SkyTrack - Full Metal Jacket protection shield

[awisnia]

Finally had a chance to finish a prototype of my SkyTrak protection. (I had my last unit take a ball to the IR lens while IN the protective case from SkyTrak - it didn't work again.)

Being lucky enough to own a business with a good bit of sheet metal equipment, and finally the time. (having a party this weekend and need to protect my unit!) The leveling feet need a bit wider spacing, and I need to test that the unit still reads shots. I went with a minimum of openings to try to keep balls from sneaking through the front. I popped off the IR lens so that it's easy to see the parts that need to "see" - I'll obviously be putting it on before testing. Still unsure if I'll screw the unit to the base and leave an air gap, or use foam on 5 sides to isolate the SkyTrak from the steel.

I added a lip in the front so I can drop an alignment rod in for a visual reference.

Holes on bottom need adjustment, and maybe slotting to allow the SkyTrak to be adjusted to the base for alignment.

Interested in comments!

[dmsimm69]

That's pretty awesome! Would you be willing to provide the specs/measurements for the cutouts?

[awisnia]

at some point - pretty simple to extrapolate if you pop the IR lens of your unit - almost better to cut and check against the skytrack.

[awisnia]

Made the V2 prototypes today - pretty happy with the amount of adjustment that the slots on the bottom give. It's about +/- 3 degrees which i would hope is enough for those concerned with the adjustment. Will test tonight for reads with Skytrack at adjustment each limit.

[DirtyGarry24]

With the screw heads exposed as they are, guys that want to set the box directly on their mat won't be able to use the screws. Would be a wobbly case. I think you should have found a way to bury the screw heads. I'm afraid you may have come to market too soon?

[awisnia]

Gary, please stop it.

[wbond]

That looks great. That's what i was thinking should solve the problem if you have a unit that is slightly open/closed. Get it set, tighten the screws and your good to go just using the alignment rod feature. Nice job.

[awisnia]

exactly - just did 20/20 shots with the unit adjusted to both limits. Read every one.

[Miura Mario]

looks great pal what do you plan on selling these for?

[BadEddieKit]

I'm interested as well when you get it all ready to go!

[DirtyGarry24]

awisnia - I would worry that some of your middle supports won't hold up at the point of contact. I wonder, have you test shot your case? It seems based on your pictures that they would simply fold in and protrude on the ST lens. Just a thought.

I've recently updated my design. I believe you are familiar with my thread? I've tested a prototype and it seems to be a winner. I've added and optimized window, tabs with v-notches for an alignment rod, and a guard for usb cable protection. I think guys that run their systems direct will like that feature. I also have a top on my case and feel that you should consider adding one as well. Some guys have bounce back issues and like a top on the case.

Furthermore, the slotted holes for alignment variation are nice, but unnecessary in my opinion. One 6mm screw in the center is plenty to hold the ST and slotted holes just add cost that translates to the consumer. The one hold down screw will give the same effect. Other than that, looking good. Here, have a look at my updated design.

[awisnia]

That's coming along - good stuff. Yes, I've posted to your thread, but came to the conclusion you would rather I did not.

[awisnia]

Looks good - looks like a winner..

[DirtyGarry24]

As far as test shooting your case, I have a solution for you. I for one am not hitting shots point blank into metal objects. Sounds like a good way to lose your manhood to me.

A buddy of mine owns a golf ball launcher. It's bad ass if you're into that kind of thing. Will launch a golf ball 400+ yards. Plan on giving a prototype a few test shots this afternoon. Yes, we will be relatively safe. LOL! I'm really not worried about the case because the material is rock solid, but I feel it necessary. And fun as hell to boot! Anyway, send me one of your cases, I'll gladly test shoot it for you.

[awisnia]

I'm good, but thanks.

[awisnia]

Okay - V3 will have a Kensington slot and hole for a padlock or chain. For real security, one would need security screws to attach the unit to the shield.

I'm happy with it - see thread below if you would like one.

[DirtyGarry24]

That's a lot of lock for such thin sheet metal. Looks like about a 9 iron get that to pull thru. Maybe a 3/4 8...

[Sledge0001]

Awesome. I'm definitely in for 2 and if my investors pull through more.

[awisnia]

this is the version - except will have a hole in the back for kensington lock

[DirtyGarry24]

You're a little late to the party Akotu. You need to have a more thorough read over at my thread and you will see the history.

I'm bringing a case to the market. I'm getting everything ironed out before I present a product that isn't a quality piece.

Being first to market is not always the best thing. See ST protective case...

[awisnia]

Gary, I'm just trying to help out some people in the forum - I offered the information in the thread you started and you asked me to leave, so I did...now you've followed.

I'm fortunate to have built a business and have access to cad, lasers, brakes, a powder line, and people to run them. I don't need to be doing this and feel somewhat of an obligation to give back, as I learned so much in this group before building my sim. Towards that end, I've freely shared what I've learned along the way in regards to the SkyTrack and various cases. It's a hobby and fun distraction and I'm confused why are you hassling me? Please stop.

[DirtyGarry24]

We're not going to agree on this so this will be my last attempt. You couldn't stand the interest that my thread was getting so you came on in to impose. You brought your design into my thread to draw interest into yours. All under the non compete bs. It was a planned deal and I don't expect you to admit it.

Again, everyone should know the history of this. We're now linked together on this and that could have been avoided if you handled it differently.

You can take the Satterwhite's off the christmas card list. Moving on...

[awisnia]

Since some of you have asked about buying one of these - here's how

I've put an item on ebay at $95 that covers the cost of making a batch of them (It also includes USPS shipping in the USA only.)

Ebay global service at cost to other countries

My kids want to commercialize it (12/15 year-olds - that watch too much Shark Tank) but for now I'm happy just to get some out to the indoor hackers that could use one this winter.

I just ask that you use it, and offer some feedback on this thread so that others can learn and use.

You can find the link in the classified ads section:

http://golfsimulatorforum.com/forum/...olf-simulators



If it works out - maybe the kids can run with Full Metal Golf in the spring!

Happy Holidays - keep it in the short grass.

[Sledge0001]

Since some of you have asked about buying one of these - here's how

I've put an item on ebay at $95 that covers the cost of making a batch of them (It also includes USPS shipping in the USA only.)

My kids want to commercialize it (12/15 year-olds - that watch too much Shark Tank) but for now I'm happy just to get some out to the indoor hackers that could use one this winter.

I just ask that you use it, and offer some feedback on this thread so that others can learn and use.

You can find the link in the classified ads section:

http://golfsimulatorforum.com/forum/...olf-simulators



If it works out - maybe the kids can run with Full Metal Golf in the spring!

Happy Holidays - keep it in the short grass.

To be clear the ones on Ebay will be the V3 correct?

[awisnia]

Yip

Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk

[Sledge0001]

Just placed my order for 2!

[jagred64]

Just placed my order. This is one case that is worth $95. So happy can not wait for it to come in.

[Bubba22]

Ok guys, I have been using awisnia's Skytrak full metal shield and simply put, its awesome. Its certainly the best case I have seen. The cutouts for the Skytrak cams etc. are perfect. I played my recent rounds with it and there were 0 no reads or misreads. The case is very solid and made extremely well. It completely protects the Skytrak from any shanks etc. The case is easy to align and height adjustment is good. Well done awisnia! This is well worth the money!

[Akotu]

Thanks for the feedback. I look forward to receiving mine.

[N54TT]

Looks good. what's the range for height adjustment? Specifically max height?

[awisnia]

2 inch lift all the way up - you can get any length bolt 3/8-16 if you want to go higher - maybe add a jam nut for stability if you do.

or, these from ebay will get you to 4 inches for $9

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Adjustable-Lathe-Leg-Furniture-Leveling-Feet-3-8-NC-X-4-5-Lot-of-4-CB-Silver-/172419357355?hash=item2824fe9aab:g:RIAAAOSwB09YJJzy

[N54TT]

Happen to know if the SkyTrak case uses 3/8-16?

[awisnia]

looks smaller - 1/4 or metric - have not measured