Hey guys,

I've decided I would share this design and see how things go. Looking forward to input, improvements, etc., all feedback is appreciated! The files are hosted on my site, links below.

Some design parameters that led me to this:

utilize round tube, plasic bolts and lite ply

facilitate easy motor alignment

increase tube holding forces

minimize stressed parts count

create a distinct forward look

top load battery

support 28mm motors

2lb AUW

Some quick info:

24" motor circle

10"+ prop support

9.3oz empty

.521" fiberglass tubes

laser cut

DIY and HK/KK boards supported

Estimated $40 kit price

Things that still need work:

Tail support:

Design can use either a vertical nylon screw(pictured) or skid(in SW files). I'd like a more elegant solution.

APM2 mount:

I do not have one yet, so CAD and weight is best guess only

Motor mounts:

Unsure of crash survivability (or if I care, design aircraft to fly first, crash second)

Acc mounts:

Sensors, lights, other modules, etc. support for these will come with time

Build:

High number of tube clamp parts, build could be easier as parts are designed with a conflicting sequence.

Battery velcro:

Currently one would strap the battery to the tray, I plan to change the sides so the strap could be routed through them as well.

As pictured, it has enough, well, angst to take up flying and has not been glued yet. A couple parts have only partial tabs to allow them to be inserted into the fuse as you spread the sides apart.  While not as fun to build as others I've designed, you can completely build and test fit everything. So if you run into issue, take it apart, fix, try again. With this in mind I have decided to use hot glue rather than CA or epoxy. Should slightly dampen vibrations and make it easy to take back apart later.

Solidworks 2012 (11MB)

www.lightrc.com/open/V6.8SW.zip

DWG (30KB)

www.lightrc.com/open/V6.8DWG.zip

Thanks,

Sam