Okay in theory of course, could the ArduPilot fly a full scale helicopter?
Instead of servos, you could talk to the existing fly by wire of a helicopter (which then move the mechanical linkages). There would be no need to change any code or outputs (because it is just going to the Flight Control Computer). I cannot think of any reason the APM couldn't fly on it, unless there is something to do with the inertia and mass of such a large helicopter causing the code to go to extremes that it shuts down.
Any comments? Ideas? haha just play it as a 'What if' scenario
Replies
Without faults occuring and a powerful enough means to move the control surfaces (or the control surface controls) it should be possible once you mount the hardware correctly.
Although APM is basic controls only on aircraft from the basecode so flaps and any other fullsize additions would need to be coded in. I would presume the helicopter is the same and needs a couple of extra things added to be fully up on control (never flown a helicopter).
If you had the money for a light aircraft and wanted a ridiculous publicity stunt you could risk your life and your aircraft for that one perfect run.