displays behind the panel would be a real nightmare. There are a lot of support ribs behind the panel. I would end up destroying the original panel cutting up everything to make the panels fit and mounting rotary encoders would be a problem.
At one point in history the automotive manufactures looked into using a miniature projector to display gauges on the unusual shape of the automotive instrument cluster. That’s where I came up with the idea.
I would also rather use Flight Illusion instruments especially if I was running a flight school but would cost me somewhere around $12,000 for the whole panel. That is too much for my wallet. Thanks to Air Manager, it gave me a way to reduce my cost tenfold. Using two pico projectors ($379 ea) to display 95% of the panel was my best option. All I have to do is add the buttons, switches and rotary encoders. It is the most inexpensive solution that would fit my budget.
The projection images are extremely better than the group videos show. I am also able to change the instruments / digit colors, type and size easily with Air Manager. Too me it is as they say “The Cat`s Meow”
As always open to any comments and suggestion.
Van

[vangyver]

Testing the first pico-projector.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a6G9MO6W_0U

[vangyver]

Both pico-projectors mounted.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCzplbCrpJU

[Ralph]

Looks good, nice job on the radios as well.

[jph]

Very interesting screen material. The contrast is actually quite good. Have you an image of the material non illuminated ? - also, what is the display like when 'dimmed' ?. Does it appear 'washed out'
Quite a neat solution. Nice work.

[vangyver]

I chose Black-130 IFR Front and Rear Projection Screen from Rose Brand. As you know projectors do not project black light and with most instruments being black and white I required black material that will also allow color light to show well. The AAXA P7 projector was also a good choice as it is capable of rear and front view projection with 300/450/600 lumens settings. I found 450 lumens more than bright enough. At 300 lumens in my opinion was a little bit dim. If I was to pick any other projector it would have to be a minimum of 400 lumens for the 20 inch wide display area I required. I would of preferred a laser pico projector but none available with my requirements. Also most important is the projector must have a native resolution of 1080p.
Maybe these pictures will answer any other questions you may have. The plexiglass solves 3 problems. 1. Mounting rotary encoders where panel cutout is elongated. 2. Cosmetics appearance of glass covered instruments. 3. Protection from extruded finger poking.
Thank you jph for the compliments.
vangyver

[vangyver]

Thank you Ralph for the compliments.
Vangyver

[jph]

Hi Vangyver
Very very impressive. !
A lovely job and outstanding results. Thanks for the detail images, it is a lot clearer now. The material you used is completely new to me and is an amazing option. I have bookmarked the company website as their quality is amazing and I will be in need of new main view screen material shortly so will get their recommendations.
It is the best solution by far for using a properly mounted yoke which is the part that, for me, completely ruins the illusion and immersion of the sim cockpit if not done correctly. (Which is 99.9% of the time)
First class. Thanks for sharing and keep us all updated.
Joe.

[vangyver]

Here is my facebook group. Just be sure to agree to group rules when asking to join the group.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/628896667180635