This file for OpenTX 2.3 demonstrates some novel safety switches which if accidentally knocked will not change state. These switches are ideal for complex IC models with retracts and ignition systems where accidental activation could cause injury or damage to the model. They can also be used as throttle kills on electric fixed wing and rotary craft. For an additional layer of safety you could also configure them to be active only in certain flight modes via the Mixer screen.

The switches can utilise any three-position switch, and require that a sequence be completed that includes change in direction of the physical switch within a given time period to activate or deactivate the desired function.

Two versions are included – V1 where a sequence is required for activation and deactivation, and V2, where the sequence is required only in one direction (for instance from gear down to gear up). Returning the switch to its starting position resets it.

Switch Descriptions

General

·         Each switch is configured by default to require the activation/deactivation sequence to be completed within 5 seconds.

·         If the sequence is not completed within the time it deactivates and the switch must be returned to its original starting position before another attempt can be made.

·         I have chosen 5 seconds as this makes testing in OpenTX Companion easier, but I recommend shortening the time period to somewhere between 1 and 2 seconds to make accidental activation even less likely.

o   To achieve this, alter the “Duration” parameter against the relevant logical switches (L1 & L2, L8 & L9, L15 & L16) to the desired time period in seconds.

Instructions – V1

Switch 1 – Throttle Kill

·         Activated by physical switch SG (sequence must complete within 5s).

·         Defined by logical switches L1-L6.

·      

Switch 2 – Ignition

·         Activated by physical switch SD (sequence must complete within 5s).

·         Defined by logical switches L8-L13.

· 

Switch 3 – Gear

·         Activated by physical switch SB (sequence must complete within 5s).

·         Defined by logical switches L15-L19.

··       Gear delayed by 3 seconds to enable rapid cancellation if activated in error.

·         Gear slowed by 3 seconds for scale effect (was designed for my Dad’s Spitfire!)

Instructions – V2 (Simplified logical switches and deactivation sequence)

Switch 1 – Throttle Kill

·         Activated by physical switch SG (sequence must complete within 5s).

·         Defined by logical switches L1-L3.

Switch 2 – Ignition

·         Activated by physical switch SD (sequence must complete within 5s).

·         Defined by logical switches L8-L10

Switch 3 – Gear

·         Activated by physical switch SB (sequence must complete within 5s).

·         Defined by logical switches L15-L17. 

·         Gear delayed by 3 seconds to enable rapid cancellation if activated in error.

·         Gear slowed by 3 seconds for scale effect

All functions of state are confirmed verbally when activated, and the sound files are attached with the ZIP file – simply paste them into the Sounds folder on your Taranis. I hope you find these useful!

Matt Brett, Sept 2020

Pre-flight checks / Disclaimer- Although these switches have been tested, it’s up to you the pilot to make sure you understand and use them correctly in your model. I cannot be held responsible for any bugs in the setup or documentation, so please remember to test your setup thoroughly before flying!