Just wondering if any disabled sim pilots have come up with a workaround for rudder control if they aren’t able to use rudder pedals? I’m in this position and I tried using a twist joystick along with my yoke and throttle setup but found it just one thing too many to try and handle while taxiing and take-off. I liked how in fsx the auto rudder took control of this in a much more complete way than the same option in msfs does. Aircraft like the L19 and other tail-draggers are really tough to control without proper rudder input.
One option might be the CH Eclipse yoke. It has an integrated rudder control on the yoke that allows you to apply rudder input while keeping your hands on the yoke at all times.
Hi,
Thanks for the reply.
I have a joystick with the twist which I use for sims with aircraft that have a stick, but when I’m flying cessnas and pipers etc I like to use a yoke and the throttle quadrant.
Hi,
Thanks for the reply.
That is an interesting solution. I’m guessing the flipper switches aren’t simple on or off? But progressive pressure? That would make it ideal for rudder control if it is. I might have to sell my logitech gear and buy this instead
That’s correct. It’s analogue input - not just on/off. Overall, I like the yoke. I’ve had mine for a few years and haven’t had any real problems with it. I had a bit of stickiness with the elevator control at one point but just applied some silicone grease and it’s been great ever since.
Hope it works for you if you decide to give it a try.
One thing I should mention though, the trim wheels don’t seem to work very well in MSFS. I have to spin them a lot to apply appropriate trim adjustments. I couldn’t figure out how to change the configuration to apply more trim input for small adjustments.
that’s due to the 10/100 increments bug we had. when they fixed that it also removed acceleration control that was used with trimwheels etc. but that’s a discussion for on another topic
And @AgingJupiter518 if you have ideas to further improve this, please do share! I know the folks at Asobo are very active to make the sim ACCESSIBLE FOR ALL (Jorg mentioned this in a stream), so any input is always welcome!
This is actually something that somebody with a bit of engineering skill, a 3d printer and some (very affordable) components could actually build a device for.
I think I’ll have a nose around Thingiverse and r/HotasDIY to see if anybody has already worked on something.
I was thinking some sort of axis paddle that can be operated with the hand which is not on joystick. A bit like the paddle on the Thrustmaster TWCS throttle. (although I’m not sure that’s an axis or actually how good it even is.)
If you are able to run a separate stand aside throttle (I recommend one with throttle prop and breaks) try setting the joysticks throttle to rudder axis and the trigger set up for aircraft breaks
I’m disabled guy myself and couldn’t car less both are the same thing.
Making people feel awkward about what they should or shouldn’t say around disabled people doesn’t help them treat you the same, in fact they more likely to leave you out or ignore you because they are worried about saying the wrong thing and making an awkward situation.
If someone is using ways of talking to a disabled person in a way to purposely cause offence then that is different. It all comes down to context.
It’s fine if you don’t like things said a certain way and don’t have a problem if that’s how you feel. Just wanted to point out that it can actually in fact cause exclusion.
Anyway to be on topic I’m interested to know what you @AgingJupiter518 find works best. Right now I can use the Logitech rudder pedals, but eventually this may be an issue for me. Would be awesome if when you find something that works you could keep this post updated.
Words matter! If you choose to speak and think like that then that is your choice. How we choose to communicate (or not communicate) with others tells them everything they need to know. Treating everyone with respect means we need to communicate in a respectful way - even those with disabilities - or anyone else.
While we’re on the topic of trim control, I’ve been loving using the throttle on my Logitech ExtremePro 3D joystick as the trim axis. I couldn’t use trim at all with the +/- button assignment. For the throttle, make sure you assign the -100% - +100% axis, not the other one, which is an on/off style and doesn’t work.
Since it only moves 45 degrees for full range of motion, it’s very touchy, but I can zero in right away to the proper trim, which is impossible with the +/- key mapping style trim.
I didn’t want to add more as is off topic but my point is no disrespect was meant by the topic title.
But as you said each to their own so will leave it there.
Hello! I have seen some users adapt driving wheels for the sim to use as a tiller, similar to how some airliners have tillers to side of the pilot’s to control the aircraft on the ground (I use mine to the side of the table as a trim wheel) . Maybe you could try something similar and use it for rudders as well? Wheels usually are cheaper and easier to find than flight sim gear.
Most people I know (I got to many disabled groups and have been an advocate for years) actually prefer disabled then the word such as pilot. It sounds more natural and th Pilot with disability separates the many issues disabled people face compared to abled people more.
Obviously it’s down to opinion but wanted to add this given its something that overwhelmingly people with disabilities find uncomfortable
I am bedbound and even though don’t currently use a flight stick, when did I used a twist or set buttons to rudders however since I also found the MSFS companion app ( MSFS Mobile Companion App » Microsoft Flight Simulator ) which lets you control rudders and trim from the phone which is super helpful!
If have any advice on a good flight stick I’d appreciate it. Happy flying!
Please keep the topic onto the subject of controlling rudders and less-abled simmers.
The discussion if it’s disabled pilots, pilots with disabilities, less-abled or otherwise mentioned doesn’t matter in this case, and doesn’t belong on the forum at all
