MBAI SR-71 Blackbird

[Fokket50]

After seeing all the beautifull new AI models, I started with my own model. I always loved the Blackbird, and that's why I started with one.
I'm planning on doing all the familiy models: SR-71A/B, YF-12, A-12 and the M21/D21. First I have started with the SR-71A and B, but as this is my first model it will take some time.
Thanks to this forum, there will be some animations, like the Drag chute, and engine covers.
Here are some screenshots of the model in it's current state.

Will keep you informed about the progress.
Menno





(as this is my first model, I cannot give an estimate when it will be finished )

[delbydoo]

Menno - nice surprise! Good luck with the poject

[DaleRFU]

Looks like a great start. Good luck with the project.

[John Young]

Well done Menno and welcome to the Retro Scene. You certainly seem to have got the hang of modelling. I'm not sure I can be of any help as I use Gmax, but I have a number of blocks of xml code for the animation of the temporary parts like the chute, for both FS9 and FSX should they be of any use.

John

[bismarck]

This is a great news!!! One of my favourite ever.
Giorgio

[gsnde]

Menno,

The Owl praises you

I was already expecting that every aircraft but the great Blackbird would finally fly the AI skies. Asking for the SR-71 was the first thing I did when becoming a member here many years ago and before I had read the forum rules

Thanks a lot!!!

[timbob1]

Menno, Good man, that looks superb

[Fokket50]

Thank you all for your comments. It is my first try at creating a model, and it is a nice adventure. There is so much to learn, but it is paying off.
The B model and 61-7959 (this bird had an extra long tail) are almost complete in Lod1.

@ John, thank you for offering your help, I have found some of your codes on another forum, and with some help from Miljan I have now the codes for this aircraft.

I could use some help with the cfg and air files. I tried to start with it, but I find it difficult to work on. If there is someone willing to help with this, that would be much appriciated.

Menno

[John Young]

Menno, Mike M is an AI FDE guru here and he has taught me quite a lot since I have been here. He explains things very clearly and comes up with some really good tips, like the illogical one of not setting the max speed higher than the cruising speed. I'm sure he will help you if you get stuck and I'll gladly share my learning as far as it goes.

I have something that might be of use to you generally if you would like to pm me your e-mail address.

John

[Firebird]

As it happens I was working on an SR-71 fde, for the Alphasim AI one, before my 'puter went away. I got it to go M3.2+ at FL750.
I hope to have it back within the next few weeks so if you can wait for then you are welcome to use it but if you want to go with Mike from scratch that is fine, just let me know.

[Fokket50]

Don't you sometimes hate it, that there is something as going to work. I had just started with the A-12 and YF12 models, when the boss called and asked if I could go abroad for some time.

Now I am back home again, and ready to continue with the Blackbird. The Lod1 for the SR71A/B, A12 and YF12 are almost completed. Now starting with the next challange, LOD's

@steve: When you have your computer back, I would like to try your FDE, just let me know when you have them available.

Menno

[gsnde]

What's the phone number of your boss?

Great to hear about your progress, Menno!

[Firebird]

No problem, Menno.

[dk1213]

Menno I hope you are still working on this ..... any updates? We really need this iconic plane in the virtual skies

[Fokket50]

Hi Guys,

The Blackbird is still under construction. The main model and lods are almost finished, just some small adjustments to do.
I only need more spare time, as I am busy with work and had some vacation. But it will be finished.

Menno

[flyerkg]

Hey, this sounds great. I got to sit in one just after its retirement was announced. Most of the instruments and radios were already removed.

Keith

[dk1213]

ROCK AND ROLL MENNO! Can't wait!

[TheFoufure]

perhaps some screenshots of current work ??

[Firebird]

Menno is away for a few weeks now, so I guess that isn't going to be possible.

[Fokket50]

Hi Guys,

My last duty was a bit longer then planned for, but I am home again.
Trying to finish the blackbird, I am having some problems with the xml coding.
The engine inlets on the blackbird are moving depending on the speed of the aircraft. I am trying to have the same movement on the ai model, but I am not so good with the xml coding.
I have this at the moment, but it is not doing the trick, any suggestions?

<part>
<name>Engine cone</name>
<animation>
<parameter>
<code>
(A:VELOCITY BODY Z, MACH) 1 >
</code>
</parameter>
</animation>
</part>

Menno