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  #81  
Old 08-17-2013, 11:53 AM
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MCA MCA is offline
 
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Default Update Aug 17

We've been making progress on the design, although we haven't finalized the feature set. With all the great suggestions it appears the best strategy isn't to put everything in one box, but have several products in the product line that address different needs.

Right now we've been working on the schematic with the intent of building a prototype board to perform lab testing on the robustness of the system itself as well as insuring the circuit protection and features work as planned. Here is Josh working on the PCB layout:



So once we go through the review process and order the PCBs we'll have a few proto boards to begin lab testing with.

Based on your feedback, we've also been looking at a way to simulate a standard shunt so that you can connect your EFIS ammeter gauge inputs directly to the PPS. This would mean NO stand-alone shunts on the firewall at all. Very clean and simple!
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RV-7 980 hours, IO-390, VP-X (sold)
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  #82  
Old 08-20-2013, 02:01 PM
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MCA MCA is offline
 
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Default Starter Interlock

We received feedback in this thread and other threads that builders would like some sort of security feature on the starter circuit.

Below are two ideas - what do you think? Any preference?

A small keypad and status light (2 pictures)





A keyfob - press the button and the starter is enabled. We can also include a status light for the instrument panel.

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Marc Ausman
RV-7 980 hours, IO-390, VP-X (sold)
RV-8 (flying a friend's)
Thinking about low and slow backcountry build.

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  #83  
Old 08-20-2013, 02:49 PM
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NovaBandit NovaBandit is offline
 
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Default

Personally, I had something more like a car door keypad in mind:



Much more compact on a crowded panel.
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  #84  
Old 08-20-2013, 03:32 PM
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southtarnation southtarnation is offline
 
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Default

I like the fob! When I had metioned earlier in this thread about a proximity fob I had reconsidered because althogh it would be secure (not start) while Im away if I happen to be nearby an an unsupervised kid or numbskull gets in it would be "hot". Your solution takes care of that while still be remote operated and keyless with no code to remember. Id be happy with either but the door lock style pictured above looks beeter with the backlighting than the pad you have. Great work!
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  #85  
Old 08-20-2013, 03:46 PM
Sig600 Sig600 is offline
 
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Default

Is this something the current vp-x could implement? Only problem with the key fob is what if you lose it on XC? Or the battery dies, or you take it swimming, etc?
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  #86  
Old 08-20-2013, 03:51 PM
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RV7Guy RV7Guy is offline
 
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Default Security??

Is this really an issue? I see a solution to problem that doesn't really exist. I think if had RV's being stolen on a regular basis, we'd know about it, then I'd be concerned.

How many have some sort of security device now?

I rather see a focus on an Aux power lead or some of the other suggestions here.
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  #87  
Old 08-20-2013, 03:51 PM
David Paule David Paule is offline
 
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Location: Boulder, CO
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Default

I'd prefer an old-fashioned key. When I'm on a trip, I often put a key on a loop of string around my neck, and it's secure swimming, jogging, etc. Easy to hide a spare, very reliable, waterproof and easy to check that's it's around my neck.

With a bit of luck maybe - just maybe - we can get a key that matches the Newton locking gas caps and even include a canopy lock set.

If so, then one key will do the airplane.

Dave
  #88  
Old 08-20-2013, 04:19 PM
rjtjrt rjtjrt is offline
 
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Key fobs in the car context have a habit of failing (ie breaking), and it is a bit irritating to be absolutely stranded.
This seems to me to be adding complexity to solve a non existent problem. The equivalent of in the medical field, "the worried well" patient.
So I think such a security feature should definitely be optional, as for me it would severely make me shie away from your product if it is a single point of failure ( not safety related, but stranded unless hand prop the aircraft).
John

Last edited by rjtjrt : 08-21-2013 at 06:06 PM. Reason: Typo
  #89  
Old 08-20-2013, 04:22 PM
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To clarify, this is envisioned as a separate product that can optionally be used with the VP-X, the primary power system, or old-fashion wiring.
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Marc Ausman
RV-7 980 hours, IO-390, VP-X (sold)
RV-8 (flying a friend's)
Thinking about low and slow backcountry build.

VAF Advertiser - Aircraft Wiring Guide
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  #90  
Old 08-20-2013, 04:43 PM
rjtjrt rjtjrt is offline
 
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Marc
Thanks. Much relief.
In that case, I would suggest a mechanical key is more reliable, smaller to carry, but I guess more wiring to panel required.
John

Last edited by rjtjrt : 08-20-2013 at 04:43 PM. Reason: Typo
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