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Old F-35A Withdrawn from sales... New version almost ready for testing!

2012-01-23T17:03:00.001-08:00

As announced previously, the "old" version of the F-35 Lightning II has been withdrawn from sales on SimMarket. I'd like to thank all the customers, contributors and supporters - it was my first payware project and, for my goals, it has been a huge success.

I have no idea when the new one will be available, but the test version will surely be ready within February.

It is basically a graphically improved version of the previous one - so do not expect additional functionality. Well, actually some "visual treats" are being left out (like wheel chocks and "remove before flight" ribbons) in order to have a much better 3d detail and accuracy.
I am quite happy of the compromise between level of detail and performance at the moment - on my system it is slightly "heavier" (in terms of fps) than the previous model... but not that much. Fair trade, IMHO, if you consider how good the new mesh looks.
Cockpit will be almost the same as the previous version - just minor tweaks here and there. I am considering to remove the "full (half) screen" radar mode as it seems to have several bugs due to the way it is implemented. Removing it will help the perfomance a bit... I am not sure.
Flight model will not change.

I am also considering to add the F-35B and F-35C to the package.
If so, the F-35B will be uncapable of VTOL operations (will only support STOL slow-speed mode...I think it is called "mode 3" on the real thing but I may be wrong).

As for the F-35C... you may already have seen some pics in this blog. Latest build looks better...but the new F-35A has a higher priority being the "base" model.

In terms of pricing, it will depend on the features... for sure it will not be expensive and it will be close to the previous version. Few Euros/Dollars more if all three models are included... or a few less if it will have only the F-35A.

I will also try to apply discounts to the customers of the previous version - afterall most of the cockpit and the flight model are the same, and you have already paid for it... Let's see what I can do.

First screenshot of the new F-35A

2012-01-18T17:09:00.000-08:00

A quick update on the new version of the F-35A I've been working on in the past few months. It will be payware (on the cheap end of the spectrum) and will be developed for FSX and Prepar3d.
I will soon withdraw the current version from SimMarket.
I am considering building a full "JSF" experience, that is a package with F-35A, -B and -C...but the actual size of the project is still tbd. As you have seen a -C version is in the works, but -A has a higher priority for me (as it is the "base" version). I'd love making the -B and it should not take that much once the -A is ready...but it requires some money to acquire the mesh and I'd like to evaluate a little more the actual revenues, as I have already spent some money on this project...

Anyway, I'll soon post my thoughts on the outlook of flight simulation (and flight games in general...for those that are not willing to think to Flight as a sim). Let me just say that if Prepar3d 2.0 delivers 64bit code, DX11 and full FSX compatibility and a reasonable price for some sort of "home" licence that would be my preferred platform.

Happy New Year - and a small suprise!

2012-01-04T11:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! I hope you had a great 2011 as I did, and I wish you all the best for 2012.
The new year will most likely bring the new version of Microsoft Flight Simulator...which will make its ist public appearance in few weeks - I am anxious to see and know more of it, but what I saw so far, although not revolutionary, is quite good.

In the meantime, as I had some spare time during the holidays, I did some work on the F-35 - mainly due to the fact that new, low poly, 3d data for the F-35C was available and my project of the new high-fidelity F-35A was really nice to look at but way too low on performance.

So here is the F-35C....VERY preliminary shots. The ambitious project I'd like to pursue would be to have a new payware package including this F-35C and a new F-35A (designed to the same standard)....and, why not, and F-35B too. BUT it may be too much for me to handle... so I have not decided yet. Let's see.

Aside, my long term projects, the T-45C will be converted (provided that the conversion is doable) to Flight and remain freeware. While the new F-14D...I do not know. It is in a good shape...but I don't know when it will be ready. It may go straight to Flight... Let's see.

Sorry for lack of updates!

2011-12-07T00:38:00.000-08:00

One of the latest images from Microsoft Flight team - it seems that the Beta will be held in February

All, my apologies for the lack of updates and communications in the past few months. I have been quite busy with my job and I had not much time to spend on my hobbies - nor the will, honestly, to spend even more time in front of a computer screen than the one I have to spend at work.

Hopefully I will have more time to work on Flight (Simulator) designs in the following months but I am not sure. Also I am still waiting for some informations on Flight and its development tools, in order to see how the development process will be different from FSX (not too much I hope) and what will be the possibilities of the new simulator. It looks good - much better than FSX in some areas - and I cannot wait to try it. By the way, Microsoft it seems that Microsoft is planning a Beta stage for February - which means probably a release in summer or early autumn.

Here is a brief update of the projects in my folders... although I did very little in the past few months.

T-45C Goshawk - NO UPDATES. I am quite happy with the latest release... I am just curious to see how easy it will be to import that into Flight. If it will be possible to convert it to Flight, it will be freeware.

New F-14D Super Tomcat - External model is almost ready and I am really happy for its quality (, while for the internal I am a bit undecided between making only the pilot cockpit (by reusing most of the geometry from the previous model) or do also the RIO one (which means many more hours of design). In both cases the plan would be to have completely new hi-res textures. Although I paid a significant amount of money for professional 3d data for this project, these have been covered by donations and revenue from the payware F-35 so I still plan to release it as freeware. But I have no idea on when.

F-35 Lightning II - As you may be aware of, I am working on a new high-res model based on quite expensive high resolution meshes. It is not far from being complete - but there are some bad news. It is a frame rate hog. It looks beautiful, but the vast majority of the users will not be able to run it at decent frame rates. I have tried several solutions, but they do not seem to work for several reasons. I am undecided what to to with it. Maybe Flight can handle it in a much more efficient way? I do not know - and again I do not know how easy it will be to import it in Flight. It probably requires 12-15 hours of work before release.

So, again, my apologies for the lack of updates. Also, my apologies for the lack of personal contact information - I am not using the old email anymore. I have a new one for "personal" (i.e. non FSX) uses and I may need to set up a new one for FSX... for the moment, this blog is the only way to contact me - although I cannot guarantee a reply or any level of support. Sorry for that.

Last my apologies for having having rejected all the friedship requests I have received on facebook. Yes, I am on facebook. But I have decided to use it as a communication tool for "real life" friends only - so I am rejecting all requests from all people I have not met in person. No offense intended, I just prefer to stick to that decision.

T-45C version 2.10 download link(s) - update

2011-08-05T05:54:00.000-07:00

It took longer than I expected, but finally here is the download link to the T-45C Goshawk version 2.10 (full install):

VERSION 2.10 DOWNLOAD LINK (MEDIAFIRE)

Changes are as follows:

-Added instructor cockpit

-Changed glass material reflection for DirectX 10 compatibility (less realistic material, but 100% DX10 compatible)

-Changed landing gear animation sequence to have a lower stance

-Added VT-86 repaint courtesy of Russel R. Smith

-Changed minor texturing flaws

-Minor fixes to the flight manual, added aft cockpit diagram and ejection seat details

-Activated "Bitching Betty" sounds by default GPWS, Over G, Low Fuel, albeit voice warningsare not currently linked to DEP data. GPWS Voice is set to 300 ft regardless of DEP and Low Fuel is not linked to BINGO value (Voice activates when fuel is 300lbs or less).

As requested by some users, please find below the download links for some "auxiliary" files (these are all Mediafire links - so they may expire over time):

T-45C V2.10 "Lite version" (this version has only the default repaint and no flight manual for minimum bandwith and installation footprint - this file is untested and unsupported)

T-45C V2.10 DX9 Glass (in version 2.10 I've used a less realistic but DX10 compatible glass material, some users may prefer the older rendition so here is a zip with two models: the latest 3d model recompiled with old material and the default one for backup)

T-45C V2.10 Flight Manual (although this .pdf file is part of the default installation and is found in the .docs folder - users of the Lite version may want to download this)

In the end, this version is still far from being perfect - but I hope it is an improvement over the previous release. The main installation file has been uploaded to both avsim and flightsim. Should be online within a couple of days.

Instructor cockpit

2011-07-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

A couple of (unusally) rainy days and several requests...and the instructor cockpit for the Goshawk is almost done. It is not ready to be shown yet, as it is missing the textures, but it is coming along quite nicely - and shoul be ready by the end of the month.

Quite honestly, I'd prefer working on the new Lightning II or on the Tomcat... but it is true that the Goshawk without the instructor cockpit is somewhat incomplete. By the way the two cockpits are similar but not identical - and the unique controls of the rear cockpit will not be functional (as they either have no function in FSX -like the ejection seat sequence control switch- or too long/difficult to implement - i.e. the gunsight).

A note to repainters (if any): the rear cockpit will need an unique texture sheet and changes to the existing cockpit textures, but the outer model and its texture layout is unchanged.

Also, if I will have the time, I will also add a "Pensacola" Goshawk and an USMC repaint (as there is only one currently in the package).

Now that the Goshawk has been released...

2011-07-19T14:05:00.001-07:00

Well, now that the Goshawk is done...I'm still working on the Goshawk. By my standards the T-45C has been an outstanding success so far as has been downloaded several thousand times in less than 3 days... still, a couple of observations set the spotlight on a couple of defects of which I was aware of... and I considered minor issues.

So, I'm still trying to fix some of the issues that still plague the v2.01 release... namely, so far I've already:

- fixed the sound bug while opening the canopy (by making the opening faster...trivial fix!)

- fixed the weird red reflection that happened sometimes (in the "glass" the separates the two cockpits)

- (almost) fixed the "stance" which was way too high. This is not as trivial as it may seem as involves quite a lot of trials and tweaks to make sure that the gear dynamics work properly in every condition, while landing on a carrier. At the moment it is not perfect, but the aircraft sits more or less in the way it is supposed to. Still...more tweaking to be done on this. Here is where we are right now:

I know that the most wanted improvement would be the addition of the instructor VC... but at the moment I cannot promise I will do it.
I will gather all the modifications and improvements I can implement before my summer vacations (that will start on August 1st) and release an update before leaving.

Also, as you might be aware of, I am working on two "remake" projects: the Grumman F-14D Super Tomcat and the F-35A Lightning II.

At the moment, it is really hard for me to tell what, when and even if they will be available... I am working on them, but I am also sitting on the fence for Micorsoft Flight. I think (and hope) that there will be a way to convert .X files into whatever format Flight will support (I guess it would be another iteration of the .mdl format...). Anyway here is the situation.

F-14D Super Tomcat: the external model, based on professional meshe, is 80% done and works quite well. The virtual cockpit will be a (almost) complete remake of the current one. I know that a working RIO station would be great...but that is far beyond the scope of the project. If I had the time, I would do it...but I don't.

At the moment, this project is likely to be freeware. I had to face some significant expenses for the 3D mesh, but that was covered by the donations and the income from the payware F-35. So, unless I incur in some unexpected events, it will be free. It may well take 5-6 months before a test release is ready.

F-35A Linghtning II - This, too, has been created starting from professional (and quite expensive) 3d meshes. I cannot say I do not like my current F-35...but it does not capture some of the details of the F-35 design. The problem, with this model, is that the original mesh is using way to many polygons...so the optimization work is long and tedious. What I have on the screen is quite amazing...but a lot of work is needed to make it run at an acceptable speed.

The current plan for this project is create a "production" model (albeit the picture shows the AF-1), improve the virtual cockpit (but most of it would be reused from the current one) and use the current flight model. So this project is mostly a visual improvement. Most likely this project will be payware - but as for the previous F-35, the price will be low.
As it is not a complete remake, I expect this to be flyable in late September.

Of course, every sentence above is subject to change... mostly depending on the Flight release date, characteristics and (mostly) the possibility to import/use my models in the new Simulator (which looks amazing IMHO)...

T-45C version 2.01 download link

2011-07-16T02:54:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: The package seems to work fine and has been sent to Flightsim.com and Avsim.com (and should be available in a day or two). In the meantime, however, I have updated it to version 2.01 to get rid of a minimal bug that made the nose gear sink too much into the runways. It is a minimal change but I found it to be annoying. The file sent to flightsim and avsim is version 2.01, and the download link on this page has been update to version 2.01, too. Also, a link to the new aircraft.cfg is provided so that you do not have to download the whole thing again. Apologies for the incovenience...

Ok, finally here it is! Please find the Mediafire download link for the new Goshawk below. I will upload it to the major FSX files repositories tomorrow - once I've double checked that the files are properly formatted and working (I've tested them...but you never know...).

Boeing T-45C Goshawk for Flight Simulator X: Acceleration (Mediafire download link)

MEDIAFIRE DOWNLOAD LINK

Update from version 2.00 to version 2.01 (only aicraft.cfg changes, gets rid of nose gear sinking too much into runways)

MEDIAFIRE DOWNLOAD LINK

Unfortunately I had not time (and sometimes the skills) required to squash all the bugs - so some are still there. But in my opinion, this relase is way better than all my previous Goshawks, and way better than the Beta.

Should you have any major issues with this installation please let me know asap.
I hope it works correctly and I hope you will like it!

T-45C cleared to taxi and hold short

2011-07-13T00:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday night I've finally completed a T-45C build that I consider good for release. Not all of the bugs have been squashed, but most of them are - and I think the overall quality is much better than the test version. There are a lot of changes with respect of the Beta build, and all of them have been carefully evaluated and implemented. To name a few:

- There is a new, custom made collimated HUD courtesy of Jivko Rusev and Scott Printz. The new HUD is almost identical to the real one, and has a "gun simulation" mode. Also, Jivko provided code to have a working Data Entry Panel (Bingo, LAW, CRS and HDG can be entered in using the keypad as in the real plane)

- There are a lot of improvements in the virtual cockpit: more clickable switches, more functionalities, more accurate caution/advisory light systems, some minor visual details. It is still far from being perfect, but it is definitely better.

- The visual model is improved, too and now there are optional (cosmetic) bomb racks, baggage pod and a several repaints, including CoNA ones.

- The flight model is better, too, with enhanced engine dynamics, drag table and much more accurate landing speeds (once again thanks to Jivko).

So, it is ready for release - but I still need to update the manual, write the readme file, zip and test the whole thing etc. - I'll do that asap. I am not sure when, but definitely it will be within the next weekend.

Slight delay in the release of the Goshawk...

2011-07-03T15:10:00.000-07:00

Well, I planned to release the Goshawk this weekend but I could not for several reasons - mainly because of the lack of time and also because I've been experimenting with some features that were not planned originally.

Unfortunately, there is no way for me to add the instructor virtual cockpit, at the moment - as it would take too much time. Maybe I'll include that as an update later on this year.

On the good side, the model has now a refined flight model and several enhancements to the 3d models (including cosmetic bomb racks and baggage pod), and a better virtual cockpit - which now sports a fantastic (and very accurate) custom collimated HUD by Neutrino.

I am not sure when I will be able to release it - I hope within few days, but this will be a very busy week for me, so I can't tell for sure...

Last call to download the Beta - and CoNA repaints!

2011-06-21T15:26:00.000-07:00

This post is "last call" for anyone who may want to give a try to the Beta release. I will delete the download link tomorrow morning (European time) as that build is no more representative of the status of the project.

Aside here are two preview pictures of the Centennial of Naval Aviation retro schemes. I would like to do also the two special colors done by TW-2 recently, but I am not sure I will have the time.

Anyway, I'm (slowly) getting rid of as many bugs as I can - but I took the chance and rationalized the coding of some areas of the cockpit, which may ease, in future, the addition of new functionalities. In fact, some unplanned functions are already in place (like a more accurate operation of the launch bar lights).
Most of the recurrent complaints have been addressed, like the cockpit night lighting which has been completely redone (and looks quite good IMHO). Also, the flight model has been tweaked a little - and carrier landing paramters should be closer to the real thing (although I think that carrier landings will be slightly harder for most users).

Last but not least, Neutrino is customizing the HUD so that it will be much more accurate.

Should everything go as planned, the new release will be ready by the end of the month.

T-45C Goshawk for Flight Simulator X - Beta Test Work-In-Progress Report

2011-06-07T16:31:00.001-07:00

This post is meant to be a repository and progress tracker for the public Beta Version of the new T-45C Goshawk for Flight Simulator X. The Beta dowload link can be found in the previous post of this blog, that is here:

http://indiafoxtecho.blogspot.com/2011/06/open-beta-release-placeholder.html

Please report bugs, issues and suggestions from the Beta release as comments to this post. I will update this post once in a while but I will review it almost daily for the next two-three weeks. The plan is to release the new Goshawk by the end of June.

EXTERNAL MODEL:

1) Main landing gear doors shape is inaccurate. The drawings I've used to cut the polygons were inaccurate in that area. STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION:None. The changes require to the 3D model would require too much time.

2) Aircraft is sitting too high on the ground. STATUS: OPEN. ACTION: TBD. The model previously was previously sitting much lower, but gear dynamics / animation had issues. Correct setting seem to work much better. Unsure to change it or not.

3) Evaluate addition of external loads. STATUS: open. ACTION: try to merge external loads from previous model and see how it looks and evaluate impact on frame rate. This is not a priority for me, but it would be a nice- to-have feature for some.

4) Remapping textures to allow "wrap around" repaints. STATUS: CLOSED.

5) Add missing details to the speed brakes. STATUS: CLOSED (modified 3d model).

POSSIBLE ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

External loads:

Bomb racks & baggage pod: it would be possible to reimport them from the old T-45C model. Visibility can be mapped to load stations or doors.

Repaints:

DONE:

- 165629 / A107 "Eagles" CO scheme
- 165088 / A109 "Tigers" CO scheme
- 167081 / B303
- A101 & B200 Centennial of Naval Aviation "retro" schemes

NEXT IN THE LINE:
TBD

UNDER EVALUATION:
- TBD Sabrehawk bird

VIRTUAL COCKPIT:

1) HUD parallax effect is buggy (sometimes does not return into its proper position). STATUS: CLOSED (FIXED - removed unnecessary animation of the view cone).

2) HUD missing "E" bracket. STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION: None. This project reuses standard MFDs and HUDs from stock Hornet. It may be possible to install the enhanced HUD from Neutrino and Scott Prinz as a third party add-on.

NOTE: Report from Neutrino shows that the view cone and projection plane should be change to properly apply the improved HUD -> I will modify the drawing accordingly.

UPDATE: First integration with new HUD from Neutrino was positive - and it looks really good!

3) MFDs bugs. STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION: None. Default MFDs from the stock Hornet seem to have issues with the Goshawk. MFD code should be redone from scratch, but I have no time for that and most of the pages and functions work correctly.

4) FF Indicator. Fix Pound-per-hour/pound-per-minute marking. STATUS: OPEN. ACTION: Modify texture..

5) Turn indicator, Aoa Indicator, Stanby Attitude indicator: add "OFF" flag if possibile. STATUS: CLOSED; ACTION: Modified 3d model, flag shape is not accurate but does its job.

6) Night lighting too bright (especially in DEP area). STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION: reduced considerably the night lighting map for the VC, DEP is now clearly readable - will evaluate dimming the flood light, too.

7) Engine instruments: Check in-game readings versus real values. If possible, modify readings to match the real ones. STATUS: OPEN. ACTION: TBD

8) Speedbrake lights are wrong in color. STATUS: CLOSED (FIXED - redone graphics and visibility conditions, also redone launch bar graphics and visibility conditions).

9) VVI needle not sitting at zero when it should. STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION: Fixed animation in 3d model, also got rid of a bug that made readings not accurate in certain conditions.

10) Fuel quantity gauge inaccurate. STATUS: CLOSED (FIXED - animation was mapped to the wrong variable)

11) MASTER CAUTION light turns on at 50% fuel quantity. STATUS: CLOSED. Action: new .xml code.

12) Tailhook lever animation: mapped to tailhook position rather than the handle. STATUS:CLOSED. ACTION: fixed animation association.

13) Tailhook warning light, 3d model moves during activation. STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION: New visibility XML code.

14) Check functionality and animation of all light switches. STATUS: OPEN. ACTION: check animation and mouse click areas

15) Reprogramming of all warning/advisory lights ongoing. STATUS: OPEN. ACTION: reprogram all the .xml code for the warning and advisory lights for more accurate functionality.

16) Add more conditions to the red/light launch bar light. STATUS: CLOSED: Green light turns off when N2 is above 95% (to achieve a "no lights" condition before launch as in real life) and red light turns on when launch bar is not retracted and plane is airborne.

17) BINGO values can be set correctly and are digested by the system, but they are not integrated in the Caution/warning lights. STATUS: OPEN. Action: edit .xml coding.

18) LAW value can be set correctly but shows only in the mouse information tag. STATUS: OPEN. Action: evaluate integration in the altimeter.

19) Altimeter cannot be set by the VC. STATUS: OPEN. Action: add mouse area for altimeter setting.

FLIGHT MODEL:

1) Catapult endspeed is way too high (above 200 kts). This is due to the fact that the Goshawk uses default catapult dynamics, which are set for the F/A-18 Hornet and cannot be changed (but can be overwritten by additional code). STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION:None from my side. This cannot be fixed without additional code - Sylvain will provide a standalone fix for this.

2) Approach speed and settings: monitor user feedback - IMHO the landing behaviour is.good (but not perfect) and does its carrier-training job quite nicely. STATUS: CLOSED. Vast majority of users is happy with the carrier landing behaviour, however it has been modified for more accurate AoA and speeds (most user will probably find that it is more difficult).

3) Engine settings at idle: engine idle should be around 55+/-2 %, also idle speed should not be able to move the a/c on the ground. STATUS: CLOSED (fixed engine dynamics and gauges animation).

4) Evaluation of several fixes/improvements to the flight model. Most users seem to have no issue with that - carrier landings are close and easy to do but not perfect. I am currently evaluating some changes - I know the flight model is far from being perfect, but I have too confess that I consider the current one to be quite good... hence, I will evaluate each and every change carefully. Flight models are sometimes tricky: you fix one aspect and do not realize you are screwing up others... STATUS: OPEN - ACTION: MONITOR

5) In general, flight emergencies are not managed correctly. STATUS: OPEN - ACTION: See if there is time for better emergency systems modeling - however, proper simulation of emergency procedures is beyond the scope of this project.

6) Landing gear damage threshold is low. Some users experienced damages to the landing gear while landing. The damage threshold was lowered on purpose to force users to perform smotther landings but, with new dynamics and more accurate AoA during descent, it is extremely easy to damage the gear. STATUS: CLOSED Gear stiffness increased to the same values of the old T-45.
MISCELLANEOUS & OTHER:

1) Flight manual paragraph numbering is not correct in chapter 10. STATUS: OPEN. ACTION: fix source document and pdf.

2) One user reported "click" sounds on the sound package. Cannot replicate that issue. STATUS: CLOSED. ACTION: none - I think the sound pack is quite good, although I am not an expert in this field. Much better than any default alias.

Color key:
Green - issue solved, or mitigated to the point is acceptable or not perceived by most users. Or a minor issue that will be present in the final build as it would require way too much work to be fixed, and does not spoil the general quality of the project.
Yellow -issue open, and could be perceived as product defect by many users. Awaiting action or investigation. Or issue open, mitigated to the best of my knowledge but will still be perceived as defect by users. Or issue open but appears easy to fix.
Red - major issue for most user that needs to be solved before release, or an issue with a root cause not identified as of today. Or the problem is beyond my knowledge or impossible or too difficult to solve.

Open Beta Release DOWLOAD LINK - EDIT:LINK EXPIRED.

2011-06-07T15:59:00.000-07:00

DOWLOAD TO PUBLIC BETA VERSION HAS BEEN REMOVED: the public Beta build is no more representative of the current status of the project.

The official "gold" release is expected to be available by the end of June.

Open Beta version release soon

2011-06-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

The Beta build of the T-45 is ready (and it will be an open Beta), but I have decided to delay its release for a day or two as I am compiling its flight manual. It will be an 80 pages flight manual based on the first 8 chapters of the real T-45C NATOPS - and it will closely replicate its structure and its contents, with clear indication of the differences between the real and the virtual Goshawk. It will cover general information, systems descriptions, operating limitations, standard and special procedures and flight characteristics - but will not cover emergency procedures, all-weather operations, communication & navigation equipment and procedures and weapon systems. It is almost ready - just few more hours of work and its done...

T-45C 3D Modeling complete

2011-05-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

After some test flights and thoughts, I'd say that the the 3D modeling of the T-45C is complete and ready for testing.
The next step is go through the NATOPS and see if there are any major mistakes in flight and system modeling I am unaware of. I am quite happy with the flight model, and I think it does its job nicely for a FSX carrier trainer. Also, it is well beyond the scope of this project to provide 100% realism and system modeling. Still, a final review before the testing phase is needed - and doing so I am also preparing a (sort of) flight manual.

Should everything go as planned, the Beta test build will be ready by the next weekend. I am still undecided if it will be a "public" Beta or a restricted one. Both have pros and cons - I do prefer a "restricted" one, but the plane is flyable (and "enjoyable") as it is right now... and I don't know when I will have time to fix the bugs in future...so a public release will allow a lot of people to fly a Goshawk that, right now, is already much better than the existing one...

Payware F-35 - closing sales, apologies for the lack of support and 2.0 version.

2011-05-27T00:22:00.000-07:00

First flight of the real AF-8, with full mission systems and USAF markings

As the real F-35 project is getting momentum (with first flight of AF-8 and CF-3 pre-series aircrafts) I have reviewed the status of my payware F-35 project.

First, I'd like to thank you all for the support and appreciation - I think it has been a huge success by my standards.

Second, I want to apologize for the lack of support on this project. Unfortunately my usual email address, which is also the one I used for FSX, is bloated by spam and junk emails to the point it is unusable - or more accurately, to the point in which I should spend several hours a week browsing through the messages. Last time I checked I had 1150 (!) unread emails, out of the first 50, just one was an actual, meaninful message.
Again, my most humble apologies for that. I will setup new email addresses as soon as possible.

Third, I just bough some new and more accurate (and more expensive) professional 3D meshes for the F-35 - as I felt that the F-35A was not on par with the new T-45C and F-14D. Therefore:

- A new, updated and more detailed F-35 model is in the works. The new model will be basically just a graphical update, and will be targeted at high-end computers. It will be payware, as the new 3d data was quite expensive for my budget, although it will be in the same price range as the previous F-35. The new outer model WILL NOT be compatible with existing repaints.

- I am considering to cease the sales of the current F-35 project. I do not consider this on par with the quality level I expect from the other projects. Unfortunately, agreement with some contributors of the project forbid the release as freeware.

- I am also considering to release the new model as a free upgrade to the existing one, or at a discounted price for existing customers - but I am not sure I can afford that.

- The new F-35 project will be "officially" announced soon, together with screenshots. It will still be an F-35A, anyway. I can tell you it looks really good, IHMO.

Anyway, no final decision was made so far - so I'd like to hear your opinion. The only thing I have decided is that I will make the new F-35 model, because it looks feasible (although requires a high end computer) - and what I have on the screen looks really good...and because I could not resist and already purchased the model from Turbosquid...

Flight testing and changes to the flight model

2011-05-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

Three hours of (mostly) T-45 flight testing today, in order to nail some of the changes to the flight model I had in mind. Although I think the previous flight model did its job nicely, after some thoughts, work and time spent reading the flight manual, I've modified the T-45 file so that:

- The engine response is slightly quicker. In the previous version I wanted to give the user the "sensation" of a trainer and the fact the T-45C is not an F-16. But, the engine response was probably a little too slow, so some users have complained about excessive difficulties in formation flying.

- Drag vs Mach is now slightly lower below 0.80 Mach, resulting in a faster acceleration and more correct climb speed. Also, top speed is close to the nominal Mach 0.85 in most conditions.

- Extending the speed brakes will have a "nose up" effect. This was perceived as "not realistic" and criticized by many users, and I deleted that effect in the previous versions. But then, the flight manual is very clear on this so the effect is back to stay.

- Extending the flap has a "nose up" effect, too, while extending the gear has now a slight "nose down" effect. Again, this is to attempt to replicate what is reported on the flight manual.

- There is now a slight "nose down" tendency above Mach 0.8, again, as per the manual.

Not many changes, then - but as I said I was quite happy with the previous FM. The new one is slightly harder as the pilot will have to compensate for the configuration changes, but I think it is still an easy plane to fly and land - and should do its job in helping simmers to learn how to land on a carrier.

...and yes, as you may have noticed, not all the pictures above are about the Goshawk...

Almost ready for a Beta Build

2011-05-16T17:28:00.000-07:00

Some more pics of the new Goshawk. The front cockpit is now functional - more or less at the same level of functionality of my previous Goshawk, but it is definitely more accurate. The external model is done - just a couple of bug-fixes and it is ready. Everything looks good for a test release at the end of this month. It may well be a "public beta" that is I am considering to make a public release of the test version - as it is unclear to me if and when I will have more time to work on this project.

Aside, I also did some work on the new Tomcat - that is the one I'm making starting from professional 3d data I've bought "investing" some of the revenues from the F-35 project. It looks REALLY good IMHO - I will show you some pictures as soon as some of the missing textures are ready. It will be an F-14D Super Tomcat, by the way.

Some screenshots of the new T-45... including cockpit images!

2011-04-26T17:26:00.001-07:00

Here are some pictures of the new T-45C Goshawk. I finally found some time to work on the cockpit and the student/pilot station is graphically almost complete - I just have to fix some animations and clean up some textures. From the functional standpoint, some needles are not working yet, and I still have to do the warning and caution lights - and the night lighting. In terms of functionality do not expect any major change from the previous version - the major difference will be that what is there should be significantly closer to the real thing.

I am sorry but I do not have time right now to add more comments - so I hope the images above speak for themselves....

The real F-35 Full Mission Simulator

2011-04-21T05:10:00.000-07:00

The F-35 Full Mission Simulator

As my previous post was about the real T-45C simulator, here is a picture of the first real "Full Mission" Simulator of the F-35, recently delivered by Lockheed Martin to Eglin Air Force Base's 33rd Fighter Wing.
Obviously this simulator sports state-of-the-art fidelity and realism, as well as a top-notch visualization system and, of course, can be set to simulate all the variants of the F-35.

Back to videogames (yes...I am a blasphemer...I still consider FSX just a videogame...) I have some good news. Meaning that I've made some significant progress with the T-45C student/pilot cockpit...and graphically I'd say it is 90% complete - I just miss some minor details here and there and I'd like to redo a couple of textures. It looks good IMHO. It is mostly "hand-drawn" meaning it looks less photographic and a little more stylized - but it is also much closer to the real deal - and IMHO it is closer to the general graphic style of FSX (& Flight - I hope that it will be possible to port it to the new simulator). Long story short it looks better than the previous one - and it is also less resouce-intensive so that it may be possible to model the instructor cockpit too (albeit I will probably not replicate some minor differences between the two cockpits that are there in the real plane - like different layout of external lights controls to name one). Still the instructor cockpit presence is not confirmed - I may not have time to complete it in a reasonable time.

I will post some WIP pictures of the new cockpit as soon as I've placed all the missing details - probably during the next weekend.

Now, that is a T-45C simulator...

2011-03-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

That is a wide screen!

This is (or should be) an actual screenshot... Javier's carrier looks definitely much better :-)

I've recently spotted on the internet few pics of the "real thing", that is the real T-45C simulator... So here they are. The simulator is static and sports a pretty wide screen (although we "simmers" know that it is not the best of the best out there) which seems very effective. In terms of graphics, well, Javier's carrier looks much better IMHO :-) but again, these simulators are not made to impress with graphic realism (or have fun), their job is to help you learning the instruments and the procedures... Then, given the high standards of many "hardcore simmers" (i.e. "I bet I could land a real Tomcat even if I've never touched a real plane" armchair pilot) , I'd bet that there is someone that may consider this simulator "too arcade" :-) Talking about arcade games...for those who missed them, there are some new Microsoft Flight screens on the official website (here). The pattern seems to be a monthly update (alternating screenshots and videos). I think it looks pretty good. Although many will think it is very similar to FSX, on closer inspection, there are some interesting tweaks that make it look much better (for example a MUCH better shadow algorithm - which include autogen now). On the graphic side, I'd say so far so good. I just hope the performance will be good. Also, I think that, at this point it seems clear that, in spite of the name change, this seems to be a new version of Flight Simulator. It will probably have some more missions (which I like) and a "casual mode" (which to allow your 5 years old son fly a 747, but I'm sure it will be optional). I'd be surprised if the maximum level of realism will be lower than the one of FSX - and I honestly can't wait to see more of this new release. I just hope that there will be an efficient way to convert FSX native add-ons to Flight...

T-45C External model complete

2011-03-14T17:56:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the lack of updates - I've been very busy in the past few weeks and I had very little time (and will) to work on my FSX projects. Needless to say I've completely missed my target of delivering a Beta version of the new Goshawk before the end of Februrary - and I'm still at least 30 work-hours away from that target.

The good news is that the external model is done - initially I wanted it to be a very light 3d model... but in the end it became a very detailed one (which may disappoint some users with slower machines). On the good side, I am extremely happy with its visual quality - although the outer doors of the main landing gear have a wrong shape.

The virtual cockpit, I mean the student/pilot one, is roughly 50% complete - it still lacks the side consoles as I have not complete their main textures.

The instructor cockpit is still in my to-do list, although I am considering a later release - as I do not have the time and motivation, at present, to complete it in a reasonable time... The main problem is that I work 9-10 hours per day in front of a computer screen, and it is really hard to find the will do sit in front of another computer screen when I am at home!

Also, while I was looking for the right mood to complete the Goshawk cockpit, I did some work on the new Tomcat - the external model is 80% complete and it looks really good too! I'll post some pics as soon as the next build is done.

New Flight screenshots from Microsoft

2011-01-31T04:38:00.000-08:00

Microsoft has just published some new screenshots of Flight, along with a much awaited clarification about the Windows Live tag of the new simulator (which generated some speculation that Flight could only be used online).

The new screenshots can be viewed here .
The general opinion is that Flight looks much like FSX - and I think it is true to some extent. Yes, it looks similar... but if you watch closely the screenshots and the video shown so far, you'll notice some significant improvements - like a much better scenery "creation" and better shadows.
I mean the "syntesized" scenery -textures, rivers, coastline, roads and autogen- look definitely better (e.g. coastlines look more realistic) and less prone to some mistakes in the current FSX system (for example the roads and rivers merge much better with the base textures).
As for the shadows, it seems that the algorythm is much more realistic and shadows are much less "abrupt".

I just hope there will be a way to import some of the work done by many designers in FSX. I think it is OK to drop FS9 code compatibility, but I hope the native .mdls can be imported -or at least Microsoft could provide an .X files converter. Should not be much of a problem, as the .X file should be a "DirectX friendly" file format...and then I see the FSX Orion Maule in the screenshots...

Anyway, what we have seen so far looks like a refined FSX. Which is a good thing IMHO. But we all know what we need most: a modern, efficient code that can benefit from current hardware.

Shoul I write a wish list... well, yes, it would be quite long...but if I could just have an improved FSX that runs at full detail at 60fps with some of the most complex add-ons, then I would be happy.

In the meantime, I am still working on the Goshawk... but no significant progress to report so far - mainly due to lack of time.

Another quick update...and a word about facebook and emails.

2011-01-17T16:59:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update with some screenshots, including the first images of the new virtual cockpit. The external model is 95% done - it only needs some minor texturing cleanup and a couple of details. It is much better than the previous one IMHO, although it is not as lightweight as I hoped. The cockpit model, on the other hand, is lagging. What you see in the screenshot is what is ready so far - the main panel is ready and so is the canopy - everything else is void for the moment. Let's say it is roghly 30% done. Good news is that it is closer to the real one and uses less resources than the previous iteration - possibly making room for the instructor's cockpit too.

With the current pace, an Alpha build may be ready by the end of February or mid-March. But that is just an estimation and, as usual, it will depend a lot on the time I will have.

Then, a word about e-mails and facebook. Yes, I am on facebook *BUT* I use it to share stupid stuff with my real-life friends. I do not use it to post anything related to Flight Simulator. That is why, while I've received several frienship requests from simmers all around the world, I've always "ignored" them. My apologies for having ignored them, but please understand that my choice is to use facebook only to communicate with people I know in person - it is the only way in which I think facebook is useful and fun for me.

Also, I'd like to apologize for the delay in replying to your emails - unfortunately I do not have time to reply in detail to each one quickly. I'm doing my best - that is spend an hour or two per week replying to my personal email.

Last thing, please do not email me for generic enquiries about Flight Simulator (like how to install scenery, or how to design a plane etc.). I am sorry but I really do not have the time to reply with sufficient level of detail, and, for such questions, you'd better check Google - there are a lot communities which provide plenty of tutorials to do almost everything FSX can do.

Well, that is it for now. I sincerely appreciate your interest in my works and...well...I just wish I had more time!

New T-45C - two screenshots.

2011-01-04T02:54:00.000-08:00

Above are a couple of screenshots I posted few days ago at Sim-outhouse... As you can see the outer model is almost done (let's say 95%). It just needs some minor details (mainly in the cockpit), some texture "clean up" and some minor animation tweaks. I have to confess am really happy about its quality so far.

I started working on the virtual cockpit and the main panel is almost done. It has been modeled directly over the NATOPS cockpit diagrams so it should be significantly closer to the real thing (although the previous one was reasonably close). I will post some pictures once a larger portion of it is complete.

For now, the plan is to keep the stock F/A-18 avionics code (HUD and MFDs), so the display will incorrectly indicate two engines and a radar (although I know that a "virtual radar" for the real T-45 is in development - i.e. a "radar simulator" for training). It would be possible to make 100% accurate avionics... but that will require a lot of time and resources.

On the good side the HUD, features some tricks I learned while making the F-35 so it looks better. I have not decided wether to make also the instructor's cockpit or not. I know it would be cool, but I want to keep the project "small" - that is the only way to deliver something.

First flight of the new T-45C (and first carrier landing of course!)

2010-12-29T17:26:00.000-08:00

Finally I've exported the T-45C model into FSX - and needless to say I took it around the boat for some traps. I'm very happy with the quality of the work so far. Most of the external model is done, the main outstanding area being the cockpit and the canopy.

Soon I'll start working on the virtual cockpit. It is not yet clear to me how long it will take, as I cannot say how many parts can be reused from the previous version (which has several inaccuracies). But the external model is just few hours from being done!

Another rendered image of the new T-45C

2010-12-27T14:23:00.001-08:00

Another rendered image of the new T-45C showing some progress. The textures are still preliminary and lack some detail - however it should already look better than the previous one IMHO. The external model is approximately 70% done. Fuselage,wings, stabilzers, rudder and the main landing gear are done. I still have to work on the cockpit and the nose gear, as well as several minor details like lights and antennas...
I'm quite happy with the results, however I have no idea when it will be ready for testing - although I plan to make the first flight in FSX soon.

T-45C remake - first look at the 3d model

2010-11-10T15:50:00.001-08:00

Just a quick post to show you the status of the T-45C 3D model. The image above is rendered - so the in-game look shall differ. I do not like to post rendered images as they may be misleading, but on the other hand, diffuse and reflection maps are far from being complete so, at the moment the model looks black when in-game.

As you can see the main things are there and working. Some areas still need texturing, but 60% of the work is done. The cockpit area is probably the least detailed for now, while some other areas may need some tweaking. IMHO it is much more accurate than the previous one. The major mistake is the shape of the outer gear doors, which are slightly too "pointy" - unfortunately remaking them requires a lot of work - so I'll probably live with them as they are.

That is it for now. I still have some difficulties in finding the time (and the motivation) to work on FSX these days. Honestly, in these weeks, when I come back home after a whole day designing new products on Pro/Engineer (which is my paying job) the last thing I want to see is the another 3D modeling software...

New simulation platforms: Microsoft Flight and Lockheed Martin Prepar3D

2010-10-26T00:11:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been very interesting for flight simulation enthusiasts: from one side Microsoft has released a new video of Microsoft Flight, from the other Lockheed Martin is close to release the Prepar3D simulation platform, which is based on Microsoft ESP technology (that is basically the FSX engine).

Let's start with Flight. The last video released by Microsoft is the first one that shows what appears to be in-game footage (the previous ones were clearly pre-rendered CGI "teasers") and shows a Boeing Stearman taking off. It is very interesting because it seems to use an evolution of the FSX engine, with better shadows and some nice touches like the blending between the runways/taxiways and the sorrounding grass and ground (unless it is a photoreal texture, but I do not think so). Apart from that, it seems very similar to FSX, so it may well be that Flight is an evolution of FSX, with better and more efficient engine and better graphics - and hopefully good chances to have (some) backward compatibility. And, some more missions (with more attentions to beginners) and Live features. That is what I hope, at least.

Microsoft Flight website HERE

Another interesting take is Lockheed Martin's Prepar 3D. This environment is built upon Microsoft ESP simulation technology, which is basically Flight Simulator X. The interesting thing is that Lockheed Martin has added some features, like, apparently, better water modeling -including water depth and the possibility to go underwater e.g. for submarines- sensor modeling and better terrain modeling for continental USA. Priced at $499 it is intended as a semi-professional generic simulation tool, but it is basically an FSX-derivative and the add-ons seem to be cross-compatible.

Prepar 3d website is HERE.

Taking a break from FSX

2010-10-18T23:53:00.000-07:00

I am sorry but I have to take a (small) break from FSX development.
Currently my job is absorbing much of my time - and honestly I do not want to spend the whole day in front of a computer screen.
I simply have no time right now - I hope things will get better in the next weeks.

Here is a the status of the projects I'm working on - and my thoughts:

F-35B - 80% of the external model is done - but the quality is not homogeneous, meaning that some areas look good while some others are barely acceptable. The fact is that it is extremely difficult to convert the model due to the high number of boolean operations I did (i.e. "cut and paste"). Each operation introduces and error - and some errors have been introduced by the mesh optimization algorithms I've applied...
In the end, I am not sure what to do. It is not good enough for release, but it is a little too good to go directly to the trashcan...

F-35C - As I thought, this is even more difficult than the -B. The first attempt in modeling the new wings looked ugly and was scrapped.

T-45C - This is looking very good. The new external model is much better - although it is only 50% done - and very efficient in terms of resouce usage. It is probably the best work I did in terms of compromise between visual quality and fps performance.

F-14D - The external model is almost done, although it still lacks wing animations. It looks great but it is a frame rate killer. As for the cockpit, I have not decided yet which part can be carried over and which ones should be redone. Redoing usually means better quality - but, of course, much longer lead times...

Right now I am thinking to close the F-35 projects (I've been evaluating some minor updates to the A model...but dropped them as nobody would have noticed) and work only on the T-45. But, as I said, I need to take a break for a while. I will keep you updated.

Back to work... project update

2010-10-04T05:19:00.000-07:00

I finally came back home few days ago from a long (but very interesting) businness trip to the United States and I have to confess that, right now, I am struggling to find the motivations to work on FSX.It is not because of the recent announcement of Microsoft Flight. It is just the fact that add-on development requires inspiration. Even payware requires it, as, at present, my revenue for the F-35 is around 4 Euros per working hour. But again, the F-35 was a fund-rising initiative - this figure is just to give an idea of what are the earnings you can expect.
So, not much inspiration in these days. And Halo Reach and Fifa 11 on the X360.
Still here is an update of the projects I'm working on... In detail:

F-35A Lightining II - Finally some Air-to-air configurations images have been released to the public, sporting an impressive load of 12x Amraam + 2x Asraam... And I would really like to add this configuration to the F-35A, along with some other minor fixes. So, most likely a further update is inbound. Also, I've tried to add specular and bump maps to the cockpit model...and quickly overshoot FSX framebuffer limitations. There are workaround for this, like splitting the polys in different framebuffers as I did for external models, but this will impact the frame rates, so I'll probably drop this feature.

F-35B VTOL version -I've started making one, and it is not looking that bad. Will post some details in the next few days. Yes, I know IRIS is making one - but I simply could not resist. Then I have no idea when and if it will be finished.

F-35C CATOBAR version - I've started this one too...but blending a completely new wing to the existing model is very complex. The first attempt was really ugly. I will try again, but it is harder than I expected, so I am not sure it will ever be good enough for release.

T-45C Goshawk - Fuselage and wings 3d models are done and they are MUCH better than the previous one. I'm also trying to keep the polycount low with some success. Also I've redone the main landing gear and it is closer to the real thing (and finally retracts correctly).

F-14D Tomcat - Professional 3d data is looking great, although it is a frame-rate killer. I honestly have no idea when I will be able to complete it. Also, I've seen that Aerosoft has started their own F-14A project, which, for Tomcat fans like me, it is great news. I wish all the best to the Aerosoft team - I am sure that they can deliver a spectacular Tomcat. They are good designers and if their F-14 turns out to be as good as the F-16 I will surely purcahes it. As for my rendition...well, I am quite happy with it right now - but again it take a long time before it is ready.

Unidentified Aermacchi project - well, not much work so far. Likely to be the first Aermacchi for Flight (just joking!)

F-35 update to version 1.15 available at SimMarket

2010-09-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

The updated F-35A installation file is available at SimMarket.

In addition to the changes listed, I've also fixed a minor texturing mistake in the fuselage (close to the refuel doors).

IMPORTANT! To the recipients of complimentary copies: I did a mistake in the email with the download link - the password shall be typed ALL in LOWERCASE. Apologies for the incovenience.

F-35 Update to version 1.15 - almost ready

2010-09-07T05:58:00.000-07:00

A quick update as I've changed my FSX priorities... Since I will leave for few weeks for a businness trip, I've decided to pack the latest improvements I did on the F-35 and release an update before leaving.
Do not expect any major upgrade... they are just few minor enhancements that otherwise would have sat on my hard disk for quite a while.

In detail:
- Emergency tailhook animation and geometry redone (should be closer to the real thing...or at least to my interpretation of the photos circulating on the internet... afaik, no clear images are publicly available at the moment I am writing)
- Vapor and whiskers effects redone - now they are less bulky and look better IMHO
- Afterburner effects redone - longer flame in stage 2 and much longer flame in stage 3...also better color and less bleeding
- Removed the big antenna from the top surfaces for "operational" model (such antenna does not show on the real AF-3, which is the first plane with complete mission systems... probably is replaced with an internal one).

That is it... I told you it was not much. I will probably send the files to SimMarket tonight or tomorrow.

Aside I just wanted to let all my fellow Italian simmers know that I'd love to make an Aermacchi MB-339. I do not consider the project dead yet - simply I do not have time to work on it right now.
In particular, I do not have much time to acquire and study the necessary documentation... it takes a really a lot of time.
But I promise that, once the new F-14 and T-45 are ready, the next in the line will be an Italian plane - most likely one from our beloved aircraft makers in Varese.

Projects update

2010-09-05T15:20:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately for my social life and my hobbies, my "real life" job will absorb the vast majority of my time in the upcoming weeks - this means that a lot of ideas I had for my new FSX projects will be delayed or, most probably, cancelled. Businness is businness...

So, for what concerns FSX, I've decided to focus only on updates/remakes of the existing projects. Here is a brief overview of what I am working on:

T-45C Goshawk remake
I am very happy to see that my T-45C project has been appreciated so much by the community. However, it was my first FSX project...and I realize it could have been (much) better. So, as you can see from the image above, I am remaking it (almost) from scratch. I'll keep only the very best bits of the previous build - but at least 75-80% of the modeling will be redone.
The major difference is that now I have the T-45C NATOPS to work with, so the new Goshawk should be more accurate. The planned features are:

New, more accurate external model - with several optimizations for good frame rates
New, more accurate Virtual Cockpit for both pilot and instuctor seats (if possible)
Enhancements to the flight model to bring it closer to the NATOPS spec.

The current status of the project is well portrayed in the picture above... Fuselage and wings are done while I've started remaking the gears (kinematics in the previous version were wrong) and the interior details. All the textures will be remade, and this time most of them will be hand-drawn. I have no idea when it will be ready for its first flight.

F-14D Tomcat remake

Yes, yet another Tomcat version... it's an obsession. This time I've acquired professional 3D data to work with, hence the 3D model will be even more accurate. As I had to face a significant cost for the data, the chance is that there will be two versions: one will be a fully functional, pilot-only, time-unlimited freeware version - and the other could be a payware version which may have also the RIO cockpit and possibly alternate weapon configurations. But, this is just an idea for now. I have not made a list of the planned features of this project - even if, as you can see in the screenshot, a very preliminary build is already flying on my computer. And it is looking good, IMHO.

F-35 update

From what I know of the FSX add-on market, I think the F-35 release has been a good success, especially if you consider that the Lightning II is a very peculiar machine to model. From the feedbcak I've received, it seems that there are no major issues - but are few minor areas that may need some work. I am not sure when I will have the time to release an update - but most likely it will be in early October.

That's it for now - you feedback will be appreciated as always, but I'll be travelling for businness for the rest of the month...so it may take a while for me to reply.

Freeware Genova and Liguria scenery for FSX!

2010-08-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

Finally a good, FSX native scenery of my hometown...and it is freeware!!!!

Some guys at blogfsx.forumfree.it have created a wonderful scenery of Genova my beloved hometown, as well as a complete 2m/pixel photoreal scenery of the whole Ligurian region (which extends from the French border to Tuscany).

The default FSX rendition is extremely poor and while Utimate Terrain does improve the rendering, the final result is far from being realistic - it is a kind of landscape that it is very hard to render realistically without photoreal textures.

The scenery includes a highly detailed and accurate Genova Sestri Airport (LIMJ), which is where I took my real-life PPL almost 18 years ago, a 1m/pixel photoreal scenery of (most of) the city including autogen and custom models for several landmarks and monuments.

As a further bonus, the whole city of Sestri Levante, including Riva Trigoso and its shipyard, is also rendered with custom buildings.

The scenery is a great addition to FSX. Hopefully the designers will improve it by adding more autogen and possibly making custom sceneries for Albenga and Luni airports,

The scenery can be dowloaded at OZx website.

The authors' forum is here (and in this forum you will also find several other interesting sceneries) and a youtube video is here.

By the way, the Scenery Italy Real X project team has posted a video on youtube about their rendition if Genova some time ago... and it looks even more incredible *BUT* it seems they are having some difficulties, and it is unlikely we will be able to fly it anytime soon. Anyway, here is the link.

Above the Aeroclub parking lot. Note the custom buildings with photoreal texture and the hangars of Piaggio Aero Industries on the background (that is where the Piaggio P-180 is manufactured)

Flying over Genova towards Portofino (note the extensive Autogen coverage).

Flying short final on runway 29 brings back memories of my first solo flight (in truth it was not my best landing...). The area in front of the runway was a major steel mill - nowadays it is almost closed and the area is being converted to other purposes.

The Albenga airport (LIMG) is within the photoreal coverage - it is just the default airport, but it is aligned quite well to the textures. No autogen in this area, however.

The town of Sestri Levante is completely modeled in 3d with custom object (probably the hometown of one the authors) and is a nice bonus. Note the Fincantieri Shipyards of Riva Trigoso in the background (this is one of the major shipyards in Italy - mostly used for military ships)

F-35A version 1.1 released a SimMarket

2010-08-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

The new version of the F-35A is available at SimMarket. It is a full installation - not a patch: new customers will get the latest release, while existing customers should have received a download link to the installer.
It may take a little while for servers to update - if it does not work in few hours please contact SimMarket and/or let me know.

Microsoft Flight

2010-08-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

Microsoft has just announced the next iteration of Flight Simulator...which is not "Simulator" anymore:

MICROSOFT FLIGHT

Needless to say, the fact it is not "Simulator" anymore has caused some panic on some hardcore-simmers... But I am confident that Microsoft just wants to make the game more accessible - and more "game like" - for the ones who like it so (like they did with the introduction of "Missions" in FSX). Most likely, you will be able to set the realism lever to maximum...and have an "serious" simulator (providing you consider Flight Simulator serious)!

My hopes are that this new platform will be built on a more efficient and modern engine, and retains keep backward compatibility... at least at some degree.
My major fear is that Microsoft may want to introduce a Live-only distribution for add-ons (possibly through a certification) which may bring profits to Microsoft...and kill independent developers like me.

F-35A - patch to version 1.1 almost ready

2010-08-13T17:13:00.000-07:00

In the past few days I've been working on a patch for the F-35A. It is almost ready and will be deployed to SimMarket as soon as possible. As many files are affected, I am unsure if it is better to release a patch or a full installation. In any case, customers should be able to download the new files by accessing their customer account.

The patch will include (but will not be limited to) the following features/fixes:

- New wing vapor effects (embedded in the mdl, will not affect third party a/b effects or the light system). The effect shows when pulling more than 4.5 Gs. Wing vapor effects were not meant to be included in the initial release. I've been experimenting with them for a while on older build, using Team KBT effects. The placeholder effect was included in the main release for a mistake - and in fact it was a copy of the Team KBT's effect - my most humble apologies to the authors.

- New "whiskers" effects (embedded in the mdl, as the vapor) nearby the air intake (as seen on some real F-35 pictures. This effect shows when the AoA is in excess of 25 degrees.

- New weapon configuration with two external fuel tanks and two Jdams (the "unusual" shape of the tanks should be the actual one - according to the information I have)

- Fixed main wheel texture mismatch

- Minor graphics glitch in the FUEL page

- Minor optimization to the MFD rendering resolution (should help lower-end systems)

- Minor optimization in the visual model visibility conditions (should provide minimal frame rate increase)

- Alternate .cfg with wrong contact points but no micro-oscillations of the cockpit

- Fixes miscellaneous typos in the aircraft.cfg

F-35A Lightning II for FSX:Acceleration - Support post

2010-08-02T01:17:00.001-07:00

F-35 Lightning II for FSX:A soaring over Nevada desert

First, I'd like to thank you all for purchasing the F-35 and, most important, for the very positive feedback I've received and the nice comments I've seen circulating on the Internet.

Second, as the project is lacking a support forum so far, I thought it was a good idea to create this post as reference for the known product issues and fixes.

I will release a patch, in future, to address all the issues I can - although I am not sure I can fix them all - but I will not do that immediately, as I think it is better to wait a little in order to collect feedback from a wider user base (by the way the patch will be available though SimMarket - by accessing the customer account page).

By the way, I'd like to thank Orion Lyau for his corrections to the product manual.

Here is the list of the question I've received or issues highlighted by current customers, and their fix if possible:

Wing Vapor Showing when the "L" key is pressed

Reason - this is a mistake from my side during the final build compilation. I've been toying with additional special effects for a while but I've decided to leave them out. Unfortunately I've left the provisional vapor effect file in the final build.

Fix - either remove the F-35 vapor effects or the entry in the lights section of the aircraft.cfg (I will provide more specific indications soon - as I am not writing from my FSX computer). Will be addesssed in the next patch/upgrade.

The plane rotates slightly when it is parked or still on the ground

Reason - this is the same "micro-oscillation" issue described in the FAQ section of the manual. For some reason, there is a contact point instability that causes some "microbouncing" when the plane is not moving - the resultant effect is a (very small) rotation. This was solved in the Betas by modifying the gear points location, but in the final build I've preferred to use the right location for more accurate landing behaviour.

Fix - no proper fix available as the exact root cause has not been clearly identified

Slow frame rates in the virtual cockpit on some systems

Reason - Some systems may not handle too well the complex, high resolution MFD and HUD. The settings I've used in the final build provide the maximum clarity, but it is possible to reduce rendering resolution of the digital instruments in the cockpit by editing the panel.cfg file.

Fix - it is possible to decrease the resolution of the digital displays by editing the panel.cfg file. I will include an alternate panel.cfg in the next patch/upgrade, but a do-it-youself solution is provided in this thread of the Sim-outhouse forum

Q - Is (or will) the F-35A available for purchase on other websites or methods other than SimMarket?

A - No. The F-35 is exclusively available through SimMarket. Besides I would have no time to manage direct sales or other accounts.

Q - Will you make a simplified version that could work on lower end computers?

A - No, I'm sorry. The F-35 project was aimed at high-end systems from the beginning. Redesigning it would be too time consuming, and definitely out of the project scopes. The new T-45C I'm working on, on the other hand, has been designed to have a good performance - as I think this is essential to that project.

Q - Are you making the F-35B and F-35C, too? If so, are they going to be free upgrades or stand-alone products?

A - I have not decided yet. The F-35B and F-35C are very different from the F-35A - most important, it is technically difficult to modify the F-35A model to replicate those planes. I've been working on a "transitional" model for a while, that is a "neutral" F-35 model that could be more easily turned into an F-35B and -C, but I have not decided yet what to do. Besides, the F-35B would require external code (Rob Barendregt's VTOL code+FSUIPC) to perform proper STOVL operations, and I do not have the resources to support that. Aside, the F-35B and -C would need dedicated virtual cockpits. Long story short, I've not ruled them out yet - but I may need to simplify the project. As for their distibution method it is, of course TBD.

Q - What is the next project you will be doing (off topic, but frequently asked)?

A - I will make a post about my current projects soon. I'd like to do a lot of things, including the much requested MB-339, but I do not have time. I have a full time "day" job...and, believe it or not, a full and satisfying social life. This leaves very little time for my hobbies - and, if anything, the F-35 project is showing me that breaking even with FSX payware is a success. In any case, this is what I have on the drawing board.

T-45C Goshawk remake - the project goals are a more accurate visual model optimized for better fps; more accurate flight model; actual two-seat student/instuctor cockpits; in general, higher accuracy and fidelity to real NATOPS manual. This will surely be a freeware project.
F-14D Tomcat remake - I'm still not happy with the current Tomcat and I've already acquired professional 3d data and textures to work with. In this case, the scope would be maximum detail and accuracy. It is a project that is pushing FSX at its limits. I'd like it to be a freeware project, but there are some issues like data licensing and associated costs that I need to solve - I'll see what I can do.
Aermacchi MB.339, Aermacchi M346, McDonnell-Douglas TA-4J "Scooter, North American T-2 "Buckeye", Socata TB.9... all of these planes have been on the drawing board, for some reason or another. Some of these are just sketches, some others went as far as having some textures done and actually flying in FSX. But honestly, it is very unlikely I will ever find the time to complete them.

F-35A Released at SimMarket!

2010-07-29T05:30:00.000-07:00

The F-35A is available at SimMarket!

http://secure.simmarket.com/dino-cattaneo-f-35-lightning-ii.phtml

Hope you will like it!

F-35A Warming up the engines (and apologies to Scott Printz)

2010-07-28T18:00:00.000-07:00

The recipients of the complimentary copies have highlighted some minor glitches in the package... no major issues, and I think most of the users would have been unable to catch them. But one was a major mistake on my side, that is I misspelled the surname of Scott Printz, who is the creator of the enhanced F/A-18 HUD xml code upon which Jivko Rusev has kindly created the custom VHUD for the F-35.
So, I've decided to stop the ditribution process, fix the glitches and resubmit the files.
Changes are as follows:

- Fixed several typos in the manual, including Scott Printz's surname (once again my most humble apologies)
- Fixed VHUD version (the version included in the previous build was not the latest, due to a mistake)
- Fixed aircraft.cfg (the version included in the previous build was not the latest)
- Minor graphic glitches solved

Good news is that the new build is already on the SimMarket server - now all the required files and informations are there. It will take a little while to create the product page but should not take more than few days I hope.

The product manual has been updated and can be dowloaded HERE.

Updated complimentary copies will be resent tomorrow (sorry...it is really too late and I am falling asleep). By the way I know that some testers have not received the dowload link... my apologies, I don't know what went wrong.

F-35 taxi to SimMarket and hold short :-)

2010-07-27T11:05:00.000-07:00

I've just finished uploading the files to SimMarket. Everything seems OK, but it will take some time (hopefully not much) to set up the product page and make it available.

A download link to complimentary copies will be sent to the Beta testers soon - if anyone involved in the testing has not received it within few days please contact me.

In the meantime, here is a download link to the final user manual:

USER MANUAL DOWNLOAD LINK

Aside, please note that I've had some problems with rapishare (they have changes several things, including the account rules) so I am switching to Mediafire - so most of the older files are not available anymore. However Flightsim.com has a copy of most my freeware releases.

EDIT: Download link to complimentary copies to testers and contributors have been sent yesterday evening. If you are a tester or a contibutor and have not received it please let me know. Please note also that early deployement of such copies has not highlighted any major issue with the product, but few glitches were spotted:

- There was a slight misplacement of the head rest textures (reason: not spotted due to monitor setting - it will be invisible to many users)
- There was a slight misplacement of the wheel chocks 3d model (reason:not checked after final landing gear contact points placement - decision was taken to implement the "real" contact points regardless of the micro-oscillation issues)
- Installer could not automatically recognize FSX installation folder (typo in compiling the installer)

I've fixed these issues in the build for the final customer, and re-uploaded the file to SimMarket. As result, the current complimentary copies are slightly different from the retail copies. Apologies for the incovenience.

EDIT/2 I've received some feedback about the manual and I would like to highlight it is not completely correct about the "texture load" statement of the FSX.cfg file. That is, it is true that changing the settings in FSX will overwrite (and revert to the maximum default settings) some of the entries that control the graphics engine (in this case the maximum texture resolution - which is 1024 by default, but can be edited to 4096). This happens regardless of the fact you've changed graphics related settings or not. You cannot make the changes permanent by changing the write access as FSX will not work if the FSX.cfg is "read only".
However, there are some third party applications that will rewrite the fsx.cfg for you either by running a background process or by rewriting the .cfg every time you restart FSX.
The fact is: you can't make the changes permanent - unless you use a specific application:

EDIT /2 bis - I WAS INFORMED THAT THE INFORMATION AT THIS POINT WERE INACCURATE. MY APOLOGIES.

EDIT/3 RED LIGHT on release. It seems that the final package contains some very minor mistakes and a big one, for me - that is one of the contributors' names is misspelled. Will fix ALL of the defects before proceeding.

F-35 is ready for deployment...but I had another hard disk failure...

2010-07-26T02:05:00.001-07:00

Another quick update to let you know that the F-35 (including its manual) is ready for distibution. The only thing that is holding its release is that one of backup hard disks had a failure and, while the project files are safe, I cannot access some of my records, like, for example, the list of the Beta testers - which deserve proper credit in the documentation. I should be able to retrive the files tonight - and finally upload the package to SimMarket sever.

(Partial) F-35 user manual download link (and complimentary screenshots...)

2010-07-12T16:35:00.000-07:00

EDIT JULY 26th 2010

********************

THE FINAL VERSION OF THE MANUAL IS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON A LATER POST.

DOWNLOAD LINK FOR THIS POST IS NOW DISABLED.

Just a quick update on the project - hopefully the last one before release.
The F-35 is done. It is far from being perfect - and I am sure that many enthusiasts will find several inaccuracies or defects. But I am pretty happy with it.
I am in the process of completing the user manual and then it will be released. I still do not have a release date as my paying job is absorbing much of my time - and, honestly, being so lucky to live where I live, I prefer spending my spare time at the beach rather than in front of another computer screen... let alone the fact that here in Genoa there is an unbearable heat wave in these days.

Anyway, here is a download link to the "main" part of the F-35 manual - so that you can better understand the features and the limitations of this project:

DOWLOAD PARTIAL USER MANUAL

The only things that are missing are the installation/hardware requirements/credits and legal stuff. Speaking of credits, I'd like to thank once again Roberto Leonardo, for the enhancements to the flight model, and Jivko Rusev and Scott Prinz, for the custom HUD.
I'd like to remind you that while the F-35 will be payware, it will be a low cost product (final price yet TBD). Jivko, Scott and Roberto gave me their contributions for free - and this means you will get a better product at no extra cost.

Most important, as I hope you are aware of, is that my plan is to use the F-35 to raise funds to enhance both the F-14 and the T-45, which will be freeware.

So, please be patient... it is almost ready. In the meantime, here are some pictures.

USAF F-35 with full JDAMs load

USAF F-35 nearby Nellis AFB

The initial F-35 prototype AA-1 over Edwards AFB

Internet connection restored - F-35 on short final

2010-06-30T00:24:00.000-07:00

Finally my new home is connected to the Internet at a reasonable speed - it took almost a month, but now everything works as it should.

There are still a couple of minor tweaks that need to be propagated through the different visual models - and the manual needs to be completed / updated (I hope it will be ready today or tomorrow - as soon as the draft is ready I will provide a download link).

EDIT: "Between the tweaks, I've decided to split the folders to have different flight models: one for AA-1 (which was 4000lbs heavier and had a slightly derated engine), one for AF-1 and unarmed versions, and one for the loaded visual models. Initially I was not keen to do this as it generates several duplicated files and larger HD installation... but I think it adds significant value, as the user can appreciate the "weight watcher" effort done by Lockheed Martin engineers to bring the F-35 down to the desired weight" - I've just finished implementing this and...the file and installation size are huge - with lots of duplicate files as I thought. Final decision is to leave this feature out - and it has been cancelled. EDIT/2 - As I've received negative feedback about this decision, I've reworked the file structure so that the separate folders and flight models are back again. Total HD space required is now about 890Mb for six models (AA-1, AF-1, F-35A Dark grey, F-35A USAF, F-35A USAF with CBUs, F-35A USAF with JDAMs). Also, external weapons are visible from the VC (for track IR users).

So... the release date is still pending - as these are pretty busy weeks for my paying job...and honestly when I come back home after so many hours spent in front of a computer screen, well, another computer screen is the last thing I want to see...

F-35 Alternate visual models

2010-06-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

I'm still having problems with the internet connection, I am not sure when I will be able to release it...

In the meantime, a couple of pictures of the alternate "operational" visual models - paint scheme is based on promotional plastic models...

Note that they all share the same flight model.

Also, weapons will be cosmetic only - and will not have any function.

F-35 Release date...still pending

2010-06-16T00:31:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately the Internet connection in my new home is still far from working correctly. Connection comes and goes without any apparent logical reson - and when the modem is connected the speed can be anything from acceptable from incredibly slow. I'm a patient person, but I'm beginning to get upset (as it should have been fixed 10 days ago - and I had no feedback from the phone company)... let alone the fact that I've been unable, so far, to make a phone call from my home.

Needless to say, I will not be able to release the F-35 until the connection is fixed - my apologies.

F-35A project update and screenshots

2010-06-06T17:11:00.000-07:00

At last I've finished moving all my stuff into my new home - which is still a mess but it is getting better every day, so I am beginning to find some time to work on the F-35. It is not yet complete, but it only needs very few hours of work.

Unfortunately I am still having major problems with the internet connection in this new house. Connection comes and goes unpredictably, and when it is there it is very slow. It should have been fixed by now, but I have not seen any improvement so far.

For the moment, the only thing I can offer are my apologies for the delay and the screenshots above...

F-35 Lightining II - Beta 2

2010-05-22T00:25:00.000-07:00

***********************************************************************
IMPORTANT! TESTERS PLEASE READ!
I've just realized that there may be a mistake in the folder structure of
the Beta 2 zip file, so it may not be installed correctly. You should move the F-35 folder in the FSX SimObject/Airplanes manually. If the installation is correct you should find three aircraft variants (AA-1, AF-01 and an unpainted one) - if you see only AA-1 then it is not correct.
My apologies for the inconvenience.
************************************************************************

NOTE: Beta 2 has been distributed only to testers - unfortunately, the email has not reached all of the intended recipients for various reasons (including mistakes from my side). No one from the Beta team has been "banned" or intentionally left out. Unfortunately I cannot access my home email right now, nor I can fix this until my new home is connected to the internet. My apologies for any inconvenience.

UPDATE: My home computer is now operational (and with a new monitor and dedicated Raid 0 disks for FSX). Still, no internet connection at home. BTW, with a clean FSX install on Windows 7 64 bit, I experience a huge performance increase in DX10. Will write a post about that - I think my Nvidia GTX295 works much better under Win7/DX10 (compared to XP 32bit). Also, no blurries - but I guess this is more due to the Raid 0. With the same settings, DX9 is much slower (like 10-15 fps) and shows major stutters.

Unfortunatley I could not complete the RC1 version of the F-35 Lightining II project for FSX on time. As I am moving into a new home in these days I will have no time to work on it nor I will have home internet connection for a while.So, instead of the RC1, I've packed a Beta 2 release. It is not yet complete, but what is in there should be good enough for public release.

The main missing features are:

HMD 2D superimposed panel
Operational F-35 model (i.e without nose probe and with proper EOTS)
Model with external loads

As I will not have access to home email for a while please report EXCLUSIVELY through comments to this post.

From now on, Beta testers are authorized to discuss and comment the project publicly and post pictures (or videos) on the internet - provided that a link is given in as comment to this post.

I will resume the project and release it as soon as possible.

UPDATE - After a long struggle to make the SDK work under Win7 64bit, my home computer is operational once again (with a new monitor, a clean install of OS,FSX and SDk on new RAID hard disk). Still, no internet connection until June 3rd...

EXTERNAL MODEL:

JDAM pokes through weapon bay door (very small - visible only in full HD). Action: review the visual model. Status:CLOSED. Closer inspection reveals that it was a mistake in the UVW placement. Fixed on model build 59.
White flash on AF-01 tail shows a small blue stripe. Action: review the texture. Status: closed - texture modified.
Afterburner effects look different on DX10 preview. Action: unclear, may be it is difficult to solve without a complete redo of the effect - if so, EDIT/1: I've double checked the code and it is correct. Seems that the DX10 preview has some issues showing some special effects, at least on my machine. I will investigate other solutions, but I would not like too much modifying the existing .fx as they seem to work fine. EDIT/2: after some investigation, it looks like it depends from videocard/FSX settings - setting a limited frame rate seems to fix the issue sometimes. Basically, seems that FSX in DX10, on my system, "cuts" some special effects in order to keep the framerate high. Status:closed - no action.
AF-02 Weapon Test Vehicle texture missing. Action: create the new repaint (should not be too difficult). Status:open
"Mighty Gorillas" texture set and external model missing. Action: model is almost ready; create the new repaint. Status:open
"Thunderbirds" texture set missing. Action: this paint scheme is technically challenging due to the texture placement; final decision pending. Status:open
Jaggy shading in places. This is sue to the poly count optimization algorith I've used. This was not much visible on my previous monitor, but the new one is less forgiving, Action: improve geometry by adding polygons locally. Status: closed. Added polys in several areas.
Color mismatch between side and bottom fuselage textures. Action: improve color match/blending. Status: closed (textures blend modified).
Engine/fuselage interface of AF-1 model shows incorrect shading in DX10. Action: validate mesh. Status: closed (turning model into "editable mesh" fixed the issue)
Remove auxiliary air intake from the upper surfaces of AF-01 and subsequent models. Action: modify the specific 3d model. Status: closed.

VIRTUAL COCKPIT:

HUD shows an halo in DX10. Action:review material propriety/disable bloom if enabled. EDIT: materials seem correct. Halo seems to be an artifact from the DX10 preview bloom algorithm. I am unsure to modify it as it looks good in DX9. Status:open
MFD cover when the plane is parked was planned, and texture were made, but is not modeled yet. Action: evaluate implementation. Status: open
A/T switch inop. Action: the switch is actually an A/T arm. Enable the entry in the aicraft.cfg. Status:open
A/P switch inop. Action: check associated .XML code (seems to work on my machine) Status:open
Request to increase the angle of the fpm on the Virtual HUD. Action: unclear. Only track-ir /freetrack users would benefit from that - for the others, seeing the fpm disappear beyond the MFD may be less desireable. Final decision pending. Status:open
Mouse areas inop/misplaced. Action: awaiting to collect full list. Status:open.
Minor visual interference between some details in the ejection seat area. Action: fixed in VC model 28. Status:closed.
Seat cushion texture misplaced. Action:review UVW placement. Status:open

FLIGHT MODEL:

no issues reported so far

MISCELLANEOUS / DOCUMENTATION:

Product and flight manual missing
Checklists missing
Prepare documentation for e-commerce distributors.

Color key:

Green - issue solved, or mitigated to the point is acceptable or not perceived by most users.
Yellow -issue open, and could be perceived as product defect by many users. Awaiting action or investigation. Or issue open, mitigated to the best of my knowledge but will still be perceived as defect by users. Or issue open but appears easy to fix.
Red - root cause not identified as of today. Or the problem is beyond my knowledge or impossible or difficult to solve.

F-35 Lightining II - feature complete build ready!

2010-05-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

AF-01 model has been refined on the basis of the pictures released by Lockheed Martin recently.

This is the clean dark grey livery for repainting. An early warning to the repainters:due to some minor imperfections in the normals of some surfaces (and the resulting smoothing mistakes), repainting the fuselage in very light colors may highlight these minor defects - which are completely invisible with the default liveries or in similar colors. Should not be an issue for the vast majority of the liveries.

This is the latest build of the MFD. Several functions can be controlled by the touch screen, and you can manage its configuration in a much more flexible way than the previous builds. Still, most of the more advanced functions of the F-35 are not emulated.

Cockpit graphics have been kept as close as possible to the real plane, but some artistic licence has been taken. Also, the source material was not homogeneous (most source photos came from the AA-1 cockpit, while others were from BF-1, mock-ups and simulators). For example, the wires nearby the pedals should be covered by panels, and AFAIK the area below the MFD controls will be different in the actual planes - these discrepancies are due to the fact that the best photos I have were taken during the assembly of the AA-1 cockpit.

Yet another picture of the AF-1 over Fort Worth.

And one last for the AF-1. The real AF-1 has been retired to live-fire "slaughter" for battle damage assessment. Note the scorched surface on the left vertical stabilizer, due to the nearby exhaust of the APU. This exhaust has been moved to the lower side, afaik, with the exception of the F-35C's (due to deck crew safety concerns I think).

A very rainy evening has finally given me the time (and will) I needed to complete the remake of the MFD, which was the major oustanding item in my F-35 to-do list. The cockpit now has all the planned functions - while are fewer than the ones of the real F-35, they should be good enough for most users.

So the package is almost complete, meaning it needs some very minor debugging and the external model need to be checked against the recently released pictures of AF-1 and AF-2.

Then I need to write the checklists and the manuals and then it is ready.

The major delay will probably come from the fact that I am moving to a new home during the next couple of weeks... so I really can't tell when I will be able to release it. But I hope that the pictures above show that the project is in a very good shape and VERY close to completition.

PS - The visit of the Garibaldi STOVL carrier to my hometown - and the fact that I'm seeing it every day driving to my workplace, is revamping my intest in making the F-35B, too. The conversion is not easy as it may seem - but I'll probably give it a try.

La Garibaldi in porto a Genova !

2010-05-03T10:07:00.000-07:00

Se vi capita di passare al porto di Genova in questi giorni, c'è la Garibaldi ormeggiata a Ponte dei Mille! Purtroppo non ho avuto occasione di visitarla, ma anche da lontano è uno spettacolo. La nave è ormeggiata a Ponte dei Mille e vi resterà fino al 5 Maggio, quando ospiterà il Presidente della Repubblica per le celebrazioni del centocinquantesimo anniversario dell'impresa dei Mille.

_______________

If you happen to step by the harbour of Genoa (not far from my home) in these days, you can see the Garibaldi light carrier docked at Ponte dei Mille. The ship is the smallest of the two Italian STOVL carriers, the other one being the Cavour. The Garibaldi is named after Giuseppe Garibaldi, the national hero who 150 years ago led the "Mille" military expedition resulted in the unification of Italy.

___________________

Photos taken from the web.

In search for the Ultimate Tomcat...

2010-04-22T04:39:00.001-07:00

As I design FSX add-ons for fun, when the projects come to the final polishing stage (which is very boring) I tend to lose the focus on their completion, and usally start working on other things.

Which in this case, as some of you are aware of, would be the T-45C update.

I've been playing with the new Goshawk for some time... but I have to confess that I could not get it right. That is, there are so many things I'd like to change that I grossly underestimated the amount of work. I've also considered buying professional 3D data to speed up thing... but apparently there is no data available. So I am not so sure it is the right thing to do, right now.

On the other hand, while looking for a T-45 3d mesh I found some nice meshes for the Tomcat at a reasonable price... Played with the 3D yesterday night and the results were really good. Long story short I am putting the T-45 on hold and make a new version of the Tomcat first.

So, the status of my projects is as follows:

F-35A Lighting II
I've almost finished remaking the MFDs. Then I have to finish a couple of repaints and the external weapons model. These are the last outstanding items in my to-do list, apart from a final round of tests - just to be sure everything works.
As for the release...it will be release as soon as I've finished moving into my new home - and the new home is connected to the internet.

T-45C Goshawk 2.0
Delayed. Simply put, it is not coming as nicely as I hoped - and requires much more work than I thought. I have to think about that (...and find the time to read the Natops - thanks Phil)

F-14(D?) Tomcat 2.0
Warming up the engines. Initial work with professional 3D mesh is VERY promising. Undecided between B and D versions. It will be freeware, but may be will have payware additions (to cover the cost of the mesh license) - meaning that the base package will be freeware, and "optional" features (like different weapon loads) could be payware. Or a freeware "D" and a payware "B"... I don't know. Still, trust me, the preliminary build is looking very good.

TA-4J Scooter
Project evaluation. Well, the fact is I want to do a top-notch naval jet trainer - and I'm considering the TA-4J as replacement of T-45 - you know, in virtual reality you have the time to run backward :-)
It is just an idea, for now, but I'll probably make some preliminary work on it - if it will look good, I may decide to do this instead of the Goshawk...

Unhappy with the F-14...

2010-04-20T02:59:00.000-07:00

I think that product quality and developer satisfaction do not come together... I know the T-45C and the F-14D are not bad for being freeware... But I am not happy about them. That is, the more you work and the more your skills improve, and the more you learn about your modeling subject.

And then... I am also never happy with what I do, and that is the main reason for the F-35 delay - for example I just started the third version of the MFD.... which is kind of stupid, given that the previous one was working almost perfectly...

Yesterday, during some F-35 flight tests, I took the old Turkey for a spin... and was unhappy. There are several small things that could be improved, let alone the fact that rebooting the F-14 with my current skills, and possibly starting from professional 3D data like I did for the F-35, could bring a much better model.

So, long story short I am considering an update/reboot of the F-14, too. I am undecided between a quick update to the existing model, or a major rework.

Some things I do not like ad that could be fixed in a quick update (say maximum 10 hours or work) are:

- Decent afterburner effects. I think the F-35 ones are much better, and I could do similar effects for the Tomcat.

- Collimated and perfectly translucent HUD.

- Minor glitches to the external model

On the other hand, investing like 200 Euros in professional 3d data and at least 200 hours in modeling / integration with the existing Tomcat model (i.e. reusing the good stuff) could bring a much better model...

What are your opinions? What should change and what should stay the same?

F-35 project update...and other things.

2010-04-19T00:09:00.000-07:00

It is quite a busy period for me (...well...as always!) but I'm doing my best to complete the F-35 soon. The most time-consuming thing, for me, is that I'll be moving into a new house in the next few weeks... which, for you, means another potential delay in the F-35 release (due to the fact that it may take few weeks to activate the internet connection in my new home)... Still, rest assured that the F-35 will be released as soon as possible.

This blog

As you may have noticed, the AdSense banners are gone (their decision, not mine). While the reason for the suspension for the ads was unclear, I think it was due to the fact that I was suggesting to click the banners - which is against the AdSense rules. My fault - I had not read the AdSense policy carefully. It was not my intention to cheat or anything. Also, as I had not read my home e-mail for a while, I've missed the 72 hours time limit that AdSense gives you to fix your site. I've filed an appeal but as it was my fault it is likely that the ads are not coming back.

Not a big deal for me, although I appreciated the fact that the advertising paid for full access to airliners.net, for example... Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that those empty boxes you see are, in fact, empty. Will rearrange the layout of the blog asap.

F-35 Lightning II

It is almost done, meaning that it is already at least as good as my previous project... but as I was not satisfied with the MFD "interface", I am extensively reworking it. It will be closer to the actual F-35 in both graphics and functionality, although still not as customizable to the real one and given some artistic licence for FSX limitations and playability.

I've made some minor changes to the flight model (with thanks to Roberto Leonardo for providing major improvements to the Alpha and Beta1 versions) and the external models are done - with exception of the launchers and the external loads (with should not take more than a couple of hours to make).

So, the big unanswered question is the release date.... and I have no clear answer, yet. The Beta 2 / (potential) RC1 is just few work-hours away, but the actual release date will also depend on when I will have the internet connection in my new home.

T-45C Goshawk 2.0

I had very good feedback on the "T-45 Goshawk 2.0" project. I've received the .pdf files for both the T-45A and T-45C Natops (thanks Phil) and placed them in my documentation folder - together with almost every Goshawk file available on the internet.

The only thing I'm missing right now are good, hi-res pictures of the cockpit - I have some (the ones I've used in the current release), but are not as good or as complete as I'd like.

Also, I've received some appreciation e-mails from former and current T-45C pilots, so the new version will include "first hand" feedback. By the way I was happy to hear that they found my FSX rendition to be realistic - although I've learned that in most cases, real pilots are more forgiving than other users, in terms of simulation realism... I think it is due to the fact that they realize that FSX is, afterall, just a game :-)

F-14D Tomcat

There is some chance I will make a small update to the Tomcat before reworking the T-45C. While I am not satisfied with the F-14, and while I know it can be vastly improved, there are a couple of issues with the latest release that can be easily fixed. Also, I'd like to apply some of the "tricks" I've learned making the F-35... We'll see...

By the way, seems that the download links from rapidshare are broken. Will fix that too, although you can find the Tomcat at flightsim.com.

E-mail

Unfortunately I had no time to reply to many of the emails I've received in the past few weeks -my apologies. I tried to reply to the most urgent ones - and I will reply to the others asap

That is all for now. In the next post I will provide some hi-res pictures of the latest F-35 build.

Real AF-1 ready to fly at Edwards (and F-35 drop tests)

2010-04-14T01:37:00.000-07:00

F-35 AF-1 with final painting/finishing. Will fly to Edwards soon.

In the past few weeks, the real F-35 project achieved several major milestones, including first vertical landing for the F-35B, first flight of a fully mission-equipped plane and drop tests of the F-35C. Now the AF-1 is back from the calibration lab and received its final livery (which looks close to the one I did based on drawings - the major difference is that the real characters are smaller).

By the way seeing the F-35C drop test videos (link below, also on youtube - and good source to estimate F-35 carrier landing parameters) reminded me of drop tests we did when I was working for major mobile phones company... but on a much bigger scale!

Sources:

AF-1 Completes Final Finishes, Scheduled to Return to Flight

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2010/100413ae_af-1-final-finishes.html

First Lockheed Martin Mission Systems F-35 Enters Flight Test

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2010/100407ae_f35-mission-systems-flight-test.html

Lockheed Martin's F-35C Lightning II Carrier Variant Undergoes Drop Testing

http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2010/100409ae_f-35c-drop-test.html

F-35 Lightning II - project update (finally) and some screenshots

2010-04-11T16:52:00.000-07:00

My apologies for not having posted any update on the F-35 recently... I had not much time to work on it, and I am also at that point in which you keep on making small, almost unnoticeable refinements... and you are never happy with the results.

Anyway, at present the external models for the AA-1 and AF-1 are done. The operational F-35 still needs some modeling/texturing, while the "clean" texture set is done. I'm also tinkering with a couple of other repaints.
The Virtual cockpit is, finally, almost bug free - some MFD freezing still happens, but it is very rare on my machine. Also, I've been working with Jitko Rusev to improve the Virtual-HUD resolution and appearance - with very good results IMHO.
Flight model is also almost ready - with thanks to Roberto Leonardo who provided several improvements and corrections. I'm making some very minor changes here and there...but I am pretty happy of the flight behaviour.

As for the release date - well, its done when its done. I think this project needs roughly 20-25 work hours to be considered "complete", but I really can't tell when I will find that time.... hopefully the release is just few weeks away - I really don't know.

In the meantime... here are some screenshots:

AA-1 model is complete...

...and so is the AF-01 model (this livery is based on a CAD image from LM, AF-01 actually took flight mostly unpainted - I have the "unpainted" livery in the works... but its quality is not on par with the rest of the package, so I'll leave it out - unless I find the time to improve it)

This is the "clean" livery for repaint. No paintkit is available (as I use the photoreal approach) nor it will be - my apologies to repainters... Still, I hope this "clean" texture set will help in making new liveries.

At least three visual models will be included: the AA-1 (initial prototype), AF-01 (weight optimized prototype) and an "operational" F-35 (with proper EOTS and weapon lauchers, and without nose probe). I am also considering adding models with external loads.

Above are a couple of pictures of the new afterburner effects - much better than the Beta 1, IMHO - and hopefully less prone to fx"bleeding" (i.e. special effect misplacement that happens, in FSX, on some machines - usually it disappears by setting the graphic card to "maxiumum quality")

Here is the current cockpit - Most of the bugs of the Beta1 are gone. I'm relatively happy with it - but I'd like to add a couple of functions before the final release.

F-35 Lightning II - Closing Beta 1 testing

2010-03-16T02:50:00.000-07:00

While I had not much time to work on the F-35 lately, I've already made several changes - and tried to fix the defects of the Beta 1.
My current "internal" build is now significantly different from the Beta 1, which is to be considered out-of-date.
I will keep updating the Beta 1 WIP post as reference (link below - please note it is not up-to-date in the moment I am writing):

http://indiafoxtecho.blogspot.com/2010/03/f-35a-beta-1-test-work-in-progress-post.html

At present, the only thing I am unable to fix is the occasional "jamming" of the MFD - the associated XML code seems correct, and the root cause seems to be a FSX "delay" in passing some internal parameters between the gauges... I will try changing the code once again, as soon as I will have the time - but chance is that this defect will be there at the time of release.
By the way, before the product is released, I will publish a document with a complete list of known inaccuracies and defects. The product will be available for download on a "no refunds" policy, which is common practice for many e-commerce sites. While I do not like the "no refunds" attitude, there are no practical ways in which I could support refunds. The best thing I can do is to give to potential customers the most accurate and complete information I can provide.

Here is an updated project schedule (realistic best-case scenario):

03/21 - Closing CR's for Beta 1
03/23 - Start AF-1 and F-35A model conversion
03/31 - All models complete
04/04 - Submit Beta 2 for final checks
04/11 - Create final build
04/15 - Submit to e-commerce sites

And while the virtual F-35 is late... it seems that the real one is making huge steps forward: the VTOL version is moving towards vertical flight test - currently slows down to 40 knots!

http://www.f-16.net/news_article4027.html

UPDATE:

F-35B achieves first vertical landing!
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/news/press_releases/2010/100318ae_f35b-vertical-landing.html

other videos (short take-off, hovering) here:
http://www.lockheedmartin.com/products/f35/index.html

F-35A Beta 1 test Work-in-Progress post

2010-03-02T17:31:00.000-08:00

*********************
NOTICE TO TESTERS
I noticed from the test reports that there is a misunderstanding on how the new HMD should be used. The new HMD does not require the SHIFT+1 superimposition - doing so will be confusing and redundant.
There will be, in the final version, a simple superimposition of some information (e.g. mock weapon status) to give the "feel" of an HMD... but flight data will be fixed in space in front of the A/C. This is also the way it works (afaik) in the real plane - only some tactical and weapons information (and night vision) follow the head movement. The rest is fixed like a HUD - with an exceptionally wide FOV.
***********************

Below is a list of issues either known or found in the Beta1 build as released to testers tonight. This list includes only the "accepted" issues - i.e. things that I acknowledge as actual defects (if compared towards the scope of the project).
I will keep this list updated, as reference for me, for the testers and also for anyone interested in the project progress.

Note to testers: no need to rush - I won't have much time until the next weekend. While evaluating the flight model, please keep in mind the fact that the aircraft is loaded with two JDAMs.

UPDATED 16-03-2010

External model:

1) Nose gear door does not close perfectly. STATUS: CLOSED - there was a glitch in the animation sequence, fixed on model build 48.

2) Fuselage/engine nozzle do not merge as they should. STATUS:CLOSED - modified nozzle 3d model on build 49

3) Nose gear - one piece of the old nose gear structure is still visible. STATUS: CLOSED - deleted on model build 49

4) Right Slammer misplaced. STATUS: CLOSED - Fixed on model build 49

5) Visual interference of main wheels into gear doors. STATUS: CLOSED - Fixed on model build 49

6) Pilot reflection on canopy glass is too strong (especially evident with canopy open) - STATUS:CLOSED - minor issue, but enhanced glass transparency so that the effect is less evident on model build 49

7) Uneven brightness of the A/B base textures. STATUS:CLOSED, minor issue but a/b base texture redone.

8) Shiny engine surfaces in A/B area do not look good (depending on lightning). STATUS:CLOSED, shiny attributes removed from engine inner surfaces

9) Asymmetry in the slats position. STATUS:CLOSED. There was a mistake in the animation tags, fixed

10) Slime lights offset from the tail surfaces. STATUS:Closed. Fixed position of the slime light polys - a small gap is still visible under certain conditions (gap is present to avoid clipping issues).

11) Nose gear Y-bone and landing lights are too high. STATUS:Closed. Lowered the 3D objects a little.

12) Missing guiding features from the refuel receptacle. STATUS:CLOSED. Action: redesigned refuel receptacle area - still not 100% accurate, but should be much closer to the real design.

13) Lights position/strobe/white nav light. STATUS:Open. Lights position is being changed. Some unintended reflection on the fuselage is possible due to FSX default effects (evaluating custom light effects). Nav white light missing as I could not identify its actual location. Strobe missing for the same reason.

14) Wing vortices location mismatch. STATUS:CLOSED. Action: Roberto sent a file that fixed this issue. Thanks Roberto.

15) Afterburner effects bleeding through the engine nozzle. STATUS: Open. Action:unclear. This is not usually not due to a model or coding fault, but it is due to two things: 1- Misplacement of .fx graphic effects by FSX (happens to various amount on all systems) 2- User graphics driver setting to "performance" (instead of quality) will create major bleeding. I will rework the effect a little, but bleeding may still appear on some systems, depending on setting and drivers. EDIT: redesign of the .fx system should significantly reduce the bleeding.

16) Afterburner effect does not extend much beyond the nozzle profile. STATUS: Open. Action:Complete redesign of the afterburner effect. Now extends beyond the nozzle with a nice halo - afterburner stages are preserved. A little tweaking may be needed for stage 2 - currently too yellow.

17) Oxygen mask animation sequence incorrect. Oxymask floating in the air from time to time. STATUS:CLOSED. Redone specific animation sequence. Still, not 100% fixed as it would required a skinned (non-rigid) mesh - but should be much better in most cases.

Rejected CR's:

- Enhance detail of the nose probe. Reason for rejection: changes would not be noticed by the majority of the users.

Virtual cockpit:

1) MFD pages may occasionally jam. STATUS: OPEN - after several attempts the situation is much better, but still happens. Action: Not sure if I can completely fix it. User can reset the MFD or reselect the page - and this usually fixes the issue. NOTE: Most users do not experience this or do not feel this as a critical defect. Status turned to yellow.

2) ICAWS mode inop. STATUS: CLOSED - Added ICAWS code to XML gauges

3) Incorrect light switches operation. STATUS: OPEN - Action: modified XML tags associations

4) Miscellaneous mismatches of the FUEL MFD page. STATUS:CLOSED - fixed .XML graphic and text calls had left to right mismatch...

5) A-ICE button inop. STATUS:OPEN. Action: add missing code. It is unclear what the real function should be - in doubt, the switch will activate all the anti-ice systems of the A/C

6) A/P: unnecessary bank control code. STATUS: CLOSED. Removed code completely.

7) A/P: missing VVI control code. STATUS: CLOSED. Reworked A/P layout and added requested feature.

8) A/P: A/T trigger not working. STATUS:OPEN. Action: unclear. I may be missing some essential entry for the A/T... since my FSX planes all suffer from this issue.

9) MFD:Graphic "ghosts" in the ENG and FCS pages (and misc.malfunctions). STATUS: CLOSED. It was a side effect of double gauge calls (implemented to limit the jamming issue). Double calls removed.

10) HUD/HMD: Optimize resolution and color. STATUS: CLOSED. Now it looks as good as it can be :-)

11) HUD/HMD: VTOL icon appears when the HOOK/STOVL button is pressed. STATUS:OPEN. Action: this would be correct for F-35B - should be removed from F-35A .

Flight model:

1) Microoscillations when the plane is still. STATUS:OPEN - due to contact points instability - it was fixed on aprevious build but it is back in the latest. Action: Check contact points / aircraft .cfg

2) Minor yaw instability. STATUS: CLOSED. Action: while there may be some margin for further improvement, latest flight model is much less prone to yaw instability. Thanks Roberto.

3) Turn rate may be too good. STATUS: CLOSED. Action: latest flight model show a less optimistic / more realistic turn rate... still, this is, of course, the best guess we can. Thanks Roberto.

4) Potential minor tweaking needed to aileron / elevators effectiveness (slightly unresposive in some areas of the flight envelope). STATUS: CLOSED. Modified aileron effectiveness.

Color key:
Green - issue solved, or mitigated to the point is acceptable or not perceived by most users.
Yellow -issue open, and could be perceived as product defect by many users. Awaiting action or investigation. Or issue open, mitigated to the best of my knowledge but will still be perceived as defect by users. Or issue open but appears easy to fix.
Red - root cause not identified as of today. Or the problem is beyond my knowledge or impossible or difficult to solve.

What after the F-35?

2010-03-02T05:38:00.000-08:00

Coverpage of one of the many T-45 manuals you can find on public access U.S. Navy sites, like CNATRA website. Although the T-45C NATOPS is not available to the public, these manuals are a very interesting read for any naval aviation ethusiast...and made me realize some of the mistakes in my T-45 model.

I've received several emails asking what would be my next project after the F-35, and, while the Lightning II is not yet out of the door (nor is the Beta1 at the moment I am writing) I have a clear idea on what I will do next.

And it will be the T-45 again. Ok, I know this may be a disappointment, especially for some Italian friends that were waiting for Italian plane (like the Aermacchi 339 or 346) - but I managed to get my hands on a lot of T-45 documents (in fact most of the Navy flight training course docs are publicly available from the Navy sites - with exception of the Natops) and found that my T-45 rendition is inaccurate on several aspects.

This new project would have:
- completely new visual model: an even more accurate 3d model, hi-res textures and with all the tricks I've learned in the past two years.
- an even more accurate cockpit, with optimized geometry and as close as I can to the Navy docs
- better flight model
...and any enhancement or suggestion that I've received in the past years

In short, I'd like to bring the T-45 project up "one-notch" - the scope would be to provide the community with an even more effective and accurate education and training tool for virtual naval operation. The project will be freeware - as the target is knowledge sharing. I am considering an "optional" payware version with some extras (like the rear seat cockpit) to cover some development costs, but those may be well covered by the F-35 - so it is just an option.

F-35A Beta version ready for test

2010-02-28T17:10:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note to let you know that the Beta 1 version is complete. There are some nasty bugs (like the tendency of the MFD to turn into a complete mess fo no apparent reason) and some of the planned functionality is still missing - but should be a huge step forward with respect to the Alpha.
Since it is pretty late in the night (and since I am too sleepy to do ir right now) the files will not be packed and sent to the recipients today. I will do that asap (not sure if tomorrow or Tuesday). I will make a post once the emails have been sent.

F-35 Project update

2010-02-23T00:32:00.000-08:00

F-35A Final outer model for Beta release

While the Beta build is still not complete yet (I'm still adding MFD functionalities), I've finally managed to go through all the CR's from the Alpha and implement fixes where possible.
There is still some work to be done, but in any case I will release the Beta 1 the next weekend (even if it will only have the AA-1 model and still miss some of the MFD functionality).

Here are the changes implemented in response to the Alpha test feedback:

EXTERNAL MODEL

Nozzle animation incorrect -> Redone nozzle animation (but still linked to throttle)
Jaggies nearby the engine intake area -> Modified fuselage model, (but it is still slightly visible)
Excessive gap between engine nozzle and fuselage -> Modified geometry to get rid of the gap on AA-1 model (NOTE: AF-1 and subsequent planes have a different design)
Wheel/tires animation incorrect -> Fixed wheel parameters in .cfg file
Navigation lights missing -> Placed lights in .cfg file
Covers for auxiliary air intakes missing when using SHIFT+E+4 command. -> Modeled auxiliary air inlet cover, but I will not model additional ribbons and covers as I'm saving polys for the weapons model
Irregular bumps in the external model -> Redone fuselage geometry
Poor detail in the refuel receptacle -> Refuel receptacle modeled
Poor detail in the nose landing gear -> Redone most parts of the main gear and applied new textures.
AIM-120 not attached to hardpoints -> modeled hardpoints for AA-1 will model LAU-147 for operative model
Nose gear door detail/accuracy not good enough -> Redesigned hinge and added actuator and new texture
Request to model the lights in more detail -> No additional modeling (issues in Boolean operations geometry), but better texture. Miscellaneous other actions (not requested by testers)
Wrong size of main gear wheels / tires -> Modified model
Add detail to the main fuselage texture diffuse/spec/bump -> Enhanced textures
Fix mistake in texture UVW in the inner side of air intake -> Fixed
Add separate moving part for weapon door hinge - visible on real plane on closer inspection, not modeled -> Modeled (note:unsure if real design is changed in AF-1)
A/c is sitting rather low on the main gear. Changes to the animation sequence and contact points needed. -> Changed animations and .cfg file, a/c now sits correctly

To do list:

- Better afterburner effect

No action / CR reject:

-None-

VIRTUAL COCKPIT

NOTE: VC functionality has been completely redone with new custom HUD by Jivko Rusev and Scott Printz and new custom MFD - The list below covers only issues on the Alpha build that are applicable to Beta

Virtual cockpit frame rate low / excessive number of polygons -> Optimization led to a 15% reduction in polys and removal of 2 texture sheets
Minor texturing UWV misplacement on cockpit floor -> Fixed
VC night lighting too bright -> Changed .fx file
Incorrect tooltip showing "parking brake" in the battery area -> Fixed
Visual hole aboce the pedals (polygons missing) -> Fixed
"No Hold" texture stretched above ejection seat -> Fixed
Stick movement excessive if compared to real F-35 stick -> Fixed

To do list:

- Complete rework of the cockpit XML (80% done - Many MFD buttons/pages are now functional)

No action / CR reject:

- "patches" on the side of the Vc glass are unconnected to the canopy; Action: modify the Vc model -> No action. Unclear how the area looks like in reality.

- Explosivc cord not connected to glass -> No action. Better leave as is to avoid clipping.

FLIGHT MODEL

Note: special thanks to Roberto Leonardo for some of the fixes.

Excessive top speed -> Redone Wave drag table. Now it is approximately Mach 1.69
Weak brakes -> Fixed brakes effectiveness
Pitch changes depending on throttle setting -> Fixed/mitigated with new .air file
Pitch changes when activating virtual speedbrake -> Fixed/mitigated with new .air file
Low roll rate -> Fixed with new .cfg file
Excessive loss of energy during high-G turns -> Fixed with new .air file (may be slightly too good now?)
Virtual speedbrakes not much effective -> Fixed
A/c prone to yaw instability during takeoff run -> Mitigated (but not completely solved - further stabilization led to a behaviour unresponsive to rudder)

To do list:

-Nothing, awaiting Beta test

No action / CR reject:

- High AoA dynamics causes excessively low stall speed (75kts)-> No action - left as is not to screw landing behaviour (which seems good)

- Check landing attitude AoA -> No action. Landing behaviour seems good for most users

- Full flap deployment happens at low speed -> No action. Left under FSX automatic control as maneuver flaps

F-35 Lightning II - project update and some screenshots

2010-02-15T16:53:00.000-08:00

F-35 AA-1 climbing nearby Edwards AFB (photoscenery made with FSET). Fuselage textures are now slightly more detailed - and for AA-1 I've added a "scorched" effect to the paint nearby the APU exhaust (as happened in the real AA-1 - AFAIK, exhaust has been moved to the lower side on all models except the -C for deck crew safety concerns...)

Testing low speed flight characteristics neaby Edwards AFB. So far so good. Most, if not all, of the issues in the Alpha build are solved and the plane flies smoothly and it is easy to fly (with thanks to Roberto Leonardo's tweaks especially in the tight turns department).

On of the major areas of improvement is the MFD which is now truly multifunctional, and allocates fewer texture sheets. Some of the MFD pages will be accurate to their real counterparts - some others will be less accurate but I'm confident that the final layout will be a reasonable compromise.

The general cockpit layout is accurate, with some exceptions and artistic licences here and there. For example the canopy frame is the "weight optimized" version - somewhat different from the actual AA-1. Another example is the lights panel, which sits where an emergency electrical panel should be. In geneal I've tried to balance accuracy, useability, graphics and...fun. Yes, I am one of those who still thinks that, afterall, it's just a videogame :-)

Last, but definitely not least, there is the new HMD by Jivko Rusev and Scott Printz. Basically Jivko has taken Scott's excellent F/A-18 HUD code and adapted it to the F-35. This new HMD gauge is as close as possible to real one (given the information publicly available) and it is a huge step forward in cockpit useability. Scott and Jivko have kindly provided the authorization to include it in the package - and looking at the screenshot I took I realize it does not do justice to their work... It looks awesome. Trust me.

Well... Above are some screens - as promised. I did not have much time to work on the F-35 lately, so the Beta is 10 days late... and the chances that I will be able to complete it before the next weekend are pretty small. I do not think I've much to add to what I wrote below the screenshots... but in short: the visual model is even more accurate, the flight model is better, the VC has more functionality and there is a great new HMD by Jivko Rusev and Scott Printz.

Now, I just hope I will find the time needed to complete it in the next weeks...

How to manage extremely complex 3D models in FSX

2010-02-15T00:00:00.000-08:00

One of the issues I had devoping the F-35 was the extreme complexity of the model in terms of polycount - which led to several issues while compiling the model.
The problem I had was related to some of the "undocumented" FSX limitations. It was advertised that FSX models had no restrictions in terms of poly count, making it possible to create extremely complex models - far beyond FS2004 limits.... And this is true, with a catch.

There is still a 64K buffer limit for the draw calls - which in FSX are "grouped" by material. That is, you cannot have a unlimited number of vertices/polygons using EXACTLY the same material - as the polys of every part (even if disconnected) using the same material concur in the same draw calls buffer: this may result in:

FSX exporter fails to compile
Mdl is compiled but some parts are not showing correctly in FSX (either do not show at all, or they appear black or they cast shadows and don't show at all... I've seen every kind of weirdness)

SOLUTION:

Create several slightly different copies of the material in gmax (e.g. Engine_material_1, Engine_material_2, Etc. which may differ just by 1 point of specular power in the basic material proprieties so they will look the same in FSX)
Assign Engine_material_1 to some of the engine parts, Engine_material_2 to others, etc. so that each engine part goes into a different buffer
Compile and be happy

This is the magic "trick" that allows extremely complex models in FSX.
ONE CAVEAT: if this is your case, it is likely you have exceeded the visual complexity reccomended by Microsoft. That means you may have users that will complain about the frame rates when compare your model to default ones...

To be honest this was not the first time I've encountered this problem - but I saw that this trick was unknown to some designers and I wanted to share the knowledge. By the way, I'm told that similar issues (and solutions) happen in FS9.

As for the F-35... in Italy we say "appetite comes with eating", meaning that once you started making one thing it may be difficult to stop. In this case, I started a minor rework of the MFD to add some functionality...and it turned into a major remake (which was also helpful to reduce the number of textures). As of today, HSI,MAP,ENGine,FUEL,FCS sub-screens are working and 99% complete... The other functions (COM,ICAWS and WEApon subscreens) are much easier to make - the problem is that I do not have much time to work in
I promise I will post some images tonight.

First flight of the fifth real F-35

2010-02-04T02:48:00.000-08:00

The fifth F-35 prototype BF-03, landing after its first flight.

While I am struggling to find the time to complete and pack the Beta version of the virtual Lightning II, in the real world the fifth F-35 had its first flight. It is the BF-3 (that is the third STOVL prototype), and as you can see from the picture, it is completely painted in dark grey - which I assume it will be the standard livery for all the prototypes.

So, since the AA-1 has been retired, now there are four F-35s flying: AF-1 (CTOL), BF-1, BF-2 and BF-3. BF-1 and BF-2 are currently in Patuxent River and are undergoing a series of test flights that will culminate in the first actual STOVL flights - see http://www.jsf.mil/ for some cool hi-res pictures and additional details (including videos of the first lift-fan in-flight engagements).

As for the FSX projects... well, as I said I am struggling to find the time to work on it.
For those who are curious, the major differences from the beta will be:

an updated visual model with more detailed 3d geometry (especially in the landing gear and refuel receptacle aeras) and more detailed textures - with slightly different coloring.
a better flight model - with special thanks to Roberto Leonardo who provided some substantial tweaks to the .air file. The plane has now a more realistic turn performance, and a more "neutral" behaviour, in attempt to emulate the effects of an advanced FCC/FCS system.
more VC functionality: it is now possible to change the functions of the four areas of the MFD by picking from the menus on the bottom. At present, HSI (with map mode), RADAR/MAP (with terrain mode), FCS modes are working (but do not expect anything too fancy - I've extensively reused FSX code for those) - ENGine, (mock) WEaPon, COMmunication, ICWS and FUEL modes are planned. SWAP and MENU button should be functional, too.

The MFD functionality is the thing that needs more work... may be 10-12 hours. Hopefully I will complete it in the next weekend.

Last I need to apologize again to anyone who has sent me an email in the past few days - my email is working but I did not find the time to reply, even to messages that are quite important for the project.

First flight of the Sukhoi T-50

2010-02-01T05:20:00.000-08:00

Sukhoi T-50 first flight

A very interesting plane has made its first flight a couple of days ago - the Sukhoi T-50, that is the first Russian stealth fighter. Looks like a YF-23/Su-27 hybrid to me...and it also makes some of the Ace Combat 6 aircrafts look a little more lifelike... Here is a video of the first flight:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/8487026.stm

As for the Flight Simulator X F-35 project is proceeding in the right direction - and I'm confident that the Beta will be noticeably better than the Alpha in almost every respect. Hopefully it will be ready in a week or so.

F-35 Closing the alpha test

2010-01-27T03:20:00.000-08:00

As the current build of the F-35 is now significantly different from the Alpha build, I am closing the Alpha test stage - I would like to thank all the testers for their detailed and competent feedback.
For now, most of the changes and improvements I've implemented were on the external and the flight model, while the VC still needs more functionality.

I will keep the Alpha WIP updated for a while, as I'll be going though all the list, and will post some updated screenshots soon.

Also, I'm experiencing some problems with my home email - my apologies for any delay in replying to your messages - rest assured that I will read all the messages and reply asap.

F-35 Alpha test Work-in-progress post

2010-01-19T00:33:00.000-08:00

Below is a list of issues either known or found in the Alpha build as released to testers yesterday night. This list includes only the "accepted" issues - i.e. things that I acknowledge as actual defects (if compared towards the scope of the project). I will keep this list updated, as reference for me, for the testers and also for anyone interested in the project progress.

Note to testers: no need to rush - I won't have much time until the next weekend. While evaluating the flight model, please keep in mind the fact that the aircraft is loaded with two JDAMs.

UPDATED 23-01-2010

External model

1) Nozzle animation incorrect.
Action: redo animation sequence. Evaluate link to nozzle animation variable of FSX:Acceleration (SP2 compatibility?) or link to rpm for smoother animation - DONE in model build 43
Status:closed - solution approved for Beta - animation sequence redone. Still linked to throttle but closer to the actual behaviour.

2) Jaggies nearby the engine intake aera. Visible on close inspection only, partially due to geometry/smoothing, partially due to self-shadowing algorithm.
Action: evaluate mitigation by local application of Meshsmooth command. It may be impossible to fix completely - but will not be noticeable by most users.
NOTE: Upper to lower side discontinuity verified correct. Minor issue spotted with intake bulge curvature. Inspection highighted UVW misplacement in the engine intake area
Status:open - high priority

3) Excessive gap between engine nozzle and fuselage.
Action: check against photos and eventually modify the mesh.
Status:CLOSED - fixed on model buidl 46

4) Afterburner effect/1: effect poking through A/C fuselage. NOTE: FSX effects positioning an visibility is somewhat dependent on graphic card model and setting. Having the card set in "performance" mode makes things worse. E.g.not perceiveable on my system.
Action: modify .fx file (shrink them a little - check nominal position)
Status: open

5) Afterburner effect/2: flame should be much longer in stage 3. NOTE: a/b flame is confined into the engine nozzle on purpose for F-35B preparation. Also, my experience with "big" flames is not really positive (different users had different results).
Action: evaluate modification in .fx file. Stage 1 effect seems correct if compared to F-35 a/b videos.
Status: open

6) Wheel/tires animation incorrect. Status: CLOSED (Fixed dynamic modle for tires, diameters were wrong)

7) Navigation lights missing. Note: they were left out as all the F-35AA-1 pics I have are showing only anticollision lights. Status: CLOSED (Nav lights placed into the lights subassembly)

8) Covers for auxiliary air intakes missing when using SHIFT+E+4 command. Note: never seen such covers in any picture. Status: CLOSED (Auxiliary inlet cover modeled - but no ribbons as I'm saving polys for the weapons ).

9) Irregular bumps in the external model. Action: modify the extenal model. Sratus DONE: (model build 44) Auxiliary air intake untouched, other bumps geometry modified and new textures.

10) Poor detail in the refuel receptacle. Action: While the comment is correct, I do not have pictures clear enough to make a porper model - Edit: will model a stardard receptacle based on similar devices. Status: CLOSED. Refuel receptacle modeled in build 46

11) Poor detail in the nose landing gear. Action: Increase detail in the 3d model. Status: CLOSED - Mitigated issues with additional gear detail, previously missing.

12) Modeling mistakes in the main gear. Action: evaluate complete redo of the kinematism. Status: Closed on model build 45 - Redone most parts of the main gear and applied new textures.

13) AIM-120 not attached to hardpoints. Action: will model LAU-147 (although not actually mounted in AA-1). Status: CLOSED modeled hardpoints for AA-1 will model LAU-147 for operative model

14) Nose gear door detail/accuracy not good enough. Action: impossible to modify the shape, but will redo the hinges and add the actuator. NOTE: Applies only to AA-1 model - other models have a different door (2 parts). Status: Closed (model build 45 - Redesigned hinge and added actuator and new texture)

15) Request to model the lights in more detail. Action: modify the model. Note: initial evaluation shows that boolean operation is requested: such operation will inhibit model roll-back. Status: CLOSED (No additional modeling, but better texture)

Miscellaneous other actions (not requested by testers):

- Resize main gear wheels / tires - DONE

- Add detail to the main fuselage texture diffuse/spec/bump - DONE

- Evaluate changes in texture brightness /contrast - DONE, also miscellaneous enhancements to AA-1 texture coloring. Note: experiments with primer-only AF-1 texture looking good.

- Fix mistake in texture UVW in the inner side

- Add separate moving part for weapon door hinge - visible on real plane on closer inspection, not modeled DONE

- A/c is sitting rather low on the main gear. Changes to the animation sequence and contact points needed. FIXED

Virtual cockpit

1) Virtual cockpit frame rate low / excessive number of polygons.
Action: optimize virtual cockpit model mainly by removing some of the parts of the external model attached for track IR users (eg. lower surfaces fuselage, flaperons, tails). Evaluate reduction of invisble polys/faces. NOTE: Only one tester has highlighted this issue. Performance seems on par with similar products for the others.
Status: open

2) Temporary HUD useability (keeping this open in case the new HUD/HMD is not available on time)
- Proposal to reduce the size of the 3D part
- Enlarge the G meter text window
- Enlarge various text windows in 2D panel

CLOSED / NEW HUD IMPLEMENTED AND AUTHORIZED

3) Minor texturing UWV misplacement on cockpit floor.
Action: fix mapping in .mdl file. DONE in VC build 19
Status: CLOSED

4) VC night lighting too bright.
Action: dim the brightness in .fx files.
Status: CLOSED - modified .fx file

5) Incorrect tooltip showing "parking brake" in the battery area.
Action: check .XML embedded in the .mdl. DONE in VC model build 19
Status: CLOSED

6) Miscellaneous autopilot interface:
- Autopilot master hotspot not working. NOTE: A/P master will be part of the FCS panel
- Autothrottle miscellaneous issues. NOTE: At first check it .XML appears correct. I had similar issues in the tomcat.
- Autopilot max bank activation. NOTE: Presence of this command is a mistake and will be removed.
Action: check associated .XML
Status: open

7) Engine needles behaviour not correct
Action: check associated .XML
Status: CLOSED. COMPLETELY NEW GAUGE

8) Visual hole aboce the pedals (polygons missing); Action: modify the Vc model (add a cap) Status: CLOSED (VC model build 20)

9) "No Hold" texture stretched above ejection seat; Action: modify the Vc model / texture; Status: CLOSED (VC build 23)

10) "patches" on the side of the Vc glass are unconnected to the canopy; Action: modify the Vc model; Status: Unclear how the thing should look like. CLOSED for now.

11) Explosivc cord not connected to glass; Action: pending evaluation - this was intentional to prevent clipping that happened during initial tests; Status: Closed with no action - Current geometry prevents clipping. Leave as is.

12) Stick movement excessive if compared to real F-35 stick. Action: modify animation sequence. Status: closed (VC model build 20 movement reduced, still not as little as the real one but provides a "visual feedback" that enhances the experience IHMO).

NOTE: Track IR testing generally good. No major issues, apart from the "usual" seat clipping and minor flaws in extreme conditions.

Flight model

1) Excessive top speed. Top speed in excess of 2.05 Mach. Real plane rated 1.6 to 1.8 (varying according to sources).
Action: change the wave drag table in the .air file - DONE
Status: CLOSED - approved for Beta. New wave drag / Mach table makes it extremely difficult to exceed Mach 1.69

2) Weak brakes. Brakes cannot hold the plane still even at relatively low RPMs.
Action:modify brake effectiveness either in the .air or .cfg file - DONE
Status: closed - promoted to beta. The brakes are now strong enough to keep the plane still up to almost full military power. However, brakes seem excessively strong when stopping the plane after landing.

3) A/c prone to yaw instability during takeoff run. NOTE:Verified only with crosswind.
Action: root cause unknown. Check for asymmetric loads. Possibly increase yaw stability/MOI or adjust scalars.
Status: Modified values in the air file parameter. Symmetric load checked and correct. Still happening with significant crosswind (15 kts or above). Should be manageable by most pilots. Awaiting flight test to close. CLOSED. LEFT AS IS FOR BETA TESTING

4) Micro-oscillations while on ground. Probably due to contact points instability.
Action:modify contact points parameters in the .cfg file. NOTE: was not present in earlier build (with incorrect auxiliary contact points) DONE in latest aircraft.cfg
Status: CLOSED

5) Pitch changes depending on throttle setting. FCC/FCS should compensate such effects in the real plane. Effect seems related to center-of-lft vs. center-of-weight misalignment, as proper .air files parameter seem correct.
Action: Check .air and modify a/c balance in order to minimize such effect. NOTE: for FCC/FCS emulation, it may desireable to set to 0 all the secondary effects of aerodynamic surfaces.
UPDATE: All fore/aft loads artificially balanced towards the aerodyamic center. Load is now balanced versus pitch. This is not theoretically correct, but makes up for the FCC/FCS absence. Issue seem mitigated to the point of being acceptable for the vast majority of the users. UPDATE: I forgot to to balance the engine pitch momentum - my bad, thanks Robby.

Status closed: Behaviour balanced in most situations.

6) Pitch changes when activating virtual speedbrake. FCC/FCS should compensate such effects. See 5) - it is probably the same issue.
Action: See 5
Status: Closed. Not completely solved but definitely acceptable.

7) Low roll rate. User report low roll rate for a fighter. NOTE: it is unclear what the actual roll rate should be. Current roll rate seems realistic for a plane with 2 JDAMs and 2 slammers, but may be less agile than real F-16,
Action: Aileron action enhanced by 10% - but awaiting further evaluation and feedback.
Status: CLOSED on latest fligh model - enhanced ailerons effects and travel. As a good side effect, a/c is more maneuverable at low speeds.

8) Excessive loss of energy during high-G turns. Action: unclear what the target should be for this plane in the depicted configuration. Assuming 5 - 6 g sustainable turn. Will see what I can do. Status: CLOSED with thanks to Roberto Leonardo

9) High AoA dynamics causes excessively low stall speed (75kts). Action: TBD some users are happy with the high AoA dynamics, as in line with some claims by LM. Will evaluate minor changes. Status: open - unclear if it is better to leave it as is. CLOSED. LEFT AS IS FOR BETA TESTING

10) Check landing attitude AoA (approach at 140kts?). Action: TBD - The only information I have is about X-35 whose appoaches were conducted at rather high speeds (155/165 kts). NOTE: Most users report the landing behaviour is good. Status: open - unclear if any action is needed. CLOSED. LEFT AS IS FOR BETA TESTING

11) Full flap deployment happens at low speed. Action: TBD - flap is controlled by FSX via the maneuvering flap option. Check if it possible to modify the speeds, otherwise no action. Status: open. CLOSED. LEFT AS IS FOR BETA TESTING

12) Virtual speedbrakes not much effective. Action: easy fix to the .air file. Status: CLOSED - Boosted speedbrakes effect

APPENDIX A: LIST OF MISSING (BUT PLANNED) FEATURES IN THE VC

- ICAWS (currently not working at all)
- FCS window to include touch screen functions for flaps/brakes/trim/autopilot master switch (note: this may not be realistic as those are typical HOTAS functions...still may have some use for FSX)
- FCS window will show more information
- Context sensitive weapon window pop-up (with no actual functionality)
- Touch screen radio window within the MFD
- Context sensitive HUD backup window within the MFD
- Fuel receptacle/weapon bay opening activation via touchscreen (currently implemented but not working due to an unidentfied bug...)

APPENDIX B: LIST OF OTHER MISSING (BUT PLANNED) FEATURES

1) AF-1 vsual model:
- new two piece nose landing gear doors
- new APU exhaust location
- new probes
- jagged fuselage/nozzle interface
- weapon bay: undecided between real and mock JDAM
Livery: still undecided between official artwork or actual primer-only appearance

2) Production F-35 model - same as above but:

- Removal of the nose probe
- EOTS
Livery: Most probably USAF 58th FS "Mighty Gorillas", which I understand is the first confirmed unit to receive F-35s.

3) Generic F-35 model for repaint

APPENDIX C: LIST OF NICE-TO-HAVE FEATURES (NOT PLANNED)

1) F-35A Thunderbirds (according to promotional LM artwork).NOTE: would require a special flight/visual model (with no weapons)

2) F-35A with external loads

3) F-35B STOVL version. Would require a lot of work to modify the visual model. Also, it would have the "superflaps" flight model.I know it is pretty lame but STOVL dynamics is not natively implemented in FSX... FSUIPC.dll methods exist but I do not want the model to be dependant on external modules

4) F-35C Would require a lot of work to modify the visual model and extensive flight test for carrier trials.

5) Custom sounds - I know it would be nice...

Color key:
Green - issue solved, or mitigated to the point is acceptable or not perceived by most users
Yellow -issue open, and could be perceived as product defect by many users. Awaiting action or investigation. Or issue open, mitigated to the best of my knowledge but will still be perceived as defect by users. Or issue open but appears easy to fix.
Red - root cause not identified as of today. Or the problem is beyond my knowledge or impossible or difficult to solve.

F-35 Alpha Test starting

2010-01-17T23:43:00.000-08:00

First I'd like to thank you once again for the outstanding quantity and quality of applications to Beta. I'm sorry I had to left out the vast majority of them, but I had to keep the test group to a manageable size.
Yesterday I've finished replying to all of the emails. I'm sorry it took so long, but they were so many that it took several hours to read them, evaluate and reply to each one. By the way, a couple of the replies were bounced back as spam - my apologies if you did not get one.

Also, I've compiled an Alpha build which will be distributed to the testers tonight. The visual model is complete and so is the virtual cockpit model.
Flight model is "almost right" in terms of numbers (meaning think I entered the right ones and had a resonable guess to the rest) - with possible exception of some aerodynamic data. After loading the model with 2 JDAMs and 2 AMRAAMs, I'm under the impression that the plane seems underpowered. Maybe I should relax the wave drag vs.Mach table.

This will be an Alpha just because it is still missing some of the planned features, mainly in terms of cockpit functionality. But I think it is good enough to get some useful feedback from it.

F-35 Beta...will actually be an Alpha.

2010-01-13T04:43:00.000-08:00

I'll be reviewing the applications for Beta testing tonight - my apologies for the delay, but these are pretty busy days for me...

Speaking of the Beta...well technically it will be an Alpha, i.e. will not be feature complete. More specifically, the MFD will work as initially intended...but I am having some ideas on how to improve it. Also, Jivko Rusev is working to an accurate HMD based on all the information available on the real one so far - but may not be included in the Beta build.

Long story short, this Beta will be focused on the visual model (external and virtual cockpit) and the flight model, while the cockpit will lack some of the planned functionality.

The Beta will feature the AA-1 prototype only, while the final packge will also have AF-1 (I'm still undecided if it will be in the actual "upainted" colors, or in the AF-1 scheme showed a while ago by LM) and an operational version.

F-35B and F-35C, at least for the moment, are being left out. I know that many of you are waiting for them but I want to be sure that the F-35A is as good as it can (reasonably) be before making anything else.

On the good side, I've tried it under SP2 and seems to work (with the exception of the features borrowed from the stock Hornet).

F-35 project - Beta testing application / UPDATE

2010-01-10T04:04:00.001-08:00

Finished model of the Beta (and yes, I've added the wheel chocks!).

Thanks for the outstanding response to my request for Beta test pilots. The quantity (and quality) of the applications is largely above my expectations, and definitely much more than what I can handle.

I will pick 10-12 testers maximum - my apologies in advance to those whose will be left out. I really appreciate the support of everyone, but, being this a small (almost)one-man-band project, I do not have the time to manage the feedback and information-flow of a much larger group.

I will try to reply to each e-mail, but it could take a couple of days.

By the way, as per emails and previous posts, Beta version will be sent, upon request, to anyone who has sent a Paypal donation for my freeware projects before January 7th. These Beta copies will not count towards the 10/12 limit.

Goodbye to the real F-35 AA-1...

2010-01-08T00:29:00.000-08:00

The virtual F-35 AA-1 model parked at Edwards AFB. As visual treat, SHIFT+E+4 will remove the pilot and add engine covers and "remove before flight" ribbons as shown in this picture. I should probably add wheel chocks. By the way SHIFT+E+2 will open the in-flight refuel receptacle and SHIFT+E+3 will open the weapon bay doors.

I've just read that the real life F-35 AA-1 has been officially retired by Lockheed Martin after 91 test flights and 3 years of service. But instead of being placed in a museum, it will be the subject of live fire testing for battle damage assessment purposes.

AA-1 is(was) the first F-35 test aircraft built, and it is(was) roughly 5000 lbs overweight compared to the current CTOL test aircraft, named AF-1 which took flight for the first time in November 2009. And it is the only model that will be depicted in the Beta.

Goodbye AA-1.

EDIT: Here is a link to a montage of the AA-1 test flights straight from the JSF website

http://www.jsf.mil/video/f35test/AA-1%20Montage_high.wmv

F-35 cockpit geometry complete and a word of clarification about money and Paypal

2010-01-06T15:46:00.001-08:00

This is the final cockpit geometry for the Beta - but some of the planned "functional" features are still missing....

I have to confess I spent most of this Wednesday (which was bank holiday here in Italy) playing FSX and flying above NAS Forth Worth in the F-35. Quite fun. Some more "touch" functionality has been added to the MFD (but I repeat: do not expect anything super - no windows popping/resizing or other cool stuff the real F-35 does). So far I'm quite happy. This build in still somewhat Acceleration dependant - but should work in SP2 with some restrictions (I still have to check).

But this is not "really" a post about the F-35. It is a post about money. The F-35 will probably be my first payware project ever. "Probably" means that I have to iron out a thing or two before taking a final decision. This does NOT mean that I will abandon the freeware. In particular, if I will ever find the time, I would like to update both the T-45 and the F-14.

Back to the Lighting II, it has been tought from the beginning as a payware and I thought I was clear on this in this blog. It has been designed to be a low price/low budget/reasonable quality project, meaning some of its features may not be on par with some other AAA aircrafts out there. But I am doing my best and should be on par with my previous FSX projects.

As for the price, it will be probably in the 10-15€ range - depending on the distribution method. I know some of you may be disappointed but keep in mind that a fair FSX plane could easily take 500 hours to make or more. As for the distribution method I've not decided yet. SimMarket seems the best option at the moment.

One more thing about the Paypal donations. First I'd like to say THANK YOU to anyone who made a donation so far. Much appreciated. Then, I'd like to clarify once again that this button was placed on this blog on request of several T-45 and F-14 users who asked for it. As the F-35 will be payware, this may be misleading - and I hope that none of those who have donated felt cheated. If so, I'm sorry it was not my intention. As compensation for any possible mistake, whoever has done a donation so far will receive the test versions of the F-35 (once the Beta is ready and upon request).

I'm thinking to remove the button completely, but, for the moment, I'm just changing the text. Let me know what you think.

F-35 project update

2010-01-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

Finally the cockpit model is almost complete!

Experimenting fixed camers angles

Quick update - I've made huge steps towards the completion of the cockpit model. It is almost done: actually the only thing that needs some work is the canopy - which I hope it will be completed by tomorrow. From the functionality standpoint - the basic things are working. It should not take too time to have everything you need for VFR flying working. MFD will have a fixed layout (i.e. you cannot change windows type/size/position like in the real thing) - it is possible to make a folly working MFD in FSX - but I'm not a "gauge-guy" and it will take a while to make. So I decided for a fixed layout.

Also I'm experimenting with the HMD - some things work fine some other don't. Basic flight data will be superimposed on the VC via a transparent gauge - while I still need to find a suitable soution for the horizon projection.

Fligh model seems to work fine - albeit it is hard to tell if it is realistic...

As for the external model it does not need much work, I think - but it will not change it before the beta. Speaking of the beta, I will first complete the canopy, add some functionality to the VC and implement basic HMD. But it should not take more than few days, I hope.

F-35 Change to test plans

2009-12-21T08:07:00.000-08:00

An unusually cold and snowy weather in Genoa forced me to stay at home for most of the weekend. "Unusually cold and snowy" means we are not used to see much snow, if any, and even a thin white layer is sufficient to paralyze the whole town.
On the good side, I've made some major steps foward with modeling of the cockpit. At present I'd say it is 60-70% done. Probably 15-20 work-hours away from the completion.

So, I've changed my mind for the testing... the test version will have the cockpit but no HMD and limited MFD functionality. This means that the Beta testers "draft" will not happen in the next few days as I planned.

Will post an update when the cockpit is about 90% complete.

P.S. My apologies to anyone who may have sent me e-mails in the past few days. I am having issues with the home internet connection and I cannot reply from my office. I always try to reply to each message - and will do it as soon as the home connection is restored.

F-35A more screenshots and first cockpit image

2009-12-14T18:05:00.000-08:00

Quick progress report: finally I've managed to make some significant progress to thc cockpit. The main display is not finished yet, but it is not far from completition. Side consoles need some more work - especially the right one. Outer model for AA-1 is complete, with the exception of some Easter eggs I would like to add - the additional models will be done as soon as AA-1 is complete. AF-1 and operational F-35 (with and without external loads) will be done for sure. I've been experimenting with -B and -C conversion with mixed results. I think it is better to debug AA-1 first.

Minor tweaks to flight modeling, but it is still prliminary. Flight performance and fine-tuning will be done during testing.

As for the beta test - I wish I had time to plan it properly. From previous experiences, I know it can add a lot of value to the finished project, but needs to be planned/coordinated with some care otherwise some of its benefist are lost. It is likely that a "cockpitless" alpha model will be released for testing before Christmas. I will make a post on how to apply for testing within a couple of days.

F-35A Development and testing plans

2009-11-23T05:52:00.000-08:00

F-35 AA-1 for FSX flying over NAS Fort Worth

If you have been following this blog in the past few weeks, you are surely aware that the development of the F-35 is lagging behind the schedule. Originally I planned a Beta test in October and an official release in November. Fact is that I've missed those deadlines by far, and that is not much a result of bad planning as much as it is the consequence of the fact that my "real" job has been absorbing much more time and energy than usual in the past few weeks...

Anyway, seeing the real F-35 project making some major steps is bringing back some inspiration to complete its virtual counterpart - albeit I still have to figure out a way to find the time needed :-)

The major oustanding item on my checklist is the cockpit. Some parts are complete, some others are nothing more than a rough sketch... Honestly I don't know when I will find the time to complete it. But, in order to save some time from the development cycle, I am thinking to release an Alpha build (without the VC) soon in order to sort the main issues of the external and flight models asap. I have not decided yet - as I have to fix some minor details first.

In the meantime, I want to clarify some points and answer some FAQ's.

Freeware or Payware - This is the first project I started from scratch as payware (and I thought I've always been clear on this). Final price and distribution methods are yet to be defined, but I think a fair price would be in the $10-15 range. Free copies of the final product will be given to testers and selected supporters. In case I realize that the project will not achieve a resonable quality level for payware and never will, I will release it for free.

Paypal donation - I have received some emails saying "As the F-35 is payware, why should I make a paypal donation?" - Well, the truth is that the paypal donate button has been added on request of several F-14 and T-45 users. I have plans to update both as soon as the F-35 is released, and the "donate" button was kept in this perspective. Still, I understand this may be misleading - so I am thinking to remove the button. As compensation for any misunderstanding, whoever has done a donation so far (i.e.prior to this post) will receive, upon request, the test versions of the F-35 when available.

Beta testing - As explained above, I have no idea when the F-35 will be ready for beta testing and I am considering an alpha-test release. Once I have decided, I will make a post on this blog on how to partecipate to the testing. The number of testers will be limited - and some slots will be reserved to supporters, friends and contibutors. NOTE: I will only consider Beta testing applications received as per the instructions that will be posted.

FSX SP2 or Acceleration - Not decided yet. Current build is based on Acceleration.

Depicted birds - At present, only AA-1 bird is done. This is the first F-35 prototype, conventional take-off and landing. Most likely, AF-1 (first production representative, weight-optimized CTOL plane) will be done too, as well as an "finished" operative F-35A with and without external loads - of course, this one will be based on latest official drawings but will include some guess-work.

VTOL & CV variants - They have not been completely ruled out yet...but it is unlikely I will do them. Yes, they are similar to the F-35A - but some of the differences are pretty big. For example, the F-35B fuselage is unique while the F-35C wing is much larger and has spoilers and folding mechanism...

Flight model - The preliminary flight model is based on all of the official data I could find...and a big amout of guessing. I'll do my best to provide a realistic flight model - but cannot guarantee its fidelity for obvious reasons.

Your comments will be appreciated as always.

F-35A wip update

2009-11-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

F-35 AA-1 external model is almost finished

While some aviation enthusiasts do not like its shape very much, I have to confess I like it. It looks modern and functional... but then, I have also to confess I liked also the "Fugly Fighter" X-32...

I'm still not happy with the reflections on some areas of the fuselage... some tweaks are needed - probably there is something I should fix in the fuselage normal map.

Refuel receptacle doors opening test - passed! F-35B and F-35C do not have this receptacle, but they feature a retractable probe nearby the canopy.

Weapon bay doors opening test - passed. As shown in this image, the F-35A can carry two AMRAAMs and two 2000lb JDAMS internally. Also, six removable pylons can be mounted for external loads.

Testing the flight model with a 4g turn. Flight model is still preliminary - while not perferct it is a good start.

Finally I found the time and mood to do some (much needed) progress with the F-35. There are a couple of annoying glitches in the external model which require some ironing, but as you can see in the screenshots above, the external model is done. I have a couple of "spare" animation sequences to be assigned - but I'll be leaving these for the finishing touches. The main priority is the completition of the cockpit, which is far behind the schedule. But, you know, I also have a "real" job and a social life :-)

By the way, I've just seen the first pictures of the real F-35 AF-1 bird (the first "weight optimized" plane)...and I have to say I am slightly disappointed as I expected a flashy painscheme (that I would have added to the package) while the actual plane took off with many areas still in their "native" acid-green primer color - which I'm not sure makes much sense for my FSX model.

Also, I've read that BF-1 (the first VTOL bird) has been transferred to Patuxent River NAS for a series of tests that will culminate in the first vertical landing. Cool stuff.

Javier Fernandez releases v2.0 of his oustanding carrier package.

2009-11-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

Nimitz V2.0 features underway replenishment visual model (and many other improvements including steam effect for catapults)

I just wanted to share the word that Javier Fernandez has released version 2.0 of his outstanding carrier package for FSX. It is really a must-have for every FSX user, as, within the limits of FSX, it is a practically perfect rendition of a Nimitz class carrier. Includes various deck configurations and dozens of easter eggs: freeware (and most payware) add-ons do not get much better than this. And it is fully Acceleration compatible.

As for my own projects, I have to confess I did not work too much on them recently for two reasons: one is the lack of time and the other is the release of some outstanding videogames on the Xbox 360 (Fifa 2010, Forza Motorsport 3 and Call of Duty:Modern Warfare 2) which are absorbing most of the time I spend at home. I will make a post about the status of the F-35 project in a day or two.

EDIT - I forgot to say that the file is available at www.flightsim.com and the ships are configured as "proper" ships - this means you need AICarriers (or a bgl file that contains routes for them - some are available at sim-outhouse)

Some more work-in-progress screenshots

2009-10-15T17:20:00.001-07:00

Above are some screenshots taken during F-35 AA-1 flight testing nearby Edwards AFB. It is very hard to judge what would be the right behaviour of the real plane - but I am doing my best. Definitely there will be some tuning needed during Beta testing. Unfortunately I had not much time to work on the F-35 in the past few weeks - I am doing what I can.

Status of the project is as follows:

External model: AA-1 is 99% complete. Some minor tweaks to the afterburner are needed, and the emergency arresting gear is not modeled. Also, the internal should host "mock" ordnance, but at present they have "real" JDAMs (recycled from the Tomcat). The final package will most probably include the AF-1 (weight optimization) model and a final F-35 (probably USAF training unit).
Internal model: most of the "hard" part is done. I am having some difficulties finding good hi-res pictures of the canopy frame. Basically, front panels are done - but the MFD needs some more work. Side panels are 10% done but they are not really difficult to model. If I will find the time the internal model could be completed in a week or two.
Flight model: the current one needs some work but I think it is a good start

At present - it is likely that the Beta version will be ready in early November... later than I initially thought...but I am doing what I can with the time I have :-)

The real India Foxt Echo

2009-10-04T05:05:00.000-07:00

This is me in front of the Socata TB.9 Tampico I-IAFE of the Genova Aeroclub, during Genova Air Show 2004. This is the only time I remember in which the public was allowed to get into the parking area of the Sestri airport. So I took the chance to take picture with my old friend :-)

Another view of the I-IAFE, on the back there are the hangars of the Piaggio Aero Industries, where the amazing P.180 is manufactured.

And this is the Aviamilano P.19 Scricciolo I-GAGI, on which I logged roughly 10 hours. It was cheaper than the TB9, but it was also a significantly older machine. It was also much fun to fly, in my opinion, as its rough cockpit gave you a strong "I am flying" feel, rather than the TB9 that felt like "I am driving a modern compact car" :-) Some days ago I discovered (thanks to google) that it has been acquired by a member of the CAP Lazio and will be restored to flight conditions. By the way, basic P.19 was a taildragger - but could be asily modified to tricycle, as I-GAGI was.

When I started this blog, one of the hardest things was to chose a name for it. I admit IndiaFoxtEcho was not a bright choice. It it the "shortened" callsign of I-IAFE, the plane on which I spent most hours during my days as student pilot at the local Aeroclub. It is also the plane on which I did my first solo flight in 1992.

While I had to sacrifice some things, like the "traditional" European-trip vacation that most people do in the summer between high school and university, I owe the fantastic experience of earning the Private Pilot Licence to my parents.Well,in a broader but more exact sense, I owe them everything. They are hard working people who supported me in everything I wanted to do, and after many years spent working they are currently enjoying retirement. The PPL was expensive and we surely were not a rich family.

I quit flying few years later for several reasons, main one being the money. Flying is a very expensive hobby. And the more I did it, the more I wanted to make new experiences, fly other planes and see other places, but I could not afford more than being a "sunday pilot". Takeoff from Sestri, go to Portofino then back to Sestri. And I could not afford to try more complex and more expensive planes. So, I had to admit that at some point I got bored. But I do not regret anything. Getting a pilot licence is one of the things I always wanted to do, one of those things you want to do before you die. It was great, I am still proud of "eagle" pin and I am grateful for having had this opportunity.

At the time I quit, I logged 52 hours, flying TB-9, PA-28 and P.19. Apart from Genova Sestri, I've also landed and took-off from Albenga, Sarzana Luni, Pisa, Lucca and Cuneo Levaldigi.

Now, in order to give some sense to this post (apart from the self-celebrating amarcord), I wanted to share with you three "lesson to be learned" I took when I was a student pilot:

Lesson 1 - Pride is dangerous.

Being only 165cm tall I am definitely a short person. Which, when you are 18 years old, it is a fact you should have accepted. But I did not. So, when I was flying the P.19 I was advised to use a small cushion so that I could operate the pedals in a more comfortable way. Of course I refused the cushion, which was kind of a symbol of the fact I was short. Fact is that I was not comfortable, so one time it happened, during one flight, that one of my legs "fall asleep" (don't know the proper English for it - hope you get what I mean). Result: when landing, just after touchdown, the plane steered abruptly and I could not correct it as I could not move my leg. Good thing there was the flight instructor.

Lesson 2 - Trust the procedures

One problem you may have if you are a GA student pilot is that if you home airport has a big unobstructed runway, you are not really used to smaller ones. Albenga has not a small runway, but has a small hill on its side that, in case you are not making a straight-in approach from the sea, forces you to make a higher pattern than the one I was used to to at Sestri (which is at sea level and all patterns are done 1000ft over the sea). So, I was slightly afraid to be low...and overshoot the 1500ft (if I remember right) reccomended altitude. Result: I was very high at landing, hence very fast and I had the plane floating a lot over the runway. And I touched with a harder-than-usual landing almost in the mid of the runway. I should have declared a missed approach and retry.

Lesson 3A - Flight must be carefully planned/1

That is, look at the charts carefully and think ahead of what you should expect. I was flying solo from Sestri to Levaldingi, which in VFR basically means: follow the highway from Genova to Savona, then from Savona to Fossano. The issue was I had not planned how to reckon Fossano from the other towns (neither visually nor with a VOR reading). So I missed it, and while I was trying to understand where I was I got disoriented in the middle of the Piedmont countryside. Visibility was decreasing, so I decided to go back to Genova - which was a wise decision - albeit I had to cross the mountains with marginal VFR conditions - but I intercepted the highway to Savona and then I got back safely.

Lesson 3B - Flight must be carefully planned/2 (and you should look around you)

That is, look at the approach charts carefully. While planning your flight,pay particular attention to obstacles around airports you don't know - like high voltage lines, even if they are not close to the path you think you will follow.

In this case I was flying with my instructor (cmdr.Sincich) to Sarzana Luni. It is mainly a Navy helicopter base, with a small runway. Much smaller than Sestri. So, while landing, I was completely focused on the runway itself, and did not notice the high voltage lines. When the instructor warned me,we were not really close to them and there was no real danger. But I still remember this episode as I my attention was so completely focused on one thing (the runway) that I was not looking at anything else.

Flying was a great experience that marked my life forever.

P.S. As for FSX, F-35 development is slowing down due to lack of time. In these days my job is absorbing much of my energies. I'll post an update asap.

EDIT: Forgot to say that all of the episodes above happened almost 17 years ago...

Some WIP hi-res Lighting II screenshots

2009-09-19T08:44:00.000-07:00

Above are some screenshots of the F-35 AA-1 taken while I was testing the flight model. It is pretty hard to tell if it is "right", as, obviously, Lockheed Martin test pilots keep on saying it is an oustanding aircraft with excellent performance and maneuverability... but on the other hand, many "experts" in the internet are extremely critical on the plane performance - and the whole JSF project (I guess some of that hate comes from the fact that the F-35 will replace the F-16 which is an extremely successful and popular model)...

Anyway, I am pretty happy with the flight model. It needs some work but it is a good start.

The cockpit is suffering some delay... but I think it will be ready in 2-3 weeks.

A Couple of F-35 Screenshots

2009-09-09T19:53:00.001-07:00

Above are two in game screenshots of the F-35A Lighting II project I am working on. As you can see, the external model is almost complete - there is some minor "cleaning" to be done here and there, but it is done. While it is an highly detailed model, the graphics performance is not bad - in fact it is slightly better than the Tomcat. At present, the model depicts the AA-1 development bird, meaning the first "F-35" (and not X-35) even built. At the moment I am writing it is also the only CTOL bird actually flying, as all the other prototypes undergoing flight test are F-35Bs (VTOL). The only major "artistic licence" so far is that the if you open the weapon bays, you can see two AIM-120 and two JDAMs - but all the pictures I've seen so far of the AA-1 were showing mock ordnance.

The design of the real AA-1 has been subject to major weight-saving oriented improvements, so that the AF-1 and following CTOL prototypes will have a number of design changes. While, at present, AF-1 has been "rolled out" several months ago there are not many pictures of it on the internet, but its first flight should not be too distant... so that more information will be available - the plan being, of course, add the AF-1 to the package (or a "production" model). A third model would be a production model with external loads (there are pictures of a BF bird on the gorund with a pretty impressive loadout).

At present, my project will be focused on the F-35A - and my current target is complete the AA-1 model. While the F-35B (VTOL) is an extremely interesting machine, I am not currently working on it - mainly because IRIS is working on such model and because I prefer quality to quantity - considering I am a one-man team it is mandatory to keep the size of the project reasonable.

While it may not be evident at first sight, the F-35B fuselage is much different from the F-35A.Nose, wings and tails are almost identical - but almost everything else is different.

On the opposite, the CATOBAR F-35C fuselage geometry is close to the F-35A (main differences being the modifications to the nose gear, refuel probe and tail hook) but the wing is completely different: it is much bigger, and has a folding mechanism and spoilers.

So, making the -B and -C models starting from what I have would be surely doable - but it would require some major redesign of several areas so, for the moment, I am sticking to the F-35A - and I will do my best to achieve a good quality level on that before making any further step.

Firefighting and spectacular flying

2009-09-07T09:33:00.000-07:00

Fire on Monte Moro, over Quinto and Nervi - at the Eastern limit of Genoa. Due to the exposure, this picture is overly dramatic. The fire is very large and quite close to the houses, but thanks to the hard work of the firemen, there has been no risk for the population.

At the moment I am writing, two Canadair CL415's and one S-64 Skycrane are flying in a vast firefighting operation just above my house.
In the past 24 hours a fire has burnt most of the woods in the Eastern part of Genoa, requiring a major effort by firefighters who have been working continuosly. There seems to be no risk for the the population, as the fires nearby the inhabitated areas have been extinguished - so it is possible to admire the spectacular flying of the Canadairs and the Skycrane collecting water from the sea and immediately dropping it on the nearby hills, without worrying too much for people's safety.

The Canadair is really an amazing machine. It is an usual guest at the local airport during summer and I've seen its demo in several airshows - and its maneuverability never fails to impress me. Seeing it landing on the water is simply spectacular - and it is even more spectacular seeing two of them in action together with the Skycrane. It is also a machine that would deserve more attention in FSX. Massimo Taccoli created an excellent FS2004 freeware model (link below) but afaik there is no triple-A FSX native model so far... But do not start asking me to do one, as my agenda is full...

http://www.maxtac.it/maxtac/index.php?option=com_docman&task=cat_view&gid=36&Itemid=59&limitstart=16

Skycrane is also impressive, as it is considerably larger than the average chopper - and surely much larger than the ones that usually populate the sky over Genoa.

Kudos to the aircrews and the firemen for their courage, skill and professionality - they acted promptly so that there has been no major incovenience to the population (apart from a blackout and a traffic-jam, of course) - and the only trouble I had was to clean my scooter from the ashes before going to work.

EDIT: I've just read in the news that the Canadairs were 4 and not 2 - I can only imagine the level of training and coordination required in such a scenario.

Future of the Tomcat project

2009-08-31T16:03:00.000-07:00

Latest build of the FSX:Acceleration Tomcat

I wish I had more time for FSX design - but I have not. Specifically, I wish I had more time for further improvement of the Tomcat... but I'll concentrate on the F-35A until it gest in the Beta stage at least. So, this post is to share with you my thoughts on the current status of the project and its future.

First, here are the latest MDL files I have - I am not making a full release of this as the changes are really small - so small that most of you will not notice any difference. Namely, one of the wires in the windshield frame was misplaced in the VC and the inner geometry of the afterburner was slightly undersized (I've made no changes to the effects so far). Unless you have very bright monitor settings you are not likely to see any difference at all. Still, here they are:

http://rapidshare.com/files/274062341/F14D_mdl_files_upgradeV106_to_V107.zip

They are named 1.07 just to keep track of the releases - really, if you are not annoyed by the issues mentioned above, do not waste your time dowloading and installing them. To install them, just overwrite the file in the model subfolder of the Grumman_F14D folder. But, again, this is more a desk-cleaning operation: with this you have the latest working version I have.

Still, the Tomcat is far from being perfect...I know... I know... Some of you keep on reminding me of the limitations and defects of the project... It is a decent piece of freeware, but could be even better - and an aviation legend as the Tomcat should deserve the best possible rendition.

Now, as I said, my highest priority is deliver the F-35. The outer model is almost ready and will be completed within this week - the VC is only 20% done, but it is simple from the geometric point of view so I think the test build will be ready before October. So, what follows is what I would do if I had time (comments, opinions and suggestion most welcome):

Better burner effect. I know they are not that good. I am fecing several werid issues with the effects attach point - and I would first need to clean these issues before making new ones. Current effects are pretty stable and not-that-ugly on my system, but (few) users are reporting issues. As you know I've experimented modeled burners too... I was initally happy, but then I felt they were too "static"... BTW sources for those effects are lost...
Cockpit glitches and bugs. I know the VC is full of them - fact is that I've tried to do the VC in the "Hornet way" but I was missing the knowledge base...and some things were done by guessing. Other issues, like the inop radio knobs and mfd buttons, have no explanation at all. I've checked the sources several times (including looking for the "Reset Scale" issue) - and I can't get them to work. Messing with the .X file may be the solution...
F-14B. External model can be done very quickly. VC is not that hard - but 3/4 weeks are required for sure... this would be very doable, provided I had time.
Flight model. I think the last one is a vast improvement over the previous releases... but it could be better at low speeds (less than 200 kts), as I am told the Tomcat is far less maneuverable. This will surely be addressed in the next release - whenever it will be.
RIO VC - I know it would be awesome. But it may take some time (5-8 weeks to match the quality level of thr pilot's one). And many controls will be inop or gimped. And then, only cockpit-sharing users will enjoy it...
Alternate wepons config / empty plane. This is very doable too, and probably be included in the next release.

So, lots of things to do and little time... Still, I'd like to make an even better Tomcat someday. So, I have one question for you... what about a freeware/payware mix? That is the F-14D base model could be improved constantly, while an additional payware pack could add some features (say the VC cockpit and the F-14B). The additional pack would be cheap (say $10) and truly optional, but may help (me) in justifying (to myself) the amount of time needed. I don't know if it makes sense. Please undestand that I am not trying to "cash cowing" the Tomcat - it is freeware and so it will remain... But I'd like to hear your opinion.

Then, the F-35 will come first - in the next post I'll show the finished external model and will discuss the project goals and quality level I'd like to achieve.

Reinstalling Windows, FSX and the SDK

2009-08-24T08:48:00.001-07:00

Windows 7 performance assessment of my computer - My nerd side is relatively happy but needs a new super-fast hard disk to match the rest (...and I'm pretty sure FSX will still be sluggish :-) )

Unfortunately I had to face the failure of one of my hard disks - I had a backup of most of my source files, but I lost some part of my work on the F-35 and few minor tweaks of the F-14.

On the bright side, this forced a much needed system cleanup (format of the main HD and clean install of Windows XP, FSX and its SDK)... And the reason why I am writing this post is a "pro memoria". It is not the first time I do this, and I always face some difficulties in having the FSX modeling SDK work. It really annoying - and I know that some people approaching the SDK are let down by these issues. On the other hand, other persons do not have this kind of issues - which makes the whole thing even more frustrating for those who coul not manage to make the modeling SDK work.

If you follow the SDK instructions correctly - and they are correct! - you may still be unable to compile a model...for several reasons.
So, I am writing down all the "undocumented" steps you may need to take to make the modeling tools work (either 3D Studio or Gmax) with FSX.

In the international options you must have the numbers set in the "American way" that is a "dot" should separate the integers from the decimal, while the "comma" separates the thousands (e.g. 113,123.75) - this is the opposite of the "classic" Italian setting - for example. This may create issues in .xml files
Download and install the .NET FRAMEWORK 2.0 - If you do not the FSX exporter DLE will not work (and appears as "missing" in the modeling tools). .NET was not installed after my clean and genuine Windows XP SP2 installation
Download and install the DirectX 9.0 SDK - otherwise XtoMDL will not run (Note that the DX9.0 SDK version is NOT the same as the "regular" one)
Now you can complile your modeld and be happy

By the way, I've also installed Windows 7 64 bit, just for curiosity, and it seems to work fine. Given that, on my machine (i7920 and X295), Vista 64 bit made FSX run smoother (in DX10) than XP (by almost 9-10 fps with the same settings!), Windows 7 seems to work really good. Time for a OS upgrade? Not sure - may be some of my development tools don't work... Still, the new Windows seems good.

F-14D Tomcat update 1.05 with completely new flight model

2009-08-19T06:14:00.001-07:00

version 1.05, finally with a "heavy" flight model (and several other fixes)

EDIT: Initial upload had a couple of minor glitches. Version updated to 1.06. Users who may have dowloaded v1.05 need to download again - my apologies.

This is the latest (1.06) public release of my Grumman F-14D Tomcat project for Flight Simulator X:Acceleration.It is second update in a week...sorry for the inconvenience...but I had some "strong" feedback that the flight model was notup to par with the rest of the package... I knew it, but while I planned to fix it in September, I thought it was better to fix it right now.So, this update has a completely new FM (including new .air), which I hope will significantly boost the realism, along with several visual fixes. Engine performance is much more accurate, and so is general handling, speed and general "feel" - which I hope is the right "Tomcat feel" we are looking for...but again, never drove a Tomcat for real...

So, the flight model is (hopefully) on par with the rest... but there are other changes too, some of them were much awaited. The list is below. I'll will be away for some days...so I replies to emails may suffer some major delay.

DOWNLOAD LINK (VERSION 1.06)

http://rapidshare.com/files/269212922/F14DA106.zip

****************

REVISION HISTORY

****************

VERSION 1.06

- Fixes ramp animation and canopy texture glitch of version 1.05

- Missing polys from new HUD structure

VERSION 1.05

- Completely new (and hopefully much more realistic) flight model.

- Fixed missing shadows from some part (it was a really weird bug in the compiler...)

- Fixed shadowing issues on tails and rudders (finally)

- Fixed canopy reflection mismatch with fusalage

- Changed HUD geometry - now it is closer to the actual F-14D

- Added much more visible geometry to the VC while looking back (for Track IR/ freetrack users)

- Miscellaneous VC geometry cleanup

- Added BuNo Plate in VC (missing)

- Minor fix to reheat effect (still no modeled flames - see v1.00)

- Added a simple PDF with basic documentation

Have fun!

Updating the F-14D flight model

2009-08-17T14:12:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note about the F-14 dynamics: I know that v1.00 dynamics are not that good - possibly with the exception of carrier operations. They were developed with carrier ops in mind, and relatively late in the project... and there are some major mistakes.

As I had received a "strong" negative feedback from one user, which was right in many respects, I decided to redo the dynamics by scratch. You know I take criticism seriously (well as seriously as it is reasonable for a videogame)... Long story short, a new flight model is being tested and it is not as bad as the previos one - I will release it shortly.

F-14D Tomcat - new base model with specular maps

2009-08-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

The new base model features specular maps for all the main extrenal surfaces.

THIS VERSION IS SUPERSEDED BY V1.05 - DOWLOAD LINK DISABLED

A new base model for the F-14D featuring specular mapping is available for download here:

http://rapidshare.com/files/267456206/F14DA100.zip

Other changes are the removal of the modeled burner effects and new, more accurate bump maps courtesy of Mike Durao.

Please note that as exisiting repaint do not have specular mapping, the default ones will be loaded instead so it is possible that the model reflections look strange and you may want to roll back to the existing 0.99 non-specular version... So you may want to make a copy of you current Tomcat folder before installing the new one. Dowload links for the previos version (0.99) below:

-Model with "particle" based burners here:

http://rapidshare.com/files/258140010/F14DA099_regular_burner_full.zip

- Model with "modeled" burners here:

http://rapidshare.com/files/257752908/f14DA099.zip

REVISION DETAILS:

VERSION 1.00

Added specular mapping for all the main textures of the external model. Specular mapping allows some neat per-pixel shining effects. For repainters: the surfaces are encoded with a specular mapping power of 30. A good starting point for you spec mapping is: 1 - Take your diffuse textures (that is the "regular" ones) 2 - decrease Lightness by 50 units (or even more) 3 - add a unform 64-64-64 alpha channel (higher value means sharper reflection) 4 - save as "_spec" and convert to DXT with imagetool NOTE: as existing repaint may not have specular mapping, the default specular will be loaded instead... this will probably lead to strange effects so you may want to make a backup of the existing installation in case you want to roll back.
Modeled afterburners are gone. For two reasons: 1) Some users were experiencing some issues (like black borders or fully white color) 2) The source code for them is gone. File corrupt and no backup. And no time and will to redo them.
Changes to the a/b affect to furtherly decrease effect bleeding through the fuselage (hopefully gone)
New bump maps by Mike Durao (who has patiently redrawn all the panel lines by hand - thanks Mike).
Slight imporovement to the tail shading...there is something strange happening in that area, but I could not solve that completely.

Few more screenshots of the Lighting II

2009-08-14T05:13:00.001-07:00

F-35A for FSX - external modeling is almost done

A preliminary flight model is in place - and seems to work fine, provided that, of course, some of the data are estimated.

Most animations are implemented and seem to work correctly.

A couple of sleepless nights (for wrong reasons) meant significant progress in F-35 modeling. Outer model is almost done - everything is modeled,textured and animated with the exception of the weapon bays, the refuel receptacle and the special effects. Work on the virtual cockpit is just started - but modeling shoud not take much time as the F-35 'pit is extremely simple from the geometric point of view.

F-35 Lighting II - first screenshot

2009-08-10T08:31:00.000-07:00

F-35A AA-1 over Fort Worth NAS (FSX - Scsney is MegasceneryX Dallas/Fort Worth)

As today is an unusually rainy day here in Genoa, I finally had the time to complete the main texturing of the F-35A model I am working on - so here is a picture. I'm posting just one image since the modeling is not complete (cockpit and weapon bays) and several parts are untextured yet (landing gear, part of the cockpit - and weapon bays of course). Basic animation is working - but it will be redone with custom sequences.

All the main textures are photoreal and up to 4096X4096 in resolution...this means you will have to modify the config file to allow for large textures....and this also means that the model takes a little longer to load.

For now, I'll stick with the AA-1 model (CTOL development aircraft). BF-1 (VTOL) and CF-1 (CATOBAR - rolled out few days ago) are not completely ruled out for now, but they are not scheduled so far. Albeit similar, those models differ substantially from the CTOL version...and unfortunately the differences are in critical areas for the 3D model... Besides, Iris Simulations is working on an F-35B...

I'll probably add a production model - provided that I will get reliable information on the changes planned to the AA-1 design (e.g. I know they are planning to change the nose gear door to a split one, and I think they are porbably moving the auxiliary exhaust nearby the engine nozzle from the top side to the lower one - my guess based on the fact that both B and C protos have in there).

As for a release date...it will be done when it will be done.

Experiments in specular mapping

2009-08-04T16:32:00.000-07:00

F-14D for FSX:Acceleration with added specular mapping - I struggled to get an angle that could highlight the effect most. I gave it relatively "subtle" value so it is barely visible from most angles. I like it....and looks much better in motion.

Sunny weather here in Italy so I am spending most of my spare time on the beach rather than in front of a computer...Therefore my FSX design-work is proceeding veeery slowly. As you may be aware of, I am working on an F-35A model. As there is some chance this may become my first payware project, I am trying my best to make a top notch model - I want it to include every "bells and whistles" allowed by FSX - and so I decided to spend some of my time on testing things I am not really good at or never implemented at all.

One thing I never employed successfully in my models is specular mapping. Basically, for those who do not know, specular map is a texture map which defines what will be the color, the intensity and the sharpness of the reflection of the material on a point-by-point basis. This was not possible in FS2004 and allows some very cool specular effects.

I never implemented it on my models as, in the tests I did, I felt it provided an excessive shininess of the surfaces. On the other hand there are some really coold models out there that use it with extremely good effects - so it had to be there for the F-35....hence I used the Tomcat as a testbed for this effect.

After few attempts I realized what I was doing wrong - and it was the base color of the specular map: to achieve a good looking modern-military-paint reflection you should use a very dark specular map. In the example shown in the pictures, the specular map was obtained by taking the diffuse map. darkening it by 50-70 "units" and applying an uniform alpha channel of 64 value. Obviously, if you are less-lazy than me, you could have tuned both on a per-pixel basis. Specular power was set to 30 (raising it and/or the alpha will result in smaller hotspots - which tend to highlight the mesh defects - better to avoid that IMHO).

The specular model will be part of the next update. And the F-35 will be shown (in pictures) as soon as the main texturing is complete: I am making a 4096x4096 photoreal texture for the fuselage and wings by "assembling" hi-def photos...results are good - but process is slow.

IL-2 Sturmovik:Birds of Prey demo impressions

2009-07-30T00:43:00.000-07:00

IL-2 Sturmovik demo - available now on X360

I was very curious to test the demo of Birds of Prey - which promised to be the first attempt to serious flight simulation on consoles in a while...so I downloaded it as soon as I got back home yesterday and played it for a while...

The demo consists of a brief tutorial and two missions: an air defence mission on a Spitfire over the Dover cliffs and a ground support mission on a P-51 in Germany.

The initial impression was of a huge disappointment: the demo starts in "arcade" mode and it is basically "Ace Combat WWII" (albeit more realistic in flight model and gunnery). Usual console flight-action and much disappointment.

Once you have completed the tutorials or a mission, the demo unlocks "realistic" and "simulation" modes: of course I immediately switched to "simulation" and it made huge difference. For example you cannot use external views, nor you have any kind of markers on targets or waypoints. Damage model is realistic, and its effect on maneuvering is reasonable. Much more important, the flight model is challenging: ham-fisted yoke handling will result in plenty of stall and spins - by the way, spin-recovery works in the proper way. Plane handling raises the biggest question mark on the simulation mode and it is control peripherals. Flight sticks are rare among X360 owners (and not widely available in shops) and controlling the plane with the pad does not feel right: the control scheme is weird with some good points (triggers to "zoom" the view and fire -ala Call of Duty) and some bad ones (right thumbstick controls both throttle and rudder...)

What I like:

Finally a serious attempt to bring a flight simulation on XBox 360.
Graphics: plane models, cockpit and landscapes are generally wonderful and the game is smooth.
Unforgiving flight models in simulation mode.

What I do not like:

Gamepad control is definitely not good enough for simulation mode
Graphics: special effects (like water reflection, gunfire or smokes) are mediocre
Some artistic licence in cockpits, liveries, historical accuracy and realism (e.g. no blackouts, redouts or g-loc)

All in all,being a PC-simmer I am not sold on this one. But it is a good attempt - so good that I was trying to hit the "ESC" key of the PC keyboard (sitting next to the 360 pad) to go back to the menu. Worth a second look.

Last, I understand producers wanted to underline the legacy to the "Sturmovik" series...but really does not make much sense to keep Sturmovik in the title. Aside, "Birds of Prey" reminded me of an old simulation game I used to play on Amiga. It was great...but definitely too ambitious for that time...

http://www.lemonamiga.com/?mainurl=http%3A//www.lemonamiga.com/games/details.php%3Fid%3D163

On the near future of flight simulation...

2009-07-27T06:56:00.000-07:00

Xbox 360 and PS3 versions of IL-2 Sturmovik show some beautiful scenery and plane detail

Cockpit details are amazingly good

Ok, do not panic. It is hard to admit, but it is happening. Finally a console game that looks like it could be called a simulation... The Sturmovik series is heading towards several gaming devices including Nintendo DS and Sony PSP - but we don't really care about those handheld toys :-)...

The main thing for us (us meaning responsible adults who spend a considerable amount of time pretending flying airplanes) is that the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions look really good. And if the previews around the internet are to be considered a serious indicator, they are probably the closest thing to a PC-sim ever.

Sure some compromises have been done, like 100x100km "chunks" of scenery or like some deviations from historical accuracy done for the sake of balancing the difficulty (the latter point has already started some "flame wars" in several forums).

I am still skeptical - but I have to confess it is mainly because I don't like WWII warbirds too much... if we were talking about a Korean or Vietnam wars scenario I would be completely sold on this one.

How will the X360 pad work? What is the actual level of realism? How deep and dynamic will the campaign mode be? Well, as PC simmer I must be skeptical. But, we have to confess that the PC-simulation genre is becoming more an more a "niche" in the videogame world (and it wasn't like that in the good-old-times) and the only interesting things in a while have been Rise of Flight and DCS:Blackshark (both from Eastern Europe like Arma II btw).

Maybe the console user-base can give new momentum to flight simming...

Official IL-2 Sturmovik:Birds of Prey here:

http://www.il2game.com/

PS For those wondering about the F-35...Well, it is coming very nicely but I've got the main landing gear bay completely wrong. I will remake it and then make a wip update.