New release New possibilities 0.1.7 Notes

After a whirlwind adventure getting the last release together and fixing major technical issues, version 0.1.7 introduces features that open up new scenario possibilities.
New possible challenges include race-against-the-clock scenarios, where every action adds time to the countdown, or structured procedural sequences where following the correct steps can avert disaster. You can even create gate-to-gate time trials.
Major EnhancementsControllable Randomization:
The calc node now supports randomized data, including time and geographical locations, allowing for dynamic scenarios. The original random path node enabled multiple possible scenario paths, but the new calculations take it further—simulate radio failures that change frequencies or create search-and-rescue missions.
Advanced Calculations:
Two new calculations have been added to the calc node to enhance precision:

• Distance & Bearing Calculations: Compute the precise distance and bearing between two points.
• Search & Rescue Integration: Modify the heading bug or flight director to point toward a point of interest, or set up a STOL competition by tracking landing and stopping distances.

Point Triggers & AGL Altitudes:

• Point triggers can now activate when exiting an area, enabling new waypoint proficiency assessments.
• The new terrain probe allows setting altitudes using AGL (Above Ground Level), making it easier to handle different scenery packs and replicate real-world scenarios.

Scenario Management Improvements:

• Scenarios can now load other scenarios upon completion.
• New command-line options allow automatic scenario loading on startup.
• Bindable commands for reloading and stopping scenarios, as well as X-Plane's web API support, allow for remote scenario management.

What's Next?This release significantly enhances the system’s flexibility. Moving forward, our focus will be on revamping documentation and publishing tutorials. We will also continue developing planned features, particularly object animation and multi-aircraft scenarios to improve training for:

• Wake turbulence
• Formation flying
• Other multi-aircraft environments

New Features

• Canvas UI: Resizable and persistent definitions/info areas
• Terrain Probe Enhancements:
  • New AGL checkbox
  • Start position altitude setting
  • Target altitude setting
  • Aircraft position adjustment
  • Object altitude editing
• Scenario Management:
  • Data ref for scenario loading
  • Commands for loading and reloading scenarios
  • Command-line option: --fc_start=<scenario_path> (e.g., --fc_start=scenarios/demo/First_look)
  • Stop node can trigger a new scenario
• Calculations & Timers:
  • Distance and bearing calculations (point to point)
  • Altitude probe calculations
  • Random number generation
  • Multi-timer control (per node)
  • Timer adjustments (add time, start random timers)
• Point & Loop Triggers:
  • Point trigger activation on exit
  • Loop monitor node

Fixes & Improvements

• Improved scenario save logic
• UI cleanup and refinements
• Better scenario generation
• Enhanced object loading and cleanup
• Fixed path issues between Linux & Windows
• Title bar now matches system settings
• Improved Windows save dialog uniformity
• Timer display fixes

This update brings substantial quality-of-life improvements and resolves key pain points reported by users. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to enhancing FlightCodex even further!