Hi Guys,Experienced RC pilot shopping for an airframe to do my first ArduPilot build with.Loads of experienced guys here, but one problem, I really can't stand the EasyStar style aircraft. I know they are really popular here but no, just no, can't bear to look at them.Would prefer a kit instead of ARTF / RTF. How to approx 2m wingspan electric gliders fare when loaded up with all the ArduPilot gear and a GoPro?Or a high wing electric trainer? Incidentally I really really like the look of the Projet 98" reaper, I know it's heavy but it looks like a UAV should, trouble is i'm based in the UK and postage would be a pain.Anything but the foam EasyStar airframe is basically my point, any suggestions?Thanks in advance,Mark.
You need to be a member of diydrones to add comments!
I've been using the E-flite (sp?) Radian. Like most 2 m motor gliders it's a bit short on space. I can fit the APM under the canopy but cameras and extra stuff would have to go on the outside. I taped the GPS and Xbee onto the fuse, but a bit of carving and some fiberglass or balsa covers could get everything internal.
20 C 2200 mA packs will fit inside but higher capacity or C rating will require a bit of carving to make room in the battery compartment. 20 C is more than adequate for the stock power system, and 2200 gives me about 20 min of nice slow cruising.
Performance seems quite reasonable. Landing will require some skill as it glides forever, requiring some anticipation and judgment of headwind, etc. to get it landed just where you want.
APM flew OK with the default gain settings, though it could do with some tuning to smooth things out.
In addition to two of those "dispicable" EasyStars, I have chosen a NitroPlanes Cessna 337 Skymaster modified to single engined brushless power.
I like the twin boom design for UAVs since it seems natural for a pusher plane, for front camera mounts.
The 81" model has loads of room for the APM and multiple cameras.
For an experienced flyer choosing an airframe for APM is about space. If the APM setup fits then you can use it. Of course if you get a plane that is easier to fly you will have greater ease with APM. Thats why beginner aircraft like the EasyStar and Skywalker are popular because they have lots of space and don't crash that easily (a statement I test regularly).
What I will suggest is that you use the spreadsheet I created to help you find ones that are able to take the added mass of your equipment and still be easily flyable. Once you know the ones that can just pick your favourite :)
The 98" reaper is a bit of a handful even without APMs added mass but with your experience you may find it a doddle.
Replies
I've been using the E-flite (sp?) Radian. Like most 2 m motor gliders it's a bit short on space. I can fit the APM under the canopy but cameras and extra stuff would have to go on the outside. I taped the GPS and Xbee onto the fuse, but a bit of carving and some fiberglass or balsa covers could get everything internal.
20 C 2200 mA packs will fit inside but higher capacity or C rating will require a bit of carving to make room in the battery compartment. 20 C is more than adequate for the stock power system, and 2200 gives me about 20 min of nice slow cruising.
Performance seems quite reasonable. Landing will require some skill as it glides forever, requiring some anticipation and judgment of headwind, etc. to get it landed just where you want.
APM flew OK with the default gain settings, though it could do with some tuning to smooth things out.
I like the twin boom design for UAVs since it seems natural for a pusher plane, for front camera mounts.
The 81" model has loads of room for the APM and multiple cameras.
For an experienced flyer choosing an airframe for APM is about space. If the APM setup fits then you can use it. Of course if you get a plane that is easier to fly you will have greater ease with APM. Thats why beginner aircraft like the EasyStar and Skywalker are popular because they have lots of space and don't crash that easily (a statement I test regularly).
What I will suggest is that you use the spreadsheet I created to help you find ones that are able to take the added mass of your equipment and still be easily flyable. Once you know the ones that can just pick your favourite :)
The 98" reaper is a bit of a handful even without APMs added mass but with your experience you may find it a doddle.