So, the first payloader max is built - time for testing!
Just got the APM to put back onto the lifter, and away we go.
Payloader max: 5kg capacity via parrallel EPM's, no moving parts to fail, full autonomous integration with arducopter 3.2.
The foldable lifter (around 11-12kg lift, depending on how you mark the efficiency loss of X8):
Comments
It seems the EPM gripper has moved on a bit since the library was written. The library in AC3.2 was written for version #1 but now the EPM's interface has changed (for the better) with Version 2. This causes some problems with the integration and I'll be making some code changes but they won't make it into AC3.2.
In any case, not all is lost. I've updated the wiki with the best way to use it with APM or Pixhawk with AC3.2.
This is my understand too Leonard.
There is another reason to mount them inboard too - less likely to get damaged in a crash/tip over. These quadframe motor mounts locates them on the sides of the arm, not underneath, which will avoid the most obvious damage scenario.
Jakub is a bit funny that way...a bit hot and cold. I have the same issue. I'm still waiting for a response from him, re: some baseline nex5 alexmos settings for his gimbal. Not sure if it's a language issue (He's polish), or he just doesn't understand customer service.
He makes a fine product though, and there is no doubting the quality. I also noticed that he's adopted the recessed nut thingy, which makes frame construction easier. But I've noticed a trend of his frames getting thicker/heavier - I was quite surprised to see this foldable x8 frame top the 1kg mark. Admittedly, I could have lightened it with the lighter (unfoldable) legs, and such, but the centre plates are definitely "robust".I'm looking to get his 3 axis rotating setup, but I'm concerned about weight - the V004 vibe plate he recommends has 24 silicon balls, and yet more "thick" G10. I could see a 3 axis setup adding 400g to the weight of my camera hex, and that's outside my acceptable performance parameters.
Re: SAR light - I never did find a light I was sufficiently happy with. It seemed I could have lightness, power, or beam quality. But never all three together. However, the "wide body" would allow me to spec a 100W single LED and reflector, with a headsink large/heavy enough to work. The DSLR-sized gimbal it would need (the heatsink would be 2kg, minimum) is a bit of a weight/cost issue though.
thx a lot for this info. I was also considering that X8 frame from quadframe but I never get an answer to my emails from this supplier (or his contact form is dead).
Did you finally manage to find a good SAR led light ? I remember you did some tests about this some time ago but we never got your conclusions. Would such a led light have some room with the 5kg EPM on your future custom frame?
Thanks Sarge - yes, that's the reason.
I would have them even closer, inside the frame, but the only ESC's I had to hand were 8 x Multistar 45A optos. I'd have preferred the Tmotor 30a opto pros, for their smaller form factor, and ability to mount them right inside the frame. And they're lighter.
Not entirely sure what's happened, but I got the whole airframe in ready-to-fly config on the scales last night, and it's a whopping 4.8kg - considerably more than when I weighed the components. I've added a battery strap and the 200mw 5.8 transmitter, but last time I checked these don't weight half a kilo...It's a bit of a setback, and an annoyance I've made a miscalculation along the line.
Thanks for the explanation Sarge.
I find a thick skin and a thick head do a good job of mitigating the effects caused by negative feedback. But I will try wearing a cap in future :)
It is always better to have the ESCs as close to the battery as possible! (Short cable runs, even when using large diameter wires)
Especially, as @Euan mentioned, for larger draw applications.
Larger caps can mitigate this, but you still can get damaging feedback using long wires.
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