Mission accomplished!

The objective was to fly 43km cross country (take off in one location and land in another) and prove that this kind of long range endurance / autonomous flight / chase car was possible.

The first take off was pretty rough, the cold reduced the bungee's pulling power and impaired my ability to feel the bungee's tension. It skidded on the ground and nearly destroyed the prop.

After reattaching the prop, I took it off and tested it manual mode. It passed my stress test, so I set it on it's mission.

It flew perfectly the entire trip, and covered 52km. We landed it in a remote field a few miles south of Joplin, Missouri.

See you next week!

-Trent

Flight Stats:
Ground Covered: 52.2km/32.4mi
Duration: 37.5 min
Watt Hours: 89.4 (8.1Ah at 11.1v)
Avg Amp Draw: 12.9A
Avg Ground Speed: 83.6kph/52.0mph
Efficiency: 584m/Wh or 6.5km/Ah or 154mah/Km
Max altitude AGL: 122m
Max ground speed: 61mph
Max distance from ground station: 311m/0.2mi

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: 1780g
Max Flight Time: 50min
Max Range: 50km
Stall Speed: 30kph
Cruise Speed: 100kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 111wh (10,000mAh at 11.1v)
Drive Power: 850w

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: (2) 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

EDIT: Complete Video has been Posted Here: http://diydrones.com/profiles/blogs/autonomous-52km-32mi-cross-country-flight

Tomorrow morning (7:00CST/13:00GMT) I'm going to attempt a marathon flight from north Arkansas into Missouri (see flight path below) with my Raptor140, and will be streaming it live on ustream: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/mygeekshow

To get ahead of the safety questions, I will be maintaining <120m AGL, and will maintain LOS during the flight. The flight is also far from populated areas and airports. I'm attempting this flight with the exact airplane/equipment configuration that has flown over 400km of flawless flights, including four 42km+ flights. Finally, I've identified eight rally points and pre-target landing locations in case I need to end the flight early.

Wish us luck!

Victory!

This week I successfully piloted the Raptor 140 over a marathon's distance (42km or 26mi) by flying 45.7km or 28.4mi. I say pilot, but really it was a 99% autonomous flight, controlled by the APM2.6 Flight Controller.

It was also a flight duration record for me, taking 39 minutes to complete, with an average airspeed of 80kph (50mph) and an average ground speed of 70kph (43mph) due to a strong southernly air current. The flight consumed 9.2Ah of energy at 11.1v, and achieved 4.9km/Ah, much lower than the 140's average of 5.6km/Ah (strong cross winds and cold temperatures reduced it's flight capacity).

All in all the APM and Raptor140 performed flawlessly. Next up? Flying a marathon cross country! (taking off at one location, and chasing the airplane in a car to land at another location).

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 reads 150m, but I take off in a valley, the true AGL for the majority of the flight is 100-120m.

Raptor 140b Stats:
Weight: 1780g
Max Flight Time: 60min
Max Range: 50km
Stall Speed: 30kph
Cruise Speed: 95kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 10,000mAh
Power: 850w

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

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: (2) 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/

Support the Show by visiting http://store.mygeekshow.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

This week has been very windy, so I thought I'd try flying the Raptor 140 in gusts of wind over 33mph/53kph. This is also one of the requirements of my USA trip, to be able to fly in over 40kph winds. And.... It flew great!

I tested the bungee take-off, which worked perfectly as I aimed it into the wind, the Raptor navigated the airspace with ease as it has tons of power, great CG and a low profile, enduring the turbulence well, and finally, was able to land safely. Perfect!

Next week I'll attempt to fly a marathon - 42km (26mi)!

See you next week!

-Trent

Raptor 140b Stats:
Weight: 1780g
Max Flight Time: 80min
Max Range: 75km
Stall Speed: 30kph
Cruise Speed: 95kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km
Energy Carried: 10,000mAh
Power: 850w

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

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: (2) 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

After a few painful hand launches of my Raptor 140, I decided there had to be a better way to reliably and consistently get my large and slightly heavy airplane in the air. I built a bungee launcher and installed launch hooks in the 140a and 140b, and tested it out!

It launched perfectly, just enough kick to get the airplane in the air. It will prove to be a much more reliable and predictable mechanism for launching, only added about 30 grams to the airplane, and only takes about 60 seconds to set up. Plus, it is so much fun to use, feels like I'm about to launch it into space or something.

Next week I'll attempt to fly a marathon - 42km (26mi)!

See you next week!

-Trent

Set Up Info:

Raptor 140b Stats:
Weight: 1780g
Max Flight Time: 80min
Max Range: 75km
Stall Speed: 30kph
Cruise Speed: 95kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

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:

Autopilot: 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: (2) 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

After a rather damaging Raptor 140 crash (see http://ardupilot.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=77&t=4879), I built the the 140b, which is essentially the 140, with some improvements:

-Carries 10Ah instead of 8.8Ah, and will eventually carry 15Ah. Should allow for 75km flights at 80kph!

-Improved electronics placement that allows for additional batteries to be carried directly over the CG point.

-Improved weight distribution allows for 90% less reflex on the elevons, reducing drag.

-80% precipitation sealed, an improvement over the 140's 50% sealed (batteries, motor and ESC are still exposed)

-Uses the 140 Kit I sell on my site and follows the build videos 100% (you have to use what you sell IMO!)

It's maiden flight went flawlessly, it should be just as good and even better than the original Raptor 140.

See you next week! 

-Trent

More Info:

Buy the Kit on MyGeekStore: http://store.mygeekshow.com/product-p/raptor-140-kit.htm
Build Videos/Learn More: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor140.html

Raptor 140b Stats:
Weight: 1780g
Max Flight Time: 80min
Max Range: 75km
Stall Speed: 30kph
Cruise Speed: 95kph
Max Speed: 135kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

The equipment on it:
Autopilot: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
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: (2) 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

Hello DIY Drones! I'm streaming this week's episode live on my Google+ and YouTube channel this Saturday at 3pm CST.

I'll be providing an update on the USA trip's status, what is next with the Raptor 140 and most importantly, answering any questions you might have. Feel free to post questions on the YouTube video page or this blog post and I'll answer them!

Also, feel free to join me on Google+ (http://plus.google.com/115257399043957059076). If you add me to one of your circles I can add you to the conversation and answer your question face to face.

See you then!

-Trent

This week the Raptor 140 completed a 30km (18.6mi) fully autonomous flight! It only used 58% of it's 8.8Ah batteries, giving it a potential ability to cover 51.2km (31.8mi) on a single charge, the whole time flying at 75kph (47mph) for 40+ minutes! Impressive...

Some additional metrics to consider: is average amp draw was 12.8amps, or 21% of the 60amp esc, also it had a 5.8km/Ah (3.6mi/Ah) efficiency, meaning that if I added an additional amp hour of battery life, it could cover an additional 5.8km or 3.6mi. The original Raptor did an average of 5.5km/Ah.

Next week I'll start pushing the speed limit, seeing how fast and far the 140 can go. My end goal is to be able to cruise at 100kph (62mph) and still have a reasonable efficiency.

Also, I've been asked by dozens of people if I'd make a 140 for them, so I will! Starting in November I'll start selling Raptor 140 kits on my website: MyGeekShow.com. I plan on shipping worldwide and will have kits available starting at $89.99.

See you next week!

-Trent

Raptor 140 Stats:
Weight: 1653g
Max Flight Time: 60min
Max Range: 50km
Stall Speed: 25kph
Cruise Speed: 75kph
Max Speed: 127kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

The equipment on it:
Autopilot: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
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: 4.4Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-sl4400-3s1p-30c-3333.html
ESC: 60A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/proton60aair.html
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=38700
Prop: 10x6 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x6_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_797_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319

Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.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 week I conducted the Raptor 140's flight testing. I put it through the paces by testing it's general maneuverability (pitch and roll), high maneuverability (rolls, loops, climbs), its speed performance (cruise, max, stall) and it's technology performance (video, telemetry, GPS, compass, autonomous flight, etc). 

It passed all its testing without error, and earns it's position as the most capable airplane I've ever flown. It is just a dream to fly, will not tip stall, goes where you aim it, climbs as fast as you can handle, flys for over 40 minutes at 75kph (44mph), can complete missions given it via APM effortlessly, I can go on and on...

Next week I'll be completing efficiency testing, finding out what it's limits are for true flight range, all in preparation for a long range cross country (take off and land at different locations) flight later this month.

Also, I've been asked by dozens of people if I'd make a 140 for them, so I will! Starting in November I'll start selling Raptor 140 kits on my website: MyGeekShow.com. I plan on shipping worldwide and will have kits available starting at $89.99.

See you next week!

-Trent

Raptor 140 Stats:
Weight: 1653g
Flight Time: 40min
Max Range: 50km
Stall Speed: 25kph
Cruise Speed: 75kph
Max Speed: 127kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

The equipment on it:

Autopilot: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
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: 4.4Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-sl4400-3s1p-30c-3333.html
ESC: 60A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/proton60aair.html
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=38700
Prop: 10x6 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x6_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_797_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319

Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.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

Completed the maiden flight of the 140 this week... it flew AMAZING. Seriously, one of the best airframes I've ever flown. This is significant as it proves that I'll be able to scale up a an airframe without having to do a large amount of testing or rebuilding due to a design issue. The Raptor 140 just flew... perfectly.

Next week I'll be completing flight testing to get to know its performance (maneuverability, stall speed, max speed, climb rate, etc).

See you next week!

-Trent

Raptor 140 Stats:
Weight: 1653g
Flight Time: 50min - 60min
Max Range: 50km - 75km
Stall Speed: 25kph
Cruise Speed: 60kph
Max Speed: 125kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

The equipment on it:
Autopilot: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
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: 4.4Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-sl4400-3s1p-30c-3333.html
ESC: 60A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/proton60aair.html
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=38700
Prop: 10x6 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x6_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_797_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319

Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.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 two months of research, testing, designing, building and just all out airplane slavery, I've finally completed the Raptor 140 - the next generation of the Raptor flying wing family, which is the next performance step in my USA trip next summer.

Check it out!

Improvements over original Raptor:
Four times the battery capacity (2.2Ah to 8.8Ah)
Two times the motor power output (300W to 600W)
Better servos (9g cheap analog to 11g digital)
Better air flow (exposed to embedded electronics with canopy)
Better water proofing (plastic wrapped to embedded and sealed equipment)
Folding prop (8x4 fixed plastic to 10x6 folding carbon fiber)
Add current sensor (provides live, in flight Volts and Amp draw)
Seperate GPS & Compass (instead of mounted to APM, improves sensor clarity)
Improved Crash Damage Reduction (Batteries secured safely)
Larger and additional Carbon Fiber spars
And more...

Estimated performance:
Weight: 16000   gm
Flight Time: 40min - 50min
Stall Speed: 25kph
Cruise Speed: 60kph
Max Speed: 120kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

This is the equipment that will go on it:
Autopilot: APM2.6 https://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-6-kit-1
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
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: 4.4Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-sl4400-3s1p-30c-3333.html
ESC: 60A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/proton60aair.html
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=38700
Prop: 10x6 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x6_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_797_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319

-Trent
Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.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

I set up a 5k circuit of waypoints, with a max distance from the ground station of 1.6k, and set the Raptor to fly it, and continue to fly it, even if it lost radio signal on the Tx or the Telemetry connection.

The 9x started losing signal about 1.6k or 1mi away, while the 100mA 900mhz telemetry held strong at about 60% during the longest range points.

I'll have to try it a little further on the telemetry to see what it's maximum range is.

Thank you to all the support on getting the Failsafe to work correctly: http://diydrones.com/group/apmusergroup/forum/topics/continue-mission-on-signal-loss

-Trent

Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/

Equipment Used:
Autopilot: APM2 (no longer sold, visit http://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-5-kit)
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemetry: 915mhz 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: 2.2Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-2200mah-3s1p-111-30c.html
ESC: 30A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/07e04-proton-30a.html
Motor: 2220 1800kv brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/75m55-optima450-2220-1800kv-2.html
Prop: 8x4 APC Style http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__23610__APC_style_propeller_8x4_E_USA_Warehouse_.html
Servos: 9g http://www.hobbypartz.com/topromisesg9.html
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319

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 Raptor 140, the next airplane in the MyGeekShow fleet. Its a major improvement on the very successful Raptor airframe, slightly larger than the current Raptor (140cm wingspan vs 120cm), with a ton of improvements. What do you think? Am I missing anything?

Improvements over original Raptor:
Four times the battery capacity (2.2Ah to 8.8Ah)
Two times the motor power output (300W to 600W)
Better servos (9g cheap analog to 11g digital)
Better air flow (exposed to embedded electronics with canopy)
Better water proofing (plastic wrapped to embedded and sealed equipment)
Folding prop (8x4 fixed plastic to 10x6 folding carbon fiber)
Add current sensor (provides live, in flight Volts and Amp draw)
Seperate GPS & Compass (instead of mounted to APM, improves sensor clarity)
Adjustable camera angle (instead of fixed)
Add FPV Tx (to send live video feed to ground)
Add Airspeed Sensor (improved navigation, allows efficiency testing)
Improved Crash Damage Reduction (Batteries secured safely)
Larger and additional Carbon Fiber spars
And more...

Estimated performance:
Weight: 1200g to 1500g
Flight Time: 30min - 45min
Stall Speed: 25kph
Cruise Speed: 60kph
Max Speed: 120kph
Radio Range: 1.5km

The equipment that will go on it:
Autopilot: APM2 (no longer sold, visit http://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-5-kit)
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
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
FPV: 5.8ghz 600mW http://www.foxtechfpv.com/58g-600mw-32ch-vtxrx-p-1118.html
Battery: 4.4Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-sl4400-3s1p-30c-3333.html
ESC: 60A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/proton60aair.html
Motor: 3542 1450kv brushless http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=38700
Prop: 10x6 Carbon Fiber Folding http://www.hobby-lobby.com/10x6_carbon_fiber_cam_blade_797_prd1.htm
Servos: 11g digital http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=42620
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319
Airspeed Sensor: http://store.3drobotics.com/products/airspeed-kit-with-mpxv7002dp

Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.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

We did it! With your help over the last few years, I finally completed a cross country flight (take off and land at different locations). Executed the mission flawlessly, all that preparation paid off.

I have to take a moment and thank you. Without your support over the last two years, I'd never have gotten this far. DIYD, in my opinion, is the most supportive and helpful community in our field. Thank you.

Next up: Bigger, faster, longer.

-Trent

Learn More:
Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/

Equipment Used:
Autopilot: APM2 (no longer sold, visit http://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-5-kit)
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
Radio Tx: ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
Reciever: 6ch FlySky http://www.hobbypartz.com/79p-r6b-receiver.html
Telemtry: 915mhz 3DR http://store.3drobotics.com/products/3dr-radio-telemetry-kit-915-mhz
Battery: 2.2Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-2200mah-3s1p-111-30c.html
ESC: 30A Brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/07e04-proton-30a.html
Motor: 2220 1800kv brushless http://www.hobbypartz.com/75m55-optima450-2220-1800kv-2.html
Prop: 8x4 APC Style http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__23610__APC_style_propeller_8x4_E_USA_Warehouse_.html
Servos: 9g http://www.hobbypartz.com/topromisesg9.html
UBEC (for FPV camera): 3A http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=4319

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

After flying 15 missions and traveling over 150km to establish the APM's reliability, I completed this final test of key failsafe and telemetry control functionality.

Specifically, I proved the APM and Raptor's ability to:
1. Conduct an unlimited loiter at the end of a mission
2. Changing altitude, throttle rate and parameters via the mission planner mid flight to adapt to changing environments.
3. Continue on a mission after signal loss (failsafe)

In other words, THE APM IS AWESOME. And with that, I'm ready for my first cross country flight!

A special thank-you to Tridge and you at DIYDrones.com ! I couldn't have made it this far without your support. Thank you!

-Trent

Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/

Equipment Used
APM2.5: http://store.3drobotics.com/products/apm-2-5-kit
FPV/Onboard Camera: http://www.foxtechfpv.com/horyzonhd-full-hd-1080p-fpv-camera-v3-p-877.html
ParkeFlyer Turnigy 9x Tx: http://parkeflyer.com/
2.2Ah 30C Sky Lipo: http://www.hobbypartz.com/77p-2200mah-3s1p-111-30c.html

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

I created an Excel spreadsheet to analyze the telemetry data during the flight testing, and have discovered some pretty interesting correlations between altitude and RSSI, throttle settings and cruise speed, cruise speed and mAh/km, etc. This by no means replaces the graphing functionality the Mission Planner has, but its a start into some of the specific analysis I'll need to capture as I prepare for the USA trip.

USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/

I set up three 3k circles around my field to test range and how the Raptor would perform during an actual travel environment, and it performed very, very well. A perfect flight. You may see at the end I realize that my RTL altitude was set to zero, but luckily I was quick enough to set a guided mode until I could manually return it home. 

Awesome stuff! Thank you DIYD!

Used the APM, Raptor and 900mhz 100mw 3DR telemetry to enjoy an awesome autonomous flight. I tested waypoints, guided mode, changed altitude and other awesome telem/mission planner features. Can't wait for more! Great job DIYD...

Raptor Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/theairplanes/Raptor.html
USA Trip Details: http://www.mygeekshow.com/usatrip/

A quick step by step video on how to connect RC airplane equipment to an APM.

This is a part of a complete series on how to get started and eventually become proficient with the APM. Check it out on my site: http://mygeekshow.com/beginnertoexpert/topics/AutoPilot.html

CORRECTION: During this video I say GPS operates on 900mhz, which is not correct. According to Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GPS#Satellite_frequencies) GPS operates on 1.57542 GHz (L1 signal) and 1.2276 GHz (L2 signal). I apologize for the error.

Here are a few tips when mounting your APM to your RC craft.

This is a part of a complete how-to APM series that I'm putting together on MyGeekShow: http://www.mygeekshow.com/beginnertoexpert/topics/AutoPilot.html.