first to explain the title: PIG (PIstol Grip)
![Geek :geek:](./images/smilies/icon_e_geek.gif)
I have been in RC world for quite a while and suprissed that there is such a gap between Pistol Grip radios and general arial radios. And there is no sign that this is going to change soon.
On a low cost pistol grip radio we are happy if we can modify or adjust some basic mixes, 4 chanels are anyway premium and usually not able to change TX module.
Telemetry starts with radios over 140$, also with very limited possibilities of use and alarm settings.
If you want a bit more - you need to dig 300$ plus hole in your pocket. Still stuck with 4 channels and limited programming options.
All listed already exist in FS9X or Taranis radio, for 60 to 180$...
Typical users of PIG 9X would be for instance people that build and race buggies, crawlwers, sail boats, scale cars & trucks, scale construction machinery, tanks, scale boats like aircrafts and subs...
Anyway - I think a joint effort could be used to create 3D models for new housing to transplant electronics from FS9X or Taranis radio in to the new housing.
Than the models can be used for nowdays inexpensive 3D printing at your local provider (please se the open source 3D printer site, REPRAP http://reprap.org/)
For start I would suggest to use FS9X radio to test the idea and than expand the mod to Taranis for more demanding users...
The project would need several inputs and would have a couple of milestones.
1. creation of 3D models of existing components that would be re-used
2. creation of list of features that we would like to implement
3. define basic layout of buttons and components of new PIG radio
4. create 3D model of final radio for printing or lasercut Plywod set (for budget minded ones)
Platform for creation would be some sort of free or inexpensive 3D modeler that can create editable 3D models that can later be used for printing. My personal preference is Rhino 3D or Google Sketchup
Final file types: STEP and STL (both of them!)
Before I go any further - please share your oppinion and views about this idea.
Many thanks!
Bye