FSX AUTOPILOT CONTROL SYSTEM

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This device and its accompanying software were created by Andrea Giudici, available at http://www.area51staff.it/fsxap/. I made some adjustments and improved the firmware, with notable differences from Andrea's project including removing the buzzer and using a rotary encoder type KY-040. The updated list of materials was compiled, and two electronic schematics were combined. Initial concerns arose when using the device with Andrea's firmware and the rotary encoder; the engage option would display more than 1 or 0. I fixed this issue by restricting values to only 1 or 0 upon turning the encoder. Another problem involved the continuous numbers displayed for track and heading, exceeding 360°, which caused issues when turning left. To address this, conditions were introduced to work as a compass, returning to 0 after reaching 360°. Regarding the firmware, improvements are still needed since all values for different options indicate the actual encoder position, affecting forecast values when rotated. However, this is not a significant issue and can be resolved with a few lines of code. Those familiar with coding are welcome to make enhancements. The device was successfully tested on a Cessna 172 and a Cessna CARAVAN. To use the autopilot features (ALT, HDG, NAV, etc.), you must first engage them in the plane's panel before takeoff. Once engaged, it will function as expected. Many firmware issues were addressed, but due to limitations, I was unable to modify the drivers. The existing driver works fine; simply extract the provided firmware and drivers into a folder (I created one within my FSX folder). To use, launch FSX first, followed by the drivers.exe. A window will appear displaying 'device found firmware 1.1.' Enjoy! Note: Arduino libraries are required for functionality, including enroler.h, bounce.h, and Arduino.h. Download and extract these files into your Arduino software's library folder. Print settings require a RepRap Printer (hEphestos Prusa I3), with raft support not applicable. Resolution is 0.2 mm.