Since our last news article we made a lot of progress with our pride and joy, OSRC project. Even though we haven't yet gathered the full amount required to manufacture prototypes as well as final product, we have been working quite intensively on the UI for the device, for both displays. We also managed to adjust/perfect the mechanics for the main enclosure as well as manufacture some initial prototypes for the device.

The stick assembly you see on the image is the first prototype for OSRC. Manufactured through CNC machining from a single block. Naturally all internal components are fully functional. Visually the design is quite similar to any other stick assembly with only difference being in the internal functionality. Since one of our goals was to have the sticks move by them selves, giving the ability for beginners to learn new moves as well as record and reproduce them while in flight. Internally there are unique mechanisms for moving the sticks without restraining the pilot while using it. At the same time if enabled, the sticks can give feedback and force if required without restricting motion.

The design we had in mind worked out pretty well and everything seems to be moving quite nicely considering that the materials used are almost identical to the final product. Unfortunately we shall only be able to start experimenting with the actual functionality once we have the PCB's as well as the main enclosure made for the first prototype. All components are interlinked pretty tight and there is a lot of complexity inside the device so we shall have to wait for the campaign to end before going any further.

Among other components we also found a pretty neat display for which we initially made the design. Displays in general are changing quite rapidly and can be in stock one day and out of stock the other. Fortunately the LCD seen in the image shall be available for a long time so we are safe in that department. The displays are quite important as they are the main components around which the rest of the enclosure is designed so we had to make sure we have that covered first.

Although we still have not reached our final funding goal at IndieGoGo, the Project is progressing quite well with most aspects covered by our team. Software for the UI as well as the lower function controllers is being written and main goals are being developed for the initial release upon which we can build and upgrade. We are designing the hardware in such a way that any part can be upgraded and replaced so that no-one will be required to purchase a new device each time there is something new  physically added to the system.

Once again we would like to remind everyone that the project (as any other we make) shall be completely Open Source and covered by the CERN OHL as well as GNU GPL licenses and free to the public. Also have in mind that the perks at the IndieGoGo campaign are limited in number so if you would like to secure your device before the end of the campaign then Pre-Order it through the perk of your choice.

If you just wish to contribute to the cause then again you are more than welcome. We shall include your name in the project section as well as in the "About" section inside the control OS. For those who feel hesitant to contribute, as stated in the project description - If we cannot gather the required funds by the end of the campaign then we shall return each and every contribution.

If you have any questions about the project or the campaign in general then feel free to comment at IndieGoGo or through the OSRC forum and we shall be more than happy to reply and explain anything on your mind.