Simple On-Board Computer

[ummwut]

So, a while ago I started coding a small 16-bit virtual computer plugin for KSP. Everything was going great. Then, the Fire Nation attacked.

Just kidding, I actually got stuck on interfacing hardware with it. Not interfacing with the ship, exactly, but maybe a class that would report keystrokes much like a keyboard would, and a class that would manage the GUI much like a monitor would. Unfortunately, I don't know how to really do GUI stuff or catch keystrokes that aren't intended for the VM, so I'm stuck.

Here's the link to my GitHub where I uploaded my code so far: http://github.com/ummwut/KSP-16bit-onboard.

Now, need an outside perspective on this. Help me, KSP forums, you're my only hope!

[domox]

I would check http://svn.mumech.com/KSP/trunk/MuMechLib/MechJebModuleAutom8.cs This is the console for mechjeb autom8, It may act as a good example?

[Hyratel]

OSK. just sayin

[ummwut]

An on screen keyboard? That's a little too cumbersome an interface, especially since this is an on-board computer. Everyone should (rightfully so) expect to simply bring up the screen, type stuff, then minimize the screen and control the ship again.

Or am I expecting too much from what I suspect I can do, given the things I've seen from other plugins?

[Hyratel]

my concern is for ex, spaceplanes, where you need control inputs At All Times, you'd need to be able to maintain control while giving computer inputs.

[domox]

Ummwut, if possible i'd construct it so that you can treat folders as peripherals with which you can load routines from. ie: Ksp/PluginData/OBC/Drive1/orbit.txt, and also have a console for calling said routines.

Resource wise I would look at http://kspwiki.nexisonline.net/wiki/Module_code_examples and that mechjeb source file I posted early for starting points for GUI/FlyByWire control...

[ummwut]

@hyratel: the idea is to either go with a preloaded program and let it pilot for you, pilot yourself and load programs when not piloting (like in orbit, traveling between bodies, or landed), or pilot with a preloaded program. No need to switch between the console and piloting, thats just making it hard on yourself.

@domox: if i could figure out how to load peripherals like it KSP does with DLLs, id have a DLL loader too. programs to preload would need to be in .BIN files. thanks for the link, btw.

[Hyratel]

maybe a "softbutton" system like modern glass cockpit and nav systems use, with 8 buttons that do 'tree' based tasks

[Mikefy69]

That seems promising. Someone help this guy !