Build the frame, opinions on structural strength.

Hi all! Because I live in Europe and want easy access to the frame materials, I ordered the frame parts from Ponoko (all Acryllic), got the nylon hardware from a dutch dealer. It was easier and cheaper to buy a complete frame, but now I know where to go when I want to build other frames etc.

 

(Bought the electronics from DIYDrones ofc)

 

So I just assembled the frame, and this is how it looks (note the Acryllic center plate):

3690872951?profile=original

3690872967?profile=original

 

But I immediately noticed the frame (center plate) flexes a little bit when force is applied to the end of the arms (where the motors are placed). This is of course a logical reaction, but since I dont't know how far it flexes with the normal carrier board I want your opinion on the strength. 

 

When I put a 1.5 kg bottle on the frame, the frame came down approx 4mm.

3690873118?profile=original

 

So, I want to consult you experts and like to hear your opinions on the strenght. Should I worry, or take it easy?

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Replies

  • Hi Gerard.  I'm curious if you finished this project and got it to fly?  I saw the same parts on Ponoko and was thinking about doing the same thing.  Did you use 3mm acrylic for everything?  Did you buy standard Arducopter arms, or did you get the arms somewhere else?  I crashed my arducopter and need two new arms, two new motor mounts, one dome top, etc., so that's why I'm interested to hear your progress.

  • I would consider ABS Plastic instead of Acrylic. I have a Laser cutter and ABS is a far superior product as it relates to acrylic of the same thickness. Acrylic is far too brittle for a dynamic structure like a uav in general

     

     

  • I don't have experience with acrylic in this context but in the past I've used acrylic on other projects (water block tops, computer cases, etc.) and found it to be frustratingly brittle. The biggest problem I had was from cracks growing out from around the fasteners. Be very careful not to over tighten anything. Let us know how it goes.
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