Is this possible with this airframe?

I know that some consider the predator/reaper to be an unstable platform, however, flight characteristics aside, I've been looking at http://www.nitroplanes.com/mq9.html the new 98" wingspan MQ-9. I'll be adding either a nano-itx pc (components strung throughout the airframe) or if possible a netbook within the airframe. However, a netbook would mean adding 3-4 *pounds* of weight to an area of the body, if I were for exampel to put it in the nose, the only way I could think to distribute weight would be to continue to increase the weight of the plane (perhaps by carrying several batteries onboard throughout the length of the airframe).

My goal is to have more onboard processing capabilities than are currently available, I've also considered throwing a nexus one in there, but - I'd prefer the capabilities of a full blown nano-pc or netbook. However, 3g connectivity is also a consideration, so I might end up going with the (much lighter) nexus one.

My question comes from not knowing much about aerodynamics in general, can I add that much weight to this airframe realistically, I know I would have to increase thrust, but would it be feasible to increase the motor and/or prop without severely hindering flying time (the more weight I can use for batteries the better, I'd like to go over 2 hours of flight time, the longer the better).

If I have to scale up more than the 98" wingspan I will, just looking for some input.

Thanks

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Madison D April 19, 2010 at 4:25pm

I don't think I will be able to get the kind of bandwidth necessary to do calculations on the ground for what I plan on doing. I need the onboard capabilities to do image tracking, the uav will have a directional antenna that will need to be constantly facing the ground antenna (which will obviously be tracking the uav as well), there are several other processing issues for the payload that I just don't think I'm going to be able to do with embedded controllers. if I can't fit a netbook, I might be able to go with a nexus one, although that's not preferable. I just don't know enough about aerodynamics to be able to tell what the max payload of an airframe is, and unfortunately I need to carry a decently heavy payload. I'm not afraid of a heavy plane as long as it flies, the problem is I'll have to choose between a heavier active payload (the pc/camera systems - there will be at least 3 seperate camera systems on the same PTZ platform, as well as a laser range finder) ,and payload for flight time - the goal is over 2 hours of flight time while still being able to meet the other uh.. mission parameters ;)

I think I'd be at the very least looking at a much beefier motor than 'stock' for that kit, which probably means multiple batteries. If anyone is interested in helping me directly, I'd be gracious to accept, and would be more than happy to mention your support.
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Sgt Ric April 19, 2010 at 3:08pm

Bigger than 98"?
Wow... you'll need an airstrip to takeoff and land that sucker. (not to mention a pilot's license and FAA registration)

An onboard PC was my thinking years ago before I found the DIYDrones site and embedded controllers.

I am sure TimTheToolManTaylor would want nothing short of a quadcore PC in his UAVs, but really now, WHY?

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Is this possible with this airframe?

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