Advanced Multi-Channel Cockpit Controls: Unlock Precision and Versatility in SE2

Introduce an integrated system that allows cockpits to operate in multiple selectable control channels. With this system:

• Multiple Channels:
  Cockpits can cycle through or directly select distinct control channels (e.g., Channel 1, Channel 2, etc.). Each channel represents a separate control mode.
• Block Assignment:
  Individual mechanical blocks (such as thrusters, hinges, pistons, or any controllable block) can be configured to “listen” to a designated channel. For example, if a specific thruster group is set to Channel 1, it will only respond to cockpit inputs when the cockpit is in Channel 1 control mode.
• Input Fine-Tuning and Expanded Controls:
  Each listening block can be further configured to interpret input signals with a customizable range. For instance, an input range of –1 to +1 could correspond to left/right movement, forward/backward motion, or vertical adjustments—mirroring the typical behavior of mouse or joystick axes. Moreover, since cockpits offer additional inputs beyond simple directional or rotational controls (such as extra buttons, trigger values, or even analog sliders), these inputs could be leveraged for secondary functions or fine-tuning. This flexibility enables precise, proportional control over block actions and opens up possibilities for more complex interactions.
• Versatile Applications:
  It can be extended to control subgrids or even grids connected via antennas or similar communication methods. In this way, a single cockpit can manage different parts of a ship or station simultaneously by assigning each group a unique control channel.

Example Applications:

• Multi-Directional Thruster Control:
  Imagine a setup where a thruster is paired with a hinge mounted beneath the ship. In one control mode (say, Channel 1), the thruster operates in its default position. When you press the "backward" input (mapped from –1 to +1 on a given axis), the cockpit sends a signal on Channel 1. The hinge, configured to listen on that same channel, rotates to reposition the thruster forward. This coordinated adjustment allows the thruster to decelerate the ship by effectively switching its direction on-the-fly.
• Complex Crane Operations:
  For intricate machinery like a crane, multiple control channels can separate functions. One channel could manage the crane’s arm movement while another provides fine-tuned control of the toolhead. As the arm extends or rotates, the toolhead—controlled by its dedicated input channel—can independently adjust its orientation and position. This dual-layer control, possibly supplemented by additional cockpit inputs (e.g., analog sliders or extra buttons), enables highly precise multi-axis operations ideal for material handling or assembly tasks.