MyGeekShow is back! This week I finalized the design and built the 50% scale solar airplane prototype. I'll complete it's first flight next week!
My current mission is to build an RC airplane capable of indefinite flight, where solar panels installed on the wings power the airplane and charge the batteries by day, and then those same batteries power the airplane during the night.
This 50% scale prototype will test some of the design elements of that airplane. It doesn't carry solar panels as it's wing area would be insufficient for a good test, but that it is coming up on the 75% and of course 100% scale versions.
Wingspan: 156cm / 61in
Wing Details: 156cm / 10cm / Clark Y
Total Length: 97cm / 38in
Weight (no batteries): 510g / 18oz
Weight with 1 NCR18650B Pack: 703g / 24oz
Weight with 2 NCR18650B Packs: 896g / 32oz
Follow the mission and learn more on: http://www.mygeekshow.com/24-hour-solar-uav/
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Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
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Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
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The final crashes that led the end of the USA trip. We gave it our best shot, but in the end, had to end the trip to ensure the safety of those around us.
Follow the trip and learn more on: http://mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Thank you to Applied Aeronautics for supporting today's video: http://appliedaeronautics.com
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Today we covered the most ground during the USA trip, over 300km (186mi)! We encountered and overcame so many challenges. These problems started to wear down our confidence and reduce our spare supplies.
Follow the trip and learn more on: http://mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Thank you to Spotifly for supporting today's video: www.spotifly.com
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Today we successfully conducted our first USA trip flight! We overcame many challenges and experienced new ones that held us up for the day.
Follow the trip and learn more on: http://mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Thank you to Event38 for supporting today's video: www.event38.com
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Today we set up the ground station, repaired and prepared the airplanes, conducted a flight test, and traveled to our launch location in Ventura, CA.
Follow the trip and learn more on: http://mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Thank you to D.L. Engineering for supporting today's video: www.dle-tech.info
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Today I traveled from Arkansas to California to join the rest of the team and all the USA trip gear I mailed to our set up location in San Diego.
Follow the trip and learn more on: http://mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Thank you to SudoLabs for supporting today's video: http://sudolabs.com/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Finally! Time to publish and share my USA Trip Videos. I'll be releasing one each day starting December 1st through December 8th.
You can watch in on:
MyGeekShow's Website: http://mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/MyGeekShowdotcom
DIYDrones Blog Post: http://diydrones.com/profiles/blog/list
FliteTest Article: http://flitetest.com/articles
The videos will be:
Dec 1st - Getting to California
Dec 2nd - Setting Up
Dec 3rd - First Flight
Dec 4th - The Longest Day
Dec 5th - The End
Dec 6th - Lessons Learned
Dec 7th - Team Interviews
Dec 8th - The Next USA Trip
I can't wait! Tell your friends! : )
Getting closer! Just about half way through the time on the USA trip indiegogo project (link: http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rc-airplane-flight-across-the-usa-mygeekshow), and just past 66% funded. I've added almost a dozen new perks to try to finish strong:
-Advertise on the USA Trip Homepage: where I will be providing frequent updates, videos and pictures. It will get a ton of traffic before, during and after the trip.
-We'll wear your t-shirt! Or at least one with your logo/business name on it! Send us some t-shirts and we'll wear them for a day during the trip.
-Loan us a FPV Screen: we need larger, higher quality FPV screens, donate it to us, we'll use it for a few days, and mail it back to you!
-Loan me a battery charger: I need two dozen or so Turnigy Accucel chargers. I'll only need to use it 10-15 times, and will then mail it to you!
-Loan me a NCR18650B battery pack: I'll use these packs about 15-20 times, and even then quite gently, less than 0.5C. After using them, I'll mail it to you.
-Special edition BLACK Raptor140 Kits: black EPP foam Raptor140 kit, can be signed be me!
-Loan me a telemetry system: See this LINK for the seller's details. It is a long range 900mhz telemetry system capable of over 40km(25mi) of range! It will be a back up unit, and might not even be used. I'll send it to you after we finish the trip.
-Loan me an EZUHF system: See this LINK for the seller's details. Its a long range 433mhz transmitter/receiver. It will be a back up unit, and might not even be used. I'll send it to you after we finish the trip.
-Reduced Raptor140 USA/UAV/FPV/RTF raptor kit to $2,000, which is less than the cost of all the componants on the airplane! An awesome deal as it is all RTF and flight tested.
If you want to support the trip, but don't see a perk you are interested in, let me know! I can add it as needed. Thanks!
It is time! With three years of research behind us and less than two months left before the first flight on June 16th, it is time to gather all the equipment, reservations and team members together to make the USA trip!!
See all the details here: http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rc-airplane-flight-across-the-usa-mygeekshow
Donate if you can! Share it with your friends! Lets get the word out!
Mayday! Mayday! I tested the FPV system on the Raptor140B, with nearly disastrous results. Luckily, the APM was onboard to save the day!
I added the 400mw 1.3Ghz FPV transmitter to the 140B, and took it for a test flight. Right after take off I had significant control issues, and barely recovered the airplane. Thinking it may have been the flight controller, and wanting to determine the cause while the same circumstances were available, I double checked all connections and systems, and flew the aircraft again.
Again, it had significant control issues, even in manual modes. Luckily, the APM flight controller was able to safely loiter the airplane overhead while I determined that indeed the Turnigy 9x transmitter was no longer able to safely control the airplane.
This required me to create a mission mid flight, update the mission, update flight parameters, and attempt an autolanding, the first time I've tried this feature.
Watch the find out the results!
-Trent
Safety Statement: To maintain safety, I prepared by doing many thing things including:
-obtaining personal permission from a vast majority of property owners (I couldn't reach all of them)
-maintained a continues watch for full scale aircraft, and;
-maintained direct control of the aircraft for the majority of the flight
-this airplane and system has OVER 1,000 MILES of perfect performance, with 90% of it autonomous with this exact set up. It has been tried and proven many, many times, including over 200km of cross country flights
-the autopilot was programmed to continue to fly after a signal loss, which has been tested and proven to perform many, many times
-the flight was over a very open and low populated area, with 99%+ of the area being open fields or trees
-the altitude read over 120m, but elevation increased during flight as I took off out of a low valley. True AGL for the flight is 100-120m.
-avoided all airports and populated areas.
-I've flown at this location 3-5 times a week for the last year. I know it very, very well.
-I conducted test flights with the new set up that I did not show during the video to confirm stable performance
Raptor 140b+ Stats:
Weight: 2280g
Max Flight Time: 70min
Max Range: 97km
Stall Speed: 35kph
Cruise Speed: 90kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 167wh (15,000mAh at 11.1v)
Drive Power: 850w
Total Flight Time on Craft: 7.0 hours
Total Flight Distance on Craft: 498km
The equipment used---
Raptor 140 airplane: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-kit.htm
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Laptop: Compaq Presario CG57
GPS Dongle: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000PKX2KA/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
Flight Controller: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: (3) 5.0Ah 20C Lipo: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/5ah-3s-battery.htm
ESC: 60A Brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/60a-esc.htm
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/1450kv-3542-motor.htm
Prop: 10x7 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x7_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_798_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
Onboard camera: http://www.ebay.com/itm/16-V2-Lens-D-808-Key-Chain-Video-Camera-/380627482427?#ht_5755wt_1149
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
ArduPlane, APM2.6 and Mission Planner come together to make an awesome feature called "Follow Me" where the ground station sends the airplane it's GPS location and the airplane will go to that location, even follow it as it moves!
I tested it today and it performed perfectly. This will be a valuable feature during the USA trip where I'll be able to use it if we have to suddenly change course or request the airplane return to us quickly.
-Trent
Safety Statement: To maintain safety, I prepared by doing many thing things including:
-obtaining personal permission from a vast majority of property owners (I couldn't reach all of them)
-maintained a continues watch for full scale aircraft, and;
-maintained direct control of the aircraft for the majority of the flight
-this airplane and system has OVER 1,000 MILES of perfect performance, with 90% of it autonomous with this exact set up. It has been tried and proven many, many times, including over 200km of cross country flights
-the autopilot was programmed to continue to fly after a signal loss, which has been tested and proven to perform many, many times
-the flight was over a very open and low populated area, with 99%+ of the area being open fields or trees
-the altitude read over 120m, but elevation increased during flight as I took off out of a low valley. True AGL for the flight is 100-120m.
-avoided all airports and populated areas.
-I've flown at this location 3-5 times a week for the last year. I know it very, very well.
-I conducted test flights with the new set up that I did not show during the video to confirm stable performance
Raptor 140b+ Stats:
Weight: 2280g
Max Flight Time: 70min
Max Range: 97km
Stall Speed: 35kph
Cruise Speed: 90kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 167wh (15,000mAh at 11.1v)
Drive Power: 850w
Total Flight Time on Craft: 7.0 hours
Total Flight Distance on Craft: 498km
The equipment used---
Raptor 140 airplane: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-kit.htm
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Laptop: Compaq Presario CG57
GPS Dongle: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000PKX2KA/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
Flight Controller: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: (3) 5.0Ah 20C Lipo: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/5ah-3s-battery.htm
ESC: 60A Brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/60a-esc.htm
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/1450kv-3542-motor.htm
Prop: 10x7 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x7_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_798_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
Onboard camera: http://www.ebay.com/itm/16-V2-Lens-D-808-Key-Chain-Video-Camera-/380627482427?#ht_5755wt_1149
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
RFD900 Telemetry: http://store.jdrones.com/jD_RD900_Telemetry_Bindle_p/rf900set01.htm
During the USA trip I'll need extra telemetry range for emergency landing situations, aircraft recovery, poor transmitting environments, etc. While the 3DR radio has performed very well, the airplane's cruise speed would allow it to be out of range in less than a minute if it were to fly away from the ground station. To remedy this, JDrones sent me their RFD900 transceiver set which not only operates at 10x the transmitting power, but features the identical software and set up as the 3DR modules, meaning they are plug and play.
The 3DR modules lost more than 60% of their signal at about 2.5km from the ground station, and received sporadic transmissions up to 4.5km away.
The RFD900 modules dramatically outperformed it by transmitting 99%+ signal strength at almost 5km, while banking at 40 degrees. Amazing.
See you next week!
-Trent
Safety Statement: This flight was very unusual as I didn't maintain line of sight during the whole flight. I DO NOT RECOMMEND DOING THIS. I RARELY do this, and only after the absolute strictest of preparation and research. To prepare for remaining safe, I:
-obtained personal permission from a vast majority of property owners (I couldn't reach all of them)
-maintained a continues watch for full scale aircraft, and;
-maintained direct control of the aircraft for the majority of the flight
-this airplane and system has OVER 1,000 MILES of perfect performance, with 90% of it autonomous with this exact set up. It has been tried and proven many, many times, including over 200km of cross country flights
-the autopilot was programmed to continue to fly after a signal loss, which has been tested and proven to perform many, many times
-the flight was over a very open and low populated area, with 99%+ of the area being open fields or trees
-the altitude read over 120m, but elevation increased during flight as I took off out of a low valley. True AGL for the flight is 100-120m.
-avoided all airports and populated areas.
-I've flown at this location 3-5 times a week for the last year. I know it very, very well.
-I conducted test flights with the new set up that I did not show during the video to confirm stable performance
-and many other things to remain as safe and ethical as possible.
Raptor 140b+ Stats:
Weight: 2280g
Max Flight Time: 70min
Max Range: 97km
Stall Speed: 35kph
Cruise Speed: 90kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 167wh (15,000mAh at 11.1v)
Drive Power: 850w
Total Flight Time on Craft: 7.0 hours
Total Flight Distance on Craft: 498km
The equipment used---
Raptor 140 airplane: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-kit.htm
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Laptop: Compaq Presario CG57
GPS Dongle: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000PKX2KA/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
Flight Controller: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: (3) 5.0Ah 20C Lipo: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/5ah-3s-battery.htm
ESC: 60A Brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/60a-esc.htm
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/1450kv-3542-motor.htm
Prop: 10x7 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x7_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_798_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
Onboard camera: http://www.ebay.com/itm/16-V2-Lens-D-808-Key-Chain-Video-Camera-/380627482427?#ht_5755wt_1149
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Last week I did some bench testing on the NCR18650B Lithium Ion cells, and the results were very promising, showing twice the energy density as a LiPo. This week I wanted to get the packs out of the lab and in the air on the Raptor 100 for some real life testing.
First I tested what the take off and cruise throttle was for the Raptor100, and then used a watt meter to determine the watts at those throttle settings. I found the same throttle setting for those same watts on the Li-Ion pack to ensure all was tested equal. The throttle % was lower for the Li-Ion cells as they operate at a higher voltage, and I was able to match the same watt rate at about 4A, just over 1C for takeoff.
The plane flew just fine on the Li-Ion packs. I did some full throttles and hard climbs and this single 4S1P pack performed perfectly. The Raptor100 flew faster than it ever has before due to the higher voltage, and was easily traveling 100kph.
Now I'm off to build 6 more packs and put them on the Raptor140 for over 2 hours of flight time!
See you next week!
-Trent
Lithium-Ion Packs
RTF Li-Ion Packs: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/3.3a-4s-2c-battery.htm
Li-Ion Kits: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/ncr18650b-pack-kit.htm
Single Cells: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/ncr18650b-single-cell.htm
Raptor 100 Kits
Kit: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-100-kit.htm
ARF: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-arf.htm
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor100.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
After having some difficulty launching the heavier Raptor140B+ (carries three 5Ah batteries) I decided to invest the time into building a crossbow launcher.
It has a few key features that make it an excellent launch platform:
-Totally retains the airplane in all directions (gust of wind won't knock it off the the launcher)
-Trigger mechanism to quickly release the airplane
-Provides distance between the prop and the pilot
-Quick to use (takes only a few minutes to set up)
-Small space (small launcher and some cable)
-Easy to use (set it up, aim it, pull the trigger)
-100% repeatable
Tested it on the Raptor140A (now a glider) and it worked perfectly! After a dozen tests, I put the Raptor140B on it... Victory! The exit speed of the Raptor140B was 90kph/56mph, a perfect speed for climbing.
This will add a lot of safety and repeatability for launching these heavier flying wings.
See you next week!
-Trent
Safety note: I maintained line of sight during this flight, and had my controller close by to take manual control as needed. The altitude read over 120m, but elevation increased during flight. True AGL for the flight is 100-120m. I avoided all airports and populated areas.
Raptor 140b+ Stats:
Weight: 2280g
Max Flight Time: 70min
Max Range: 97km
Stall Speed: 35kph
Cruise Speed: 90kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 167wh (15,000mAh at 11.1v)
Drive Power: 850w
Total Flight Time on Craft: 7.0 hours
Total Flight Distance on Craft: 498km
The equipment used---
Raptor 140 airplane: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-kit.htm
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Laptop: Compaq Presario CG57
GPS Dongle: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000PKX2KA/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
Flight Controller: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: (3) 5.0Ah 20C Lipo: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/5ah-3s-battery.htm
ESC: 60A Brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/60a-esc.htm
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/1450kv-3542-motor.htm
Prop: 10x7 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x7_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_798_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
Onboard camera: http://www.ebay.com/itm/16-V2-Lens-D-808-Key-Chain-Video-Camera-/380627482427?#ht_5755wt_1149
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
This Saturday, March 15th at 08:00CST/14:00GMT I will be streaming live on ustream.tv http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow a 80km/50mi cross country flight. I plan on landing at about 09:00CST/15:00GMT. I'll take the video and make it into an episode shortly thereafter.
Tweet or FaceBook me while I'm flying! I'll be checking and responding throughout the flight:
http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
While technically not a cross country flight as I will land and take off from the same field, I will be flying 40km/25mi north, turning around, and landing at the same field.
All done with the Raptor 140! Shameless plug: get your Raptor kit here: http://store.mygeekshow.com/category-s/1814.htm
Can't wait!
-Trent
NCR18650B: A Lithium Ion battery with a ton of promise! People say it has twice the energy per gram as LiPos... but is that true? Lets test it!
But it doesn't stop there! I want to know how to actually use this on an RC Aircraft, how to charge it, what it's maximum amp draw is, how many watt hours of power does it have, and in the end, can you actually use these on RC aircraft?
I think I've found the answers to these questions!
Battery: Panasonic NCR18650B
Grams per Watt Hours is 57% that of a typical LiPo
Pack Capacity: 3.3Ah (3,325mah)
Pack Voltage in 4S: 14.4v
Pack Power: 43 watt hours (personally tested with a watt meter)
Pack C-Rating: 2 (6amp max discharge rate)
Pack Cycles: Hundreds! I've not personally tested this, but this is the same chemistry as an iPhone, which can last years of daily use.
Buy the battery pack here: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/3.3a-4s-2c-battery.htm
-Trent
I wanted to see if I could use a split elevon and some serious mixing to use a split elevon as an airbrake for my flying wing. The Raptor 100 is light and pretty tough, a perfect test platform! Lets try it.
Split the elevons in 2/5 and 3/5 lengths (to compensate for the leverage on the outer wing), added two more servos and some serious mixing on my 9x...
Worked great!
I'm planning on using something similar on my larger, heavier Raptor 140B and new Raptor 140C. These two airplanes are much heavier and suffer from a very long glide ratio and high speed stall, meaning a very long approach.
Have you tried this before? Anything I could to make it better?
Thanks!
I'm getting closer to gathering all the components for the 140C, but am hitting a budget wall. If you'd like to support the show/USA trip, I've put some of the remaining items I need for "sale" on my website, or really a way to donate/support the trip.
I have to emphasize, I'm offering it as an opportunity if you'd like to help. We're still friends if you can't or don't want to : )
Direct link to Help Raptor 140C: http://store.mygeekshow.com/category-s/1819.htm
Learn more about the Raptor 140C: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRGbDmPCoeQ
Watch the most recent USA Trip Update: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DIF1J4VfY9s
If you don't want to pick something specific, you can go to: http://mygeekshow.com/donate/
Thank you for your 2+ years of support! We're getting closer...
The objective was to fly over 60 minutes (1 hour) without stopping to replace or recharge the batteries. This test was to prove that flying at this weight and amp draw configuration was possible. Due it success, the 140c will be able to be constructed with similar characteristics, but be able to carry twice the watt/hours.
To accomplish this 62 minute flight I needed to add an additional 5,00mAh of batteries, bringing the Raptor 140b to 15,000mAh, or 166.5watt/hours
This flight broke five MyGeekShow records:
-Longest flight: 62.4 minutes
-Furthest distance covered: 71.4km/44.4mi
-Most power consumed: 160watt/hours
-Longest total flight time by craft: 7.0 hours
-Furthest total distance by craft: 498km/309mi
Flight Stats:
Ground Covered: 71.4km/44.4mi
Duration: 62.4 min
Watt Hours: 159.9 (14.4Ah at 11.1v)
Avg Amp Draw: 13.9A
Avg Ground Speed: 68.7kph/42.7mph
Efficiency: 447m/Wh or 5.0km/Ah or 202mah/Km
Max altitude AGL: 116m
Max ground speed: 124kph/77mph
Max distance from ground station: 607m/0.4mi
See you next week!
-Trent
Safety note: I maintained line of sight during this flight, and had my controller close by to take manual control as needed. The altitude read over 120m, but elevation increased during flight. True AGL for the flight is 100-120m. I avoided all airports and populated areas.
Raptor 140b+ Stats:
Weight: 2280g
Max Flight Time: 70min
Max Range: 90km
Stall Speed: 35kph
Cruise Speed: 90kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 167wh (15,000mAh at 11.1v)
Drive Power: 850w
Total Flight Time on Craft: 7.0 hours
Total Flight Distance on Craft: 498km
The equipment used---
Raptor 140 airplane: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-kit.htm
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Laptop: Compaq Presario CG57
GPS Dongle: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000PKX2KA/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?redirect=true&ref_=oh_details_o02_s00_i00
Flight Controller: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemtry: 915mhz 100mW 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: (3) 5.0Ah 20C Turnigy Lipo: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__9184__turnigy_5000mah_3s_20c_lipo_pack.html
ESC: 60A Brushless http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__32820__TURNIGY_Plush_60amp_Speed_Controller_USA_Warehouse_.html
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=38700
Prop: 10x7 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x7_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_798_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
Onboard camera: http://www.ebay.com/itm/16-V2-Lens-D-808-Key-Chain-Video-Camera-/380627482427?#ht_5755wt_1149
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
Announcing the newest version of the Raptor 140! Its main objective is to fly over 120km(75mi) at 115kph(71mph) and send signals (including video!) over 3km(1.9mi). It should be ready to fly early February 2014. Anything you see in my design that I should reconsider?
Estimated Raptor 140c Stats:
Weight: 2100g (4.6lbs)
Max Flight Time: 100min (1hr, 40min)
Max Range: 120km (75mi)
Stall Speed: 35kph (22mph)
Cruise Speed: 115kph (71mph)
Max Speed: 145kph (90mph)
Radio Range: 3.5km (2.2mi)
Energy Carried: 289wh (20,100mAh at 14.4v)
Drive Power: 850w
Meters per Watt/Hour: 450
Features of the 140c (improvements over 140b in parentheses):
Airframe:
-MyGeekShow's Raptor 140: 140cm Wing Span
-CG at 26cm from nose (very, very balanced, almost zero reflex)
-EPP foam construction
-5mil Laminate covering
-Aluminum Motor Mount
-Additional laminate to strengthen leading edge (allow for rougher landings)
-6.4m (21ft) of carbon fiber (had 4.5m) (add additional rigidity)
-5cm x 48.5 elevons for low drag control surfaces
-Laminate elevon hinges (more strength and durability than packing tape)
-14cm winglets for visibility and lift improvement
-Integrated steel launch hook, closer to CG (better bungee launches)
-Parachute ring (allow parachute recover system)
-Velcro battery retainers
-PET plastic battery covers
-Plastic flight controller cover
-Precipitation 100% sealed (can fly in rain)
Flight Systems:
-433mhz EZUHF radio system (500%+ radio range improvement)
-32g servo (additional pull strength and durability)
-1250kv motor, was 1450kv (slower rotation as it is switching to 14.4v from 11.1v)
-24 3.6v Li-Ion 3.3Ah cells in 4S6P, aka 289watt/hours (20.3Ah at 14.4v) Raptor 140B carried 111watt/hours
-10x6 carbon fiber folding prop (140B had a 10x7 due to higher kv motor)
-4.7cm aluminum prop hub
-Wiring lanes in airframe (improved wire management)
-4 Ferrite Filters (cleaner transmissions and reduced interference)
Avionics:
-1080 HD Mobius camera (was 720 808 #16)
-FPV tx 1.3Ghz 400mw
-APM2.6 flight controller
-3DR Current Sensor
-3DR uBlox GPS with compass
-1w 900mhz 900RDF telemetry (had 0.1w telem)
-FAA style lighting (improved visibility)
-3A BEC (provides power to telemetry, camera, etc)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/
Follow the Show:
Website: http://www.mygeekshow.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MyGeekShow
Twitter: http://twitter.com/mygeekshow
Google+:http://plus.google.com/116950154481685699344
Skype: MyGeekShow
UStream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow
Filmed, Edited, Produced and Published by Trent in Arkansas, USA
