Airframe #2 - Decisions and path options
I decided to follow parallel paths to my goal.
The first path is to continue development on my own airframe.
The second path is to use an off the shelf airframe to work on the electronics end of my goal.
Airframe Path:
As a part of my airframe development, I have decided to include my kids in the design and building process. They have an interest and I see it as a great learning opportunity.
I have drawn up Airframe #2, and made some design changes to make the design and build process easier. The main wing will have the ability to be removed to facilitate different wing layouts. I am also thinking about using a Carbon Fiber plate as a wing and tail boom mount.
Electronics path:
FPV will be 5.8ghz 200mw min.
I am debating about base airframes, Skywalker EPO or the Hobbyking EPP-FPV. Both have their strengths and weaknesses. Any comments about either are appreciated.
Another debate – Prebuilt Arduino Megapilot or build it myself. Price difference about $100, My soldering skills are decent but it has been years since I have worked at the level that the Megapilot needs.
One more debate - the FrSky DFT 2.4ghz Module for my Futaba 9C, I am currently using a Corona 2.4ghz Module.
Currently I am working on / waiting on the following items;
- 6mm x 6mm square carbon fiber tubing – To be used as a wing spar
- 3mm x 3mm square carbon fiber tubing – for various projects
- I have the plans for Airframe #2 plotted and Depron ready to be cut
- I am looking for a new source of Dow Fanfold, my local (50 miles) Lowes does not carry it any more
- Will be doing experiments with wing rigidity for various wing styles using 6mm Depron as a base, I see a few gliders in my kids future
Comments
It looks like the ArduPilot will be a few weeks off.
Thanks for all of the comments.
Mark - Is the Version 3 your modified Skywalker or is it commercialy available?
After my own research and comments, looks like the Skywalker will be the way I go.
A new version 3 SkyWalker is the ticket!
I added a central wing panel and new spars to get 100" wing and stretched the tail 4" Rudder has a push pull setup. added some carbon and fiberglass here and there for strength.
After examination of the new arival to the shop (HobbyKing EPP-FPV), I think I'm going to do a few mods right off the bat.
I think I'll remount the servos interior, and run push pull cables through the main tube, as I'm not fond of exposed servos. (It also may even assist with CG setup.)
Also, I will be mounting the batteries outside on the airframe on either side of the body. (saves precious interior space.)
A few more first impressions:
Interior has the same width (I.D.) as the APM/Oilpan (O.D.) ( aka... fits like a glove)
With a large wing area, it has potential for quite a bit of payload.
Simplistic design, with easy to replace (or recreate) foam and carbon parts.
I dont like the temp cockpit foam included, as I feel its a throwaway waste and easily falls off with the included magnetics.
It appears to have more interior room than a standard SW
Although it seems a tad heavier, but has much denser foam
Ply attachments on the enpenage, are not streamlined (think airbrake)
Will have to wait to see, but predict slow speed and could be improved with a raised rear, like an inverted v-tail or a t-tail; vs the included setup.
I have flown both and would definitively recommend the Skywalker.
The HK FPV plane flies like a brick (small tail combined with high drag front end) and the low tail design means there is a high risk of damage every time you land on slightly uneven terrain.
Payload capacity is about the same, but the Skywalker flies much better and has a T tail.
http://vimeo.com/12470686
I would go for the frsky, u can use its 2 way com as a backup of battery level. also u can know the strength of the signal ;)
I think with a bit of exercise you would be ok soldering the megapilot :) just buy a bored and some pins and try soldering/ desoldering them
I cant answer the airframe question though, however eppfpv has a hell lot more space
Hope this helps