Hi Brent. I've enjoyed the Seamagine web site.
Testing will prove if my controls design will be
usable.
The box will be fairly small ( hoping for 4"X 6" )with just 4 speed
dials and three rocker switches. I'm hoping it will be fairly easy to
manipulate the controls using just the two types...dial and switch.
The speed control dials will usually be just set at a given speed, unless
precise positioning is needed. Each dial has forward/reverse with the control
circuit providing the step down.
Each of the 4 motors have their own dial so sharp turns or spinning on
axis should be possible.
The three rocker switches controlling dive planes and rudders should be
fairly easy. Not quite as natural as a steering wheel, or maybe a joy stick,
but very compact and requires just a finger to steer left right or set dive
plane angle. The momentary switch and electrical linear actuators act to
maintain the position until the rocker switch is pressed again.
I haven't figured out yet how I will monitor the actual rudder and dive
plane position relative to "center" but I think some actuators have a
potentiometer built in that could send a position signal. Just gotta figure
out how to interpret that signal into a display that's simple to maintain and
easy to read.
Put another color coat on the back fairing today. Startin' to get real
shiny!
Frank D.