OpenViper - F16 Cockpit for flight simulation

Project Title: OpenViper – An Open Source F-16 Cockpit Replica for Flight Simulation

I am building a full-size replica of an F-16 cockpit, designed for use in VR with mixed reality integration. The cockpit will feature functional buttons, switches, and indicators, making it not just a static model but a truly immersive flight experience. This project is both large in physical scale and complex in engineering, combining 3D-printed structures with extensive electronics integration.

3D Printing Challenges

• Printing large-format structural parts for the cockpit frame.
• Producing high-detail, multi-color panels that replicate real instrument layouts.
• Using specialty filaments such as carbon fiber, ASA, PLA, and PETG for strength, durability, and professional finish quality.

Open-Source Community Effort

OpenViper is more than just my personal build—it is the foundation for an open-source community project. The goal is to bring together engineers, makers, and flight simulation enthusiasts to collaborate on:

• 3D design: Creating modular and scalable cockpit parts, from desktop-sized setups to fully functional cockpits.
• Electronics: Designing and testing PCBs to handle the large number of switches, buttons, and indicators.
• Software: Developing easy-to-use interfaces for flight simulators, with ESP32-based control boards for connectivity.

The aim is to create a practical, immersive, and affordable cockpit that provides great realism and joy for flight sim enthusiasts worldwide. The community will continue to grow over time, allowing the project to evolve into more advanced builds, more detailed panels, and broader collaboration across disciplines.

As inspiration, here’s an impressive example of what is possible in the world of cockpit replicas (though not the current state of my own project):

👉 YouTube – Knight’s F-16 Cockpit Showcase

Why PCBWay Sponsorship Matters

Since the cockpit requires many functional buttons and switches, a reliable PCB solution is essential. With your support, we can design:

• Custom keyboard-matrix PCBs to connect dozens of switches efficiently.
• ESP32-based interface boards to handle inputs and outputs.
• Modular, open-source hardware that the community can adapt, improve, and share.

PCBWay’s sponsorship would enable the community to move quickly from prototypes to production-quality boards, ensuring the project remains accessible, affordable, and scalable for makers worldwide. Of course, PCBWay’s support will be proudly acknowledged on all project websites, documentation, and community channels.

The Future of OpenViper

This is only the beginning. Over time, OpenViper will grow into a global community-driven project—expanding in scale, detail, and accessibility. Together, we will make it possible for anyone, anywhere, to take flight in their own cockpit replica.

Or, like Iceman said: “You can be my wingman any time.”

Happy Printing & Flying!