All,
I am a full-scale pilot (just private w/ inst. rating) looking to get into UAVs. For my first UAV project, I am looking at a fixed-wing beginner plane with as much endurance/range as possible.
I have no previous RC experience, but I do understand the flight concepts, and have a background in IT and electronics. I am especially interested in automating takeoffs and landings, as this seems like an awesome use of the technology (plus I think my RC landing skills, while passable, probably leave a bit to be desired). I use X-plane to keep current on full-scale planes, so I am thinking I will use to do some simulation on the UAV side as well.
Obviously, I want to use APM, probably with Xbee telemetry.
The first thing I need to choose is an airframe. As mentioned, I want the longest possible range/endurance. I realize that endurance and range are really two different things, but I am thinking if a plane has one, the other should be pretty good as well.
Looking at the beginner suggestions (http://diydrones.com/profiles/blogs/roundupreview-of-all-the), it seems like the HobbyKing Bixler would be a pretty good option. I have also heard that the SkyWalker is a good one as well. Any recommendations? What are the major differences?
What kind of payload can I expect from either of these? Can I cram in a second battery for extended loiter time?
What would the typical cruise speed and flight time be with a large battery? Any efficiency tips to stay aloft as long as possible?
I am not going to do any FPV stuff, but I would probably put on the small HD cam from HobbyKing ($35) to watch after landing...
Thanks,
Dan
Replies
I started with a skyfun. I bought two airframes thinking I would probably trash one (I was right).
I more recently added a 3300mah battery to give a max endurance of 38 minutes at 45kph and a max round trip range of 20km.
I am now building a ritewing zeph after having such great success with the skyfun and looking for a 50min to 1 hour duration at 80kph.
If you go much slower it will Kay much longer.
Also think massive prop with low rpm motor for max endurance with a lower top speed.
OK, so I might have answered one of my questions already. Cruise speed on the Skywalker seems to be around 70km/h? Is that a good long-range cruise speed estimate?
--Dan