Building the best Star Citizen simulation cockpit on this (or any other) planet: a tutorial (video).
Building your own starship cockpit for your home may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and materials, it can be a fun and rewarding project for any space flight game enthusiast. Whether you’re a fan of Star Citizen, Elite: Dangerous, EVE Online or any other space flight game, a homemade cockpit can add an extra layer of immersion and excitement to your gaming experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of building your own cockpit, from the initial planning and design phase to the final assembly.
Step 1: Planning and Design
The first step in setting up your own cockpit is to plan out the design and layout. Consider the dimensions of the room where the compartment will be placed and the type of space flight game you’ll be playing. Think about the type of controls you’ll require, such as flight sticks, throttles, and buttons, and where they’ll be located. Sketch out a rough design of the cockpit, including the placement of the controls and the overall shape of the cockpit.
Step 2: Gather Materials
Once you have a design in mind, it’s time to pick up the supplies you’ll need. The goods you’ll need will vary depending on the configuration of your cockpit, but some common components include plywood, MDF, PVC pipe, metal tubing, and acrylic sheet. You’ll also require hardware such as screws, nuts, and bolts, as well as tools such as saws, drills, and a metal cutting saw.
Step 3: Cut and Assemble the Frame
With your materials and tools ready, it’s time to start cutting and assembling the frame of the cockpit. The frame will serve as the foundation for the cockpit, so it’s important to make sure it’s sturdy and well-constructed. Use the saws to cut the plywood or MDF to the appropriate size, and use the hardware to attach the pieces together.
Step 4: Install the Controls
Once the frame is assembled, it’s time to install the controls. This is where you’ll need to decide on the type of controls you want to use, and where they’ll be situated. You may choose flight sticks and throttles from a real aircraft, or you might prefer to use gaming controllers specifically designed for space flight games. Once you’ve decided on the controls, use the hardware to attach them to the cockpit frame.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
With the controls installed, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your cockpit. This may include adding an acrylic sheet to the front of the cockpit to create a windshield, or adding lighting to the cockpit. You can also add padding or upholstery to the cockpit to make it more comfortable to sit in.
Step 6: Calibration and Test
Your cockpit is now ready to go! Calibrate and test your controls to ensure they’re working properly and all the buttons are in the appropriate place. After that, you can enjoy your new cockpit while playing your favourite space flight games.
