Collective Controllers
for Bell 206 type helicopter simulators
Since the release of the advanced 206 helicopter software from Dodosim Flight Simulation, the enthusiast built Bell 206 helicopter simulator has gained considerable respect for how close we can come to a realistic training aid in a relatively low cost simulator. The accuracy of this software makes it suitable for real world helicopter training applications for home based simulators or as an effective tool for helicopter flight training schools. The main problem now is finding flight controls that resemble the real controllers, as well as controls that work similar to the real thing. Some simulator builders are converting real controls that have been obtained from Ebay or aircraft wrecking yards, but these are hard to come by and vary greatly in condition and cost. Installing real collectives in some simulators could also be a little complicated, as they were not designed for this purpose.
On this page you will find the collective controls that I have been fabricating for other 206 simulator builders as well as the simulators I build here in the shop. The collectives are made from 6061-T6 aluminum and the parts are machined individually on a lathe/mill. The controllers are built to order, and usually require some lead time, depending on what parts I may have completed and in stock.
As well as the familiar rounded Bell 206 switch head displayed in FS9 and FSX, I also have a rectangular style switch head version found in some JetRanger models.
The spring loaded mechanical idle release button has a detent position that interacts with the throttle grip to control fuel to the engine. The system allows realistic 206 startup, run-up, and shutdown procedures. This collective will mimic the real 206 collective when starting and cutting fuel to the engine, when using it with the Dodo Advanced 206 helicopter for FS9, and the DodoSim 206 FSX for Flight Simulator 10.
The switches include a working starter switch, landing lights switch, and governor "beeper" switch. The DodoSim 206 FSX for Flight Simulator 10 has new functional dual landing lights. This feature is also incorporated by a working 3-position landing light switch on these collectives controlling one or both landing lights.
Although these collectives were built for the Dodosim 206 aircraft in mind, they will work with other flight simulator helicopter models (such as the Microsoft default Bell 206, Robinson R22, and other helicopter add-ons), but there could be less functioning features with these other helicopters.
Bell 206 Type Collective with Base/Friction Control
(prewired for connecting to builders' existing interface controller)
Rounded Style Switch Head
Rectangular Style Switch Head
The collective lever incorporates a twist grip throttle and functional mechanical idle release detent/fuel stop button.
The two precision potentiometers and switches are wired using color coded wires,
for easy identification and connection to a builder's existing interface controller.
The aluminum mounting base has welded stops and a fine adjustment Delrin friction control.
USB Interface Controller
(Optional)
A prewired USB interface module is an option for new simulator installations,
or for those that just want the convenience of "plug and play".
Additional Molex connectors can be prewired for quick connection of my cyclic and/or pedal controllers,
when sharing the same USB interface.
Dual Control Collectives
(for teaching and trainer type simulators)
* Note that these dual collectives are designed for a cockpit seat base that incorporates a rearward sloped step-down cutout,
to allow the main connecting tube and throttle rod to run just below the rear of the co-pilots seat.
Dual collective levers with synchronized throttle control.
Secondary collective lever has cork covered throttle grip with a turned aluminum end cap.
Email: jjellen@nrtco.net
Phone: 613-646-7249
Computer Repairs//Jess Jellen
Box 477, Cobden,
Ontario, Canada, K0J1K0
