What are the differences between my older designs and the latest "Cloud Flyer?"

I don't think anything has ever been manufactured that the creator didn't look back at and think of ways to make it better. My simulator is no exception.

 Before it went into production I insisted that we needed an integrated trim mechanism. My partners informed me that it would be so well built that trimming it would be unnecessary. WRONG! This was the first thing that I addressed since my older design has been known to require in excess of 100 lbs. The three monitor configuration was something I opposed because I was aware that adding 5 lbs of monitor weight had to be counteracted with 20 lbs or more on the rear. By making the pitch pivots adjustable it requires zero trim weight even with 3 monitors. It also sits level when the computer is booted so the joystick will calibrate properly. The present old design is made from steel and requires a minimum of 35 lbs trim with the smallest monitor.

Getting into the earlier designs, if you weren't warned was a real experience. It would pitch back and to one side slamming you with considerable force in an area that most men find fairly sensitive. The "Cloud Flyer" will allow you to stand on the side rails when entering and not move. When you sit back in the seat it simple rolls back at a controlled rate.

My older design is fixed in size. A very tall or very short pilot has to adapt to the size. Tall pilots have no place to put their legs and wind up with them above their shoulders. The stick is also in a fixed position where the "Cloud Flyer" stick is adjustable for reach and centering. One of my customers, Norm made a dogleg for his older design control stick and moved the rudder pedals so he could reach them. The results were ugly but practical. The "Cloud Flyer" has a lower floorboard so it is more like sitting in a chair and the overall length can be easily adjusted if the main pilot is on either end of the size spectrum.

The older design stick is attached to the base. When the chair moved up the stick drops away, not a big deal, but it does detract from the realism.

The older design stick does has a problem with extreme climbs where it goes over center and would lock if a guard limiting the travel were not in place. The "Cloud Flyer" has no such limitations.

The older design is also fixed in the sensitivity of the controls. The stick feels the same if you are flying a heavy 747 or a light, super sensitive stunt plane like an Extra. The "Cloud Flyer" can be adjusted to your taste.

One of my biggest disappointments in the production older design is the packaging. The one I sold could be packaged into a 20 cu ft. box. The production models required two boxes almost that large so the cost of shipping is ridiculous. The "Cloud Flyer" with a clever design allow it to be packaged into about 10 cu ft.

I feel qualified to make this comparison since I designed both. My thoughts are that the "Cloud Flyer" is the natural evolution of the older design. It is totally different, but has the same basic concept, simple, economical and accurate flight simulation.