VSKYLABS C-47B Skytrain Project Evolution/Log

Update Log
VSKYLABS C-47B Skytrain
JetManHuss - VSKYLABS (c) 2025 All Rights Reserved.


XP12 - NXG v1.0.1 (26th May 2025):

  • XC-47C (float plane version):
    • New and more accurate floats design. The new design allows improved hydrodynamics and water-physics.
  • Both variants:
    • Improved usability for GNS530 configuration - Added RMI and heading-bug to allow full operation of the S-TEC 55 autopilot when in GNS530 mode.
    • Fine-tuning to night-lighting of the S-TEC 55 panel.

XP12 - NXG v1.0 (17th May 2025):

  • Flight Dynamics:
    • Modified/improved tail-section design.
    • Modified/improved control surfaces design.
    • Modified/improved landing gears ground interaction.
    • Modified/improved gears/brakes/rudder effectiveness for maximum realism and 'feel' of the aircraft.
    • modified/improved engine starting characteristics.
    • Validated flight model and aircraft behavior on taxi, takeoff (normal and short), performance, landing (normal and short), ground handling.
    • XC-47C - modified/improved empty CG.
  • Cockpit:
    • Front panel was re-designed and replaced - pushed forward about 10cm to match real-world panel position.
    • All gauges in the front panel were re-scaled to match real-world size. Arrangement was modified to allow realistic C-47B layout.
    • Sperry A3 autopilot panel was re-scaled to match real-world size.
    • Remodeled and re-textured from scratch (3-d assets):
      • Yokes (control wheels and stick down to the floor).
      • Yokes base leather covers.
      • Pedals.
      • Windshield wipers motors and hub.
      • Wipers.
      • Pedestal panel.
      • Cockpit floor.
      • Pilot seats.
      • Heating hoses.
      • Overhead panel frame.
      • Windshield frames.
      • 'Floating' compass.
      • Padded cockpit interiors.
      • Front structural beams (visible on each side of the front panel).
      • Pilot/copilot microphone.
      • Cockpit re-texturing.
  • Cabin (3-d assets):
    • Passengers seats - added safety belts.
    • Cabin cover -remodeled/re-textured.
    • Cabin floor - remodeled/re-textured.
    • All interior walls/covers - remodeled/re-textured.
    • New window frames.
  • Exterior:
    • New NXG paint-kit.
    • New floats / textures.
    • New skis / textures.
    • New props / textures.
    • Additional 3 default liveries:
      • Buffalo Airways 'Plane Savers C-DTFT'.
      • 'KF Centre for Excellence' Odyssey 86' 
      • IAF 'Dakota' 026.
  • Lights:
    • Complete rework of all exteriors and interior lights.
  • Internal engineering:
    • New internal engineering and aircraft components re-arrangements.
  • Interactions:
    • Flaps - now using custom up/down interaction instead of 3-separated click-points.
    • Fuel indicator selector - now using custom rotatable switch instead of separated click-points.
    • Fuel tank selectors - now using custom rotatable switch instead of separated click-points.
    • GNS530 / S-TEC Configuration - now embedded in the cockpit panel, instead of the Sperry. Can be toggled in-flight by interacting with the floating compass or via dedicated assignment.
    • Engines Prime/Dilute is now 3-way switch, allowing operation like in the real C-47B.
  • VSKYLABS Cockpit-Builders Heaven Assignment layer:
    • Assign all aircraft switches, knobs, and interactions via a dedicated X-Plane 12 assignment layer.

XP12 - v6.0b3 (19th September 2023):

  • Flight Dynamics and Systems:
    • Tuneups for mixtures and carburetor heat system (experminetal).
  • Bug fixes:
    • Vacuum gyro sounds bug in cold and dark (related to X-Plane 12 bug, will be addressed in the future).

XP12 - v6.0b2 (14th September 2023):

Major Update Release:

  • Flight Dynamics and Systems:
    • New mixtures, carburetor system algorithm:Mixture control is now fully differential, and fully automatic, replicating the actual C-47 mixtures and carburetor operations. Mixture levers have detents (steps) for 'cutoff', 'auto-lean', 'auto-rich', emergency. All auto-modes are fully automatic. For more information refer to the included manual.
    • New fuel system:The VSKYLABS fuel system in v6.0b2 allows to feed each engine from any of the four tanks, directly (identical to real-world C-47 operation). (known issue - due to a system architecture restriction in the VSKYLABS C-47 v6.0, when feeding each engine from the Aux tanks (from the same side or opposite sides), the Aux tank with the higher remaining fuel quantity will feed both engines, until both Aux tanks are equal. Then, both tanks will feed both engines.The fuel system is under development and this ‘feature’ will be fixed in future updates.
    • Carburetor heat system - levers are not being operated internally via sliders (for more information refer to the included manual).
    • Vacuum system - vacuum system re-wired. On-board DG are now vacuum-powered.
    • DG sync - Manual sync is now possible with the use of the sync-knob.
  • Bug fixes:
    • Fuel level indicator is now equipped with a shifting-plate, showing the designated tank in each mode.
    • Fuel level indicator needle 3-d and animation changed to provide better reading, more accurate.
  • Enhancements:
    • Pitch trim wheel re-modeled, re-textured.
    • Carburetor heat levers now showing 'L' / 'R' for better interaction.
    • Various PBR fixes all-around in the cockpit.
  • Manual/POH update:
    • Rev 007

XP12 - v6.0b1 (9th September 2023):

  • Flight model update (required only for C-47, not for XC-47C):
    • Default (empty) CG tune-ups to set the aircraft in a natural, slight 'nose heavy' configuration, especially when it is not loaded - this improves handling on takeoffs, especially when the elevator trim is accidentally not in the correct position (due pilot error). Handling during landing is also improved.VR config file update.

XP12 - v5.4a (14th January 2023):

  • Damage simulation - reverted from custom to X-Plane 12 over-g values for airframe over-stress damage. In practive this allows the airframe a higher margin before breaking apart.

XP12- v5.3+v5.4 (28th December 2022):

  • C-47B, XC-47C - Deep flight model refinement phase#1: Climb and cruise performance for both variants, superchargers lo/hi simulation modifications (power and MP).
  • XC-47C - Deep floats design modifications - separate fixed stations (phase#1).
  • XC-47C - Water performance and handling tuneups.
  • XC-47B - Water rudder refinements (deplyment speed, surface area).
  • Old window icing visualization terminated - replaced with the new X-Plane 12 windows icing system.
  • Gyro initiation on C-47B variant - rewired (sound power on initiation as well).
  • Sounds - Fix of switches sounds on C-47B/XC-47C variants.
  • Sounds - Fix of overlapping sounds when engaging/disengaging the autopilot. 
  • Graphics enhancements for the cockpit:
    • New cowl flaps panel.
    • Improved oxygen regulators PBR setup.
    • New seat belts.
    • Improved hydraulic/utility panel 3-d elements.
  • Known-bugs:
    • Fuselage and wing icing visualization not shown properly - scheduled for fixing.
    • Autopilot disengaged announcement sound slightly overlapping - scheduled for fixing.

XP12- v5.2 (4th December 2022):

  • Interior lighting system reset and retuned to comply with the modified X-Plane 12.00r1+ lighting engine.
  • Improved annunciator lights system.

XP12- v5.1 (23th November 2022):

  • Updater software replaced - from STMA to SkunkCrafts. 

XP12 - v5.0 (Spetember 2022):

  • X-Plane 12 initial version release.

XP11 - v4.0r8 (24th December 2021):

  • Systems: XC-47C - Gears Aural warning system modification to allow normal (quiet)operations with floats-gears in UP position during water operations.

XP11 - v4.0r7 (20th November 2021):

  • 3D/Animations: Fixed propellers rotation animation (non-prop-disc state).

XP11 - v4.0r5-6 (16th October 2021):

  • 3D/Animations:
    • Yokes are now responding properly to elevator input, including airflow/prop-washinduced moments due to pitch-trim tab deflection. With airflow over the elevator surface, the trim-tab will induce forces on the elevator surface and will "push" it upor down. Correspondingly, the yokes which are connected directly to the elevatorsurface via the control system, will get pushed/pulled as well. When there is no airblowing on the tail, feeding pitch-trim input will only move the trim-tab, and theelevator surface+yokes will not move.
    • Elevator surface was modified to host animated pitch trim tabs and push-rods.
    • Rudder surface was modified to host animated rudder trim tabs and push-rods.
    • Note: v2 paint-kits may require some fixes, in case that the painted trim-tabs arenot aligned with the modeled ones.
  • Default Liveries:
    • Default v3.0 'That's all brother' livery was added.
    • Default v2.0 'That's all brother' livery was removed from the project.
    • Default v2.0 'Buffalo Airways' livery was converted to host the new tail-trimelements.

XP11 - v4.0r4 (11th October 2021):

  • Systems:
    • New separate DME instrument (overhead panel): Now, the single DME radio has its own separate radio frequencies and is not dependent on NAV1/NAV2 frequencies.
    • Both DME1/2 frequencies are integrated in a single radio with switchable 1/2modes.
  • VR Interaction:
    • Overhead radio stack interaction was modified to allow more intuitive interactionwith the knobs.
  • Minor fixes:
    • FMOD sounds for missing propeller heat switch click sound.

XP11 - v4.0r3 (8th October 2021):

  • User Interaction Update:
    • Landing gears handle interaction method was changed. In v4.0r3, landing gears operations are back to the default GEARS UP/DOWN assignment in X-Plane. Thelanding gears handle position will get back to NEUTRAL position when required,automatically with the assistance of a "virtual autopilot".
    • Static air switch assignment changed to the default X-Plane assignment - read thenew assignments instructions in the included manual files.

XP11 - v4.0r2 (4th October 2021):

  • Minor fixes update:
    • Passing light switch and interaction is now set to inoperative state until the lightingsystem will cover the passing light as well.
    • Yokes 3D modeling - fixed 'Y' strut structure for better width proportions.
  • Added the full manual into the project (in a compressed version).

XP11 - v4.0r1 (1st October 2021):

  • New and improved FMOD Sound pack:
    • New multi-layer engine sounds for the interiors and exteriors.
    • New aural indication system recordings for the mixtures, autopilot and tail-wheel.
    • Updated and tuned FMOD package.
  • Cockpit - Overhead panels and ceiling:
    • Overhead panels switches - Remodeled (NEW) with new PBR textures.
    • Overhead panels - Remodeled radios-stack, radios, added PBR texturing andcovering glass.
    • Overhead panels - Remodeled speakers, re-arranged inside cockpit ceiling.
    • Cockpit ceiling - Escape hatch door remodeled, now includes an up-facing window.
    • Ignition panel - Added Master Ignition switch (operational).
  • Cockpit - Pedestal panel:
    • Pedestal panel - Remodeled (quadrant and lower panel).
    • Pedestal panel - Remodeled rotary switches and placards.
    • Pedestal panel - Added real-time conversion board for airspeed (mph/knots/kmh), temperatures and altimeter settings.
  • Cockpit - Main panel:
    • Main panel - Remodeled and re-engineered the entire instrument gauges, toinclude plastic covering for lighting, refined needles and engine markings (L/R) onrelevant instruments, all gauges animations were re-calibrated with higherprecision indications.
    • New, remodeled folding 2 x GNS 530 devices.
    • Main panel - Added airspeed indicator in knots (toggle by interacting with theairspeed indicator glass).
    • Main panel - Re-tuned airspeed limitation markers.
    • Main Panel - Added copilot Artificial Horizon instrument gauge.
    • Main panel - Remodeled switched and rotary knobs.
    • Main panel - Remodeled and rearranged of the warning light panel (light bulbs,switches, placards).
    • Main panel - Warning light panel now includes authentic indication for landing gear/ landing gear handle status.
    • Main panel - Warning light panel now includes operational 'door open' warninglight.
    • Main panel - Warning light panel now includes a functional BRT/DIM switch.
    • Main panel - Added functional alternate pitot static valve switch and placard.
    • Main panel - Placards - Added stall speeds placard.
    • Main panel - Placards - Added MAX. Power limitations placard.
    • Main panel - Placards - Added MAX. speed placard.
    • Main panel - Placards - Added advisory placard (on top of the pedestal).
    • Main panel - Sperry autopilot - remodeled (including compass scales, rotary knobs,bezels).
    • Main panel - Sperry autopilot cutout was added, to host Sperry inside.
    • Re-modeled control yokes (wheels).
  • All Panels - New night textures.
  • Cockpit - Hydraulic panel and floor:
    • Hydraulics panel - Re-modeled and replaced entire Hydraulics panel placards.
    • Hydraulic panel - Re-modeled Engine-Pump-Selector (non-functional).
    • Hydraulic panel - Added Autopilot Emergency valve (functional).
    • Hydraulic panel - Added star valve (non-functional).
    • Hydraulic panel - Remodeled and re-engineered / animated Landing gear handle toinclude all 3 positions (UP, NEUTRAL, DOWN). Handle operation is customized toreflect real-world operation methods.
    • Hydraulic panel - Remodeled and re-engineered / animated Flaps handle to includeall 3 positions (UP, NEUTRAL, DOWN). Handle operation is customized to reflectreal-world operation methods.
    • Cockpit Floor - Landing gear Safety Latch is now functional and integrated into thelanding gear system.
    • Cockpit Floor - Textures / PBR setup refined to include additional details.
  • Cockpit - General:
    • Pilot, copilot seats re-textured with new PBR hi-res textures.
    • Old server-stack, located on the RH side of the cockpit corridor, behind the co-pilotseat was removed. Brushed aluminum walls were mounted instead.
    • Upgraded front and upper panels, cockpit padding. All now featuring new hi-resPBR textures.
    • Aviation flashlight (pilot side) - improved, new PBR setup.
  • General Features:
    • Added built-in AviTab compatibility, with Two sets of AviTab tablets (pilot, copilot),and two sets of tablet cases for quick interaction.
  • Systems:
    • New system: Two functional Inverters were added.
    • New system: Ignition Master Switch (mounted on the ignition panel).
    • New system: New Gears up aural warning (authentic for the C-47).
    • New system: Landing gears pressure gauge is now wired to the landing gearssystem. When retracting the landing gears, it will drop to zero ("0") once the gearsare up. Then, the landing gears may be set to NEUTRAL, like it's done in the realaircraft. When lowering the landing gears, pressure will build up and will beindicated.
    • Upgraded system: Landing gears system now features two-levers: safety latch andgears handle. When the safety latch is locked (down), gears handle cannot beplaced in the upper position. Landing gear lever has 3 positions: up, down andneutral. In neutral mode the pressure is locked, preserving the current landinggear's position state. Warning light panel indicates gears and handles statusaccordingly.
    • Upgraded system: Warning lights panel is now wired to doors, landing gearsindications and handle.
    • Upgraded system: Flaps system now features a fully functional 3-position leverwith up, down and neutral position. When in the neutral position, pressure is lockedand the flaps will remain in the current deployment state.
    • Added tail-nav light bulb in tail-cone.
    • Autopilot tuneup including S-TEC modes refinement to work with the Sperry withreduced wandering in the roll axis.
    • Autopilot - added heading-sync push button option along with DG alignment to themagnetic north.
    • Vacuum system - Refined vacuum system characteristics.
    • Doors - will get closed automatically above 20 KIAS.
    • Propeller feathering system remake - now the feather push-handles will pop-outonce the propeller feathering process is done. Un-feathering and terminating thefeathering process is now possible as it works in the real C-47 (push to un-featherin case that the propeller is fully feathered).
    • Propeller mode tune-up (pitch rate of change)
  • Flight Dynamics:
    • Re-tuned control surfaces throws and phasing.
    • Re-tuned CL behavior with flaps deployment.
    • Validated flight envelope.
  • General interactions:
    • Added blown-tires visualization.

XP11 - v3.0c (28th November 2020):

  • Interaction:
    • Switching Mixture modes between Auto Rich and Auto Lean can now be managedby key/button assignment for Custom Slider#22 ON/OFF. (This is a temporarysolution until the coding of the custom C-47 mixture system will be completed).

XP11 - v3.0b1 (10th August 2020):
This update introduces version v3.0, which is still under development following its long-term
development plan. The update includes various internal-architecture/engineering modifications as preparations for things to come! Here are the highlights for v3.0b1:

  • Cockpit - Re-engineering of the cockpit compartment with new/enhanced PBR texturesand modeling:
    • Windows frames re-modeled, re-textured (PBR).
    • Trim (aileron+rudder) indicators remodeled, re-textured.
    • Mid-front shelves (on top and below the windshield wipers system) remodeled,re-textured.
    • New 'LEFT/RIGHT ENGINE SELECTOR' placards were added.
    • New landing gear latch placard.
    • Magneto switches PBR rendering transition.
    • New panels textures.
    • Upper panel remodeled.
    • Pedestal panel partially remodeled and re-textured.
    • Floor remodeled and re-textured.
    • New PBR padded cover modeled and installed.
    • Overhead speakers' visual improvement.
    • Floor visual aspects - improved.
    • Pedestal levers re-texture (PBR).
  • Cabin - Re-engineering of the cabin compartment with new/enhanced PBR textures andmodeling:
    • Enhanced textures maps/normal maps and mapping for various elements (oldinterior paints may need some modifications).
    • Equipment cabin behind co-pilot seat - new PBR texturing.
    • Two new fire extinguishers were installed on each end of the cabin.
    • Two Fire/rescue Axes were installed on each end of the cabin.
    • Cabin overhead compartments section was remodeled/re-textured.
    • New cabin padded isolation modeling and cover.
    • Cargo visualization - Added 3 cargo units, 4 equipment bags
  • Exterior modeling and texturing:
  • New default texture and normal PBR textures (full compatibility with olderexternal paints).
  • New default livery (Military Transport).
  • New default livery (Bare Metal - clean).
  • v2 older liveries for Buffalo Airways and X3 are now designated 'v2' in the liveryfolder.

XP11 - v2.9.27 (Progressive-updated 13th May 2020):

  • Novice mode for tail-wheel operation (while locked):
    • Operation of the Tail-Wheel 'Expert Mode' for the tail-wheel, in which thetail-wheel is a)Locked or b)Free to swivel, was changed: The aircraft is being loaded to X-Plane in 'EXPERT mode', in which the tail-wheel has two modes of operation: locked and unlocked.
    • While unlocked it is free to swivel. The user may switch to 'NOVICE' mode by clicking on the light-indication located on the main panel, on the left-hand side. When 'NOVICE' mode is enabled, the light will indicate 'Novice Tail-W'.
    • In 'NOVICE' mode, while locked, the tail-wheel is biased to rudder control,being steerable tail-wheel. This may help in ground operations for pilotswho are having difficulties taxiing the plane in the 'EXPERT' model, whichrequires some practice and experience.
  • VR-config:
    • ADF2 radio fine-tuned for easier frequency setup in VR.

XP11 - v2.9.25 (Progressive-updated 11th May 2020):

  • Minor 3D modeling/mapping fixes:
    • All door hinges textures mapping mismatches were fixed.
    • External antennas were mapped in separate so that each set of antennas can getinvisible if the corresponding texture map area would be transparent.

XP11 - v2.9.2 (Progressive-updated 10th May 2020):

  • Project internal architecture:
    • Internal project architecture modifications (not quite noticeable to the user,however it sets the foundations for the upcoming updates).
  • Physics/Flight dynamics:
    • XC-47C Floats variant tuneup for water operations (to fall in line with X-Plane11.40 changes to the experimental flight model).
  • Autopilot:
    • S-Tec 50 Autopilot tuneups to reduce oscillations (to minimum. The autopilot is stillbuilt on-top of the Sperry old school autopilot, which is the core of the autopilotsystem).
  • Lighting Systems:
    • Internal instruments lighting was re-wired - the instruments are now having morelight during day-time as well (when the cockpit is in the shade, without directsunlight).
    • Active aviation flash-light was added. The flash light is automatically switched onwhen cold and dark. Switching it on and off can be done by clicking on the aviationflashlight which is located on the left cockpit wall.
    • Cockpit light-bulbs elements and lighting were replaced to newer ones:
      • Fire detectors L/R (front panel).
      • Superchargers lights (left cockpit wall).
      • Brakes, Tailwheel-lock and Tailwheel Expert mode lights (front panel).
      • Voltmeter light (overhead panel).
      • Recognition light (overhead panel)
  • 3D/Visualization:
    • Cockpit duct/vent lines are now visible only in cargo configuration(passenger/cargo configuration can be toggled by clicking on the rack behind thecockpit, right-hand-side.
    • Cockpit textures enhancements (cockpit interior cover, front panel).
    • Pedals re-modeled.
    • Pedals differential braking animation were added.
    • Hydraulic wipers motor was modeled and added. Wipers activation handle wasshifted from the front panel (right side to the flaps indicator) to the upper frontpanel (dual operation handles - each side controls both wipers at the present).
  • Interaction:
    • Overhead switches manipulators were changed to 'hand' (instead of up/downarrows).
    • Windshield wipers activation was shifted to the upper front panel, along with thenew wipers system motor.

XP11 - v2.9.07 (Progressive-updated 25th Apr 2020):

  • Systems:
    • S-Tec 50 Autopilot system and panel were added. The new autopilot is built on-topof the Sperry autopilot system. 

XP11 - v2.9.x5 (Progressive-updated 2nd Dec 2019):

  • 3D modeling:
    • Fuselage dome was modeled and added.
    • All-around pitot tubes, antennas and wires remodeled/added.
    • Engines remodeled and replaced.

XP11 - v2.9.x4 (Progressive-updated 1st Dec 2019):

  • Anti-icing De-icing systems overhaul:
    • Carburetor inlet de-icing system - set and working for both engines.
    • De-icing fluid was added (12L tank).
    • The Propeller De-icing system was replaced with a fluid-based system as in the realC-47.
    • De-icing fluid is now indicated by the de-icing pressure indicator.
    • The Carburetor Air temperature gauge is now set and working.
  • 3D Modeling, PBR...
    • Cockpit PBR work continues (still progressive).
    • Yokes winded grip strings were added to both yokes.
  • Cockpit instrumentation:
    • Turn & Slip indicator was installed on the co-pilot side.
    • Instruments overall brightness increased.

XP11 - v2.9.x3 (Progressive-started 28th Nov 2019):

  • Flight Dynamics:
    • The project is now a X-Plane 11.40 Experimental flight model. Make sure that theexperimental flight model is enabled, and reload the aircraft if needed (tuneup isstill progressive).
    • Engine throttle abrupt operation is damaging the engine - it was tuned and now it isless sensitive.
  • Anti-icing De-icing systems:
    • Wing de-icing boots were tuned and now are working properly for both wings.
    • Propeller de-icing system was tuned and now is working properly for bothpropellers.
    • Carburetor de-icing system will be added soon...Stay tuned for more as this is a PROGRESSIVE update, injected via the STMAautoupdater plugin.

XP11 - v2.8.02 (24th June 2019):

  • VR interaction refinements:
    • Click zones are now visible for the radios, and separated for easy tuning.
    • All radios frequency knobs (COM/NAV/ADF/Transponder) - sensitivity adjustmentsfor VR controllers (much more fine control).
    • Autopilot pitch and roll knobs - sensitivity adjustments for VR controllers (muchmore fine control).
    • Autopilot pitch and roll knobs are animated to give better feedback when rotating.

XP11 - v2.8.01 (30th April 2019):

  • Project architecture:
    • Modified and optimized internal structure.
  • 3D modeling:
    • Mapping update with additional textures for new elements and improved existingones.
    • Default livery added: "That's All, Brother" 3X-292847.
    • Cockpit night lighting rework.
    • Internal cabin structure modified to allow future hosting of C-47 interior elements(internal walls/space division/arrangement were made, including the removal ofthe front seats raw).
    • Landing gear structure repaint, remapped.
    • Engine Radiators grills textures refined.
    • Engine Exhausts remodeled.
    • Cockpit panel refinements.
    • Doors modeling+animation.
    • Engines physical location reset (visual, flight model).
    • Clock/timer gauge seconds-needle texture fixed.
    • FPS optimization (flying in clouds).
    • Internal/external PBR maps were added.
    • Oxygen masks were added - two W2Ah13d-Leather flight helmets with Type A14oxygen masks, each one located on each pilot seat arm.
    • A Supercharges control panel was added.
    • Oxygen pressure and flow indicators were added.
  • Flight Dynamics:
    • Complete overhaul to fall in line with the latest XP11.30+ (non experimental).
    • Engines physical location fine tuned (shifted aft couple of feet).Two-speed Superchargers system was added to increase power and allow highaltitude flight.
    • Engines performance tune-up, max. HP in takeoff, cruise updated.
    • Engines exhaust and smoke - reconfigured.
  • Systems - additional:
    • Engines fire warning system was added.
    • Engines fire extinguisher system was added (floor hatch can be opened andoperated).
    • Oxygen system was added, along with an authentic regulator (incorporating'normal'/'100%' supply), and pressure and flow indicators.
    • Engines two-speed superchargers system - lo/hi-blowers.
  • VR Interaction:
    • Complete checkup.
    • Manipulators rework.
  • Advanced damage simulation:
    • Engines spool-up sensitivity algorithm was added (the C-47 is not a fighterjet....spool up the engine gradually when it is in low-rpm to avoid severe engine fire).
    • Cockpit smoke in case of engine fire was added.
    • Engine fire, cockpit smoke and cockpit windows ventilation are interconnected.
  • FMOD Sounds:
    • Oxygen breathing when using the oxygen masks.
    • Fire detection system bell was added.
  • Existing systems - refinements - enhancements:
    • Dual portable GPS are normally folded now.
    • Fuel tank selectors are now initially OFF in 'cold and dark', and L/R accordingly in'engine running'.

XP11 - v2.79.4 (Released January 2019):

  • FMOD snd error (AI attached sounds) which was causing X-Plane crashes was fixed.

XP11 - v2.79.3 (December 1st 2018):

  • Hidden Yokes are now *hidden* to interaction as well (bug fix).
  • 'Hide-Yoke' feature was added to the right seat position as well (same spot on the floor infront of the right seat, as it is in the left seat).
  • Autopilot sensitivity tuneup (50% more accurate for both aileron and pitch axis).
  • Autopilot manipulators are larger for more comfortable access (mouse and VR).
  • Passenger seats objects are now having _LIT attribute, and basic _LIT textures for theseats were added.

XP11 - v2.79 (October 29th 2018):

  • 3D Modeling and Textures:
    • Internal engineering rework.
    • Cockpit enhancements/remodeled.
    • Sperry autopilot remodeled.
    • Photo-real textures gauges (phase1).
    • Preparations for cargo/cabin.
    • Windows textures re-work.
    • PBR Normals - interior workout.
    • Front door remap/rework.
    • Buffalo Airways livery is now a 'livery'.
  • FMOD Sound Pack:
    • fmod fixes - errors in log file fixed.
  • VR Experience:
    • VRconfig setup for realistic yoke and hotspots.
    • Magnetos switched sensitivity.
    • Various manipulators work around for better interaction in VR.
  • Systems and Operation:
    • Mixtures are in Auto-Rich mode by default.
    • Pitch trim tab is calibrated.
  • General Interactivity and Fixes:
    • Autopilot servo switch is easier to operate (larger touch zone).
    • Tailwheel lock lever is easier to operate (larger touch zone).
    • Various gauges re-calibration.
  • Pilot Training Manual:
    • VSKYLABS POH/Manual was added to the package (pdf format).
    • Look for it in the 'VSKYLABS-C-47-MANUAL' folder.
  • STMA AutoUpdater:
    • The project is now including the STMA autoupdater plugin.

XP11 - Version v2.7b3 (August 7th 2018):

  • Solid project package updated to the latest version (v2.7b3).
  • STMA AutoUpdater is temporarily not included in v2.7b3 version - next update will beexecuted by fully downloading the new updated package.

XP11 - v2.7b2.3 (August 2018):

  • PRB texturing fixes and additions for the cockpit.
  • New modeled pilot seats.
  • Seat/Yoke/Pedals accurate alignment.

XP11 - v2.7b2.0 (June 21st 2018):

  • STMA AutoUpdate to v2.7b2.0 (reload of the base pack is needed).
  • PRB texturing preparations for the cockpit.
  • Gauges glass improvements (reflective + night appearance).
  • VR operations - Pitch trim has a fixed axis for better touch controllers usability.

XP11 - v2.7b1 (March 5th 2018):

  • XC-47C Amphibious variant added to the package. The variant includes EDO78 floats forland and sea operations.
  • Airframe icing visualization - 4 step effect, working with X-Plane icing algorithm.
  • Windshield icing visualization.
  • Deice wing boots switch added.
  • Damage visualization - "first step": Exceeding Vne, over-g, flaps overspeed, high velocitypropellers seizure.
  • Night Lit textures added to the default Buffalo Airways and to the VSKYLABS liveries.
  • STMA AutoUpdater plugin included.

XP11 - v2.5e (January 29th 2018):

  • VR compatibility:
    • Added VR Dual operation for throttle/prop/mixture levers.
    • Side window can be opened in VR.
    • Pitch and Aileron trims operation fine-tuning.

XP11 - v2.5c (January 8th 2018):

  • VR compatibility:
  • Added Yoke control for VR operations.
  • GNS530 knobs refinements for VR operations.
  • Version designation:
    • X-Plane 11 - v2.5c (January 8 2018).
    • X-Plane 10 - v2.5a (October 23 2017).

v2.5a (October 23rd 2017):

  • 3D Model internal:
    • Compass bungee cords animation - adjustment for the "shaking effect" with multiaxis animation.
    • Cockpit windows slide-open capability (get some fresh air in...). While the windowis opened - turbulence and external sounds will get into the cockpit.
    • Yoke-wheels remodeled - fixed geometry ("squashed" yoke-wheel).
  • 3D Model - external:
    • Main landing gears animation geometry during retracted state - retracted stateposition tuned.
    • Aircraft wheels discs textures - replaced to photo real.
    • General fixes to external textures and normal maps (default Buffalo andVSKYLABS liveries).
    • Prop spinner/hub 3d model improved, the spinner and the hub are now separatedin texture to allow more realistic metallic textures for the bolt and for the hub inseparate.
    • Operational landing gear skis added - Integrated into the flight model physics withcorrect drag forces and moments, can be switched on and off during flight!
    • Propeller disc rework.
  • Engine/Systems:
    • Engine performance - CHT and Oil Temp operation/temperature tuneup.
    • Carburetor Air Temp Gauge - Tuned up (X-Plane 10.51 does not feature this sensor, so X-Plane 10.51 users will keep having it in a fixed position).
  • Avionics:
    • OBS knob control - manipulators changed.
    • Dual GNS 530 (1,2) added - It is actually a dual GNS 530 terminal which is folding. While folded, they are set to 'off'. In addition, they offer full control over nav1,nav2,com1,com2 and separated dual display for maximum usability. Volume control knobs for com/nav on the GNS terminal are working also, so pilots who areusing the GNS configuration are not required to use the upper old-school radio panel.
  • FMOD Sounds:
    • Extending ground roll sounds enveloping to be heard on slow-airspeed landings as well.
  • Bug Fixes/Just fixes:
    • Co-pilot comm box textures fix.
    • Carburetor heating: Left handle will be for "locking" (non operational), while the other two are for left/right engines. Full aft position will be for heating.
    • On board time watch - hour needle fix, stopwatch needle added (red needle).
  • Immersion:
    • Rain effect: effective rain effect "pack" was added. It is very effective, yet simple (practically zero effect on FPS).
  • Other:
    • Various internal "engineering moves" in preparation for its continuous development and evolution.

v2.1 (August 30th 2017):

  • FMOD implementation:
    • FMOD project for the VSKYLABS DC-3/C-47 Flying Lab is COMPLETED.
    • Backwards compatibility remains - standard sounds folder will be remained. Todisable FMOD, simply rename its directory.
    • FMOD sounds will continue to improve and expand side by side the whole project.
    • Standard sounds of the initial release version will include:
      • Engines and Props with multiple layers for various rpm and distance fromthe engines.
      • Engine startup and post startup low rpm sounds.
      • Switches and knobs.
      • Gyro instruments, Booster pumps.
      • Gears, Flaps.
      • Ambiance (wind) and turbulence during normal flight.
      • Ground roll, tire screech.
      • Vocal Annunciation for mixture control (auto rich, auto lean).
      • Vocal Annunciation for tail wheel (locked, unlocked).
      • Vocal Annunciation for autopilot (engaged/disengaged).
      • Overhead Electric fans.
      • The standard sounds will expand gradually on a pre-planned and user-request basis
  • 3D Modeling:
    • Cockpit compartment - internal cockpit curtains removed, back wall of cockpitcompartment is now featuring the same textures as the whole inter-cockpitcovering. This configuration allows a more 'clean' cockpit environment, as apreparation for the freight/cargo update (currently under development).
    • Cockpit Escape hatch (internal part) modeled.
    • Windshield wipers - working in opposite directions (fix).
    • Magnetic compass (on top of the front panel) is now hinged with rubber-wires, asseen on many DC-3's out there.
    • Right hand windshield wiper re-alignment to work in an opposite direction to theleft hand wiper.
    • Overhead electric fans - Added two (pilot/co-pilot).
    • Added co-pilot comm box for comfortable right seat operations.
    • Added two radio-microphones.
    • Added two overhead loudspeakers
  • Systems:
    • GNS 530 pop-up window instead of the GNS 430.
    • Landing lights intensity adjusted (brighter).

v2.0 (August 15th 2017)

  • 3D/model Textures:
    • Landing gears re-modeled, re textured.
    • Passengers seats re-modeled, re-textured. Two sets were made, one for the defaultBuffalo Airways livery, and a second one to the VSKYLABS livery.
    • Ultra-high definition rivet-mapping: The Ultra-High Definition rivet lines texture map of version 2.0 was created and contributed to the project by Oleg Tronov, Sochi, Russia. Oleg is a long-time DC-3 enthusiast. He had created the rivets layout based on real rivet map technical drawings as a reference. The rivet map source and paint kit are not a part of the VSKYLABS project.
    • Overhead Panel model and textures rework.
    • Overhead and pedestal panels: fixed sun-reflections on overhead panel.
    • Cockpit panel 3d model additions and preparations for v3.0
  • Instrument panel:
    • Airspeed indicator textures work and needle fine tuned (for 0-80 mph scale).
    • Airspeed Indicator - added speed tabs + an adjustable tab for personal use (mousemanipulator for fast set-up).
  • Systems/Engines:
    • Emergency Gear Pump - added! When no hydraulic pressure and gears up:
      • Set the gear handle to the down position.
      • Click (repeatedly) on the Emergency Gear handle (down to the right), andobserve the landing gear's light indications.
      • "Pump" it with mouse clicks until the "transit light" turns off, and the "downand locked" light turns green.
      • Safe landing.
      • Note - this handle is operational, but not animated yet, probably will beanimated in the following update.
    • CHT operational temperature tuned - the engines should run now with a lowerCHT.
  • Flight Dynamics Model:
    • Elevator trim tab setup for better takeoff handling.
  • Sounds:
    • FMOD project initiated but not included in v2.0. Because the FMOD is a full scaleproject on its own...it will be added to the next update only.
  • Liveries:
    • Default Buffalo Airways livery touch ups. Authentic Buffalo Airway interior liningfor the seats added.
    • Additional livery added - VSKYLABS Livery. I set up the objects files in the package so it will eliminate the hassle with the file in a text editor (for changing NORMAL_METALNESS and GLOBAL_specular values).
  • Bug fixes:
    • Propeller levers will never go out of their gimbals, no matter which hardware isbeing used and with any settings.
    • Magnetos operation - magneto arrow direction corrected.
    • Auto-Lean / Auto-Rich Mixture click zones enhanced for better interactivity.
  • General features:
    • Toggle Passenger seats - When clicking on the first two seats (right hand side seats,when looking to the tail section from the cockpit) - they will disappear. Clickingagain on the same spot will bring it back (preparation feature for futureimplementation of cargo livery).

v1.2 (31th July 2017):

  • Liveries:
    • Folder structure for easy livery implementation (added Livery folder).
  • Systems:
    • Audio selection box installed in the left inner wall of the cockpit, just below thewindow (C-166/AIC-3 intercom box).
    • Cowl Flaps operation calibration made.
    • Fuel Pressure needles correlation FIXED.
    • Turn and Bank indicator tuning. Note that it is a Bendix type Indicator - Turn andBank Army Type A-8, which doesn't indicate turn rate as in the more modern turnand bank indicator. You may notice the missing markings for the needle (actuallythey are not missing, it is how the indicator is built). It was very difficult to obtainthe manual for this instrument, and its current behavior is based on the Turn andBank Indicator - Type A-8, from the "OPERATION, SERVICE AND OVERHAULINSTRUCTION WITH PARTS CATALOG FOR TURN AND BANK INDICATORS, published under joint authority of the Commanding General, Army Air Forces, the Chief of the Bureau of Aeronautics and the Air Council of the United Kingdom, MARCH 1945."
    • Parking Brake indicator light in the front panel - added (user request). Forconvenience, and for those who don't want to bend down and reach the parkingbrake handle down at the lower section of pedestal - clicking on the light itself willtoggle the parking brakes (user request).
    • Tail-wheel lock indicator light added also (user request).
  • Engine Simulation:
    • Engine spool-up times in X-Plane 11 version were tuned.
    • Engine Idle RPM tune-up.
  • 3D Model and textures:
    • Windshield wipers mounts and switches installed.
    • Pitot-heat left/right system FIX (including fix to the pitot heater switch labels -users request).
    • Interior model minor fixes.
    • Exterior model minor fixes.
    • Removed bad texture plates from the cockpit's back wall.
    • Landing Lights glass textures improvements (user request).
    • Parking Brake handle manipulator added.
  • Flight Dynamics:
    • Landing gears handling tuning (planned update): as a result, the aircraft will nothave tendency to drop its nose down upon aircraft download.
    • Tail wheel operation was changed: Two modes of operation:
      • Novice (default): "Locked" is actually an "augmented lock" state. While"locked" the aircraft can be operated as a conventional tail-dragger withadditional tail-wheel steering ability (not realistic, but will make taxi moreeasy for the novice pilots).
      • Expert (toggle mode): "Locked" is totally locked. To enable this featuresimply click on the Lock-Light-Indicator, and the letters "EX" will be visibleon the light cover, indicating that it is now in "Expert mode".
      • In both modes...Tail Wheel Lock should be made using the Tail-Lock handleat the lower pedestal.
  • General Matters:
    • Nav lights position in wingtips aligned.
    • Added a text file to the package, named "Instructions", Inside to be found a link tothe project instruction page at VSKYLABS.COM

v1.1 (24th July 2017):

  • Systems and Engines:
    • Propellers will not feather automatically when shutting down on the ground(X-Plane 11 and X-Plane 10 are quite different in how this works...to make it short,in X-Plane 11 it is a "real" manual feather system for each propeller, while inX-Plane 10 version is kind of a "mimic". Actual result is the same.
    • Aircraft is "awaking" with unfeathered props when cold and dark.
    • Electric system tune-up: Radios and other equipment are not connected to a "hotbus" anymore (need to turn off battery to use).
    • Trim/Flaps/Gears *actuators* are not electric-dependable.
    • Aggressive start-up of the engines - resolved.
    • External lights are now divided into "NAV" and "Strobe" switches.
    • Electrical system refinements, including connecting the two Generators Ammeters(over head panel) to the generators, which are monitoring load on the Generators.
    • ADF Frequency manipulator fixed (+ for up, - for down).
    • Windshield wipers installed and working. Currently you will have to click on theirmotor to turn on/off. Down the road and not too far I will model their mounts andswitches, and will install it in the cockpit, so operation will be by using thedesignated switch.
  • Flight Dynamics:
    • Rudder physics slightly tuned. It will have another "batch" of tuning in the future.
  • Sounds:
    • 'Talking man' speech removed (until it will be greatly improved when FMODsounds will be available for the package).
  • Visuals:
    • Windows and instrument glass are now fully reflective and shiny. It is anexperimental state. I want to "live" with it a bit before I decide to make it final...
    • Propellers texture-works: replaced (visible when engine is not rotating, or course).
    • Fixed needle alignment in the engines gauges (user request). I've also enlarged the"1","2","L","R" markings on the needles.
    • Cockpit night lighting FIXED.
  • Textures Paint-Kit:

V1.0 - Initial version release (July 20th 2017) - for X-Plane 10, X-Plane 11.

Subscribe to: Comments (Atom)