DIY Flip Flat....Anyone?

[Kaliska]

Now, I'm no DIY wizard, but has there been anyone who has built their own Flip Flat like the Alnitak Flip-Flat ?

These things are ridiculously expensive....why? And, are they that difficult to replicate in some way?

[skybadger]

I built one for my 6" Cass. Never quite finished it. Uses a servo to drive a geared flap. Worked well with a servo tester, just needs the smarts to drive it remotely. It's last on the list as part of the dome automation project. The smarts I have now though. 

Mike

 

 

 

 

[JamesF]

Have you posted any details, Mike?  Or is that to come when it is finished? :)

James

[wimvb]

Haven't looked into it, but if you replace the cover with an EL panel, this might do

https://indilib.org/support/tutorials/165-diy-auto-indi-telescope-cover.html

You will need a servo that can lift and hold the panel. 

[steppenwolf]

Yes, I have built my own for my 4" Refractor and it works faultlessly! Here's a video of it in operation:-

 

[skybadger]

I can post some details. I'll get some photos. 

[steppenwolf]

Full constructional details of my solution were published in the January 2017 edition of the Sky at Night magazine (issue 140) if that is of any interest.

[Kaliska]

59 minutes ago, steppenwolf said:

Full constructional details of my solution were published in the January 2017 edition of the Sky at Night magazine (issue 140) if that is of any interest.

Well, this is just perfect, I couldn't ask for anything more thank you!

[Kaliska]

3 hours ago, skybadger said:

I can post some details. I'll get some photos. 

Yes please

 

[old_eyes]

3 hours ago, steppenwolf said:

Full constructional details of my solution were published in the January 2017 edition of the Sky at Night magazine (issue 140) if that is of any interest.

Neat Steve. I might pluck up the courage to try that!

[Dr_Ju_ju]

Its a bit longer in the tooth, but there's also this http://www.scopefocus.info/home/autoflat