Collective Controller Fabrication

for Helicopter Flight Simulators

Updated May 28, 2008

Since the release of the Adv 206 helicopter software from Dodo Flight Simulation, the homebuilt Bell 206 helicopter simulator has gained considerable respect for how close we can come to a realistic training aid in a relatively low cost home based simulator. The main problem now is finding flight controls that look close to the real controls, 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 simulators can also be a little complicated, as they were not designed for this purpose.

On this page you will find that I have decided to build and produce controllers for helicopter simulators starting with the "Bell 206 type" collectives. Generally these are being made for the serious builder who wants to have greater realism in their Adv 206 simulator. The collectives are being made for builders who have contacted me and ask if I would consider building controllers for their simulators. The collectives will also be used in future simulators I may be custom building or contracted to build. Keep in mind these collectives are designed to mimic the real thing when using them with the Adv Bell 206 from Dodosim. They will work with other flight simulator helicopter models (such as the Microsoft default Bell 206, Robinson R22, and other add-ons) to a lesser degree, because there are less functioning features with the other helicopters.

I'm starting with two models, one with a real working idle release button, and the other, a less expensive version, will incorporate an electrical "idle release" button to simulate cutting fuel to the engine. As well as the familiar rounded Bell 206 switch head displayed in FS9 and FSX, there will also be a rectangular style switch head found in some JetRanger models. Due to the number of steps and hours involved to build one, they will most probably be considered as expensive toys for some, but considering what we have to pick from, I believe they could be a more realistic alternative for the builder who wants more realism in their cockpits. These will not be mass produced and are only built when I find the time away from my computer repair business. Hopefully, I can keep some stock on hand for a fairly immediate delivery. If I can find ways to reduce or hold the price so that more builder's can afford these I will, so check back from time to time for the latest pricing update.

The collectives are hand made, one at a time, using 6061 aluminum stock, machined on a lathe/mill.

Some photos of the prototype pieces are shown below.

As of May 28, 2008 the price for the switch head/throttle unit with electrical idle release push button that will adapt to the builders collective lever is $425.00 CAD. The switch head/throttle unit with working mechanical idle release detent button is now $550.00 CAD.

The electrical idle release button models are less expensive due to less machining, assembly time, and parts involved. By the way, the electrical idle release version will work fine for the Adv 206/FS9 operating procedures, just not quite as realistic as the mechanical detent button models.

Electrical Idle Release Button Models

Electrical Idle Release Button, Natural Cork Throttle Grip

Electrical idle release button models for adding to builders' existing collective lever and interface.

The adapter will slide over a 1" O.D. Aluminum or steel tube.

Price $425.00 CAD

Mechanical Idle Release Detent Button Models

Mechanical idle release detent button

Mechanical idle release detent button models, for adding to an existing collective lever and interface.

The adapter will slide over a 1" O.D. Aluminum or steel tube.

For other installations, custom adapters can be machined to fit.

Price $550.00 CAD

Complete Collectives with Base/Friction Control

I am also building complete collectives that include the switch head, throttle grip, collective lever and base unit with friction control. The collectives incorporate two precision potentiometers and are prewired for the builder to add to the existing interface in their simulator. A wiring guide will be included, as each switch and potentiometer wire is color coded. The complete mechanical idle release button collective with base unit is $850.00 CAD. The complete electrical idle release button version with base unit is $725.00 CAD.

The complete collective with mechanical idle release detent button for adding to builders' existing interface adaptor.

Price $850.00 CAD

The complete collective with mechanical idle release and rectangular style switch head

Price $850.00 CAD

The complete collective with electrical idle release for adding to builders' existing interface adaptor.

Price $725.00 CAD

Collective Base with Friction Control

Machined Delrin bushings are used to isolate metal to metal contact and serve as a friction control unit.

The screws used in the collective base are stainless steel.

Aluminum Collective Base/w Friction Control

The base unit comes pre drilled w/stainless steel bolts to attach to the builders' platform.

There is also a complete collective with a prewired USB interface module for those that want the convenience of plug and play.

For a Plug and Play USB interface module installed and tested add $125.00 CAD

6' standard USB cable is included

For Collective Ordering Information-click here

If anyone is interested in these controllers, just Email or call, and let me know what your particular requirements are.

-Jess

Computer Repairs//Jess Jellen

Box 477, Cobden, Ontario, Canada, K0J1K0

613-646-7249

Email: jjellen@nrtco.net

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