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General => General Discussion => Topic started by: Crisp Image on January 03, 2014, 08:35:42 PM

Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 03, 2014, 08:35:42 PM
Not wanting to take over the RC cars thread I have decided to make one for flying things.
So post up your Radio controlled flying things and ask questions. I am only new to the RC world so I am learning as I go.
Here are some pics of my current toy. Will be building a Tricopter in a couple of weeks with Little Image No1
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/20131125_104140.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/20131125_104140.jpg.html)

(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8632.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8632.jpg.html)

(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8631.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8631.jpg.html)

So post up and have the discussion.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: KingBilly on January 03, 2014, 08:40:51 PM
A thread for flying stuff like this?

Second flight Orvillecopter (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kSYhhilorA#)

KB

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: oldmate on January 03, 2014, 08:41:26 PM
I so want one but wife says no.

Maybe I can say its a safety issue. If we get lost I can put it in the air to see where we are. Yeah that may work.

Ps what is a setup like that worth?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: KingBilly on January 03, 2014, 08:44:24 PM
Ps what is a setup like that worth?

The dead cat is usually free (let me know if you want one) but not sure about the rest of the setup  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

KB
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: oldmate on January 03, 2014, 08:49:29 PM
Pmsl
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 03, 2014, 09:28:23 PM
Should have my F450 quadcopter knockoff early next week. I'll post up some pictures as I put it together.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: gec on January 04, 2014, 01:18:02 AM
here's some of mine. not all of which survive.

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/003-11.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/003-11.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/003-9.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/003-9.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/SAM_1458.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/SAM_1458.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/SAM_1450.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/SAM_1450.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/012-6.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/012-6.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/002-14.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/002-14.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/004-13.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/004-13.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/003-15.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/003-15.jpg.html)

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k452/BeniMan_08/SAM_1517_zpse3480f35.jpg) (http://s327.photobucket.com/user/BeniMan_08/media/SAM_1517_zpse3480f35.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2014, 07:40:48 AM
That's a nice collection of warbirds Gec.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 04, 2014, 10:06:15 AM
What radio gear are you planning to use Marschy? I use a spektrum DX8 and AR8000 rx. It is 8ch so I have a little room to move and customize.
Regards
Crispy

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2014, 03:18:35 PM
Hello Crispy,

I going to be using the FlySky FS-T6 2.4Ghz digitial 6 channel.

(http://image.helipal.com/fs-t6-big.jpg)

Picked one up for under $100 delivered, but you can get them for as little as $70 if you are willing to wait on international snail mail.

I also considered the Turnigy 9XR for around $60 US (excluding shipping), this doesn't include the separate RF module. All up including shipping would be around $120, or cheaper yet on ebay via international snail mail from China.

(http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/IMG_1689_2(1).jpg)

The 9 channel would be better for FPV with 2 or 3 axis gimballed camera and I should have considered that, but for these prices if the 6 channel is insufficient, I will get a 9 channel for under $100 if need be.

This is the kit I have purchased for the quad, bit of DIY in front on me in the next month. This was $124.78 US

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47493-1/F450+Kit.jpg)

In Aussie dollars the radio and kit set me back $297.62 which is pretty good I think. If I already had a suitable radio I would have got away with around a $200 outlay for just the kit.

This is a link to the kit for anyone interested. Please note, this is a Chinese knockoff of Crispy's DJI Flamewheel which is an excellent quad.

F450 Flamewheel kit (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F02192-B-RC-4-Axis-Multi-QuadCopter-UFO-ARF-Kit-No-TX-RX-KK-V2-3/632296330.html)

There are cheaper 6 channel radios on the market, but unless they are digitally proportional, I wouldn't consider buying them myself.

Cheers, Marshy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 04, 2014, 04:07:27 PM
Hello Crispy,

I going to be using the FlySky FS-T6 2.4Ghz digitial 6 channel.

(http://image.helipal.com/fs-t6-big.jpg)

Picked one up for under $100 delivered, but you can get them for as little as $70 if you are willing to wait on international snail mail.

I also considered the Turnigy 9XR for around $60 US (excluding shipping), this doesn't include the separate RF module. All up including shipping would be around $120, or cheaper yet on ebay via international snail mail from China.

(http://hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/IMG_1689_2(1).jpg)

The 9 channel would be better for FPV with 2 or 3 axis gimballed camera and I should have considered that, but for these prices if the 6 channel is insufficient, I will get a 9 channel for under $100 if need be.

This is the kit I have purchased for the quad, bit of DIY in front on me in the next month. This was $124.78 US

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47493-1/F450+Kit.jpg)

In Aussie dollars the radio and kit set me back $297.62 which is pretty good I think. If I already had a suitable radio I would have got away with around a $200 outlay for just the kit.

This is a link to the kit for anyone interested. Please note, this is a Chinese knockoff of Crispy's DJI Flamewheel which is an excellent quad.

F450 Flamewheel kit (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F02192-B-RC-4-Axis-Multi-QuadCopter-UFO-ARF-Kit-No-TX-RX-KK-V2-3/632296330.html)

There are cheaper 6 channel radios on the market, but unless they are digitally proportional, I wouldn't consider buying them myself.

Cheers, Marshy

Nice kit. Be interesting how the FC goes and how long it takes before you upgrade it with GPS ect.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2014, 05:06:50 PM
The KK5.5 v2.3 flight control board that comes with the kit is not going onto the quad. I have a KK2.1 flight control board on the way from Hobby King. Much easier to setup by the look of it without having to cart a laptop around.

The only issue with the KK2.0 or 2.1 is they have to be mounted on the top of the quad to get access to the programming buttons, you can't bury the FC like you have with your Naza setup.

Already looking at Ardupilot APM 2.6 flight control board (and all the add on bits like GPS/OSD etc) which will happen after I have a few flights with the KK2.1 and get the camera setup working first for FPV. Can get these for about $200 delivered with everything I need for UAV.

Flying fixed wing RC models taught me one thing, I will put the quad into the dirt as some stage. I don't want to mount my AEE Magicam on the quad. I'm going to get a separate camera lens (similar to your top camera), microphone and DVR module for recording.  That way when I crash (and I will), the camera components have a chance of not being written off completely. Compare that with putting the quad into the dirt with the Magicam on the front and scratching $200 worth of camera in one foul swoop.

Crispy, can you let me know what your all up weight is so far. I'm curious about the lift capacity of the motors that are supplied in my kit. They are 1000kv, but the housing is a generic housing that is used for about a dozen different kv sizes, so I'm a little bit dubious about the motors in my kit.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 04, 2014, 07:42:50 PM


Crispy, can you let me know what your all up weight is so far. I'm curious about the lift capacity of the motors that are supplied in my kit. They are 1000kv, but the housing is a generic housing that is used for about a dozen different kv sizes, so I'm a little bit dubious about the motors in my kit.

Cheers, Marschy
My AUW is currently 2060g but with the new motors it will be about 2150g.
It looks like your motors will lift about 730g ea so that means about 2920g in total. Divide that my 2 and that makes an acceptable AUW of 1460g. I believe you should have twice the amount of thrust than AUW. That is on 10x5 props by the way.
I have yet to put my quad into the dirt hard but I am using the NAZA FC which almost flys the quad by its self.
It will be fun flying the tri on the KK2.1
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2014, 07:48:05 PM
What motors did you decide on to replace the originals?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 04, 2014, 07:56:35 PM
T-Motors (Tiger) 2216-11 900kv. About 1100-1200g thrust on a 4s battery with the right prop.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2014, 08:04:51 PM
Here is a good site that lists functionality provided by most of the readily available flight control boards

Best Flight Controller For Quadcopter and Multicopter (http://robot-kingdom.com/best-flight-controller-for-quadcopter-and-multicopter/)

The ArduCopter APM 2.5 rates right up there. That's cool 'cause I'm looking at getting 2.6 version, but I may change my mind after I do a bit more research, especially now that I can compare other flight controllers from this list.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Ynot on January 04, 2014, 10:00:49 PM
Not quite as high tech as you guys but my daughters bought me a helicopter about 50cm long for Chrissy.

It didn't fly too well and particularly wouldn't go forward. Ended up glueing a ball sinker in the nose cone and it now works well.

No as I had this falling out of the sky everywhere my misses went to get some new blades and found that the shop had several returns of the same brand but in better condition so she asked if she could get one whole unit cheap to use as spares.

$50 later and when she brought it home I thought what if I just change the modified nose cone over to the spare chopper. The returned unit works perfectly so for the sake of a sinker I have a second chopper for bugger all!

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2014, 10:14:42 PM
Hey Ynot,

I purchased a cheap Kogan quadcopter for Xmas for $99 and after seeing for myself how easy they are to fly, I thought I'd like to try something that gave me more options regarding photography. I know what you mean about spares, I've already ordered new blades for my Kogan UFO quad.

The little choppers are good fun and an inexpensive way of seeing if you are capable of flying one confidently before moving to something more sophisticated. But it seems with these quads, the more you spend, the easier they are to fly once set up.

Not sure if I'm competent enough yet, but hey, gotta have a hobby.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: SteveandViv on January 04, 2014, 10:23:38 PM
I think if your going to post on here you must include video's. You can't really expect us to just sit here and read - can you ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 05, 2014, 12:12:45 PM
Be patient there will be videos oh yes there will be videos!

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: chriso57 on January 05, 2014, 12:29:34 PM
 I went into Jaycar for a couple of blade fuse holders the other day. Bloody expensive things they are! It was OK though cos they gave me a free helicopter >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rodw on January 05, 2014, 01:23:14 PM
Funny you guys started this thread. I had a 25cc Whipper Snipper that the starter spring jammed up in so I did this
(http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb270/rodweb/Phone%20Photos/IMAG0319_zpsd8bcce08.jpg)

And now I have got this far and am not quite sure what to do next....
(http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb270/rodweb/Mobile%20Uploads/20140105_125334_zpspkpgzdac.jpg)

All of the surplus casting has been milled away and you can see the flywheel has been heavily trimmed on my lathe and mill to save weight.

The 14"  prop is a bit small but it was the biggest the hobby shop had.

I was going to mount it on a stand and wire in a kill switch to see if I could start it by flipping the prop before getting carried away.

Any help or guidance will be appreciated. I think it needs to go in an 80" wing span plane.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2014, 05:42:28 PM
These engines usually have an ideal carby. Does it use a diaphragm pump? It could propel a plane with about a 2+ metre wing span, typically a 1/4 scale WWII fighter sized plane.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2014, 05:51:15 PM
Watched a few tutorials on making 5.8gHz clover leaf antenna because I don't have a life LOL. Then went shopping on the net for same, only to see that some of the commercially available antennas are so poorly made its convinced me to have a go at making two for myself. I reckon I could do a better job than some of them.

Have a look at this antenna and tell me you couldn't do a better job yourself.

FPV Video antenna 5.8Ghz Tx - 3 bladed cloverleaf (http://www.multiwiicopter.com/products/fpv-antenna-5-8ghz-clover-leaf-3-bladed)

This is a pretty good tutorial for making them

DIY: FPV backpack build part 2 (antennas) (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yohKRzMAJAg#ws)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rodw on January 05, 2014, 06:32:14 PM
These engines usually have an ideal carby. Does it use a diaphragm pump? It could propel a plane with about a 2+ metre wing span, typically a 1/4 scale WWII fighter sized plane.

Marschy, thanks. Yes, it is a Zama carby with a priming bulb. The engine is out of a Ryobi and is the same as the Homelite often used in the US. They have a very big shroud which i have milled off. Unfortunately, it has a fixed high idle jet but you can alter the low idle mixture. I had it all apart and cleaned the carby and it was a goer but the starter came apart soon after so I hacked into it. I turned up a prop spinner yesterday but was a bit light on for material so used the existing shafts which I tapped to hold the prop on. I will remake this later in the week.

Would the transmitter you ordered do the job on this Rig? Maybe I should get the 9 channel and swap You? What Servos to get? I thought a big plane might need more powerful servos.

Rod
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2014, 06:45:16 PM
Hello Rod,

Yes the radio I bought will do the job, you just need to size your servo's appropriately. I haven't built any planes that require this size engine, so others may steer you in the direction of what size servo to drive the throttle linkage.

If you are just starting out, look at something smaller. The size engine is directly proportional to the size of the plane. You are looking at a pretty big plane to run this motor. Zama carbies or similar are used on gasoline monster engines like Zenoa's.

Have a look at the carbie on this motor, look familiar?

Zenoah ZP62 Gasoline engine 62cc w/electronic ignition (http://www.modelflight.com.au/power-systems/air-engines/zenoah-zp62-gasoline-engine-62cc-w-electronic-ignition.html)

If you are just starting, look at either electric, or .40 or .46 cc 2 stroke engines. Lots of trainers for these size motors.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rodw on January 05, 2014, 08:15:06 PM
Hello Rod,

Yes the radio I bought will do the job, you just need to size your servo's appropriately. I haven't built any planes that require this size engine, so others may steer you in the direction of what size servo to drive the throttle linkage.

If you are just starting out, look at something smaller. The size engine is directly proportional to the size of the plane. You are looking at a pretty big plane to run this motor. Zama carbies or similar are used on gasoline monster engines like Zenoa's.

Have a look at the carbie on this motor, look familiar?

Zenoah ZP62 Gasoline engine 62cc w/electronic ignition (http://www.modelflight.com.au/power-systems/air-engines/zenoah-zp62-gasoline-engine-62cc-w-electronic-ignition.html)

If you are just starting, look at either electric, or .40 or .46 cc 2 stroke engines. Lots of trainers for these size motors.

Cheers, Marschy


Thanks mate. I have had a chance to research your radio and it seems pretty well regarded. For $60 ex China I am tempted to order one as I have the time to wait while I get it to run. I have built a few planes over the years but never put an engine in one.  If I do build a plane for this engine, I wanted it to be a trainer and there are a few around.

Anyway, I will report back progress if I actually make any Headway!

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 06, 2014, 05:43:51 PM
My F450 kit arrived.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47505-1/F450+Kit_002.jpg)

Pretty remarkable considering it was ordered on Xmas day, delivered 5 working days later (working days in Oz at least). Now I reckon that's exceptional.

Charger looks like it's would take a long time to charge a 3S lipo, this will have to be updated.

Motors are no-name brand, they'll do for now (watch this space), No way to work out how efficient (or inefficient) they are. ESC's are a FMT brand, but nothing on the net to determine if they are programmable, being linear, probably not.

I'll have a bit of a play around tonight and post more pictures soon.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 06, 2014, 07:38:33 PM
My T motors turned up today while I was at work. When I got home I  fitted them up and had a short test flight of about 30sec.
It looks good so if the wind stays away tomorrow I will fly some test packs and let you know all the results.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 06, 2014, 07:39:50 PM
My F450 kit arrived.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47505-1/F450+Kit_002.jpg)

Pretty remarkable considering it was ordered on Xmas day, delivered 5 working days later (working days in Oz at least). Now I reckon that's exceptional.

Charger looks like it's would take a long time to charge a 3S lipo, this will have to be updated.

Motors are no-name brand, they'll do for now (watch this space), No way to work out how efficient (or inefficient) they are. ESC's are a FMT brand, but nothing on the net to determine if they are programmable, being linear, probably not.

I'll have a bit of a play around tonight and post more pictures soon.

Cheers, Marschy

You'll have fun with that. Looking forward to the results.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 06, 2014, 08:04:34 PM
Props are so so, but I was expecting that. Reckon they'd be a pain to balance. Haven't checked if they track straight yet, if they don't, they'll be going straight into the bin.
Motor mounts are not even for this motor but motor itself lines up with holes in the frame so I don't need them anyway. Probably just a generic prop adapter kit including mount which you only need the spinner/nut to secure the prop. Going to be interesting balancing the motors.
Everything is certainly there to get you flying minus the radio.
Needs washers for the Allen screws that hold the frame together as the bite on the fibreglass board is marginal, but easily fixed.
Everything else is pretty well as much as I expected given how little this kit cost.
There is also a bag of goodies including solder on bullet connectors zip ties Velcro, they even supplied an Australian power plug for the charger.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2014, 01:48:09 PM
Well had my first big oops today.
I crashed in to a tree about 35m of the ground. I was unable to rescue it so rang the council who sent out their arbourist who climbed the tree and retrieved it for me. I offered him a slab but he was not interested.
Any way the damage is 3 broken props and my pride.
I will edit the gopro video and put it up later. Here is a photo of the broken bits. All up about $10 damage.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8633.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8633.jpg.html)
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: xcvator on January 07, 2014, 02:12:03 PM
Well had my first big oops today.
I crashed in to a tree about 35m of the ground. I was unable to rescue it so rang the council who sent out their arbourist who climbed the tree and retrieved it for me.

(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8633.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8633.jpg.html)
Regards
Crispy

Hey Crispy, you should have called me, I know a guy in the SES that could have got it down for you  ;D ;D >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2014, 02:14:25 PM
Hey Crispy, you should have called me, I know a guy in the SES that could have got it down for you  ;D ;D >:D
I called that bloke but it was too high for him but he did get 20m up before running out of options. I understand he has learnt something new now so I'll be able to call him then.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2014, 02:39:02 PM
Bloody trees, the downfall of many remote control aircraft. But you did record the crash on video though? Bloody good thing it didn't fall out of the tree, a 35 metre fall with the transmitter off would have done a bit more damage that a few props.

I'm thinking about getting prop guards. They have saved the props on my Kogan UFO quad heaps of times. Just ordered some undercarriage, should have got prop guards at the same time.

What I've noticed with the UFO is when the prop guard hits an object the rear of the quad flips up towards the object so that it is 90 degrees to the direction of travel. Flying the quad around my front yard I,ve hit gutters on the roof (which you can see if that video I posted on the RC Cars thread very early in the vid), trees, the wifes car (don't tell her), and scared the crap out of the cat.

I've got about 100 acres of reserve directly out my back yard. Once I master the basics, I'll be hopping the fence and flying out my back yard. Most of it is relatively treeless.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2014, 02:44:08 PM
New engines look good Crispy. Did you have your fpv goggles on when you flew into the tree?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 08, 2014, 11:26:52 AM
As promised here is the shoer video which incorporates the mishap yesterday. After reviewing all the footage I nearly took out 3 trees during the flight. I think the problem was caused by 1. More weight so it does not stop going in one direction as fast as it did. 2. Wind. There was a light wind blowing in that direction and 3. I got too cocky. Most likely No 3 is the biggest reason.
Anyway enjoy and have a laugh.
Regards
Crispy
Big Oops (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIKdbz7nUKQ#ws)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2014, 12:48:49 PM
Looks like you yinged when you should have yanged. Gotta be happy with how stable it flies, brilliant.

I've got to get into the habit of using aileron to move away from obstacles rather than rudder and elevator. That's what get's me into strife more often than not.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on January 08, 2014, 02:41:59 PM
Santa brought me a Blade 350QX and a blinged out Blade 130X ............ now I just need my FPV gogles and I am set ;D

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2014, 02:58:16 PM
The RCModelReviews website does a good review on SkyZone and FatShark FPV goggles. The SkyZone has a forward facing camera built into the goggles so you can turn the camera off and see normally. I think these are the same as Crispy's, but he obviously hasn't worked out how to use them properly yet, if you read above LOL.

I'm in the same boat as well. I was looking at 'Video Goggles' on both ebay and aliexpress. I'm now looking at the HobbyKing FatShark entry level goggles (also after listening to a bit of Crispy's advise). Hard to beat there price for goggles bundled with transmitter and receiver.

FatShark Teleporter V3 RTF FPV Headset System w/Camera and 5.8G TX (http://hobbyking.com.au/hobbyking/store/__43057__FatShark_Teleporter_V3_RTF_FPV_Headset_System_w_Camera_and_5_8G_TX.html)

But I may need to get some more information on if I require the ones that can accept corrective lenses for people who wear glasses. My eyesight is shocking, but not long sighted. Crispy has led me to believe you don't need the corrective lens if you wear reading glasses, which is what my eyeglasses prescription is.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 08, 2014, 03:06:35 PM
The SkyZone has a forward facing camera built into the goggles so you can turn the camera off and see normally. I think these are the same as Crispy's, but he obviously hasn't worked out how to use them properly yet, if you read above LOL.

Crispy has led me to believe you don't need the corrective lens if you wear reading glasses, which is what my eyeglasses prescription is.
Yes I have the Sky Zone goggles and I do know how to use them. You look into them and you see where your quad is. In my case it was in a tree!
I have to wear reading glasses and the goggles are clear to see in without any corrective lenses. Even the OSD numbers are clear.

Regards
Crispy
Look up your local RC flying club and go and talk to and have a look at some gear.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2014, 05:39:03 PM
Picked up the radio from the post office today. The quad is just waiting for the flight control board and tidying up the wiring, balancing, etc, then I'll be able to start flying.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47507-1/Quad+and+Tx.jpg)

Almost there now.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on January 08, 2014, 05:39:29 PM
want to do some flying at this field ???   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RR5BtXP0s0o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RR5BtXP0s0o)
How cool is this second one   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkHkWy9S4nw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QkHkWy9S4nw)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2014, 01:40:44 PM
Well after the little oops the other day I have been working on some weight saving measures and trimmed excess wire off motors and other places. Every little gram helps.
Today I took it out to a CLEAR area (Soccer Pitch) and did some tests with props.
The results are in and here they are.
Flight 1
Prop 10x4.5
Time 10:14
Mah used 3797 (Out of an available 4000mah which is 80% of 5000mah S4)
Motor temp warm to touch but not hot
Battery Pack 2
AUW=2086g

Flight 2
Prop 9x5
Time 9:25
Mah used 3727 (Same type of battery)
Motor temp cool
Battery Pack 1
AUW 2077g

So from this it looks like the 10x4.5 props are the go for me.
I will have the 9x5s on hand in case of another oops  :angel:

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 10, 2014, 12:59:46 PM
Finally found a use for one of those useless bloody laser levels.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47543-1/Laser+Level.jpg)

A homemade engine balancer.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47541-1/Engine+Balancer.jpg)

Motors were pretty good. I have simply left them as they were after removing the stickers, so I have not had to balance them at all. Certainly worth the effort and it didn't cost me anything. Found different versions of these balancers on youtube
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 11, 2014, 08:10:34 PM
Good work on the balancing. I have flown 6 packs today at the caravan park that we are at. I will edit the video when I get home and post up a sample. Thus time there is no oops in the video.
Regards
Crispy

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 11, 2014, 08:41:27 PM
6 packs? Is that about an hour and a half of flying time?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 12, 2014, 12:18:00 PM
6 packs? Is that about an hour and a half of flying time?
55-60 min of time. That is a long time to fly around in circles. When we left the park today I left a copy of photos taken from the quad. Lets just say there could be a discount stay there in the future.
I will upload some photos soon.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 12, 2014, 01:33:36 PM
Some photos from the GoPro. I have it set to take photos and video. Photos are taken every 10 seconds. I get to pick and choose the best ones and delete the rest.

This one is the swimming hole/beach. Not very deep really good for the little kids
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/G0040163.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/G0040163.jpg.html)
The View from above. As you can see there is plenty of open space. Most have allocated camping spots but I think they rotate them in and out of service to let them recover.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/G0030136.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/G0030136.jpg.html)
This is out powered site the 2 side boundaries and the rear boundary are the tent limits. We had some good neighbours so was not really an issue
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/G0020102.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/G0020102.jpg.html)
Another view looking west from well up in the sky.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/G0030130.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/G0030130.jpg.html)

I will do a little video soon and upload it Hope you enjoy the photos.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mrs smith on January 12, 2014, 02:50:23 PM
Good ole Glen Cromie park, did you try for a cray while there ?
Great pics, looking forward to the video.
Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 13, 2014, 12:42:15 PM
We started the new project today. We have to wait for the post to come with more parts before we can continue. Got the shed stuff out of the way before it got too hot to be out there.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8806.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8806.jpg.html)
Folded Frame
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8805.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8805.jpg.html)
Frame in flight mode
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8807.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8807.jpg.html)
2 motors fitted and folded.

Like I said the post needs to turn up so we can continue.
Here are some other photos of the quad from the weekend (ground camera)
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8677.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8677.jpg.html)
Preparing for flight
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8776.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8776.jpg.html)
Hovering
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8688.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8688.jpg.html)
In full flight
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8783.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8783.jpg.html)
FPV Flying with a spotter

Enjoy the photos and build process.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 13, 2014, 12:49:00 PM
Looking good Crispy,

Where did you get the plans from for the tri-copter? Great pictures too by the way, so jealous. I've come to a screaming halt while I wait for parts.

Cheers, Marschy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 13, 2014, 01:26:26 PM
Looking good Crispy,

Where did you get the plans from for the tri-copter? Great pictures too by the way, so jealous. I've come to a screaming halt while I wait for parts.

Cheers, Marschy.

Plans off the net http://forum.flitetest.com/showthread.php?1503-Optimized-RCExplorer-Tricopter-Template (http://forum.flitetest.com/showthread.php?1503-Optimized-RCExplorer-Tricopter-Template)
Wait Mr postman is there a letter for me? Please Mr post man can you check again?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 14, 2014, 05:28:56 PM
Hey Crispy,
The more I read about these kk2.1 boards the more I like them. Check out this on rcgroups.

KK2 Camera gimbal (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1793759)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 14, 2014, 08:25:58 PM
Hey Crispy,
The more I read about these kk2.1 boards the more I like them. Check out this on rcgroups.

KK2 Camera gimbal (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1793759)

Got my KK board today but I do not like it. I am having trouble setting it up. So much so I can't get past the first step. I have asked questions on RCgroups and have had some sugestions but none have worked. Then I burnt out the servo so had to order another one.
On the plus side the Tri is built and just awaits the new servo and an answer to my set up problems.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 15, 2014, 02:18:00 PM
You've got me worried now Crispy. What is it you don't like about the KK2?

I would imagine starting off with a Naza that the KK2 is a giant leap backwards, is that a fair assessment?

I've ordered the FatShark Teleporter FPV kit (you have got to stop putting ideas in my head). Cost about $270 with express shipping. Still waiting for the KK2. I ordered the KK2 with snail mail shipping from China (what was I thinking). The FPV goggles are likely to turn up before the KK2.

I like the look of the tri-copter your building from the free plans. I looked at the shopping list on the website and this one is definitely going on the 'to do list'. Very doable for under $200.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 15, 2014, 02:23:24 PM
It us only that I am having problems getting it to set up. Once that is done I an sure that once it is setup that it will be good.

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 17, 2014, 08:32:41 AM
It us only that I am having problems getting it to set up. Once that is done I an sure that once it is setup that it will be good.

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk


I figured it out.
It was the RX that did not want to talk to the KK FC. I Tried it with my other Rx and it worked well.
I just ordered another Rx and other bits from HKing and should have them mid next week as they are from the au warehouse.
Just waiting is the hardest part.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 17, 2014, 08:39:10 AM
Received a servo and 3S balanced charger extension cable in the mail yesterday. I'll tackle the li-po conversion for my transmitter this week end. I'm going to fit a low voltage alarm to the transmitter as well. 1450mAh Battery and 3S alarm should be here shortly, it's coming from the hobbyking au website as well, but it's taking its sweet time.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: ScottH on January 17, 2014, 07:49:49 PM
As a total newbie to all things flying, but having reasonable experience with RC boats, cars and trucks, I have a few questions:
- How hard are the quads to fly?
- is FPV essential for aerial photography?
- How "breakable" is something like the kit Marschy bought?
- Is GPS required?

I'm considering an action camera purchase ahead of a big trip in 2015, and would love to be able to get some aerial shots of camp sites, water crossings, waterfalls, etc.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on January 17, 2014, 07:53:22 PM
I am going to lock this thread up.  :police:























Its going to cost me lots of money  >:( ;D ;D

GG

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 17, 2014, 08:47:14 PM
I am going to lock this thread up.  :police:























Its going to cost me lots of money  >:( ;D ;D

GG
Why? Because you don't have one yet. If you are nice I might let you play with mine next time.

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 17, 2014, 08:52:29 PM
As a total newbie to all things flying, but having reasonable experience with RC boats, cars and trucks, I have a few questions:
- How hard are the quads to fly?
- is FPV essential for aerial photography?
- How "breakable" is something like the kit Marschy bought?
- Is GPS required?

I'm considering an action camera purchase ahead of a big trip in 2015, and would love to be able to get some aerial shots of camp sites, water crossings, waterfalls, etc.
You don't need to fpv but it makes it easier to see what you are taking video of.
Depending on the control board you use it can be easy to fly and the higher spec one will have GPS and will use that to hold position.
They are fairly robust but if you smack it into the ground then you will brake it.
I have broken props in the par and expect to brake more. Always carry spares.
Regards
Crispy

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 18, 2014, 12:04:31 AM
As a total newbie to all things flying, but having reasonable experience with RC boats, cars and trucks, I have a few questions:
- How hard are the quads to fly?
- is FPV essential for aerial photography?
- How "breakable" is something like the kit Marschy bought?
- Is GPS required?

I'm considering an action camera purchase ahead of a big trip in 2015, and would love to be able to get some aerial shots of camp sites, water crossings, waterfalls, etc.
If you're going to be travelling, look at tri-copters, you can fold them up to some degree for transporting. Plus they can be far more stable than quads. The further apart the motors are, the more stable they fly. Read some of the RCgroups forum as Crispy also suggested to me. Great place to get ideas for beginners.

Otherwise, my experience so far is that they are extremely easy to fly in comparison to a fixed wing. That may not help you, but as an ex RC fixed wing flyer, the thing that nearly always did my planes in was landings which are always done at speeds in excess of 20km give or take (sometimes a lot faster than 20kmh). The landing speed of a quad can be as slow as you like, as good as the control you have of the throttle. Given the slower and easier to control speeds, my guess is this will invariably lead to less crashes than flying fixed wing, for me at least.

My kit is breakable in comparison to Crispies in so much that my kit doesn't come with a nifty flight control board that provides functionality like altitude/position hold, return to launch position, fail safe mode. But for around another $200-400 (and more) on top of a clone kit price, functionality like this plus on screen diagnostics can be added depending on your budget.

Spare frame for my kit is around $20 delivered if you look on aliexpress or ebay or hobbyking. You can pick up individual arms for as little as $3-5 plus delivery. Spare parts are plentiful for the original DJI flamewheel (aka Crispy's quad) and also for the clones (aka my cheapy from aliexpress). You can get kits from hobbyking, aliexpress, ebay, hobby stores.

I found a fantastic comparison on youtube between a DJI flamewheel and a clone, if I can find it, I will put a link to it on this thread. It gives you a good idea why you spend the level of money on either option. The big $ ticket item for the DJI flamewheel is the flight control board, it's a beauty.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 18, 2014, 12:29:38 PM
The FC that I use can be purchased here which is the best price I have found in Australia. Theses people are in NSW and is where I got my T-Motors from.
http://madetofly.com.au/shop/dji-innovations/dji-naza-v2-with-gps/ (http://madetofly.com.au/shop/dji-innovations/dji-naza-v2-with-gps/)
The Naza has its fans and haters but you need to make up your own mind. There are cheaper FC options that have all the bells and features but you need to do your research to find which one will suit you.
My quad is very stable to fly and produces great results.
The Tri folds and you could make it a Y6 (2 motors per arm). I have made it for fun not for stability. it should do flips and rolls but as yet I have not had it in the air yet. I hope to have it up later in the week.
Make sure you have plenty of spare props.
You could buy a micro quad for training which will give you "Stick" time and then when you upgrade you should be more capable of flying the bigger machine.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2014, 05:21:48 PM
A few things have arrived in the mail this week.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47620-1/Bits+and+Pieces.jpg)

Landing gear for the quad. I ordered 4, thinking that they were $2.22 ozzie dollars for 1 leg. Nope, they were $2.22 for a set of 4 legs. Most of the sellers on aliexpress sell these starting from $10 plus shipping for 4 legs, so you want get much change out of a $20. I reckon I got a bargain for a little under $30 for 4 sets of undercarriage.

Also got the replacement lipo batteries to convert the transmitter from 8xAA batteries to a flat pack battery as well as the cables to do the conversion and a low voltage alarm.

And finally the KK2.1 flight control board arrived.

Now I can start some construction beginning with reflashing the ESC's with SimonK Firmware for quadcopters.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47622-1/ESC.jpg)

Bit of soldering in front of me to accomplish this, but apparently the rewards are worth it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 21, 2014, 06:27:30 PM
A few things have arrived in the mail this week.


Now I can start some construction beginning with reflashing the ESC's with SimonK Firmware for quadcopters.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47622-1/ESC.jpg)

Bit of soldering in front of me to accomplish this, but apparently the rewards are worth it.

That reflashing tool you have is only for the KK I think the reflashing tool for ESC will require another adapter like this one http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__27195__atmel_atmega_socket_firmware_flashing_tool.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__27195__atmel_atmega_socket_firmware_flashing_tool.html)
This information was brought to you by someone who really does not know much about this stuff!!!!
please do your own research before accepting this advice ;D
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2014, 06:32:44 PM
I have to use the kk software to use the kkmulticopter USB dongle according to a web site I was reading today, still reading up on this as we speak, but it looks like it will do the job, as well as allowing me to flash the kk2 should it need it. It came with the fc board that came with the quad kit.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2014, 08:24:28 PM
Got the landing gear attached. All ESC's have been removed to get ready for flashing, probably this weekend.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47624-1/Quad+with+Landing+Gear.jpg)

Had to drill holes pretty close to the wire contacts on the built-in pcb on the lower frame for the landing gear. Don't want the nut rotating and coming into contact with the solder, so using nylon. The landing gear comes with longer 2.5mm metal allen machine screws than what were in the frame originally, so no problems with screw length on the arms with the addition of the landing gear.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47626-1/Landing+Gear+Nylon+Bolts.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 22, 2014, 09:45:08 PM
I took a punt with the USBasp programmer for the ESC (that's a lot of three letter acronyms, keep reading though).

I married up the output from the USBasp programmer with the input pins on the ESC. The output of each pin on the programmer is highlighted on the right two red circles which shows front and back of the programmer. The pins with VCC, GND etc marked next to them on the left is the ESC board.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47630-1/ESC+and+Programmer+ISP+connectors.jpg)

I downloaded a generic USBasp driver from the net, along with KKFlashTool, and flashed the ESC with SimonK TGY V2013-09-20. I'll put a label to this effect on the heat shield, then cover the ESC again with clear heat shrink.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47628-1/Reflashing.jpg)

I ran a motor up with just the receiver, ESC and one motor, calibrated the ESC with the transmitter, and bingo, worked perfectly. Can't compare it with anything though, as I've never had to do this before. All I do know is if you get the wiring incorrect, after you flash the chip, then power it up with your battery, the chip immediately fries if the wiring was wrong when it was flashed. I think the motor gets fried as well.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47633-1/ISP+Wiring+from+ESC.jpg)

Soldering the wires onto the pins on the ESC was a little tricky. The thin wires on the top left of the ESC are what I soldered on. From the white to the blue wire is less than 10mm.

Edit: My ESC's are a generic 30A ESC branded as FMT. This ESC is identical to the HobbyKing HK SS30A ESC. Check out this link for identifying ESC's to help identify the pins for reprogramming your ESC.

ESC specs for Simonk / BLHeli FW flash (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AhR02IDNb7_MdEhfVjk3MkRHVzhKdjU1YzdBQkZZRlE#gid=0)

then if you click on the tutorial in the link, there is a very useful video that shows you what the tone should be when the motors arm via the ESC after they have been flashed with SimonK firmware.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: KingBilly on January 23, 2014, 08:48:39 AM
I reckon Marschy and Crisp Image should just get a room  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

KB
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 23, 2014, 04:17:14 PM
I reckon Marschy and Crisp Image should just get a room  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

KB

KB,
Care to join us? >:D
Just some more Porn photos for you
These are of my scratch built tri copter.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8819.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8819.jpg.html)
The Tri all set up ready to go
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8823.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8823.jpg.html)
The Yaw mechanism but the servo is not strong enough so I am getting another one soon. (More cash spent at HK)
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8822.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8822.jpg.html)
KK Flight Controller Protection (sistima container from the supermarket)
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8824.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8824.jpg.html)
The KK tucked in there with the Rx.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8825.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8825.jpg.html)
And the tri folded ready for transport.

We did a test flight today but because the servo is not strong enough the thrust from the prop moves the motor and it just spins like a top. It is only a 1.8kg servo so I have ordered a 3.9kg one. Hopefully it will be strong enough.
Waiting for another package from HK.

AUW of the Tri is about 1kg with a 3s 3300mah bat.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 23, 2014, 05:00:28 PM
Did you have to flash the kk2 fc crispy? The servo for yaw works its ring gear off apparently. Are you getting a digital/metal gear servo?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 23, 2014, 05:43:30 PM
Here's a screen snapshot of KKFlashTool.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47635-1/KKFlashTool.jpg)

When you run it you select what controller you are flashing, in this case the KK2.1. Haven't done mine yet, but notice the firmware option further down. This application searches the internet for the latest version of firmware for the selected controller. It has quite a few versions of the firmware, but what is interesting is it defaults to 1.9, which is far later than the version flashed on the HK KK2.1 (1.5 or 1.6?). You can then select a version and then click on the blue exclamation mark to the right of the drop down list. This opens your web browser to the steveis web page which gives you a run down of the issues fixed or added in that release of the firmware.

You don't need a dongle to run the software, you can just download it and run it to get comfortable with how it works before you flash your fc.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 23, 2014, 06:45:22 PM
My flash tool is still on the way.
I am using a metal gear servo so I hope no more problems there.
When I fitted up the fc it was already 1.6 so I won't touch it yet. I sent back the original kk because it stopped working and would only light up the screen. It well be interesting to see if they will replace it or not and how long they take to assess it. They did tell me to return it so have followed the process.
I will have to look at the software for flashing things at some stage but for now I am at work so don't have access to a PC.
Happy building and flying
Regards
Crispy.

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2014, 09:21:50 PM
Your housing for your KK2 has inspired me to look through the good lady wife's tupperware cupboard.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47638-1/KK+Housing.jpg)

I think I'll keep looking. The gravy lid is likely to fly off and the handles will cause drag, other than that, I liked it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 25, 2014, 08:31:34 AM
Your housing for your KK2 has inspired me to look through the good lady wife's tupperware cupboard.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47638-1/KK+Housing.jpg)

I think I'll keep looking. The gravy lid is likely to fly off and the handles will cause drag, other than that, I liked it.

I am starting to get worried about you Marschy :-)

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 25, 2014, 08:36:30 AM
Woo Hoo, the postie just delivered the fatshark teleporter fpv system. Lots to get done this weekend
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 25, 2014, 10:18:00 AM
Postie on a Saturday? You south Aussies are a strange lot.
Have fun with that. Oh and watch your for trees.

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 25, 2014, 10:20:46 AM
Contractor here delivers on Saturday morning, has done for years. I love him
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 25, 2014, 10:29:49 AM
Prototyping a flight control board mount out of paper from the laser printer. This will be printed on glossy magazine paper then ironed onto Copper PCB board, then soaked in water to leave the black pattern on the copper, then etched. Should look cool.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 25, 2014, 07:46:49 PM
Here we go

Clean PCB and create negative on glossy magazine paper.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47640-1/Clean+PCB+and+Negative.jpg)

After ironing negative onto PCB and soaking it in water to remove excess paper, tidy up negative with PCB pen, prepare etchant.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47642-1/Preparing+Etchant.jpg)

Almost there, takes about 10 minutes, depending on temperature of etchant, warmer the better.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47644-1/Almost+Etched.jpg)

Finished Flight Control board mount on top of quad ready for KK2.1 Flight Control Board.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47646-1/Flight+Control+Mount+fit+on+Quad.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 25, 2014, 08:17:41 PM
So that is how you make a PCB these days. We use to screen print them and then etch them. But that was when I was a lad.
Your mount looks very cool.
Printing the pattern on the glossy paper was that done with the laser printer?
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 25, 2014, 08:23:38 PM
Yep laser printer, one for about $150 from office works. When you print the negative, crank the contrast up and turn down the brightness of your laser printer so it gets as much plastic in the print as possible then it sticks to the copper when you iron it with less effort. Thinner the glossy paper the better, but it must be glossy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 28, 2014, 05:00:26 PM
So Marschy how was your weekend?
I got my Tri to fly today and then burnt out another servo so scrapped it and built a quad instead. I need to tune it a lot and it is so much harder to fly than my F450 with the NAZA.
We even got a new Tx Rx being the Turnigy 9x cheapy. It seems to work and I have figured out how to set it up for what I want.
Happy Flying
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 28, 2014, 05:22:05 PM
In typical fashion, OCD got the better of me. Once I made the PCB for the the flight control board, it got me thinking about other stuff I could make that requires a PCB, so at the moment i'm making navigation lights out of single 5050 LEDs which only require 3.3 volts. The first effort I burnt out the power regulator cause I connected it up wrong and cooked two transistors as well, working on the mark 2 version as we speak which has markings on the PCB so I don't get the wiring wrong next time.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 28, 2014, 05:24:03 PM
What quad did you get?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 28, 2014, 05:33:39 PM
What quad did you get?
Home made one. I'll post photos after Saturday as I have burnt all of out internet for the month and are shaped. (SO I can still do forums cause they don't use a lot of bandwith)
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 28, 2014, 05:40:59 PM
Crikey I'm slow compared to you, haven't got my 450 in the air yet and in the same time you've already crashed one and burnt out servos (2?) in another. Your going to have to consider changing your user name, have you considered "Crashnburn"
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on January 28, 2014, 07:10:28 PM
You guys inspired me to dip my toe in. I bought a Walkera QR W100S and a Devo 7E TX from bang good. I know the video isn't that crash hot, but the ability to record direct to my Android phone tipped me over the edge for it. They also sell a little hard case for it, so grabbed that so I can throw it in the truck without worrying over it. Should be fun to get some footage while out 4wd-ing and camping. Ordered it last week, so I guess I have a few more weeks to wait for it to arrive.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 28, 2014, 07:56:27 PM
Gday Sawed_off, the props on these walkera's are the same on my UFO. They have a self tapping screw that goes through the hub of the propellor and the prop is made of pretty brittle plastic.

Go shopping for replacement propellers on eBay now, you can pick them up dirt cheap if you are willing to wait for international snail mail. My UFO has foam prop guards and I still manage to scratch the hell out of my props. Without prop guards, you are going to break a few props at first and probably rather quickly. Your radio is great, much better than my UFO transmitter and it will do for a much more featured quad as well, The foam guards are coming off my UFO some time in the near future. I think you'll find yours is much more zippy than my UFO, no prop guards means it won't be carry much weight around.

Your going to get hooked when you see how bloody easy these things are to fly.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on January 29, 2014, 07:09:32 AM
Yeah, I grabbed a swag of things. The quad, radio, case, props, spare cw and ccw motors, and a couple more batteries. It should be enough to get me into mischief.  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 29, 2014, 07:22:11 PM
I'm trying to finish off jobs I've already started instead of jumping from one thing to another. So I finished off the transmitter battery conversion from 8xAA to flatpack LiPo, and I've finished the second ESC reflash this evening.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47668-1/Finishing+off+old+jobs_001.jpg)

The ESC's with clear heatshrink are the reflashed ones. The black ESC's are the controllers before reflashing. Sticker on the back is 'HW 30A' (Hobbyworld?)

Soldering the ESC is proving to be tedious, my crap eyesight has made me resort to using my Canon Ixus 115HS camera which has a bloody good macro (5mm-20mm lens). When I want to inspect my work, I take a photo then zoom in on the LCD display, and I can see everything on the PCB crystal clear.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47670-1/Second+ESC.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 30, 2014, 11:03:43 AM
When I got home last night from work we made a new frame for the scratch built quad. I was not really happy with the modified frame I was using.
It is a basic frame with a square body and X arms off the corners. Fitted up all the gear for a test flight. Well that was interesting. Some tuning is required.
I crashed it and broke modified one arm but it still flew.
Got up this morning and had a read of some forums to get some ideas. It seems like I should flash the KK to Stevis 1.1s2beginner or something like that as everyone says it is good. Until my flash tool gets here I will have to use what I have. I am waiting for the battery to charge again so I can do some more tuning.
I did discover it is best to have the correct motor rotation to make it fly best. I had 2 motors reversed so had the toilet bowl effect when flying. Changes made and now it flys better. I still have much to learn but it is fun constructing different things.
I am looking forward to getting the new quad just to hover. I can get it to fly around the back yard in some sort of fashion.
You will have to wait til at least Saturday for me to post photos as I need full speed internet to do that.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 31, 2014, 07:08:57 AM
Crispy's tip of the week.
When setting up the kk2.1 and you do the reciever test you should adjust the Tx subtrims so that with stick centered all values are 0.
Regards
Crispy

Sent from my GT-P5110 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: SteveandViv on January 31, 2014, 08:54:42 AM
So that is how you make a PCB these days. We use to screen print them and then etch them. But that was when I was a lad.
Your mount looks very cool.
Printing the pattern on the glossy paper was that done with the laser printer?
Regards
Crispy

Gawd, I had to draw them with a felt pen by hand, you blokes have it easy  ;D

PS. Love your work lads.  :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on January 31, 2014, 10:29:28 PM
Ordered it last week, so I guess I have a few more weeks to wait for it to arrive.

I just realised I ordered it all during Chinese New year, so nothing is moving in China for at least another week. Plus a couple of parts are back ordered until 20th of Feb. *sigh*

Oh well, I guess I should do some maintenance on my camper before we get cracking again this year.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 01, 2014, 06:39:17 AM
I've learnt a valuable lesson flashing my speed controllers. Not all ESC's will flash from the ports on the PCB.

I've successfully flashed 3 controllers, but the forth one just doesn't want to play the game.

I've had to order an Atmel socket firmware flashing tool so that I can flash the last controller. I can calibrate the ESC, bloody thing simply wont flash.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 01, 2014, 04:20:47 PM
Saturday is here so as promised here are the latest photos of the new quad after the tri burnt out the servo again.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8830.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8830.jpg.html)
Here it is. I might have to shorten the arms a bit.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8831.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8831.jpg.html)
The custom landing gear is rings of 70mm PVC pipe and they give a nice spring for hard landings.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8833.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8833.jpg.html)
The underslung battery holder and the frame sandwich.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8832.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/_MG_8832.jpg.html).
A square middle frame keeps things symmetrical
Having fun trying to dial it is.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 02, 2014, 07:14:53 PM
Here is a short video (2:47) of a place we stayed at a few weeks ago. You have already seen the photos.
http://youtu.be/x5i8ZGTTMW4 (http://youtu.be/x5i8ZGTTMW4)
Enjoy.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 02, 2014, 07:57:32 PM
Excellent Crispy. Did you have to do any post-processing, i.e deshake?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 03, 2014, 08:35:28 AM
Excellent Crispy. Did you have to do any post-processing, i.e deshake?
No it was all just cut and splice. There was one section that I zoomed to get rid of the landing gear in the frame.
The brushless gimbal that holds the camera is a great bit of kit.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 03, 2014, 05:32:46 PM
Hobby king 10x4.5 SP props arrived in the mail today. Much better than the kit supplied props. At least the leading and trailing edges on the new props have been cleaned up out of the injection mold. The kit props were pretty rough
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 06, 2014, 06:01:20 PM
Doing a bit of reading up on canopies led me to a thread on rcgroups where a guy is talking about using the plastic dome from an immitation security camera. Did a bit more reading, bit of surfing looking for dimensions, couldn't find any consistent dimensions from one seller to another or non-existant dimensions more often. Looked at prices on ebay, which were really cheap @ 4 x fake cameras for around $20.

So took a punt and bought one of these from Bunnings to see if was worth spending another $20 bucks and getting another 4 from ebay.

Swann Dome Imitation Camera With Flashing Light $15.87 (http://www.bunnings.com.au/swann-dome-imitation-camera-with-flashing-light_p4220343)

Now the Bunnings is a 200% markup on the ebay ones but probably pumped out of the same factory. But the good news is, they fit like a bloody glove.

A bit of trimming on the flange where it overlaps the top plate on the quad

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47737-1/Security+Camera+Dome.jpg)

And a bit of velcro stuck onto the flange and the top plate and you'll have one schmick looking canopy.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47735-1/Security+Camera+Dome+Perfect+Fit.jpg)

Now the bad news.

They are made out of ABS plastic (read brittle). So my solution will be to use this one as a mold by filling it with fibreglass resin. Then making a vacuum forming platform out of a heap of mdf I have sitting in the shed and molding my own canopies using 2mm acrylic plastic (perspex)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 06, 2014, 08:04:52 PM
Looks good. I took my toys out to play today and crashed one early in the flight and broke a couple off cable ties on one motor. I didn't have any spares with me so packed that one away and then played with the dji quad. Took it up to the legal height of about 400 feet or 122m and took some photos of the scope pitch for a friend so he could ask the council to water it. 10:22 flight time on 3650mah and not much hover time in there. He was very impressed with the results. Not to exciting so no video posting.
On another note the caravan park managers were so impressed with the video I made of the park they offered us a couple of nights free. Might just have to take them up on the offer.
Regards
Crispy
PS  Marschy when is that bird found to take flight. It is a bit like D4Ds camper at the moment.

Sent from my GT-I9210T using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 06, 2014, 08:09:31 PM
At the mercy of international mail while I wait for the flashing tool to arrive then it shouldn't be long after that. The building phase can be just as additive as the flying stage.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 07, 2014, 07:06:04 AM
Took it up to the legal height of about 400 feet or 122m

Were you in controlled airspace, or does your quad weigh more than 1500g?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 07, 2014, 12:46:20 PM
Were you in controlled airspace, or does your quad weigh more than 1500g?
I understand that controlled or not the celling height for a domestic "toy" is 400ft.
My AUW is 2.1kg
I could be wrong but that is what I have read
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 07, 2014, 12:51:00 PM
This link may help

Civil Aviation Safety Authority - Model Aircraft (http://www.casa.gov.au/scripts/nc.dll?WCMS:STANDARD::pc=PC_93443)

Edit: Go to the download section and download volume 3. Basically any flight above 400 ft above ground level requires permission for a UAV.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 07, 2014, 06:48:43 PM
I think Note 1 of 101.235 along with 101.400 says you can fly as high as you like, with a couple of small provisos.  :cheers:

Edit: I meant to add, I've been flying model rockets for years (which is why I had 1500g in my head). You'd be surprised how many people think you can't fly above 400' AGL anywhere, anytime, under any circumstances. CASA are pretty easy going with us non-commercial hobbiests, so long as we're aware of and follow the rules.

Edit 2: Also see Advisory Circular 101-3(0), section 7.2.1.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 07, 2014, 07:37:25 PM
I see where your coming from. Many moons ago when I flew fixed wing, the guys with electric gliders used to motor on up to a bloody good height that would easily beat 400 feet then just glide on down with no power.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 07, 2014, 07:47:42 PM
Found where it states height restrictions, most capital cities. Read here

http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/lib100071/flying_with_control_model.pdf (http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/lib100071/flying_with_control_model.pdf)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 07, 2014, 09:37:28 PM
Yep, it's good advice, in a general rule-of-thumb, make-it-easy-for-the-punters-to-understand way (they made one for us rocket guys, too (http://australianrocketry.org/article.php?story=20100917215204124)). You can find out the boundaries of controlled airspace by grabbing a Visual Terminal Chart (VTC) from Air Services Australia. It's a great $10 investment for those of us that like to poke things into the air without being part of a club.

https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/store/html.asp?/bookweb/catalog.cgi?stype=c&stext=VT (https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/store/html.asp?/bookweb/catalog.cgi?stype=c&stext=VT)

In a nutshell, controlled airspace has different classes that you can think of as layers. Here's a guide that explains it a bit.

https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/store/html.asp?/bookweb/catalog.cgi?stype=c&stext=VT (https://www.airservicesaustralia.com/store/html.asp?/bookweb/catalog.cgi?stype=c&stext=VT)

The layers are usually designated by a lower limit (LL on the VTC). Basically, they start at the airport with the LL of the surface (SFC). They radiate outwards, with the LL lifting in a series of steps, in a sort-of upside-down cone shape. The airspace underneath the steps is not controlled airspace, and you can fly in it. Obviously, you'd avoid designated corridors and such. For example, from the Cairns Airport, if I head towards the south west, the steps go from C LL SFC (ie class C, Lower Limit Surface), to C LL 3500 (ie 3500'), to C LL 4500, to C LL 6500, to C LL 8500, to C LL FL125. This last one is nearly 150kms from the airport. These aren't concentric rings either, so it's worth having the chart.

Hopefully I'm not teaching you guys to suck eggs. I just hate that folks think they're restricted to 400' AGL, when with a little extra knowledge, the sky is the limit. :)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: bussoboy on February 08, 2014, 07:10:04 AM
Our sales people sell the high end stuff and it was fun watching this fly around the office(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/02/08/u7e3e3ev.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on February 08, 2014, 12:25:13 PM
This stuff is catching on ;D

http://www.news.com.au/technology/design/renault-concept-comes-with-a-drone-to-help-find-a-parking-space/story-fnjwucvh-1226821130439 (http://www.news.com.au/technology/design/renault-concept-comes-with-a-drone-to-help-find-a-parking-space/story-fnjwucvh-1226821130439)

(http://resources2.news.com.au/images/2014/02/08/1226821/130410-081743b6-8f90-11e3-8dff-f6af7c30323d.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 09, 2014, 08:16:14 PM
Still waiting for flashing tool to arrive. I have a heap of 5050 LED's lying around, so I made some flashing LED's to help with orientation.

Led Flasher (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFYBrsQevFI#ws)

This will go on the end of the front legs and some coloured non-flashing LED's will go on the rear legs.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on February 09, 2014, 08:23:35 PM
Looks like the copters are  supplying footage for the winter Olympics, can see them flying in the background as well

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 09, 2014, 09:40:51 PM
Looks like the copters are  supplying footage for the winter Olympics, can see them flying in the background as well

GG

Yeah, there's been some awesome footage. Very stable, too. Great work by the operators.

It looks like my quad has shipped from banggood. Hopefully see it in a couple of weeks.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 12, 2014, 06:30:13 PM
With the fires in my mine in Latrobe Valley the MFB have brought their UAV's down to see if they are useful.
I am now the Hazelwood UAV liaison officer. A nice title.
Any brain is all smoked out so I think I need a :cheers: and a good rest. so far I have done 4 12+hr days and I still have some  more to do. I think our fire will go for more than 2 weeks.
When I get the photos off my phone I will post up.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Andrew_C on February 12, 2014, 08:26:58 PM
I have been looking at a few different options,
Would a kit like this cut it to start with or should I look at separate parts?http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F02192-A-RC-4Axis-Multi-QuadCopter-UFO-RTF-ARF-KK-V2-3-Circuit-board-1000KV-Motor/632297151.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F02192-A-RC-4Axis-Multi-QuadCopter-UFO-RTF-ARF-KK-V2-3-Circuit-board-1000KV-Motor/632297151.html)
If you were starting off, with a plan to run a go pro or fpv eventually,are they a good platform, or would I be looking to upgrade remote, motors etc. early in the piece?
If you wouldn't recommend the above, what would you recommend as a sensible starter.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2014, 07:34:59 AM
I have been looking at a few different options,
Would a kit like this cut it to start with or should I look at separate parts?http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F02192-A-RC-4Axis-Multi-QuadCopter-UFO-RTF-ARF-KK-V2-3-Circuit-board-1000KV-Motor/632297151.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F02192-A-RC-4Axis-Multi-QuadCopter-UFO-RTF-ARF-KK-V2-3-Circuit-board-1000KV-Motor/632297151.html)
If you were starting off, with a plan to run a go pro or fpv eventually,are they a good platform, or would I be looking to upgrade remote, motors etc. early in the piece?
If you wouldn't recommend the above, what would you recommend as a sensible starter.

Hello Andrew,
Yes the kit is a good platform to run a gopro or fpv. This kit is the same as mine (same store as well), with the addition of a 6 channel radio. Heads up, the second photo is more representative of what you are getting, not the first photo which has a picture of a DJI flamewheel frame. The frame you are getting is in the second picture.

For FPV you are going to need a kit similar to this from Hobbyking

FatShark Teleporter V3 RTF FPV Headset System w/Camera and 5.8G TX (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__43057__FatShark_Teleporter_V3_RTF_FPV_Headset_System_w_Camera_and_5_8G_TX.html)

I would suggest upgrading the flight control board in the kit. The KK board that comes with the kit needs to be hooked up to a computer to change the settings, whereas a hobbyking kk2.1 board you can program on board (in the field) with the LCD display and four buttons for around $30.

I haven't had mine in the air yet, but the motors as they are should be sufficient for the supplied kit. But as you add more weight, you will need to look at different motor options for additional thrust. Crispy has done this already with his DJI, and has upgraded his motors to t-motors. Similarly, the speed controllers work fine, I just decided to flash mine with new software which is causing me delays at the moment.

If you have any other questions, fire away.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: cm4x4nut on February 13, 2014, 08:46:50 AM


For FPV you are going to need a kit similar to this from Hobbyking

FatShark Teleporter V3 RTF FPV Headset System w/Camera and 5.8G TX (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__43057__FatShark_Teleporter_V3_RTF_FPV_Headset_System_w_Camera_and_5_8G_TX.html)




Marschy, what sort of costs are you paying for these. I have often thought as an exercise it would be interesting to put the camera in the drivers seat of the 1/10 truck and see how the off roading experience goes.

Cheers,
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Andrew_C on February 13, 2014, 08:58:38 AM
So what sort of range do you get out of the radio control and FPV. Is spending more going to get more RC range.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2014, 09:29:41 AM
So what sort of range do you get out of the radio control and FPV. Is spending more going to get more RC range.
Apparently 2.4ghz radio is pretty much line of sight, so it doesn't matter really how much you spend on these types of radio's they have around the same range. The older crystal radio's had better range.

The 5.8ghz fpv transmitter gives about 1.5 miles range (apparently)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2014, 09:30:46 AM
Marschy, what sort of costs are you paying for these. I have often thought as an exercise it would be interesting to put the camera in the drivers seat of the 1/10 truck and see how the off roading experience goes.

Cheers,
$199 US from hobbyking, plus delivery, no reason why you can't use them in a car, other people do.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2014, 02:31:41 PM
Just took a total of my shopping list so far

Quad Kit - $171.55 US
Undercarriage - $4.09 US (spent more than this but didn't need to)
Radio and receiver - $85.65 US
Servo cable Male to Male x 15 - $22.73 US (didn't need these, a perfectly suitable cable comes in the kit). Do need another cable for stabilised mode tho, and will need additional male to male cables down the track.
KK2.1 Flight Control board - $33.98 US
Propeller balancer - $16.30 US (don't really need to buy this)
1450mAh 3S transmitter lipoly x 2 - $15.16 US (don't really need to do this, but would have to buy batteries or ni-cads either way for transmitter)
2 on board lipoly low voltage alarms - $3.98 US
Fatshark Teleporter headset with camera and 5.8G TX - $235.74.99 US
16 x replacement props - $20.66 US
Atmel Atmega Socket Firmware Flashing Tool - $23.98 US (don't need to buy this)

Shopping list total so far $633.82 US (well over the $700 AUD mark)

So I guess people may ask if a kit is worth it. I still have flight batteries I have to buy, possibly 4 or 5 more, otherwise I'll be flying for 10 minutes and recharging for 3 hours with one battery.

My train of thought is, would I be able to say to my missus "can I spend $700 now on something completely self indulgant?" and she would say "No", but I can do this by buying the bits and pieces I need over time. This list is certainly not complete, and to a degree I am probably hiding the true cost from myself, but conservatively I don't expect much change out of $1000 once I get the camera gimbal I am after for in-flight recording.

I haven't compared my shopping list with a complete kit like a DJI or sawed-off's quad (not even sure how 'complete' these kits are), but I'd be curious to see which is cheaper, a complete kit, or a piecemeal kit and buying the bits and pieces required to do simple FPV.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2014, 06:22:29 PM
I've finished making the molds for a couple of different canopies

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47782-1/Canopy+Molds.jpg)

I should be able to get the first canopy knocked out this weekend. Got a bit carried away with the hardener for the dome shaped one. The resin got so hot it melted my ABS plastic camera dome that I was using as a pattern.

The one on the left was made from the tupperware container on the right (sorry Mrs Marschy, sacrificed for the cause). It was such a good fit, the pcb I made earlier only has about a 1-2mm clearance inside the tupperware container, so should make a perfect canopy. It's about twice as high as the dome shaped mold, so if I need to, I can stack more electronics under the canopy, like telemetry for an APM, and possibly the GPS antenna on top.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 14, 2014, 07:18:36 AM
Marschy, the quad I have ordered is basically an amusing toy. Yours is a fairly serious bit of kit in comparison.

Andrew_C and others, there's a comprehensive thread on HK that explains a lot of what you are getting into with building from a kit. It should help with some of the basic understanding so you can make some better informed decisions on what you are looking at and what's what.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=38561 (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=38561)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 15, 2014, 05:05:16 AM
Lots still to do, now designing a simple tilt gimbal for the FPV camera. Should hopefully have a working example before the weekend is done.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 17, 2014, 07:30:48 PM
Got home from work and a package was waiting for me. That lead to the discovery that I've poorly planned the whole thing, as I don't have any batteries for the transmitter (Devo 7E). I haven't flown an RC model in over 30 years (my dad's slope soaring glider), so I'll try and keep my patience and aim for a weekend flight when I won't feel rushed and can concentrate on not re-kitting the model. I'm lucky enough to have a small park out my back gate, so I won't try and fly it into things inside the house. I went with a Mode 2 radio, primarily because it's what a large part of the Internet flies. The Devo radios can easily be changed between modes, so if it feels too weird for me, I can switch a couple of springs and be Mode 1 in minutes. Once I get enough confidence in my flying abilities, I'll also have a go at flashing the Deviation firmware into the radio, which makes it compatible with other protocols. It's all very exciting! Thanks, guys, for giving me the gumption to have a go at this!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 17, 2014, 07:45:33 PM
I went mode 1, its what I'm used to. I have mode 2 on my UFO quad radio. Its like skate boarding goofy footed when your used to the other way, it feels strange
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 19, 2014, 07:57:47 AM
Here are a couple of photos of the CASA Approved Metropolitan Fire Brigades (MFB) quad.
It has a thermal image camera and also visual camera. The screen they use fits in the pelican case very nicely.
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/20140212_150410.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/20140212_150410.jpg.html)

Their radio control gear is a little more industrial than mine
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/Multi%20Rotor/20140213_085940.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/Multi%20Rotor/20140213_085940.jpg.html).
I cant post any of the imagery from the cameras of the fires cause it is against policy of the company.
The guys flying the quad did a flight over the stoke house in St Kilda when it burnt down.

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 23, 2014, 09:26:23 AM
Got my flash tool and flashed the KK to an aftermarket FW. Then went out to the back yard to have a test flight. Started in self level mode and it was OK. still lots to learn about flying. I think the balance is a little off but some tweekeing should get it right.
I switched into normal or manual mode and promptly flew it in the brick wall on the side of the house. Not much damage done a few cable ties and a couple of scratches on the props.
All good now. I need to go to the sports fields to have a good shot at it.
I also shortened the arms a bit to make it a little more compact.
How is your build going Marshy?
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 23, 2014, 09:57:43 AM
My last ESC refuses to flash so I have ordered 4 SS30A from hobby king, express this time, should be here next week, then flash and solder the last one in. Should be in the air next weekend. I'll post some pictures soon
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on February 26, 2014, 04:00:12 PM
Can you guys please stop with this?
Now I am looking at these toys too.......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: HoMErMY12 on February 26, 2014, 04:12:27 PM
Can you guys please stop with this?
Now I am looking at these toys too.......
I know exactly what you mean.....
pity the bank account doesn't allow it, just makes me depressed  :-[
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on February 26, 2014, 08:26:21 PM
Thought you might like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOXoEj8x26Y (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOXoEj8x26Y)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on February 27, 2014, 10:04:23 AM
Stop it EDZ......

That looks real good.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 27, 2014, 03:25:51 PM
Crashed it again! This is the home made quad that we have been playing with. Broke one arm. So it is back out to the shed and cut another pine arm. So cheep to repair I can afford to crash this one.
If you are not crashing you are not trying new things.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on February 27, 2014, 03:51:14 PM
What is a great cheapy to learn and see if you like it before you go and get the bigger for a camera?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 28, 2014, 07:22:42 AM
What is a great cheapy to learn and see if you like it before you go and get the bigger for a camera?

Depends how cheap you want to go. You can pick up some ultra micro quads with a TX for under a hundred. The one I bought is a Walkera QR W100S that can transmit pictures to (and be flown with) an iphone or android device. They come in a couple of configs - one that comes with a normal RC transmitter, and one without (which is what I got). I also bought a better transmitter than the stock one in the other kit. A couple of the entry level brands in ready to go kits to look for are Walkera and Hubsan.

Anyway, I got a couple of flights in on mine last weekend. It was blowing a gale outside, so flew it in my living room. Let's just say I have some learning to do..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 28, 2014, 07:39:29 AM
I reckon the way I went and Sawed-off went is the way to go to get into this. Buy a ready to fly (RTF) cheapy, see if it's for you, then progress from there. Hobbyking have some ripper RTF models and I'm sure Sawed-off will most likely if he already hasn't, provide a link to where he bought his walkera from.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 28, 2014, 07:47:23 AM
Crashed it again! This is the home made quad that we have been playing with. Broke one arm. So it is back out to the shed and cut another pine arm. So cheep to repair I can afford to crash this one.
If you are not crashing you are not trying new things.
Regards
Crispy
Are you flying this rig by line of sight or FPV?

All my flight batteries turned up in the mail yesterday, so now I have 5 x 2200mAh batteries and 3 x Camera/VTx 1500mAh batteries. Now just waiting on the pesky ESC's to arrive. The consignment from Hobbyking has an AU tracking number (yippee) so should/could be here today, or if my friendly parcel contractor comes through again, tomorrow (Saturday). I've only got a couple of hours of building left, then I'll be airborne. Getting there slowly, getting anxious as well. I want to get this thing in the air.

I'm going to set it up completely for FPV, but I'll be flying line of sight while I'm setting up the FC board. Thinking about knocking one of those knuckle h-quads up myself, they look nifty.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 28, 2014, 11:00:51 AM
Are you flying this rig by line of sight or FPV?

LOS at the moment. The Boy wants to go FPV but the way we I crash it that would not be good. I have a VTx and camera to go on it when we I learn to fly it.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on February 28, 2014, 12:07:55 PM
What is the difference in flying a quad copter or a coaxial chopper?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 28, 2014, 01:09:05 PM
What is the difference in flying a quad copter or a coaxial chopper?
For me, the one biggy is the weight of the blade you are swinging on a coaxial, and along with the weight, the inherent danger should the blade become loose. Not so dangerous with a ten inch prop blade (5 inches each side of hub) made of plastic on a quad compared to 10+ inches of blade each side of the 'hub' made of fibre glass or carbon fibre (don't know what the hub on a coaxial heli is called). One can be simply dangerous after precautions are taken, the other can still be lethal even if precautions are taken.

As for flight characteristics, wouldn't have a bloody clue.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on February 28, 2014, 04:44:41 PM
After a lot of reading I like the Parrot AR Drone.
Easy to fly as well if you can only use one hand/arm.
Mmmmm, now to convince the other half that it is good for something......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on February 28, 2014, 09:34:10 PM
They look the goods, Wilsurf.

This is the one I bought. Note, no transmitter included. They do sell a kit with a transmitter if you look for it. http://www.banggood.com/Walkera-QR-W100S-FPV-WIFI-Remote-Control-RC-Quadcopter-p-74715.html (http://www.banggood.com/Walkera-QR-W100S-FPV-WIFI-Remote-Control-RC-Quadcopter-p-74715.html)

This is the transmitter I bought. I have some thoughts of buying a couple of receivers and throwing them into some cheap foamies for some park flying fun, so wanted something slightly more capable than the basic TX that comes with the full kit. The "wholesale" in the title means it doesn't come in a retail box, but you do get the trainer and usb cables. http://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-Walkera-Devo-7E-7CH-Transmitter-p-48117.html (http://www.banggood.com/Wholesale-Walkera-Devo-7E-7CH-Transmitter-p-48117.html)

And because I want to take my quad on the road (off the road?) on camping trips, I couldn't pass up the aluminium case. It's great. Worth the $20. Now I need something like it for the transmitter. http://www.banggood.com/Aluminum-Case-For-Walkera-W100S-RC-Quadcopter-p-80298.html (http://www.banggood.com/Aluminum-Case-For-Walkera-W100S-RC-Quadcopter-p-80298.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 28, 2014, 10:26:38 PM
Catching up on a couple of things i've completed.

The FPV Camera tlilt mount just requires some holes drilled in the aluminium angle then fitting on the front of the quad.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47876-1/FPV+Camera+and+VTx.jpg)

It will be driven by a hitec servo off my 6th channel on the transmitter.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47878-1/FPV+Camera+Tilt+Gimbal+Servo.jpg)

The earplugs isolate the camera from vibration caused by the motors.  And I've made a start on a flight box with spares for when at the field.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47880-1/Start+of+Flight+Box.jpg)

and along with this Road Ready RRUC case (http://www.derringers.com.au/products/Road-Ready-RRUC-Small-Utility-Case.html) that I've had for about 10 years for my transmitter, I'm just waiting on some final parts, but I'm all setup, ready to go.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47882-1/Transmitter+box.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on March 01, 2014, 10:35:24 AM
Road Ready RRUC case (http://www.derringers.com.au/products/Road-Ready-RRUC-Small-Utility-Case.html)

Cool case. Just the thing I'm looking for. You're a bad man, Marschy. First getting me interested in quads, and now pointing me at a music store. I really need a road case for my power amp (http://australianrocketry.org/pics/matt_noisemakers.jpg).   ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 01, 2014, 12:18:04 PM
Where are you gunna put the motors on them amps?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on March 02, 2014, 01:47:49 PM
Any comments on these

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bumblebee-550-Quadcopter-CF-W-Props-Motor-ESC-NAZA-Controller-DJI-GPS-Module-/151179991672?pt=Radio_Control_Vehicles&hash=item2333079a78 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bumblebee-550-Quadcopter-CF-W-Props-Motor-ESC-NAZA-Controller-DJI-GPS-Module-/151179991672?pt=Radio_Control_Vehicles&hash=item2333079a78)

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 02, 2014, 01:59:53 PM
Can only comment on what I know. The controller is a goodun', and coupled with GPS will probably have features like altitude hold. 550 size is more stable for FPV than the 450 and you can run large batteries due to good payload capacity. There are probably down sides but haven't looked at 550's that much. This size appears to be the magic size where things start getting very expensive indeed.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 02, 2014, 02:49:10 PM
Any comments on these

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bumblebee-550-Quadcopter-CF-W-Props-Motor-ESC-NAZA-Controller-DJI-GPS-Module-/151179991672?pt=Radio_Control_Vehicles&hash=item2333079a78 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Bumblebee-550-Quadcopter-CF-W-Props-Motor-ESC-NAZA-Controller-DJI-GPS-Module-/151179991672?pt=Radio_Control_Vehicles&hash=item2333079a78)

GG

You need to budget for the Tx and then Vtx/Rx and some sort of ground station or goggles for FPV and a camera gimbal not only in cost but in weight.
I have read some good things about the bumblebee.
Being a folding design would make it easy to transport.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 03, 2014, 11:52:08 AM
Aw crap, I got impatient doing all the wiring for the KK2.1 board yesterday and I think I may have fried the board when I connected the voltage monitor up the wrong way.

The wiring all the way back to the lipo battery has melted and because the wire was so thin, it burnt out like a fuse. The board still appears to be working, but without the last ESC connected I cannot work out if the board is stuffed or not. If I arm the board and run 3 motors only, motor 1, which does not have a matching motor at position 3 slowly increases speed without any input from the transmitter, all by itself. It is a very slow gradual increase, which suggests to me it's the firmware doing this. I think this may simply be the firmware trying to level the quad but without input from motor 3 it's getting confused.

The ESC's should be here any day so I will be able to tell pretty soon if I need to order another board.

This is the first thing I stuffed up so far, apart from the ESC not flashing. Funny thing with the ESC is that it still works with the original firmware, so I reckon not being able to flash it would indicate that there is a problem with the ESC in the first place and it is probably a good thing that it is not going on the quad. It can't now anyway, the firmware differences between the 3 flashed ESC's and the remaining one without SimonK firmware would most likely cause me issues anyway.

So close to getting this sucker in the air. A bit more patience on my part would have had it in the air this coming weekend. This could still be the case, but I will just have to wait and see.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2014, 09:17:22 PM
I definitely fried the KK board. Motor one goes into a slow runaway acceleration increase when you apply the smallest amount of throttle with all four new HK ESC's installed. I couldn't flash the new ESC's so they are all using bog standard software. The first ESC makes a crackling noise when I apply the throttle, not good. Motor still spins up, so I haven't stuffed the ESC (touch wood).

Ordered new KK board today. Paid top dollar for postage from the Hobbyking AU warehouse so should (could) be here for the weekend. Also replaced the hexagonal mounting board for the KK with a round one that will fit the canopy from the imitation security camera.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2014, 10:00:48 PM
Fried board or not, the build goes on.

The new canopy fits great, and the Fatshark PilotHD camera on it's tilt servo (runs on channel 6, no more channels  :-[)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 06, 2014, 09:58:03 AM
Will be good to see it flying.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on March 10, 2014, 07:55:08 AM
OK roll call, where were you guys yesterday?

http://www.news.com.au/national/man-accused-of-using-drone-to-try-and-drop-off-drugs-into-melbourne-remand-centre/story-e6frfkp9-1226849877220 (http://www.news.com.au/national/man-accused-of-using-drone-to-try-and-drop-off-drugs-into-melbourne-remand-centre/story-e6frfkp9-1226849877220)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Tim - Stratford on March 10, 2014, 11:14:51 AM
Which one of you blokes got busted???  :police:

http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/arrest-after-drone-with-drugs-nabbed-near-metropolitan-remand-centre-20140310-34g4z.html (http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/arrest-after-drone-with-drugs-nabbed-near-metropolitan-remand-centre-20140310-34g4z.html)

Tim
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 10, 2014, 11:40:40 AM
Twernt me. Has anybody seen my phone, or stash?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 10, 2014, 12:12:18 PM
I can neither confirm or deny I was in the area.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 10, 2014, 12:20:36 PM
I made a mistake last Saturday: I went into a hobby store.
Those plane are great. I had a chat with one of the guys and had a go at the simulator.
Mmmm, maybe I have to get a Bixler?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 10, 2014, 12:27:30 PM
I made a mistake last Saturday: I went into a hobby store.
Those plane are great. I had a chat with one of the guys and had a go at the simulator.
Mmmm, maybe I have to get a Bixler?
I'm looking at something similar, the FPVRaptor. Look at some example footage on YouTube of both the bixler and the raptor. Most often the nose of the bixler is in the field of view of the camera, but not with the stumpy, wide nosed raptor. Both excellent value though.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 10, 2014, 06:50:26 PM
A couple of photos from the weekend
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/My%20Swag%20Trips/G0150662.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/My%20Swag%20Trips/G0150662.jpg.html)
We are on the beach and we are looking over our camps at Rosebud
A little image and a Firefox cub enjoying a swim
(http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii306/crispimage/My%20Swag%20Trips/G0140605.jpg) (http://s267.photobucket.com/user/crispimage/media/My%20Swag%20Trips/G0140605.jpg.html)

However no photos over the remand centre (that I am going to admit to at least)

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 12, 2014, 09:58:18 AM
Looking good Marchy, but where do you buy them?
Of Hobbyking?
They don't have a RTF in Australia.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 12, 2014, 04:25:01 PM
Looking good Marchy, but where do you buy them?
Of Hobbyking?
They don't have a RTF in Australia.

Get it from the Hobbyking international warehouse FPV Raptor Composite 1600mm (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__18764__FPVRaptor_Composite_1600mm_PNF_.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 12, 2014, 05:38:48 PM
Can't:
"Due to recent changes in Air Transport safety, we cannot ship orders from Hong Kong containing a box length of more than 1 meter with Lithium batteries of more than 1,000mAh
Please kindly order your batteries and large planes separately.
Orders from our regional warehouses (DE,US,AU,UK) are not affected by this restriction."

What is the best mode to use for the transmittor if you can only use your left hand? Mode 1
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 12, 2014, 05:48:51 PM
There is an example of what could be a suitable transmitter to be seen on the flite test YouTube channel. A guy and his father make a rudder control that is a potentiometer that rotates on the end of the rudder/elevator gimbal, effectively giving 3 axis control on one transmitter stick. I'll see if I can find a link for you.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 12, 2014, 05:58:03 PM
I just reread the message you received from hobbyking. What this means is you will need to raise the order for the batteries in one order, and you should be able to get whatever battery you need from the Australian warehouse. Then raise another order for the plane from the international warehouse. It means you'll pay a bit more for shipping with two orders but until the Australian warehouse receives stock that the quickest way to order it. The international listing site states that stock is in transit to Australia, but I don't know how long that has been the case.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 12, 2014, 06:03:57 PM
You can't see how much shipping/transport is.
The table they provide goes to 1.5 kg, while these planes are over that weight.

Another thing.
How much open space would you need to learn to fly?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 12, 2014, 06:16:04 PM
I'll find out how much shipping is as I have an account. Football field size space, then multiply that by two or more times that space. Honestly, my best advice if you haven't flown fixed wing before is to join a rc model club and get trained on a buddy radio system where they hook your radio up by cable to an instructors radio and they take over control if you loose control
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 12, 2014, 06:33:16 PM
Shipping is $42.52, total including shipping is $118.28. But you will need a radio as well. Suggest the turnigy 9xr plus orange Tx module and 9 channel receiver (this is what I'm looking at getting). Cheap as chips for a nine channel radio. Also look into the multiwii or similar (cyclops storm) flight stabiliser board and gps. The cyclops has lots of excellent reviews and gives you things like altitude hold, pilot assist, which correct the aircraft due to wind buffet, return to home.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 12, 2014, 07:26:52 PM
What is the best mode to use for the transmittor if you can only use your left hand? Mode 1
Howdy Wilsurf,

Mode 2 may be more suitable, as you can still steer a plane using a techique called bank and yank (search youtube). A mode 2 radio could prove to be even more suitable if you can get a hold of one of the rudder controls mentioned in this video Flite Test - Stingray 500 - REVIEW (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnGhEInTXYc).
Then with a plane, the throttle would be mostly set and forget and then all control provided by the right stick (aileron/elevator and possibly rudder). Most times when I'm flying, I've got time to take my hand off one of the controls and scratch my arse or shoe a fly away and still only have one hand flying a plane or quad for a short period of time with mode 1. So if you are flying mode 2, then once the throttle is set at takeoff and you are flying straight and level, you can remove your hand from the right stick, set the throttle on the left stick to a comfortable speed, then move your hand back to the right stick to control the attitude of the plane again.

Mode 2 is

right gimbal = up/down - elevator (yank), right/left - aileron (bank)
left gimbal = up/down - throttle (which is friction controlled meaning it stays where you leave it, i.e. set and forget), right/left - rudder.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 13, 2014, 09:56:02 AM
Thanks.
It would be easier to have the steering controls on the left stick as I am left handed.
So $118.28 for the Raptor delivered? Not bad.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on March 13, 2014, 03:48:03 PM
Starting to get some payloads on these things https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uf6JKJyFLVI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uf6JKJyFLVI)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 13, 2014, 04:10:04 PM
Found the FMS Easy Trainer 1280 http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/231120596613?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/231120596613?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649)
Anyone know these?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 14, 2014, 08:42:48 AM
Found the FMS Easy Trainer 1280 http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/231120596613?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/231120596613?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649)
Anyone know these?

The 1200 wing span size trainers are a bit twitchier to fly than the 1500-1600mm wing span planes, that's about all I can offer. Other than that, these pusher type planes tend to be highly regarded.

I've ordered my new Turnigy 9XR radio, Orange 2G4 transmitter module and 9 channel receiver, aluminum case and two batteries. Came out at $201 delivered from Hobbyking NSW. I'm going to order the Raptor next pay day.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 15, 2014, 09:08:40 AM
Finally got the quad into the air.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47929-1/First+Flight.JPG)

Still trimming the settings. Drifts around a little on Self Level mode so I have to adjust something/somewhere, I'll work it out.

Cracked one prop so far, still flying with it while I master hovering this tricky little sucker.

Snapping more legs than I anticipated, already snapped 4 legs, good thing I bought heaps of spares. The landing legs are acrylic, but pretty brittle. The dome cover over the KK board is doing it's bit, scratched, cracked, dirt, moisture from the lawn all over it. But I ordered a KK2.1 / KK2.0 Protective Case (http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=261423067954) for it anyway from ebay, and I'll do away with the dome cover at some stage.

I loaded the V1.9S1 firmware and it was over the top with how sensitive it reacted to stick input, now running the V1.12S1 beginner firmware, much friendlier.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 15, 2014, 12:02:24 PM
Finally got the quad into the air.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/47929-1/First+Flight.JPG)

Still trimming the settings. Drifts around a little on Self Level mode so I have to adjust something/somewhere, I'll work it out.

Cracked one prop so far, still flying with it while I master hovering this tricky little sucker.

Snapping more legs than I anticipated, already snapped 4 legs, good thing I bought heaps of spares. The landing legs are acrylic, but pretty brittle. The dome cover over the KK board is doing it's bit, scratched, cracked, dirt, moisture from the lawn all over it. But I ordered a KK2.1 / KK2.0 Protective Case (http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=261423067954) for it anyway from ebay, and I'll do away with the dome cover at some stage.

I loaded the V1.9S1 firmware and it was over the top with how sensitive it reacted to stick input, now running the V1.12S1 beginner firmware, much friendlier.

Well done. They are fun to fly.
I have pvc rings ad landing gear so they act like springs and bounce on landing. SL mode is easiest to fly in and every time I go to normal mode I seem to crash.
Did you get the new USAASP programmer?
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 15, 2014, 12:44:28 PM
Yep got the programmer, still can't flash the esc's, no prob with the KK board though
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 20, 2014, 03:32:44 PM
OK - got hooked .. bought a cheapy from China and had a play / lots of crashes ..  very unstable can't figure me left from its right !!LOL ... and then .....

so bit the bullet and gave some dollars away for a DJI Phantom FC40 -- Just got some extra batteries , platforms , camera gimbal and a wifi sports camera ...

Should have it altogether and me trained before the Red Centre trip ...

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 20, 2014, 04:47:00 PM
OK - got hooked .. bought a cheapy from China and had a play / lots of crashes ..  very unstable can't figure me left from its right !!LOL ... and then .....

so bit the bullet and gave some dollars away for a DJI Phantom FC40 -- Just got some extra batteries , platforms , camera gimbal and a wifi sports camera ...

Should have it altogether and me trained before the Red Centre trip ...

Mandrake
Good to see my hard earned money going to good use after the purchase of my solar!
So addictive. So much fun
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 20, 2014, 04:49:00 PM
Hey Marschy,
How is the flying going?
Lots of crashes?
Broken any arms yet?
Lots of fun.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 20, 2014, 06:30:06 PM
Would you believe I have been grounded by the loss of a bloody $0.05 e-clip off one of the motor shafts. Waiting for some to arrive in the mail. Busted 4 props so far and 5 landing legs
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on March 20, 2014, 07:48:43 PM
OK - got hooked .. bought a cheapy from China and had a play / lots of crashes ..  very unstable can't figure me left from its right !!LOL ... and then .....
I thought your tree trimming and crash landings were second to none ??? :D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 20, 2014, 07:52:13 PM
I think I had it down to a fine art on the weekend ....

What did someone say - a poor man's boomerang ???

Oh well at least no animals were harmed in the making of the film ... LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Plastered on March 20, 2014, 09:06:20 PM
As I just got a gopro for my birthday from the missus
Just wondering if there is an easy to use quad or drone that will bring it back to earth safely?
I have had 2 helicopters and after they came back to earth they were never the same
Thanks Matt
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 20, 2014, 09:24:09 PM
Yep a dji phantom
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: HoMErMY12 on March 20, 2014, 09:32:00 PM
As Marschy said. The popular out of the box solution is the DJI phantom.

The other option I've also looked at is the Blade 350QX.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JGM on March 21, 2014, 07:21:41 AM
I just got the DJI Phantom Vision.

Easy to fly (and I've never flown ANY remote controlled thing before) and great fun.  The camera that it comes with isn't as good as the go-pro, but good enough for me.  You can Wi-Fi it to your phone and see what it is seeing.  Lots of other clever features for novices like me, it even fly's itself home if battery is running low or if it looses signal from the controller.  Has a built in GPS too so you can find it if it gets lost.

Cheers
JGM
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 22, 2014, 08:51:19 AM
Finally sorted out flashing the last ESC with SimonK software. WOW what a difference. Flight is more stable for sure, haven't broken anything this morning. Ended up binning the kit ESC that wouldn't flash, ordered a new ESC (HK SS30A HW) and flashed it by soldering (not the HK flash tool, it's a piece of junk).

Also replaced the kit motors with Turnigy 935Kv Multistar motor and prop combo for a little over $13 a motor. Now cheap is cheap I know, but comparing these two motors is like comparing a Lada with a Suzuki (can't go as high as a Toyota or Nissan). Some may argue that a Suzuki is not as superior as a Lada  >:D, but the quality of the new motors is far superior to the kit motor even at the low cost.

Also dialled in 20 on Throttle Dampening in MISC settings because every time I yaw on the rudder, the quad drops about 4 feet, and a little less with elevator and aileron. I stepped this up in increments of 5 starting from zero, and I'll have a bit more of a play around with this once I have some juice back in the batteries.

I have to order a head strap for my AEE Magicam so I can get some footage before I take the leap into FPV and BEYOND.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 22, 2014, 09:00:11 AM
Added a few extras to my ever increasing Flying Bill --
Small Go-Pro like 5 MPixel wifi cam ..
Camera gimbal
2 spare batteries 2500mah
spare battery carrier things ( in case I want to go dual batteries for extra flight time )

Just gotta wait now - dammit I'm always waiting for good stuff to arrive ...  :cup: :cup:

Will have to close Mandrake's Solar Power and open up Mandrake's Aerial Photographics just to pay for it all ...  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 22, 2014, 09:02:12 AM
I don't look at the bill anymore, the look of guilt on my face makes my wife ask too many questions.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 22, 2014, 09:04:11 AM
Yeah I know -- She goes to the front door - knows the posty by first name -- Turns around glares at me and says - "What have you bought now ? " ... I crawl away and hide in the camper for a few hours .... ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 22, 2014, 09:17:07 AM
What sort of camera gimbal did you go with Mandrake, servo or brushless?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on March 22, 2014, 10:06:15 AM
I just got the DJI Phantom Vision.

 :worthles:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 22, 2014, 10:35:08 AM
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6043071677.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6043071677.html) One of this !! Brushless with tilt control ? ( Is that what its called ) - Hope its OK .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 22, 2014, 10:44:43 AM
Very nice
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Big Tread on March 23, 2014, 05:14:49 PM
Took the boys to the Greensborough model aero club public air show today.  Lots of great planes and copters. The jet powered planes where pretty neat, loud and fast! Also, well done to my BIL who was stunt flying his helicopter when he lost tail rotor control.  He managed to land it one piece and avoid a nasty crash and got a nice round of applause from the crowd.  Don't think spinning rotor blades flying into the crowd would have gone down well, so they appreciated the good flying!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 26, 2014, 12:05:08 PM
Helicopter and drone in near miss (http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/helicopter-and-drone-in-near-miss/story-e6frfku9-1226865255571)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 26, 2014, 06:13:46 PM
Helicopter and drone in near miss (http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/helicopter-and-drone-in-near-miss/story-e6frfku9-1226865255571)

Just what we need. Some one not following the rules.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on March 26, 2014, 06:46:48 PM


The other option I've also looked at is the Blade 350QX.


I have been researching these and can get one from Metro hobbies which looks like a good deal, http://metrohobbies.com.au/radio-control/multi-rotors/rtf-bnf-and-arf/blade-350-qx-quadcopter-bnf.html (http://metrohobbies.com.au/radio-control/multi-rotors/rtf-bnf-and-arf/blade-350-qx-quadcopter-bnf.html)

The only thing that worries me is that I have a hero 3 black and they are supposed to play up with the rf from the camera with the GPS lock. Still trying to work out if I really need one ;D

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 26, 2014, 07:15:50 PM

The only thing that worries me is that I have a hero 3 black and they are supposed to play up with the rf from the camera with the GPS lock. Still trying to work out if I really need one ;D

GG
You cant use the wireless out of the camera as it will interfere with the transmitter. dedicated video down link is required. Most of them are 5.8ghz and do not interfere with the 2.4ghz stuff.
And of  course you need one! >:D
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on March 26, 2014, 07:22:10 PM
You cant use the wireless out of the camera as it will interfere with the transmitter. dedicated video down link is required. Most of them are 5.8ghz and do not interfere with the 2.4ghz stuff.
And of  course you need one! >:D
Regards
Crispy


Its not the wireless which is the problem, even the camera in standby looks to be a problem unless you shield the bottom of the copter of wrap the gopro in foil

GoPro Hero3 Black+ and Blade 350QX GPS Failure and FIX (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_3na2zd5t0#ws)

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on March 30, 2014, 11:56:10 PM
Helicopter and drone in near miss (http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/helicopter-and-drone-in-near-miss/story-e6frfku9-1226865255571)


Don't mess with drones-
https://www.youtube.com/embed/SNPJMk2fgJU (https://www.youtube.com/embed/SNPJMk2fgJU)
And the missus reckons she doesn't like handguns  ::)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: oldmate on March 31, 2014, 05:48:12 AM
That's some scary stuff right there.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 31, 2014, 06:24:43 AM
I fail to see what the incident in Newcastle has to do with a red neck video from YouTube. I seriously question the link between the two.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on April 03, 2014, 07:16:04 PM
That's some scary stuff right there.

Yeah, the bil sends them to me as we both shoot trap and some of his more chequered acquaintances keep him up to date with the 'latest and greatest'. I would imagine that domestic drone in the vid is nothing compared to the ones that make Osama's mates a whole lot more paranoid than the missus is around my shotgun  ;D   
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 03, 2014, 07:23:55 PM
Wish this wind would die down during the day !!!  >:( >:( >:(
I'm trying to get out and learn to fly and film ... Can't do that with the Phantom buzzing wildly against the wind ... Not happy !!

BUT - I have managed to fit some extras to the copter -- I extended the landing gear to help prevent the fall over on landing - 2 bits of alum tube about 25mm longer than the
existing skids held on with nylon ties .. Also have mounted the twin battery shelves - still waiting on the twin batteries ... Fitted 9" props instead of the 8" it comes with to give
me a 20% increase in payload .. I've been reading and youtubing heaps of stuff ...

Anyone coming to knockwood will not have to duck and cringe in fear when I man the controls -- Nothing like the last effort !!

Pics coming soon ...

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on April 03, 2014, 07:51:43 PM
Yo'all drone folks with yer quads, hex, octo anythings would all be right welcome down at Big Sandy with the boys-
Machine Guns vs DRONES - Crazy! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WP33crds1tI#ws)

Only in America would they ramp up the gentle art of trap and skeet like that. Crazy b's with too much dough.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 04, 2014, 07:27:56 AM
Wish this wind would die down during the day !!!  >:( >:( >:(
I'm trying to get out and learn to fly and film ... Can't do that with the Phantom buzzing wildly against the wind ... Not happy !!


Anyone coming to knockwood will not have to duck and cringe in fear when I man the controls -- Nothing like the last effort !!

Pics coming soon ...

Mandrake
I would have loved to go to Knockwood but alas I have to work that weekend.
The wind had been ok here. I even had my scratch built in the ait the other day.
Doing some checks and balances in my DJI today. Something is not quite right.
When you do fly the Phantom you will find it much easier than the cheep one you have. The flight controller has a far better brain in it.
Have fun with that.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 04, 2014, 07:34:07 AM
The flight controller has a far better brain in it.


Mate its got a better brain than mine !!!
The GPS thing is really good as long as you remember to do the home point thing before take off ... I'm dreading the day I forget and it tries to fly back to Wyndham Vale or the last home point !!

I know it works as I ran out of battery in the controller the other day - Phantom went straight up to 20m then made its way back to me and dropped slowly to land about 3 metres away ..

Can't wait for the gimbal to stop all the camera movement - But I gotta get out and learn how to fly really well before I try something like flying up a creek to a waterfall !!

Cheers

sTEVE
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 04, 2014, 07:37:58 AM
Mate its got a better brain than mine !!!
The GPS thing is really good as long as you remember to do the home point thing before take off ... I'm dreading the day I forget and it tries to fly back to Wyndham Vale or the last home point !!

I know it works as I ran out of battery in the controller the other day - Phantom went straight up to 20m then made its way back to me and dropped slowly to land about 3 metres away ..

Can't wait for the gimbal to stop all the camera movement - But I gotta get out and learn how to fly really well before I try something like flying up a creek to a waterfall !!

Cheers

sTEVE
RTH is a great thing. Does the home point set automatically or is it something you have to do. Mine sets auto as soon as it has a GPS lock and it is not flying.
Hobbyking have a new 3D way gimbal for a reasonable price ($245USD) They look good. There are so many around now it is hard to choose.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 04, 2014, 07:41:02 AM
The Tarot brushless gimbal on Hobbyking gets some good reviews. Really good price as well
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 04, 2014, 07:42:50 AM
yep its auto but you have to wait for the GPS to lock on - that can take a while and if you're in a hurry and take off before the GPS lock then the home point is the last one it locked in .I believe  that's one of the causes of the Phantom "flyaways" .. M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 04, 2014, 07:46:16 AM
After Easter, I'm going to get the HKPilot Mega 2.5.2 ArduPilot from HK. This flying by the seat of your pant's stuff is doin' my head in, not to mention landing gear and propellers.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2014, 03:11:18 PM
Got my RC Tools and Gimbal today - so had a go at fitting gimbal to Phantom -- Hardest part was the rubber vibration dampers !! ..

But got it all done and working - Camera is not exactly level but I'll work on that a bit later -

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/08/u5uhuvyn.jpg)

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on April 08, 2014, 03:39:31 PM
Got my RC Tools and Gimbal today - so had a go at fitting gimbal to Phantom -- Hardest part was the rubber vibration dampers !! ..

But got it all done and working - Camera is not exactly level but I'll work on that a bit later -

(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/08/u5uhuvyn.jpg)

Mandrake


Looks the goods, not that I have one yet but if the rubber grommets are the only thing holding the plates together on the gimble I have seen most people put a loose cable tie through the middle to make sure there is no separation during flying or landing, soft or hard  >:D

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2014, 04:35:15 PM
I saw that on one of the Youtube vids - makes sense - not that my camera is a Hero Black 3 but all the same I'd rather not drop it from a great height ...
Macca could be underneath  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2014, 04:38:00 PM
Just add a bucket load of trim to your aileron, you'll be fine.  ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2014, 04:41:09 PM
Marschy ,

Do you know how to adjust the level on a gimbal ?? Is that roll ? Which I don't have a control for ...  ;D

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2014, 04:42:53 PM
Sorry, my response was tongue in cheek. No can't help you, Crispies your man, he's done the gimbal business with his DJI gear, drop him a PM.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2014, 04:49:39 PM
Marschy ,

Do you know how to adjust the level on a gimbal ?? Is that roll ? Which I don't have a control for ...  ;D

Mandrake
Yes the control you need to adjust is roll. But there should be a control for that, especially on a brushless gimbal.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2014, 04:53:06 PM
When I said there isn't one - what I meant was there is not knob to adjust it with AND I didnt fit the control cable coz I didn't fink I'd need it !!!
Must be able to fit that cable then adjust in the Naza software ???
I'll see what crispy says - It could be the magnetometer board needs to be "exactly" horizontal ???

Cheers

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2014, 04:54:20 PM
There could very well be a calibration process to zero the gimbals on the control board. That is where I would start.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2014, 04:55:36 PM
Have to pull it apart and fit the roll control cable !! Bugger !
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2014, 05:01:48 PM
This reminds me of putting my quad together with no instructions, lots of trial and error.

It also reminds me of the movie "Those magnificent men in their flying machines" with the German officer standing in the cockpit of the plane and reading the instructions from the flying manual, the first one reads "Sit down". Hilarious.

The old instruction manual is a good place to start, if you got one with the gimbal that is. A lot of these things for quads require hours of trolling forums to work out.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2014, 05:26:40 PM
Think I got it...looks straight now...better leave that cable attached now...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 10, 2014, 07:27:56 PM
This is 2 small sections from todays video using the Phantom with Chinese GoPro and Gimbal...

Let me know what you think of stability and film quality ( NOT content etc as I am still learning the flying bit !! )

Cheers

Mandrake

PS - Turn speakers down as there is a bit of engine whine ... Music comes later when the film is worth it !!

http://youtu.be/NN4t32JLX-E (http://youtu.be/NN4t32JLX-E)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Brett B on April 10, 2014, 07:33:07 PM
Looks ok to me  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 10, 2014, 07:33:07 PM
Gimbal is certainly doing a fantastic job, video quality is bloody good too. What is your assessment of the flying quality of the new quad?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 10, 2014, 07:36:06 PM
The prop savers certainly give you a good idea of how much pitch and roll the camera gimbal is correcting
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 10, 2014, 07:49:07 PM
Gimbal is certainly doing a fantastic job, video quality is bloody good too. What is your assessment of the flying quality of the new quad?

Never having flown any R/C thing before its bloody easy and because of the GPS thingy when you let go of the sticks it just stops and hovers
until you get it to move again ... If I can learn to fly this thing in forests etc then I'm going to get some really good footage I hope ..
Very happy with the gimbal ... M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Myst on April 11, 2014, 08:59:44 AM
been following this thread for quite some time, and rather envious of some of the toys here!!

Silly question - do the cameras transmit to a recorder unit on the ground, or just record to camera? The reason i ask is i am looking at getting a similar set-up but i need to know where the camera is pointing/ recording.

Also, how much noise do they make?

Many thanks!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 11, 2014, 09:08:00 AM
Hello Myst,

The recording bit depends upon your setup. I have a Fatshark FPV camera with onboard DVR. It also transmits video via a 250mW transmitter to a ground receiver built into head goggles but records at the video source.

Go-Pro's and the like allow live video feed via a 3.5mm AV socket on the earlier models and via the mini USB on the gopro 3 models upwards. So they can feed video back to a ground station whilst simultaneously recording on the actual Go-pro.

If you transmit the video directly to a ground station recorder, the resolution suffers due to the analogue video transmitter loosing resolution, so the better option is to record directly at the video source.

Mandrakes video gives you a good indication of the noise generated by the motors and propellors. It's actually pretty quiet in his setup but can get noisy depending upon how poorly balanced propellers and motors are.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JGM on April 12, 2014, 08:03:29 AM
Hi Myst

There is a different unit to the one Marschy described.  It's basically the same DJI Phantom helicopter / drone but with a DJI camera already installed, it's called the Phantom Vision.
It has it's own Wi-Fi which transmits the picture to a normal smartphone to which you have downloaded a DJI Phantom app.  You can "see" what the camera is seeing and take still photo's or videos all operated by you and the phone.  You can then send the photos to your phone (even while the drone is still up in the air) or you can remove the micro sd card from the back of the camera when it lands and upload the photos to the computer.
The picture quality is probably not as good as the go-pro ones, but at 14 mp it's plenty good enough for me!
The app also gives you other handy info, like amount of satellites the unit is picking up, altitude, heading, distance from you and battery %.  It also has a feature to find the drone using GPS / google maps if you lose it.

Cheers
JGM
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 12, 2014, 08:07:18 AM
How good is the range of the Wi-Fi for transmitting video? The parrot AR Drone uses WiFi as well
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JGM on April 12, 2014, 09:52:19 AM
Marschy

I get about 300-400 meters out of the Wi-Fi.  There are plenty of mods that can be done to get way further.  That is far enough for me at the moment, too much further than that and you cant see it and severe puckering sets in!  Once I get more confident with it I might start flying it out of sight.

Cheers
JGM
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 13, 2014, 12:15:22 PM
Here's a photo I took earlier -
I'm using the FC40 camera for FPV and possibly extra footage from different angle --
Landing gear has been extended with long hex nuts and the gimbal is also suspended by two
long hex nuts...
Total mass is now up at 1340 grams - 140 over limit ...
Cheers
Mandrake
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/13/uvy4azan.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 13, 2014, 01:04:55 PM
Have you got yourself some googles for FPV yet Mandrake?

Also curious about your camera. You mentioned it wasn't a Go-Pro, but a knock-off. But from the looks of it, it is based on a Go-Pro platform. Any links to where you got it as I'm in the market for a Go-Pro shaped camera as there are so many gimbals made specifically for Go-Pro and none for my AEE Magicam. Good as my camera is, it may be relegated  to other duties simply for lack of a suitable gimbal mount.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 13, 2014, 01:09:36 PM
Got the camera here - The WiFi is crap but might get better when I get the WiFi extender gizmo....
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-5-0MP-Full-HD-1080P-Underwater-Action-Sport-Camera-CAM-WiFi-DV-Camcorder-WDV5000/1518008545.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-5-0MP-Full-HD-1080P-Underwater-Action-Sport-Camera-CAM-WiFi-DV-Camcorder-WDV5000/1518008545.html)
Here's the link for the gimbal if you need it -
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Silver-DJI-Phantom-Brushless-Gimbal-Aluminum-Camera-Mount-with-Motor-Controller-for-GoPro-Hero-1-2/1568692513.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Silver-DJI-Phantom-Brushless-Gimbal-Aluminum-Camera-Mount-with-Motor-Controller-for-GoPro-Hero-1-2/1568692513.html)
Comes with waterproof case - stand - head band ... spare batteries are US$11
Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 13, 2014, 01:16:21 PM
Cheers,

My quad should look a bit different after Easter, getting it geared up for gimbal and new flight control board with GPS. Also looking at either making a delta wing or buying a HK Tek Sumo. Should be a bit of fun for under $100. Trying to find foam insulation board and cut my own wings, shouldn't be that hard to make.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Myst on April 14, 2014, 09:05:57 AM
Sweet, thanks mate... we're looking at one for commerical filming so need the highest res we can get, but its a good place to start!!

Hi Myst

There is a different unit to the one Marschy described.  It's basically the same DJI Phantom helicopter / drone but with a DJI camera already installed, it's called the Phantom Vision.
It has it's own Wi-Fi which transmits the picture to a normal smartphone to which you have downloaded a DJI Phantom app.  You can "see" what the camera is seeing and take still photo's or videos all operated by you and the phone.  You can then send the photos to your phone (even while the drone is still up in the air) or you can remove the micro sd card from the back of the camera when it lands and upload the photos to the computer.
The picture quality is probably not as good as the go-pro ones, but at 14 mp it's plenty good enough for me!
The app also gives you other handy info, like amount of satellites the unit is picking up, altitude, heading, distance from you and battery %.  It also has a feature to find the drone using GPS / google maps if you lose it.

Cheers
JGM
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JGM on April 14, 2014, 11:29:14 AM
Myst

For commercial filming you'd be better off going for the Phantom 2 with the go-pro, gimbal and all the extras.  There is a mob in Sydney that can supply and install all the extras for you and put it in a Pelican type case for transporting it.

If you watch a few instructional video's on the DJI site, you'll be able to unpack it, put the props on and fly it within 10 minutes!

PM me and I'll give you their contact details if you like.  I found them very helpful when I bought mine.

Cheers
JGM
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Myst on April 14, 2014, 12:20:12 PM
Thanks mate, PM inbound!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on April 14, 2014, 05:52:30 PM
If you do any of this for money, you need to be licensed, and the UAV needs to pass some specific requirements of CASA. Do some research before plunking down any money.

HTTP://www.casa.gov.au/scripts/nc.dll?WCMS:STANDARD::pc=PC_100374 (http://HTTP://www.casa.gov.au/scripts/nc.dll?WCMS:STANDARD::pc=PC_100374)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 14, 2014, 11:35:01 PM
This guy is an amazing quad pilot

http://youtu.be/fYtw17i_CXU (http://youtu.be/fYtw17i_CXU)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 14, 2014, 11:58:40 PM
That's amazing .!!!!

Sent from my AML-MX REF using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: itchvet on April 18, 2014, 06:32:45 PM
Funny you guys started this thread. I had a 25cc Whipper Snipper that the starter spring jammed up in so I did this
(http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb270/rodweb/Phone%20Photos/IMAG0319_zpsd8bcce08.jpg)

And now I have got this far and am not quite sure what to do next....
(http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb270/rodweb/Mobile%20Uploads/20140105_125334_zpspkpgzdac.jpg)

All of the surplus casting has been milled away and you can see the flywheel has been heavily trimmed on my lathe and mill to save weight.

The 14"  prop is a bit small but it was the biggest the hobby shop had.

I was going to mount it on a stand and wire in a kill switch to see if I could start it by flipping the prop before getting carried away.

Any help or guidance will be appreciated. I think it needs to go in an 80" wing span plane.

 I have just the plane for you, Fiberglass fuse, lite ply balsa sheeted wings ready to cover/paint, fit engine/radio gear and away you go. Too bad your not in W.A. I'd probably give it away real cheap. Gave the hobby away 10 years ago, got shed full of stuff collection spiders.
Props, crikey got heaps all big ones too right up to 22 " that should give some idea of the motors I used to run.
BTW, I'd advise most definitely fit a  kill switch to the magento, this prevents ignition when some idiot walks past and tries to flip the prop while your not looking.
Last but not the least, I have a gas turbine plane collecting spider webs, every body expects me to give it away for nothing.
IF, I was to ever receive a GENUINE offer, I'd probably sell it very cheap.
Maybe some one would be interested in buying just the turbine for a show piece ?
I'm open to offers.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 25, 2014, 05:07:47 PM
Courier's Please just delivered my Tek Sumo at 4:30 on Anzac Day. Gob smacked.

Guess what I'm going to be doing for the remainder of the weekend?



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 25, 2014, 07:45:01 PM
I need to do some maintenance on my quad. I just nee some time to sit down with it. Maybe next week.
Have fun with your new toy Marschy and remember  :worthles:
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 27, 2014, 08:30:55 PM
Started putting my Tek Suma delta wing together.

Moved the battery and receiver/ESC compartment from the top surface of the wing to the bottom surface of the wing. Left wing is after mod, right wing is yet to be modified.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48315-1/Moving+Electronics+Bays+from+Bottom+to+Top+of+TS.jpg)

Wings all joined together (epoxy and fibre glass tape).

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48317-1/Tek+Sumo+Wings+Joined.jpg)

My power plant of choice. A 2200Kv outrunner spinning a 6x5 prop, 40A ESC, fueled by 2200mAh liPo

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48319-1/Tek+Sumo+Power+Plant.jpg)

More to come as it progresses.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 29, 2014, 08:05:47 PM
Hey Mandrake,
Nice video in the other thread. Are you FPVing or LOS?
And at night you have to watch out for drop bears in the gum trees.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 29, 2014, 08:07:59 PM
LOS at the moment - I've got the FPV camera and app but find it difficult to watch when flying -Its a time thing - I'll get it sooner or later .. Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: speewa158 on April 29, 2014, 08:10:24 PM
After how many hair cuts    ,   or worse  :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 29, 2014, 09:11:52 PM
LOS at the moment - I've got the FPV camera and app but find it difficult to watch when flying -Its a time thing - I'll get it sooner or later .. Mandrake
I haven't taken the plunge with fpv yet. I'm going to wait until the GPS upgrade is done. OSD looks fantastic for finding your way home over tree tops
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Tim - Stratford on May 07, 2014, 07:57:58 PM
Anyone building one of these?  >:D

Prototype Quadrotor with Machine Gun! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNPJMk2fgJU#ws)

Tim
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on May 29, 2014, 01:24:40 PM
Pizza anyone?

Food flying fast via drone delivery at Francesco?s Pizzeria in Mumbai (http://www.news.com.au/finance/food-flying-fast-via-drone-delivery-at-francescos-pizzeria-in-mumbai/story-e6frfm1i-1226927663675)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on May 29, 2014, 01:55:34 PM
I think the price of Pizza might go up after a few one way deliveries....$2500 each.

Sent from the thing that does everything.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 04, 2014, 09:15:29 AM
The GPS upgrade is about to happen for my F450 quad. I've just received a MultiWii Pro + MTK3329 GPS, bluetooth adapter and OSD in the mail. That's for my F450, which will be my hack FPV platform. I'll be flashing the MultiWii Pro with MegaPirateNG firmware so I can use the ArduCoptor software for waypoint navigation.

I've also received a very roomy HK Alien 560 carbon fibre frame along with a Naza M V2 + GPS with BTU and iOSD. This one is going to be my photography platform and will be decked out with the best I can afford.

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/51425.jpg)

I've bought this along with a Tarot T2D gimbal and also found a camera on Aliexpress that is 1080 @ 30fps and 720 @ 60fps and about the same size as a GoPro, but more importantly, it has live video out for only $82.99US. I am curious to see if this camera can double as an FPV/DVR camera on the F450 quad.

HD 1080P 1.5 inch Sport Action Helmet Camera DV Waterproof Extreme mini camcorders With HDMI TV Output H.264 8MP 150 view angle (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/HD-1080P-1-5-inch-Sport-Action-Helmet-Camera-DV-Waterproof-Extreme-mini-camcorders-With-HDMI/1685506086.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 04, 2014, 10:13:20 AM
If that camera doesn't have WIFI how do you get FPV ? Is there a video transmitter on board as well ? M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on June 04, 2014, 12:24:01 PM
If that camera doesn't have WIFI how do you get FPV ? Is there a video transmitter on board as well ? M
If you use, wifi it can play up with the radio. Best use a dedicated 5.8GHz video transmitter and receiver.
Regards
Crispy

Sent from a thing that can't spell

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 04, 2014, 12:34:09 PM
^^^^^^^^^ What Crispy said, this is the Vtx I've bought

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=17507 (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=17507)

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/17507(2).jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 04, 2014, 12:43:20 PM
My Phantom is the reverse - 5.8 for controlling flight and 2.4 for Video / FPV ...
I'm waiting on a new gimbal as I had a accident with landing on the last one !! Camera survived gimbal control board didn't ...
Once I get it and fit it up I'll take a pic and post it ... M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 04, 2014, 12:45:12 PM
Did you get the same gimbal again, or are you trying a different one?

This is the one I've just bought and received in the mail yesterday. Why is everything with this hobby "some assembly required". Ah well it's all good fun.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=51635 (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=51635)

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/51635.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 04, 2014, 12:47:02 PM
Different ... its black..LOL..


From the thing that is also a phone


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 05, 2014, 07:29:32 AM
Camera I bought is no good for FPV. Although it has live TV out, the on screen display cannot be turned off, which means if I want to use it in conjunction with a DJI iOSD it can't be done as the two on screen displays will clash with each other.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 12, 2014, 10:19:42 PM
This stuff is gold for a geek like me. They fly, they're fun to put together, they almost give you a heart attack the first time you get them up too high.!!

You can see the Alien 560 is a wee bit bigger than my F450.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48592-1/Alien+and+F450.JPG)

The Alien is going on the back burner until I get the F450 back together with the MultiWii controller.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48594-1/HK+MultiWii+Pro+in+case.JPG)

Still haven't flown the Tek Suma, I'm in the process of swapping the receiver from the F450 into the flying wing, so I can run a DSM2 receiver and satellite in the quads.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48596-1/Orange+6Ch+Rx+and+Satellite+Rx.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Ness on June 15, 2014, 10:54:11 PM
I was thinking I must have jumped across to the rc group some how funny to see all this on a camper site. I started off with the Dji phatom last year and put the tarot gimbal on it and put a 10k pot in the transmitter to control the tilt. and use the fpv 5.8 to goggles
I have a s800 evo and in the process of setting it up 2 transmitters one for the gimbal and the other for the aircraft.
Have another one I put together using 17inch props and 360 kv motors on a small tarot body the the dam thing has cut me and I have to run fast at times.
Keen to get a small blackout quad and use a kk controller so for now I am saving.
Anyway good to see your builds. will try and post some of mine.     
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on June 16, 2014, 02:18:19 PM
Hey what a great thread...!

I've been thinking about getting an RC unit of some description for aerial photography.  I recently got a small digital camera similar to a Go Pro but not quite as good.  Its a bit lighter and smaller.

What would be a good RC device to have that could carry this camera in outdoor flight?  I'm not too keen on spending a fortune and if it was reasonably transportable, that would be better.

I've seen a couple of large RC helicopters that look like they would do the job but stability is a concern.

Any suggestions?   
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 17, 2014, 11:59:08 AM
Hey what a great thread...!

I've been thinking about getting an RC unit of some description for aerial photography.  I recently got a small digital camera similar to a Go Pro but not quite as good.  Its a bit lighter and smaller.

What would be a good RC device to have that could carry this camera in outdoor flight?  I'm not too keen on spending a fortune and if it was reasonably transportable, that would be better.

I've seen a couple of large RC helicopters that look like they would do the job but stability is a concern.

Any suggestions?
Large RC helicopters = $$$$$
Stability for helicopters is proportional to how much money you spend on a good quality flight control board.

A 350 quad that can carry a Go-Pro can set you back around $700 for a buy and fly.
The S800 Evo mentioned by Ness will set you back thousands.

How much money you have to spend will be the deciding factor on what anyone can suggest.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 17, 2014, 03:23:25 PM
Well just ordered all the parts for a home built tricopter (rcexplorer.se v2.5). Have spent months reading and finally decided that the tricopter is the way to go. Under $350 without the fpv.

With work going gang busters (busy month but it is paying for my new hobby) will take me a while to assemble once the bits get here.  Decided to put a small fpv camera and tx on it. I ended up picking up a small 7 inch lcd screen with fpv rx built in plus it can save to sd card to.

I will mount my cheap action cam for high res video once I've worked out how to fly it (used to fly rc planes years ago).

Chris

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk 2

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 17, 2014, 03:31:02 PM
Cool Chris, looking forward to some pictures.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on June 18, 2014, 08:00:49 AM
Sooooo whens the leap to the next level going to be guys https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJEKNHruTU8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJEKNHruTU8)      ;D
Like to be able to play with a quad camera ship  mmmmmm maybe soon ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on June 18, 2014, 08:47:13 AM
Large RC helicopters = $$$$$
Stability for helicopters is proportional to how much money you spend on a good quality flight control board.

A 350 quad that can carry a Go-Pro can set you back around $700 for a buy and fly.
The S800 Evo mentioned by Ness will set you back thousands.

How much money you have to spend will be the deciding factor on what anyone can suggest.

What ever I buy has to have half a chance of being approved for the minister of war and finance...!  $700 will result in pain and suffering for an extended period.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 18, 2014, 09:26:53 AM
Well if your looking at getting into quad copters dirt cheap, look at something like this

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F06586-C-DIY-RC-Quadcopter-FPV-Kit-Nylon-Flamewheel-Carbon-Tall-Landing-Skid-KK-V2-9/1457533334.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F06586-C-DIY-RC-Quadcopter-FPV-Kit-Nylon-Flamewheel-Carbon-Tall-Landing-Skid-KK-V2-9/1457533334.html)

For about $70 upgrade the flight control board to a MultiWii-Pro + GPS combo and get a Turnigy 9XR 9 channel radio with RF module and battery for about $120, add the kit for $130 including shipping, all up you could get a killer quad in the air for around $350 delivered to you door.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 20, 2014, 09:45:07 PM
Here is the new flight control system for my F450.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48602-1/MWP+Sonar+GPS+BTU+OSD.JPG)

HK MultiWii Pro Multicopter Flight Control Board
Sonar (yep a freakin' sonar, don't even know what the bloody hell I'm going to do with it, but I've got a freakin' sonar)
GPS
Blue Tooth unit (allows Android app to talk to flight control board for programming and waypoint setting)
MinimOSD (on screen display of telemetry data from flight control board and onboard sensors from the OSD board)

Compared to the new flight control system that is going into the new Alien 560.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48604-1/NazaMV2+BTU+iOSDmini+Compass+GPS+LED+PMU.JPG)

Naza M V2 Flight Controller
Blue Tooth Unit
iOSDmini (telemetry)
GPS and Compass
LED indicator
Power unit

Similar sort of setups, one for making all my mistakes on and will probably get flown to destruction, the other has proven performance so will go on the Alien which is going to be the camera ship. I had a quick look on the DJI website, no DJI sonar  :'(

I like the modularity of the DJI gear, but the DIY nature of the MultiWii appeals to me as well.

I also recently had delivered two examples of cheap 'action' or GoPro knockoffs from Aliexpress.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48606-1/New+Cameras.JPG)

The black one is too big for the Tarot gimbal by about 7mm (too high), so I'm getting a generic gimbal that will fit this camera as it has a standard 1/4 mount, whereas the GoTop fits the Tarot gimbal like a glove, but costs around $150US, about twice the cost of the black one.

I still can't pluck up the courage to put a $400+ GoPro black or similar quality camera on the quads. These cameras are the first thing to cop it when the quad goes in nose first.

Both have similar specs

1080p full hd @ 30fps
720p hd @ 60fps or 30fps
wvga @ 120 fps

Both have live video out, the black one with an annoying amount of on screen display that cannot be turned off in live feed mode. The GoTop also has on screen display that can't be turned off, but there's bugger all of it at the very top of the screen.

You can actually see inside the body and all the electronics on the black camera, it's not put together very well at all. Whereas the GoTop is a quality unit.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 04, 2014, 09:17:57 PM
After buying the Alien quadcopter frame, I have discovered that having heaps of space makes installing all of the electronics so much easier. The F450 quad is carrying quite a bit of gear, so I was trolling Aliexpress (has more quadcopter stuff on it than you can shake a stick at), looking for frames that utilise the DJI arms so I can still use the F450 arms from my original quad as spares and stumbled across this frame from seller Goodluckbuy. I have been on their website before and knew that quite often their website has very good prices compared to to their store on Aliexpress. It's called the Reptile-Aphid X450, and it uses standard DJI arms with a larger body and comes with a single axis gimbal and board camera for FPV. It still maintains an 'X' configuration, unlike the similar Reptile quadcopter which comes in spider configuration (450/380 wheel base).

(http://www.goodluckbuy.com/images/detailed_images/sku_93460_1.jpg) (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/reptile-aphid-x450-fpv-quadcopter-aircraft-frame-kit-with-700tvl-camera-lens.html)

Now I've also had a play around with the Fatshark Pilot HD camera, and after getting my hands on a 700tvl camera at the same time I picked up the Alien frame, I have been able to compare these two camera's. The winner hands down was the 700tvl camera, which is fortunately the same resolution as the camera supplied in the Reptile-Aphid frame. Now the Goodluckbuy website doesn't specifically say that the gimbal comes with a servo, but unboxing videos I found on youtube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdrByCrfBx4) would suggest it does, so all up, the price is pretty good when it includes a camera, gimbal and servo.

(http://www.goodluckbuy.com/images/product_images/thumbnail_93460_4.jpg)

So now, I'm going to wait for the x450 frame and other bits and pieces to arrive so I can get the new 450 into the air with the MultiWii Pro controller.

I've flashed the MultiWii controller to use MegaPirateNG as there are already clever people who have written the firmware code for incorporating a sonar, which I have found out is used to assist with automatic landing.

I've tested the sonar running it from the MultiWii board and the distances it shows appear to be extremely accurate while I sit at my computer. Now I've just got to work out how the example code I found for my sonar is then incorporated into the firmware for the MultiWii.

The end goal is almost within sight, to be able to fly one of these things as autonomously as possible, but learn heaps along the way and enjoy myself.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on July 09, 2014, 01:05:00 PM
http://www.news.com.au/technology/gadgets/parrots-new-range-of-toy-drones-aimed-at-teenagers-raise-privacy-concerns/story-fnda1lbo-1226982232601 (http://www.news.com.au/technology/gadgets/parrots-new-range-of-toy-drones-aimed-at-teenagers-raise-privacy-concerns/story-fnda1lbo-1226982232601)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 11, 2014, 09:00:36 AM
Same old story regurgitated yet again.

If someone is going to use a camera to spy on someone, they will do it whether they have a 'drone' or not.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GeckoJK on July 11, 2014, 09:41:09 AM
What is everyones thought on the DJI Phantom Vision 2 +?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 14, 2014, 10:29:09 AM
Hi,

Finally got time over the weekend to finish off the first phase of my tricopter.

Flight Attempts:
Maiden flight attempt was a bust, the KK2 board had the CW and CCW marking backwards (was wondering why the green and the red were the wrong way around from any standard - marine or air.  Should have thought about that one), worked that out once I checked out build video again.  I did notice that the tail was lifting way to easy and decided to move the tail motor further forwards.

2nd flight attempt this morning was fantastic, it took flight and all was going well.  Extremely stable, only used minor inputs to keep it in a hover.  Did a small forwards and backwards, then back to a hover.  Not using the self leveling yet, so really happy about now. Then I started a small vertical climb, wow did it move, alot more than I thought it would (65% throttle) then I remembered that the power lines run above the only flat section of ground I have in the front yard (concrete too).....  Well as I was about to make contact I made the decision to cut the throttle completely.  Suffice to say killed my first propeller  >:( and a few zip ties holding on a wooden post as part of the landing gear.  It was 6m of a drop after all.  Front arms folded back as designed and no damage to the motors, they all spin up properly  :D.

Trying a flight tonight in a nice big park with lots of grass.  No powerlines there.

Things to do:
Change the bottom tray so it's fixed properly - so I can work on the FPV items
Mount the HD camera on the front
Buy even more props (get the feeling that a pack of 4 for each wont be enough)
Buy more batteries, I think I'll never have enough of those  >:D
Build the small LiPo bunker, or big one depending on the number of batteries.  I may need to dog proof it as he seems very inquisitive, thinking a lipo with a canine tooth trying to puncture it may end badly for him, and will be bad for the lipo (but thats a secondary concern)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 14, 2014, 10:46:47 AM
Gday Chris,

I'm haven't used expo on throttle previously. The new MultiWii Pro flight control board is about to be run up for the first time. The 'AltHold' function (flight control board has a barometer) is going to get a workout I think. The 'AltHold' mode in the MegaPirateNG firmware allows the throttle to be used like an altimeter, the higher the throttle, the higher the altitude, the lower the throttle the lower the altitude (relative to take off position). Looking forward to having a play around with this shortly.

You should check this MultiWii Pro flight control board out Chris, it would work very nicely with a nice stable tri-copter.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rotor138 on July 14, 2014, 10:11:25 PM
Well if your looking at getting into quad copters dirt cheap, look at something like this

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F06586-C-DIY-RC-Quadcopter-FPV-Kit-Nylon-Flamewheel-Carbon-Tall-Landing-Skid-KK-V2-9/1457533334.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F06586-C-DIY-RC-Quadcopter-FPV-Kit-Nylon-Flamewheel-Carbon-Tall-Landing-Skid-KK-V2-9/1457533334.html)

For about $70 upgrade the flight control board to a MultiWii-Pro + GPS combo and get a Turnigy 9XR 9 channel radio with RF module and battery for about $120, add the kit for $130 including shipping, all up you could get a killer quad in the air for around $350 delivered to you door.


I have just ordered the frame kit from ali express and was wondering what module you recommend there Marschy? I have found the reciever on Hobbyking and also the multiwii pro kit. Is there anywhere you recommend to read up on this stuff so that I can learn what I'm doing?

Thanks

Leon
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 14, 2014, 10:21:32 PM
Definitely follow the rcgroups instructions for either multiwii pro or megapirateng firmware installation for the multiwii pro board from hobbyking. There are a number of different threads for other multiwii boards but there is only one that I have found that works with the APM mission planner software and sonar as well.

I'll stick a link on here shortly to get you underway. If you have any questions specifically about setting up the multiwii pro board send me a pm and I'll see if I can assist
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 14, 2014, 10:58:13 PM
Hello Leon, when you say module are you referring to the flight control board?

Links for stock multiwii firmware for the  hobbyking board can be found here.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1726790 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1726790)

That thread has a reference to this link for installing the megapirateng firmware onto the HK MWC pro board. This firmware allows you to run the APM mission planner software as well as using up to 10 flight modes

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1752719 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1752719)

One flight mode in particular that I'm interested to see is circle. The quad can perform a circle around a set diameter with the nose pointing inwards. I'm really looking forwards to getting the camera rolling with this flight mode
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rotor138 on July 15, 2014, 05:58:10 AM
Thanks for those links, day off tomorrow so will be doing plenty of reading up. By module I meant the rf receiver there is so many to choose from and wasn't sure which is the right one to get?

How long was delivery when you bought your frame?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 15, 2014, 07:23:38 AM
6 working days, but it depends on what shipping you've paid for. I got the orange 9 channel dsmx/dsm2 receiver module from hobbyking. I'll find a link for you
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 15, 2014, 08:58:13 AM
Hello Leon,

Here is the link for the receiver and transmitter modules I am using in conjunction with the Turnigy 9XR radio, just click on the picture to follow the links.

OrangeRx R910 Spektrum DSM2 9Ch 2.4Ghz TwinPort Rx

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/orng9(1).jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=17621)

OrangeRX DSMX/DSM2 2.4Ghz Transmitter Module (JR/Turnigy compatible)

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/24656.jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=39247)

I'm also using satellite receivers

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/46339(2).jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__46339__OrangeRx_R100_Spektrum_JR_DSM2_Compatible_Satellite_Receiver.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 15, 2014, 10:27:29 AM
Well my 2nd real flight was great, well was for first 5 mins. Took off nicely, hovered at chest height for little while. Then did a bit of walking the dog with it, my previous rc experience helped a bit here. 

Took it up a bit higher and started experimenting with some coordinated turns. Hmmm should have remembered that the battery was slung underneath with a single velco strap...... why do batteries and velco straps slide..... :o battery slide backwards when I decided to stop. Sudden change in cg was too much for the flight controller to adapt too and I managed to spike the tail into the ground with a 5m drop. Lucky this time o to nice soft grass!

Liking the airframe design, only damage was to the rear prop and a couple of zip ties.

Lucky I ordered more props yesterday. May need to order even more at this rate....

So ive fixed the battery tray last night so good for another test flight. At least I learn as I go, just wish id work these things before hand.  I'll see if I can get an assistant to take some pics.

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk 2

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 15, 2014, 10:51:18 AM
Bunnings sell some really good stick on velcro. I've put this on my batteries in the past to stop them moving around. It's much easier to use if the battery is mounted externally.

I've used the 10x4.7 SP props from Hobbyking. Cheaps as chips, but buy heaps. The number of props I've ordered that don't track properly and cause heaps of vibration are probably up around the 30% of all the props I've bought from HK. But they are cheap enough, so just buy double what you need if you are after vibration free props for video if you get the cheapies.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 15, 2014, 04:53:12 PM
Bunnings sell some really good stick on velcro. I've put this on my batteries in the past to stop them moving around. It's much easier to use if the battery is mounted externally.

I've used the 10x4.7 SP props from Hobbyking. Cheaps as chips, but buy heaps. The number of props I've ordered that don't track properly and cause heaps of vibration are probably up around the 30% of all the props I've bought from HK. But they are cheap enough, so just buy double what you need if you are after vibration free props for video if you get the cheapies.

Hi Marshy,

Yep was thinking sticky velco might do the trick.  I have plenty lying around, I'll give that a go as an additional safety (although I now have it on top of the tray with the strap stopping lateral movement and a block stopping forwards and backwards movement.

I have bought a few more props now, around 30 in total, so I should be good for a while.  I had 12 but I seem to be going through one or more each test flight (have killed 3 so far).  Been lucky that they have all been the CW props as I only have 2 CCW props, although by all accounts it will fly quite well if they are all CW.  Hoping that nothing else goes wrong on tonight's test filght, last nights would have been perfect if it wasnt for the battery weight shifting out the tail, a swinging battery is hard for the software to compensate for.

If all goes well tonight I'll fit the cheap action cam and FPV camera (not to fly with yet, want to get the hang of it using LOS first) this weekend and start to log some daylight hours.

I've been using 2200mAH batteries, and so far my 6 min flight took the battery to 65% with no camera's etc. Thinking I'll get around 10-12 mins from it once I put the camera's on.  I just ordered a 5000mAH so hoping I'll get at least 18-20 mins out of it once it arrives, then I can have some real good fun.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 15, 2014, 06:12:55 PM
Gday Chris,

All of my batteries I've sourced from Hobbyking, so I've gone down the XT60 connector path. I recently soldered together three connectors to parallel two of my 2200's 3S to give me 4400 mAh. Haven't tried it out yet, but it's worked out well as far as counter balancing the new camera gimbal is concerned.

I'm looking forward to playing around with the waypoint navigation software that talks to the multiwii board via bluetooth. It will be interesting to see how far the bluetooth reception is.

Cheers, Marschy



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 16, 2014, 01:12:15 PM
Gday Chris,

All of my batteries I've sourced from Hobbyking, so I've gone down the XT60 connector path. I recently soldered together three connectors to parallel two of my 2200's 3S to give me 4400 mAh. Haven't tried it out yet, but it's worked out well as far as counter balancing the new camera gimbal is concerned.

I'm looking forward to playing around with the waypoint navigation software that talks to the multiwii board via bluetooth. It will be interesting to see how far the bluetooth reception is.

Cheers, Marschy

Hi Marschy,

Got most of my stuff off Hobby King too.  I now have worked out why I was breaking props so often.....  Turns out the black props I bought were carbon mixed, nice and light but not good for learning to fly a tricopter.  I also settled on the XT60 connector for my power.  It was a challenge to solder 3 x 16AWG + 1 x 18 AWG to the XT60 connector but I got there.  Bundled them together before hand and used some thin copper winding wire to bind them together.

Dont expect to much from Bluetooth, you'll get maybe 15-20m at best, otherwise it isnt following the bluetooth standard, your more likely to get around 10m range.

Last nights test flight went really well, luckily the playing field had all the lights on for me in the light rain (thankful that I have the hard case KK2 board and that the regular soccer games weren't on).  I used some thread lock on my motors earlier in the night and undid some of the cables, thought I put them back in the right order, sigh......  Double check it if you unplug it....  I flipped it on first attempt (motor 1 and 3 were swapped over), reassessed the wiring and it was all good from there.  Had it on two flights, total flight time was around 9 mins and the battery (3s - 2200mAH) was only down to 11.5 so I'm very happy with that.  I was just hovering and some flying patterns, so I expect that to reduce once I start to use it a bit more.  The self level feature seems pretty good, I tested it out a couple of times to see how good it was.

Was about to head up a 2nd time after I finished supervising an activity but they turned the lights off just as I was about to walk up to the park :-(

On a plus, since I'm using the plastic props now I'm not breaking them!!!!  Damn carbon mixed props......  Was wondering why only the rear prop was breaking on each crash.....  Was getting annoyed at how fast they were dying.

Still finding it very sensitive on the throttle (about 50% to take off, so really I'm using the top half of the stick, doesnt make for the best control), thinking of using some stick scaling or switching to heli mode to use a throttle curve, to make it a bit less sensitive.  I was wrong earlier, I didnt have expo on the throttle as I first thought I had.

I've also been reading up on tuning the P and I values.  I think it's pretty stable at present so might leave those for the time being until I'm more comfortable with it.

I'll do one more test flight tonight and then I'll work out how to attach the camera, so I'll see if I can post some footage after the weekend.

On a side note, it sure does draw a crowd.  Not want I wanted last night, as I'm still getting used to it.  Everyone seems to want to know more about it.  On a plus not one person was against them, saw it as something fun and cool.  They cant believe how inexpensive it was to build either.

I like the look of the MultiWii FC, I'll give it a bit more of a look in a few months.  I like the GPS and barometer stuff that can be easily integrated.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on July 16, 2014, 01:58:20 PM
It sure looks like everyone is having fun with their flying toys.
I have not really had much of a chance to get out much but when I do I draw a crowd.
Can't wait to see some footage.
What servo are you using on the tri? I kept burning mine out so changed to a quad.
Have you flashed the KK.? There is better firmware. Than the stock one.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 16, 2014, 02:17:08 PM
It sure looks like everyone is having fun with their flying toys.
I have not really had much of a chance to get out much but when I do I draw a crowd.
Can't wait to see some footage.
What servo are you using on the tri? I kept burning mine out so changed to a quad.
Have you flashed the KK.? There is better firmware. Than the stock one.
Regards
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

Sure am having fun!  I'm using a Turnigy 380MG Micro Servo (Metal Gear) - 3.6kg / .15sec / 15.6g.  The servo you used was it metal gears?  Were you using a servo with nylon gears, they tend to wear fast in a tricopter.

I bought a 2nd one in case I damage it in a crash or I wear it out :-)  I have another nylon one floating about and I have several analogue metal ones from a plane I never finished (plus another 4 or so on an old trainer plane I used to fly) but they are heavier.

I have the usb board to program it but I haven't flashed it yet, wanted to see what the stock firmware did.  So far I'm pretty impressed.  Will take a look at the multiWii at some stage as I wouldn't mind an alt hold or gps functions in the future.

I'll put a GPS in soon but it will be to output to the OSD.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 16, 2014, 02:43:55 PM
Well done with the KK Chris, you've progressed much further than I did before I opted for GPS.

Either way

it sounds like you're hooked.
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JCAT on July 16, 2014, 09:19:04 PM
Dont know what sort it was but when we were up on Gunlom Falls this fella had one that he was sending out over the cliff face and racing around with at sunset, $7000 he told us, it looked very friggin good


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 17, 2014, 10:53:23 AM
Hello Chris,

Give some ESC's flashed with SimonK a go. I started off with my kit ESC's (Aliexpress with a JMT brand sticker but essentially Hobbyking SS30A ESC's) with stock firmware. Flashed my KK2.1 with 1.12Beginner (I think) and flew with the stock ESC firmware, after flashing with SimonK the stability improvement was remarkable.

The best way to describe the improvement is that the throttle response becomes very linear, i.e. 10% throttle seems like it is putting 10% power into the motors, 20%, 30% etc etc all the same, all very precise. And it doesn't seem to top out like some ESC's do when you go past 80 or 90% and you don't seem to get any further throttle response beyond a certain percentage, not so with SimonK.

There was also throttle lag with the original firmware, but this has improved as well. The only ESC that ran warm was the one supplying power to the flight control board, but I have since changed to a dedicated 5A UBEC.

I'm running SimonK TGY V2013-09-20 but there is a new release since this one, not sure what the improvements are though. Would need to visit his website to find out what is in each release.

I've got new Multistar 30A BEC and Opto speed controllers, but after reading the Hobbyking feedback for these controllers, people are reporting motors burning out after flashing with SimonK. Not sure if it's true, the feedback seems to indicate that it occurs more frequently with the latest batches of ESC's, but has now left me with a quandry, do I flash my new controllers or not. I've got some of my old kit motors that I can see if it will burn out, but even then, I don't want to burn out a motor just to prove a point.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 17, 2014, 11:29:45 AM
I'm going to start a very touchy subject (for me at least) with regard recent events happening in the US regarding FAA regulations.

My understanding is that the FAA is about to put a blanket ban on the use of unlicensed FPV (first person view) vehicles. For those how do not know what FPV is, a camera and video transmitter are used to transmit vision, typically pointed in the forward direction, during flight of an unmanned vehicle, either a military drone, a hobby RC aircraft, or a commercial videographer to a ground station to allow the pilot to see what the aircraft sees. This is normally done as an aid in flying the aircraft and for videography/photographic purposes.

My understanding is that the FAA are banning the use of unlicensed FPV vehicles on the grounds that the 4th Amendment can be breached where privacy is invaded in relation to search and seizure when supporting probable cause. I'm not starting a US constitution argument here, if my facts are incorrect about all the relevant laws/statues etc, then I apologise.

My point has more to do with what may happen here in Australia. Now my reason for worrying this I will try to explain in a manner that is not designed to cause panic but hopefully rational discussion about how we can do to protect our hobby.

I think there is more to the blanket ban put in place in the US, than simple 4th Amendment issues.

Now I'm here in little old downtown Adelaide, and I'm looking at some of the links to videos that other swaggers have put on this thread, including myself, about incidences that have occured, with multicopters in particular, in the recent past. Then the videos with machine guns hung under a commercially made quadcopter. Now for me, it's not hard to put one and one together.

Now putting my "if I was a government paranoid about attack internally or externally" hat on, and thinking if people had these machines in there hands that can be purchased with a reasonable amount of anonymity, that can be flown remotely for distances over 10km and more, can carry potentially deadly payloads (recent examples of machine guns, but the imagination doesn't need to stretch far to see where this could go), would I as a government be worried?

What do you think can be done to mitigate this possible issue?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 18, 2014, 10:52:28 AM
Hi Marschy,

My understanding is that the FAA is about to put a blanket ban on the use of unlicensed FPV (first person view) vehicles. For those how do not know what FPV is, a camera and video transmitter are used to transmit vision, typically pointed in the forward direction, during flight of an unmanned vehicle, either a military drone, a hobby RC aircraft, or a commercial videographer to a ground station to allow the pilot to see what the aircraft sees. This is normally done as an aid in flying the aircraft and for videography/photographic purposes.

They already have, the interpretive rule says that FPV are not model aircraft therefore they are an sUAV or UAV or aircraft.  If they are not model aircraft the FAA has regulatory power.  So the ban is in effect right now.  Not many are following it through.....

Did everyone know that commercial sUAS or UAS are illegal in the US, only the government can fly them.....

It also goes against case law which says it is a model aircraft.   The Trappy vs FAA case is the test case, although it is on older legislation the new legislation was supposed to prevent this from happening, looks like their congress screwed up.  They didnt define model R/C aircraft in the act, now the FAA is making up it's own definition.

My understanding is that the FAA are banning the use of unlicensed FPV vehicles on the grounds that the 4th Amendment can be breached where privacy is invaded in relation to search and seizure when supporting probable cause. I'm not starting a US constitution argument here, if my facts are incorrect about all the relevant laws/statues etc, then I apologise.

Not a 4th Amendment issue as that applies for government or government agents to the public.  There are plenty of supreme court rulings upholding this particular item. 

It is however a privacy concern and that is one of the real reasons behind the regulation.  There are minority of FPVer's who dont abide by reasonable guideline and they are making it easier for the FAA to push this as an aircraft safety issue.  If FPVer's kept to under 400ft then there is no real issue.  This is a problem as it moves from a hobby item to a consumer item, more idiots go and do stupid things (kinda like with cars and our roads).

My point has more to do with what may happen here in Australia. Now my reason for worrying this I will try to explain in a manner that is not designed to cause panic but hopefully rational discussion about how we can do to protect our hobby.

I think there is more to the blanket ban put in place in the US, than simple 4th Amendment issues.

Now I'm here in little old downtown Adelaide, and I'm looking at some of the links to videos that other swaggers have put on this thread, including myself, about incidences that have occured, with multicopters in particular, in the recent past. Then the videos with machine guns hung under a commercially made quadcopter. Now for me, it's not hard to put one and one together.

Now putting my "if I was a government paranoid about attack internally or externally" hat on, and thinking if people had these machines in there hands that can be purchased with a reasonable amount of anonymity, that can be flown remotely for distances over 10km and more, can carry potentially deadly payloads (recent examples of machine guns, but the imagination doesn't need to stretch far to see where this could go), would I as a government be worried?

What do you think can be done to mitigate this possible issue?

It's worse for us in the FPV world, from what I can understand of the CASA regs we also dont meet the model R/C aircraft and therefore technically need an RPA license from CASA (needed for income generating work, there are lots of people licensed for this).  Base cost assuming you use the CASA sample material would be 4K plus.  A few processes you have to follow in order to make sure you are safe, maintenance and training.

Now I intend to eventually fly FPV but with a monitor and dont intend to apply for CASA RPA license.  I also dont intend to fly out of LOS for the time being.

I think it will be a case of wait and see, there is not a lot we can do here.  I think in the end commercial use of drones will be allowed, it will be how much regulation goes into it.  I worry that the hobby element which has really brought this technology along will be disallowed, but I would say that due to lack of enforcement it will be a case of go after you when it goes bad.

In terms of using them as weapon's it will occur with or without regulation, so i suggest that is something the government will have to deal with it with other measures.  Best not to piss off your population so they feel they need to do it.....  Not something the US has a good track record of....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 18, 2014, 11:58:33 AM
Hi,

Had another test flight today, nice feeling to bring the tricopter home without a broken prop or new landing gear needing to be cut!  I did break a few zip ties on a hard landing but that's whey they are there.

Mental note, dont try to fly in high wind days.  >:(  Was hard to keep it hovering in place without the auto level.  Even with it on it would drift.  I think I might have to look at the multiWii board.

I had a total flight time around 14 mins today, landed with battery at 11.3 which is fantastic.  I now need to weigh my machine to find out what the AUW is.

I setup my camera on a tripod today, so once I've reviewed the footage I'll try to upload it.

I made some changes for today, firstly I used dual rates of 50 on Elevator, Rudder, Ailerons.  I also used Expo's of 60% for them all.  I'm thinking I got the Elevator and Ailerons right, the rudder is too sluggish for my liking.  I think I'll take it back to D/R 75 and Expo 30%  and try again.

Just got the fatshark pilotHD 720p camera, wishing I had read the reviews beforehand, should have gone the mobius.....  :-[  Oh well will try it tonight (on the bench), I'm not sure if my FPV receiver or FPV transmitter is working properly as I dont get a signal from my other camera.  Hoping it's a camera issue, if not then I'll buy another receiver / transmitter combo and work out which one it is.  I'm pretty sure it's not the transmitter as I can see the current draw go up as I plug in the camera feed so I'm thinking it's the receiver in the LCD screen I've got.  So handy to have a test power supply.  :D

I'm thinking I'll be right to sling the 1080p camera on the tri this weekend if the wind comes down a bit, so should have the 720p from the front cam and 1080p from the action cam.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on July 18, 2014, 01:24:42 PM
I think the CASA are going down the path that any UAV under 2kg will not need to be licenced. Well that is a bugger cause I am about 2.4kg this means I need to loose some weight but 400g is most likely not going to happen.
Did we see the person who has been referred to DPP because his UAV crashed in to a runner on a Triathlon in W.A?
This is why we as genuine people have trouble. The owner is claiming it frequency hopped and he lost control.
I am not sure how that works but he must have been too close to people when it happened.
I do not think CASA will ban our toys however they may restrict our usage to "Dedicated flying sites" which sucks as I am about capturing photos and video of places I visit.
Responsible flying is what we need to do.
And we also need to remember the privacy thing too.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 19, 2014, 12:16:17 AM
I think the CASA are going down the path that any UAV under 2kg will not need to be licenced. Well that is a bugger cause I am about 2.4kg this means I need to loose some weight but 400g is most likely not going to happen.
Did we see the person who has been referred to DPP because his UAV crashed in to a runner on a Triathlon in W.A?
This is why we as genuine people have trouble. The owner is claiming it frequency hopped and he lost control.
I am not sure how that works but he must have been too close to people when it happened.
I do not think CASA will ban our toys however they may restrict our usage to "Dedicated flying sites" which sucks as I am about capturing photos and video of places I visit.
Responsible flying is what we need to do.
And we also need to remember the privacy thing too.
Regards
Crispy
Hi Crispy

On further reading I agree, I had missed the deregulation proposal by CASA for 2kg and under.  Great to see an aviation authority use there head for once.  Will have to wait a few more months for it to be finalised though, but it looks like we'll be fine.

Pretty sure mine is sitting just on 700g with the 2200mAH battery (this is a guesstimate).  Once I put the 5000mAH and camera on I should still have plenty of spare before I hit the 2kg.  I will weight it in the morning.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 19, 2014, 02:03:53 AM
The Pilot HD camera is crap in low light. The Hobbyking 700tvl camera with the OSD controls on the back of the camera is much better, and the cable is simple without having to worry about OSD controls being built into the cable making it too bulky.

My all up weight so far is 1906 grams and I have about another 100 grams to go with the OSD card plus whatever the props weigh so I'll be close to if not over the limit.

As soon as you add crab landing gear you immediately get carried away chucking stuff on the quad. I've spent hours cutting ESC and servo leads to length to get the quad as tidy as possible and save weight.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 20, 2014, 09:53:03 AM
Hi guys,

Finally uploaded some videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_e8d6T1GbI&list=UUYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_e8d6T1GbI&list=UUYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lty1tej9cG0&index=2&list=UUYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lty1tej9cG0&index=2&list=UUYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 20, 2014, 10:37:04 AM
Gotta be happy with that. What camera are you using there?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 20, 2014, 12:02:09 PM
Gotta be happy with that. What camera are you using there?
Hi Marschy,

Definitely happy with it, building the proper frame today to hold it.

Its just a cheap 1080p action cam, it was zip tied to the tricopter for in air and on a full tripod for ground video.

I plan to mount the pilot hd cam in that spot and action cam on the mount underneath. Will put a basic gimbal on it in the future.

Im thinking of trying the ardu boards, bit pricey but for full telemtry, baro, gps and exandable in future. Has anyone tried them?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 20, 2014, 12:11:32 PM
No, haven't tried the ardu boards, but I will be soon. I'm going to have a look at the new HK APM 2.7. This is going to go on the Reptile-Aphid frame.

I love building these things. Gotta pull my finger out and finish the F450. Just hooking up the MinimOSD to the FPV video, then I'll be ready for tuning and first flight, probably next weekend or the one after.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on July 23, 2014, 10:48:39 AM
Found the one I want
 Bell 430 from Heli-Factory
Bell 430 RC Turbine Helicopter LX-MARC 1st Flight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pyYEvg-n58#ws)

In Cockpit voice module!
Bell 430 RC Turbine Helicopter LX-MARC Full Flight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9w2V5a-3m8#ws)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 23, 2014, 11:51:26 AM
Im thinking of trying the ardu boards, bit pricey but for full telemtry, baro, gps and exandable in future. Has anyone tried them?

I've just ordered the APM 2.6 board and another MinimOSD for my Reptile-Aphid frame. I'll let you know how the APM goes once it arrives next week. I think these boards are very reasonably priced if you buy a full kit, including telemetry, power module, GPS. I've just ordered this one from Aliexpress with DHL delivery in 3-6 days. I had to get the MinimOSD board separately as it was not included in this flight board kit, but got it from the same supplier which saved a bit on shipping.

APM2.6 ArduPilot UAV Flight Controller APM 2.6+ 6M GPS w/ Compass+Power Module+ 915Mhz 3DR Radio Telemetry (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-MiniOSD-Power-Module/1982000678.html)

If you looking at the MinimOSD board, get the updated board with primary and secondary voltage monitors that are broken out from the chip, otherwise you will have a very tricky soldering job in front of you to solder wire directly to the Atmega chip on the early v0.1 boards. I made this mistake with my first one, and have now ordered a new one.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 23, 2014, 10:07:03 PM
No, haven't tried the ardu boards, but I will be soon. I'm going to have a look at the new HK APM 2.7. This is going to go on the Reptile-Aphid frame.

I love building these things. Gotta pull my finger out and finish the F450. Just hooking up the MinimOSD to the FPV video, then I'll be ready for tuning and first flight, probably next weekend or the one after.

Grrr, I ordered a few days the same thing but via HK, so a bit more expensive......  Around $160-$170 worth instead.  MinimOSD was on top of that too.  Also playing the waiting game......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 24, 2014, 10:21:11 PM
I've got the wiring for the camera, MinimOSD, Video Tx and power supply sorted out. Now have to solder some header pins onto the MultiWii serial port zero pin holes for telemetry. I have it connected up at the moment to serial port one, but it doesn't support telemetry without rewriting the firmware. So solder it is.

Here is a snapshot of the view via the fpv camera with the OSD working, but not talking to the flight control board.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 24, 2014, 10:40:56 PM
Found the one I want
 Bell 430 from Heli-Factory
Bell 430 RC Turbine Helicopter LX-MARC 1st Flight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pyYEvg-n58#ws)

In Cockpit voice module!
Bell 430 RC Turbine Helicopter LX-MARC Full Flight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n9w2V5a-3m8#ws)

Finally got a chance to watch, can't access youtube at work. Isn't this thing awesome? This would have to go through some sort of airworthiness inspection to be flown at public events in most places around the world. See how fast those big blades are moving, imagine one coming off.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on July 25, 2014, 10:29:56 AM
Quote from: Marschy
Finally got a chance to watch, can't access youtube at work. Isn't this thing awesome? This would have to go through some sort of airworthiness inspection to be flown at public events in most places around the world. See how fast those big blades are moving, imagine one coming off.
yea, that gives me wood... 3500euro... for the basic thing :(
and a LOT of training to learn to fly it I bet... but check their website, they make a dozen in that scale, some beautiful machines.. some are 9000euro for base unit!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on July 26, 2014, 12:24:52 PM
Ok now this is realy a lazy way to fish, Wonder how good it would be to take a baited hook out behind the breakers and drop it when surf fishing  ... Beats trying to cast that far.... mmmmmmm might have to try that ..
Pacific Islanders have kite fished the reef surrounding their islands  althrough  ages and the japs use RC boats to get lines out further to sea from the coast .
 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFr0m1MTYuo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFr0m1MTYuo)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 26, 2014, 03:07:33 PM
The first MinimOSD I bought was like this. To use the battery voltage monitoring functionality you have to solder a wire to one of the terminals on the Atmega chip.

(http://i.imgur.com/VMRi5Zy.jpg)

I'm learning with this hobby that as soon as it says you need to solder wire to a surface mount chip terminal, start looking for other options. So now I'm waiting for a later model of the same board to be delivered that breaks out some more of the features on the chip to the row of pin holes along the bottom of the board.

(http://shop.myairbot.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/54b2359dd2430bcca06ee462d488eb40/m/i/minimosd.jpg)

Now I'm waiting for the new one to arrive after completely buggering up my first one by trying to solder a wire to a surface mount chip and bridging about 3 terminals on the chip with solder and not being able to clean it up without it shorting between terminals. PITA
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 31, 2014, 12:39:22 PM
Hi,

I hate doing surface mount components, they are so much harder, but a great skill to have.  I buggered a FPV transmitter up by having a camera on reverse polarity, lucky I have a friend who designs this stuff for his day job (R&D Engineer) .  He's seeing if he as any spare surface mount ferrites that is blown and will do the repair for me too.  I'll be responsible for any further repairs, as he'll hopefully give a few spare ferrites.  He just orders samples for this stuff :-).  Cant believe that the Boscam FPV transmitters dont have some form of diode before it to protect it, no they put it after it ???..

These things are one of the reasons why I like the hobby, it gets you really into it to understand stuff.  I never knew there was an ability to put an inline ferrite, I'd always used the coils to reduce interference.

My tricopter now has the FPV camera mounted since I got my spare FPV transmitter in the mail the other day.  Tests in the house are pretty good so far.  Planning my first FPV flight on Friday morning before work.  I've also reconfigured my battery so it will hang underneath the frame and be more in line with the desired CG.  Had to put on small strips of timber to stop the battery from sliding out the front or back, had that happen before and it doesnt cope well with a sudden change in CG and then a swinging CG  :-[  Lucky that was in one of the early test flights so I do learn as I go  ::)

I plan to organise my FC's so that I can detach the KK2 and attach the APM board or the other way around.  I plan to mount them onto there own ply board and have this bolt onto the tricopter frame.  Just that I like the KK2 but know that I'll want to use the APM a fair bit but some days I'll just want the simple board.

For the KK2 Flight Controller, I'm pairing it with a simple OSD with GPS.  Should have checked the pin outs before ordering it, only has one vid connection.  I'm not keen on rewiring the camera so now I need to build a harness.

For the APM board I've got the power module, GPS module and the minimOSD.  Also picked up the telemetry radio set too (915MHz).  I also picked up an LED control board to for some lights but that's a future dream.

I also am now planning on how to mount my new go pro onto small camera gimbal I've got on the way.  I'm annoyed I'd been eyeing off a really simple gimbal for $14 that was perfect for the gopro and when I went to order it, surprise it's on back order, grrrr.  Would have been so much easier, sigh.  I will keep an eye out and order it if if comes of back order.  What have others used to mount their action cam on a cheap gimbal?  I can isolate the gimbal to reduce vibration.

I'm still waiting for my APM Mega stuff to arrive, should be any day now :-)  Why is the mail so slow.......

Ordered another 2 2200mah 3s Lipo's and another 5000mah 3s Lipo.

Things to still do:
Build the lipo bunker - been using bags for the time being.
Remount the KK2 Board on to an easily removable tray
Mount the simpleOSD
Test flight of the FPV gear
Attach simple mount for GoPro
Build gimbal mount for GoPro
More test flights  ;D
Wait for APM Mega to arrive   8)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 31, 2014, 12:53:50 PM
My APM 2.6 stuff arrives today, currently with the courier for delivery (yippee). This shipment has the replacement minimOSD that I stuffed up. This is the only thing I am waiting on to get the F450 back in the air.

The Reptile-Aphid frame arrived as well. Not overly happy with the type of plastic used in the arms. The goodluckbuy website states nylon, but they are more likely acrylic, and more easily broken than nylon.

Check out the gimbal I bought from Goodluckbuy for $59 US. Works like a charm, but you will need undercarriage. This is the same as the one used by Mandrake as well. They come in various colours.

(http://www.goodluckbuy.com/images/detailed_images/sku_98390_1.jpg) (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/dji-phantom-brushless-gimbal-camera-mount-w-motor-and-controller-for-gopro3-fpv-aerial-photography.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 31, 2014, 02:57:12 PM
My APM 2.6 stuff arrives today, currently with the courier for delivery (yippee). This shipment has the replacement minimOSD that I stuffed up. This is the only thing I am waiting on to get the F450 back in the air.

The Reptile-Aphid frame arrived as well. Not overly happy with the type of plastic used in the arms. The goodluckbuy website states nylon, but they are more likely acrylic, and more easily broken than nylon.

Check out the gimbal I bought from Goodluckbuy for $59 US. Works like a charm, but you will need undercarriage. This is the same as the one used by Mandrake as well. They come in various colours.


Grrr, so jealous, my parcel doesn't have very good tracking so all I know is that it left the international warehouse on the 26th.....  I'm sure it'll be here any moment  ;D

I'll check out the gimbal, hoping to not spend alot on this, I saw one guy who designed his own gimbal attach plates such that it was using steel wire and it was pretty good compared to the rubber balls.  So for the $59 are they 360 degree servos?  I notice it's got a control board, do the servo's have the ability for external control?  So can I add say my output from ch-8 and 9 to control tilt and pan?

My landing gear is adjustable, just add longer 12mmx12mm pine legs, that's the beauty of a scratch build.  They are currently around 15cm long but nothing stopping me extending those.

I was thinking of putting it so that it is mounted to my camera tray but projects up and out the front, so I don't have to put longer legs on.  One of my reasons for relocating the battery further back.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 31, 2014, 03:23:42 PM
Grrr, so jealous, my parcel doesn't have very good tracking so all I know is that it left the international warehouse on the 26th.....  I'm sure it'll be here any moment  ;D AliExpress, I swear by it, I'm over ebay's lack of shipping options and hobbyking taking my money and still requiring close to 10 working days to deliver.

I'll check out the gimbal, hoping to not spend alot on this, I saw one guy who designed his own gimbal attach plates such that it was using steel wire and it was pretty good compared to the rubber balls.  So for the $59 are they 360 degree servos?  I notice it's got a control board, do the servo's have the ability for external control?  So can I add say my output from ch-8 and 9 to control tilt and pan? Yes, Brushless = 360, servo = sometimes 360, yes comes with servo cables for radio pan/tilt control.

I was thinking of putting it so that it is mounted to my camera tray but projects up and out the front, so I don't have to put longer legs on.  One of my reasons for relocating the battery further back. Have a look at some of the frames with gimbals on Goodluckbuy, many, including my Reptile-Aphid, come with a camera gimbal already mounted to the frame that do not require high undercarriage. Some of these frame gimbals are for FPV camera's, others for flight HD camera. If you do a search for 'frame gimbal' on their website, it comes up with a heap of cool frames.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 01, 2014, 12:39:33 PM
Picked up my APM2.6 flight control board and other stuff from Aliexpress via DHL today. I was a bit worried after I purchased the APM, the Aliexpress store closed. All good though.

Once I get the minimOSD board sorted, the F450 will be ready for it's first flight with the MultiWii board.

It's going to be interesting if there is a marked difference in performance between the MultiWii and the APM2.6. I'll soon know.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 01, 2014, 12:54:49 PM
Saw this on Facebook today - Its used to count cattle on a remote station ... BIG AINT IT ... The one inside the ute tray .. Not my little Phantom resting on the tailgate !!
(http://www.mandrakessolar.com.au/Myswag Photos/ScreenDump021.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 01, 2014, 01:02:37 PM
Saw this on Facebook today - Its used to count cattle on a remote station ... BIG AINT IT ... The one inside the ute tray .. Not my little Phantom resting on the tailgate !!
(http://www.mandrakessolar.com.au/Myswag Photos/ScreenDump021.jpg)

Can't see the photo in the thread, but can on your 'Myswag Photos' folder on your web site. Just a little difference is size there, wow. What is the wheel base?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 01, 2014, 01:04:28 PM
 Any decent ute tray is 1.5 metres or better ..so its big..the Phantom is about 50 cms so that gives you an idea...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 03, 2014, 08:17:07 AM
I don't know how good this will be but good old Aldi are selling a Go-Pro lookalike for $50 !!! 1080P HD job - Haven't seen specs yet but if its 1920 x 1080 pixels I will be getting one .. 
Its a helmet cam with acrylic case etc - Ideal for flying around with - Maybe get 2 just in case LOL >>>> Its on sale 9/8 and not on website yet ... Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 03, 2014, 09:04:02 AM
Yeah, buggered if I can put a $400 camera on the front. Not with the way I fly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rotor138 on August 03, 2014, 08:46:07 PM
Still waiting on my quad, have got all the radio gear and the MultiWii Pro which I've been looking at the programming of.

Have opened a dispute on Ali Express as it has been 18 days and still no tracking information that works, if I get a refund I'm going to purchase a DJI F450 ARF kit without the flight controller.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 03, 2014, 08:58:23 PM
If your worried about Aliexpress, then a good supplier of quad stuff is Goodluckbuy who have Paypal and your choice of shipping options, but you pay for it. I bought the Reptile-Aphid using free-shipping, which usually equates to snail mail, but the frame arrived in 2 weeks, but I think that was more luck than anything. Just do a search for 'F450 Frame' in the 'Hobbies & Toys' category. Some excellent prices on kits, best I've seen yet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 04, 2014, 09:47:47 AM
I must admit it pays to read some of the threads on rcgroups thoroughly before you buy something.

I was reading through the 100+ pages of the MultiWii/Megapirateng thread on rcgroups looking for information for setting up the minimosd. It was taking an awfully long time, so I skipped to the last few pages. I didn't like what I read there.

MultiWii FC firmware for Megapirateng has not advanced since 2013 when the last release was issued (3.0.1r4). According to the threads on rcgroups, most people have moved onto the APM board because there are more active modifications and fixes that are still being applied to the Arducopter firmware and the cost of the APM boards is coming down all the time, whereas the MultiWii firmware for Megapirateng seems to have languished. Release 2.8 supported sonar, then no longer supported sonar with release 3.0.1r4 which is a step backwards. There doesn't appear to be anyone actively modifying the firmware for the promised 3.1 release.

I have had no end of trouble getting the firmware to work with the osd card and still have not managed to get this working. I am about to throw my hands up in the air, admit defeat and move onto the APM board that arrived late last week, which at least the software and hardware where all designed to work together, unlike MultiWii which unless you use native MultiWii firmware seems to struggle with the Megapirateng firmware in one way or another. Without OSD, I will not be flying FPV, just my choice. The long awaited way point navigation for MultiWii is still in its infancy, so the better option for me is to pursue the APM option and cut my losses with the MultiWii.

I'm sure that the MultiWii will work with the right amount of effort, but crikey, I want to fly this bloody thing, not spend the next 3 months trying to work out why its not working properly and waiting for 'possible' firmware updates that may or may not eventuate.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 05, 2014, 11:33:59 AM
MultiWii FC firmware for Megapirateng has not advanced since 2013 when the last release was issued (3.0.1r4). According to the threads on rcgroups, most people have moved onto the APM board because there are more active modifications and fixes that are still being applied to the Arducopter firmware and the cost of the APM boards is coming down all the time, whereas the MultiWii firmware for Megapirateng seems to have languished. Release 2.8 supported sonar, then no longer supported sonar with release 3.0.1r4 which is a step backwards. There doesn't appear to be anyone actively modifying the firmware for the promised 3.1 release.

Hi,

I came to that same conclusion when I was looking at the next flight controller and it's why I jumped straight to the APM Mega board.  I looked at a few and weighed them up.  APM seemed to come out ahead, so that's what I ordered.  I'd give up and change to the APM since you've got it.  Use the MultiWii as a fun board, that's what I'm doing with the KK2 board that I have.  APM for the serious aerial photography / movies, and depending on it's acro mode, the KK2 is likely to become the backup if I break the APM and I'm waiting for a replacement.

I'm not happy with AusPost, it seems that their automated parcel locker system failed to send me a notification I had stuff waiting in a locker.  I got the reminder yesterday to say I had 1 day to pickup my stuff (no access code mind you)   ???.  Took AusPost nearly 45 mins to track it down and put in an override to open the box.  So it seems I had my APM a week ago, but I didnt know about it....  So Hobby King was pretty good, 5 days from order to delivery from International warehouse.  Auspost let me down.....

So this week I plan to mount the APM on to the tricopter.

Tried my first FPV flight on the weekend.  I used the PilotHD as the camera, a 5.8Ghz transmitter, a G-OSD with a 7" display / Rx.  The display I had to sit it on my daughters pram (but if AusPost had let me know I would have had a nice mount to hold the display on my transmitter).  I took off LOS and then tried to look down at the display.  It wasnt easy, the OSD I'm using only had battery voltages, no horizon line and the GPS bit wasnt working as it didnt seem to get a lock.

Gave up flying FPV after a minute or two as I had to stick to about 60m x 15m space as there was way to many people around.  I actually stopped a kids rugby practice, the coaches had to yell at them to stop looking at my tricopter.  I think I'll wait until I assemble the mount to hold the screen,  it didnt help that my wife would forget the monitor was on the pram and start rocking it.  That added a new challenge to FPV flying......

Will try again this weekend but with APM and hopefully a clear field ;D

Things to still do:
Build the lipo bunker - been using bags for the time being.
Remount the KK2 Board on to an easily removable tray
Mount the simpleOSD
Test flight of the FPV gear
Attach simple mount for GoPro
Build gimbal mount for GoPro Ordering the basic gimbal from HK (back in stock!!)
Wait for APM Mega to arrive
Mount APM board + accessories
Configure APM Board + accessories
More test flights  ;D

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 06, 2014, 11:45:26 AM
Hi,

Well I'm not so happy with HK today, I spent ages last night trying to wire up the APM 2.7.  I managed to upload the tricopter firmware, attach the power module and telemetry units last night.

Issue was when I was adding the GPS....  It seems that HK think that providing a 5 pin port on the board and only selling GPS's with 6 pins was a good idea.....  Wouldn't have minded so much if it wasn't the GPS that they recommend with this item.  Turns out the PX board takes the 6 pin connector.

So after much reading on the connector I have to move one pin and then cut the 6 pin down to a 5 pin, I'll be trying that tonight.  As a fall back I'm ordering some connectors but it will take some time on the shipping I'm thinking....

Also to get the telemetry to work on Windows 7 I had to go and download the arduino SDK, as it has all the drivers for this stuff.  Once I did that it worked well.

Good news is that I get good readings from my power unit, my telemetry works and that I get good feedback on the screen display.

I agree with HK this APM board is definitely not plug and play.

I just find it odd that they don't sell the connectors that you'd use on this, it's just bizarre to me.  Nor do they provide the advice to cut it down, that came from a buyer and then lots have done it after that.

I'll try to mount it up tonight to see if it will turn some motors!

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 06, 2014, 12:00:27 PM
Common complaint unfortunately about the APM kits is the wrong connectors. Lucky for me, the one I got from Aliexpress has all the correct molex connections, but even that was pot luck if you ask me. It's definitely a 2.6 board without the onboard compass, but the protective case is a PITA as it is the 2.0 case with the screws on the bottom. So when you apply gyro foam to stick it down, you can't get to the screws on the bottom of the flight board case.

Did you have to reflash the APM telemetry? I haven't got that far yet, still stuffing around with minimOSD. Good thing about the HK version of this board is it comes with the splitter so you can daisy chain the minimOSD and the APM 915 telemetry board at the same time.

Be careful, there is an issue with a 3.3 volt regulator overheating on the board if you power it up with only the USB cable. See here http://diydrones.com/forum/topics/arducopter-3-1-released (http://diydrones.com/forum/topics/arducopter-3-1-released)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on August 06, 2014, 01:45:43 PM
I don't know how good this will be but good old Aldi are selling a Go-Pro lookalike for $50 !!! 1080P HD job - Haven't seen specs yet but if its 1920 x 1080 pixels I will be getting one .. 
Its a helmet cam with acrylic case etc - Ideal for flying around with - Maybe get 2 just in case LOL >>>> Its on sale 9/8 and not on website yet ... Mandrake

It is same as BigW is selling for $48.
I am using that one for our 4WD trips.
Works good, not like the GoPro but you can buy 10 of these for 1 Gopro.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 07, 2014, 12:39:18 AM
Now this thing is a beast of a big scale P47 ... just gotta crank up the sound https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXt6qUHMRu4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXt6qUHMRu4)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 07, 2014, 05:08:12 PM
I don't know how good this will be but good old Aldi are selling a Go-Pro lookalike for $50 !!! 1080P HD job - Haven't seen specs yet but if its 1920 x 1080 pixels I will be getting one .. 
Its a helmet cam with acrylic case etc - Ideal for flying around with - Maybe get 2 just in case LOL >>>> Its on sale 9/8 and not on website yet ... Mandrake

Just checked out the specs ( www.aldi.com.au (http://www.aldi.com.au) ) -
720p video ( 1280 x 720 at 30 fps )
BUT - it does have a 2" LCD touch screen ( for playback ??? )
Think I'll get one if I can ...
Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 07, 2014, 05:23:28 PM
Not fair, no Aldi in Adelaide.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 07, 2014, 06:12:16 PM
You want one ? I can try and get one for you ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 07, 2014, 06:39:39 PM
Better not. I've got cheap action cameras coming out my wazoo, but not for a price as good as that
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 09, 2014, 09:57:49 AM
Good job ya didnt get one !!
Taking mine back now -- Video didn't work ! And there's no screw fitting for tripod mount on the camera its only on the acrylic case ...
Oh well !!
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 10, 2014, 12:44:17 PM
A quad bike for the air on its way, seems the Bi- Bike might have been a bit to ambisciuos.interesting that it folds to 1/3 its length for transport .
http://www.gizmag.com/hoverbike-kickstarter-drone/33057/ (http://www.gizmag.com/hoverbike-kickstarter-drone/33057/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 10, 2014, 12:58:27 PM
 Been a keen fan of these things ever since reading Jules Verne "Clipper of the Clouds " - That was a boat with several props where the masts normally go and the hull of the boat was a giant battery cell ... Not sure how it recharged but a great story and a great idea ... Maybe I'll build one and solar power it !! Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on August 10, 2014, 08:38:21 PM
I charged up my batteries for an outing today but the weather closed in so could not get off the ground. We were playing with the SES rescue boats today. Wild have been nice to get some video.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 10, 2014, 10:38:29 PM
Hi,

Well I fixed the issues from my previous flight, had to swap servo out 7 (connected to YAW servo) and then swap it again on my transmitter to get it to turn the right way.  Thought great I'll go up to the oval for a test flight, but thought I'd best do a quick check of the new APM board in the front yard first, if you have read some of my previous posts this was never going to end well and I'm thinking of banning front yard flights for a while.

I put it in a nice clear spot, I turned on the transmitter, then connected the Tricopters battery, then fired up the telemetry.  Good strong signal, at this stage I noticed the battery I'd been using was a little low on juice, I thought it's ok I'm only going to take off a few metres and put her down, what could go wrong....  (Stuff up #3)

I go to arm the board, it wont arm.  I look at the telemetry data, it's got a great GPS signal (less than 30cm out I'd say), but it's getting a prearm compass error, compass was correct though.  I decide to go in and disable the arming checks (stuff up #4).  I arm the board and it all looks good.  I start to power it up and it takes flight, god it was beautiful the stabilise mode is brilliant, never seen it so stable in flight before.  Then 2 seconds later it starts to climb, I decide to lower the power, no response.  Hmmm that is odd I think, so as a safety precaution I back the throttle right off, it still continues to climb but faster and faster.  I decide to see if some stick input works (ailerons, yaw and elevator), oddly it does so I put it into a bank to try to loose some alt, it starts to lower, but it's getting faster and faster, so I decide to put the stick in full to the side and luckily it falls rapidly.  Right then it was over a neighbours house 2 doors down and smack into their roof it goes.  Crap.  I disarm the board and I take a quick look at the telemetry data, yep it's on my neighbours roof two houses down.  I notice the battery voltage is low, not normal low but really low, it was reading 7.4v for a 3s, i remember saying that's not good..  I go for a walk and sure enough I can see it on their roof.

A quick trip to my local unit and I pick up a collapsible ladder (was just a little higher than the ladders I have at home and damn it was tight spot to get the ladder in) and a long pole.  15 mins later and I have it down.

Damage report:
One cracked propeller
One cracked tail boom
couple of snapped zipties
One dead LiPO - cell checker wont even fire up

All up about $15-20 damage.  No damage to neighbours roof, considering the condition of the tiles I was impressed.  FC and associated items all seem to fire up on a post examination and test.

So if you noticed I started with stuff up #3 above, that's because after I checked the telemetry I was able to work out the other two.  So the swiss cheese method has been used, my 4 holes lined up and created this accident.

Stuff Up #1 - Dont set any initial failsafes to RTL, have them set as LAND.  I had both Geofence and low battery failsafes set to RTL.  Change back to RTL once initial flight tests are completed.
Stuff Up #2 - Double check that home is the current launch site.  I was playing with the setting the night before and loaded a mission that had it set to a playing field 500m away (which should have set the Geofence off, seems low battery takes priority over geofence).

So what have I learnt?
1. Dont turn off the arming checks they are there for a reason.  Fix all issues before flying!
2. Always check where home is, I should have seen it on the map on the tablet but didn't notice it wasn't there.
3. I've turned Geofence and low battery to LAND, I'm sure I'll switch that to RTL but not until I trust myself some more, until then I'd prefer it lands  and I deal with the problems of where it lands at that time.
4. Always start with a fresh battery, even for those quick simple flights.
5. That I'm a lucky bastard -  had it flown to the RTL site it would have been over a group of kids playing some rugby, like right in the middle of their game.
6. Even for simple test flights turn on the camera so you get the cool footage of the copter going nuts.....
7. Take pics of the damage next time, sigh.....

So I've fixed the broken boom and remounted all the gear, what's great is that I needed to redo the rear boom to make more room for the FPV and Telemetry masts but it just hasn't broken until now.

If my OSD was working I would have known what was happening, but since my tab was 5m away when it started to go funny, I couldn't walk over.  I need to get my minimOSD working.

I have two Questions for those with APM / HK Pilot boards:
1. Should have I been able to provide inputs when it went to RTL mode?  I would have thought not?  I have checked that in the telemetry it reports it as RTL mode.  I'm wondering if the low battery was putting out less to the motors but in a non coordinated way and it just happened to be  similar as my inputs?
2. If you have a HKPilot 2.7 / APM 2.7 board and MinimOSD, have you connected it to the DF13 plug the one marked I2C?  If so have you got yours to work?  Mine sits there waiting for MAVLINK to start, I've tried with no TX connected on the OSD and with a TX on the OSD.  Have you tried to connect it using the piggy back harness on the telemetry?  Mine seems to cause issues for the board and it wont start up - well the ESC's dont make music. 

Cant wait to try it out again taking care of all the issues above that is :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 10, 2014, 10:44:07 PM
I charged up my batteries for an outing today but the weather closed in so could not get off the ground. We were playing with the SES rescue boats today. Wild have been nice to get some video.

Thats a bugger about the weather.  Have a read of my other post, you could have had an afternoon like mine.

I'd love to do some filming of our boat work but NSW has a ban on them as they don't have an RPA operators license, so if I did it would have to be as a private citizen.  They have working group that will come up with a plan, will be interested to see what they come up with.  For me it would be a hard call, do the boat work or fly.... 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 11, 2014, 07:32:29 AM
My understanding is the 3dr telemetry and the minimosd both have to plug into the telemetry port on the APM with a y cable. The i2c port doesn't send mavlink data. It was either my Multiwii fc board or the minimosd board from HK came with the appropriate cable.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 11, 2014, 09:03:31 AM
1. Should have I been able to provide inputs when it went to RTL mode?  I would have thought not?  I have checked that in the telemetry it reports it as RTL mode.  I'm wondering if the low battery was putting out less to the motors but in a non coordinated way and it just happened to be  similar as my inputs?
2. If you have a HKPilot 2.7 / APM 2.7 board and MinimOSD, have you connected it to the DF13 plug the one marked I2C?  If so have you got yours to work?  Mine sits there waiting for MAVLINK to start, I've tried with no TX connected on the OSD and with a TX on the OSD.  Have you tried to connect it using the piggy back harness on the telemetry?  Mine seems to cause issues for the board and it wont start up - well the ESC's dont make music. 
There is a bloke on rcgroups called mochaboy who has a youtube clip that shows the wiring diagram for APM/3DR Telemetry/OSD. There are two clips, but one has a diagram that will give you what you are after for wiring up both 3DR and OSD.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 11, 2014, 10:29:42 AM
There is a bloke on rcgroups called mochaboy who has a youtube clip that shows the wiring diagram for APM/3DR Telemetry/OSD. There are two clips, but one has a diagram that will give you what you are after for wiring up both 3DR and OSD.

Yep, I looked at it and used it, seemed to match hk supplied harnedd. Didnt work for some reason. Now waiting for my precrimped wires and connectors to make my own harness. As well as a replacement cable, will see which one arrives first.

The video only covers the piggyback method, have you tried the separate connect ion method, its one of the changes in the 2.7 board.

Chris

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk 2

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 11, 2014, 10:46:46 AM
Pretty much where I'm at the moment. I'm waiting on a couple of metres of servo wire and crimp connectors to make my own leads for APM to receiver. I still have the splitter cable for Telemetry/OSD/APM, but the shipment with the servo wire also has yet another minimOSD after I stuffed up my second one. So I'm waiting, waiting, waiting.

I managed to get the OSD working with my first board, then I attempted the dreaded voltage monitor modification for the MultiWii at which point it fell into a pile of do do. However with that board I had the 5 volt pads soldered, and the PAL pad as well, and also removed the 'APWR' diode. That all worked sweet. Then after I stuffed up the board by bridging terminals on the ATMEGA chip, the second board I removed the 'APWR' diode, and the board never worked from the get go after I removed the diode. The second board also came with the analog and digital sides of the board already soldered together!!!!!

I'm waiting on another minimOSD board that has been in Australia since the 6th August, but the tracking has not progressed any further since.

I've got the 2.6 board, but from what I understand, these two boards are pretty much the same, but the I2C port is closer to the GPS port on the 2.7 board so the GPS and compass can be plugged in close together.

Please keep testing and posting your results. I'll catch up soon.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on August 11, 2014, 10:59:41 AM
Not fair, no Aldi in Adelaide.

I am sure there is a BigW in Adelaide. They have exactly the same, branded 3Sixt.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 11, 2014, 01:10:24 PM
Pretty much where I'm at the moment. I'm waiting on a couple of metres of servo wire and crimp connectors to make my own leads for APM to receiver. I still have the splitter cable for Telemetry/OSD/APM, but the shipment with the servo wire also has yet another minimOSD after I stuffed up my second one. So I'm waiting, waiting, waiting.

I managed to get the OSD working with my first board, then I attempted the dreaded voltage monitor modification for the MultiWii at which point it fell into a pile of do do. However with that board I had the 5 volt pads soldered, and the PAL pad as well, and also removed the 'APWR' diode. That all worked sweet. Then after I stuffed up the board by bridging terminals on the ATMEGA chip, the second board I removed the 'APWR' diode, and the board never worked from the get go after I removed the diode. The second board also came with the analog and digital sides of the board already soldered together!!!!!

I'm waiting on another minimOSD board that has been in Australia since the 6th August, but the tracking has not progressed any further since.

I've got the 2.6 board, but from what I understand, these two boards are pretty much the same, but the I2C port is closer to the GPS port on the 2.7 board so the GPS and compass can be plugged in close together.

Please keep testing and posting your results. I'll catch up soon.

Hi Marschy,

I know that feeling!  I'll keep updating, hoping to get some good stable footage soon from it.  The gopro gimbal arrived, need to be confident in it before I strap a $450 camera to it.  I most likely will put the cheaper action cam on to test it out but that is a near the end of the month addition, so much to do, so little time.

One of the benefits of the HKPilot 2.7 board is that it has the additional I2C port supposedly defaulted to an additional OSD.  It's located where the old GPS port was (right next to the power input).  This means that the minim board can transmit to the APM board and not rely on a piggybacked signal from the telemetry radios, so if the telemetry radios go offline you can still receive your OSD, as there have been a few reported instances where this has happened (and it looks tidier).  Haven't been able to get it to work so far - but i will, just a matter of when :-). 

I plan to just wire up the new minimOSD board in the piggybacked config to make it simpler for the short term - I need to have it fully tested for my Fraser Island trip in September.

Less than a month to go now!  Hard bit will be trying to pack the tricopter in for the trip.  My little girl's stuff now takes up so much room.

Cant believe I ever got out of RC flying years ago, what was I thinking!  I plan to pick up a Bixler once I get back from Fraser - just too many things to do before hand.  Plus the wife will shoot me if I bought even more RC stuff right now.  Best thing is that the hobby now joins my electronics interest with it, 15 years ago it was all really basic stuff unless you spent heaps, not to mention with the APM board it links into my programming skills too.

I ordered the sonar on the weekend, not sure when I'll find time to incorporate that one.  Might be a when I return from Fraser, although it would be nice to have a sonar for landing.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 14, 2014, 09:33:47 PM
Got the replacement minimOSD. This time, no mucking around, no soldering stuff, just reloaded the bootstrapper using my USBasp, then reloaded the firmware using the serial to usb adapter (whatever it's called), updated the character set, and BINGO.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 15, 2014, 11:55:02 AM
Got the replacement minimOSD. This time, no mucking around, no soldering stuff, just reloaded the bootstrapper using my USBasp, then reloaded the firmware using the serial to usb adapter (whatever it's called), updated the character set, and BINGO.

Nice one Marschy!

I got my replacement too but between SES, work and family it's been sitting on my bench.......  I was reading last night through that another person has had similar issues about the start up (not allowing you to arm), it seems that two wires maybe swapped on the cable for some reason (seems to be a HKPilot 2.7 and HK supplied cable).  So I will be checking that out tonight in a bid to get mine working.

Also the sonar arrived as well, reading up on it, all I have to do is mount it, plug it in and configure it.  The configure steps look easy so I might do that tonight.

On a sad note i've killed my 2nd LiPO battery, the transmitter was left on (dont monkey with stuff in the early am) and it now has killed one of the cells, a 3s reports as a 2s with a deeply degraded 2nd cell, so not good.  I thought it had over discharge protection but turns out its the other transmitter battery that has that  :-[.  More batteries to be ordered now  :D.  I think I'll switch to LiFE for the transmitter as I've read they shouldnt die if I leave it on.

So this weeks HK order will be:
2 x LiFE Transmitter batteries (1 to replace the dead lipo and 1 extra)
2 x 3s 2200mah batteries (1 to replace, plus an extra)

You can never have to many batteries  >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 15, 2014, 12:08:43 PM
Nice one Marschy!

I got my replacement too but between SES, work and family it's been sitting on my bench.......  I was reading last night through that another person has had similar issues about the start up (not allowing you to arm), it seems that two wires maybe swapped on the cable for some reason (seems to be a HKPilot 2.7 and HK supplied cable).  So I will be checking that out tonight in a bid to get mine working.

Also the sonar arrived as well, reading up on it, all I have to do is mount it, plug it in and configure it.  The configure steps look easy so I might do that tonight.

On a sad note i've killed my 2nd LiPO battery, the transmitter was left on (dont monkey with stuff in the early am) and it now has killed one of the cells, a 3s reports as a 2s with a deeply degraded 2nd cell, so not good.  I thought it had over discharge protection but turns out its the other transmitter battery that has that  :-[.  More batteries to be ordered now  :D.  I think I'll switch to LiFE for the transmitter as I've read they shouldnt die if I leave it on.

So this weeks HK order will be:
2 x LiFE Transmitter batteries (1 to replace the dead lipo and 1 extra)
2 x 3s 2200mah batteries (1 to replace, plus an extra)

You can never have to many batteries  >:D
I've run down one of my batteries below 3.1 volts on a couple of occasions.

If you use a dumb charger you can get it above 3.1 again, then throw it on the smart charger to balance it. I've done this a couple of times now where I haven't had a low battery alarm attached while I'm setting up the quad, so I haven't been running the motors or causing any other large current draw from the batteries and the battery has gone below the recommended low voltage.

When setting up the flight controller, you notice it falls below the minimum voltage because things stop working, like your receiver or GPS will stop working. My battery wasn't showing signs of overheating when it ran low or put on the dumb charger, so it should be ok. Time will tell.

Calculated risk, I know.

What sonar did you get?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 15, 2014, 01:22:44 PM
I've run down one of my batteries below 3.1 volts on a couple of occasions.

If you use a dumb charger you can get it above 3.1 again, then throw it on the smart charger to balance it. I've done this a couple of times now where I haven't had a low battery alarm attached while I'm setting up the quad, so I haven't been running the motors or causing any other large current draw from the batteries and the battery has gone below the recommended low voltage.

When setting up the flight controller, you notice it falls below the minimum voltage because things stop working, like your receiver or GPS will stop working. My battery wasn't showing signs of overheating when it ran low or put on the dumb charger, so it should be ok. Time will tell.

Calculated risk, I know.

What sonar did you get?


I think it's dead dead, one of the cells doesn't register at all, one is getting 2.7 and the other is around 1.75.  It was interesting my cell checker reports it as a 2s, despite it being in the 3s plug - I had to check that it was a 3 cell battery, it had me stumped.  I think it's gone but I might try the dump charger outside where it cant do any damage if it goes wrong....  Not sure I'd ever trust the battery in the future so it may not be worthwhile doing.

On the sonar I used the one from HK (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__43427__Ultrasonic_Module_HC_SR04_Arduino_AUS_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__43427__Ultrasonic_Module_HC_SR04_Arduino_AUS_Warehouse_.html)), for $3.31 I couldn't resist, I was expecting like $15 or $20 for it and once I realised it was that low it was a no brainer.  Looks like I just plug it into A0 and then just enable in MP.  Hoping this will be as easy as the Power Module to install :-).  It might be slightly harder as I have to find a spot to stick it to but that should be easy.

Then heights below 5m will be using it as the ALT sensor, which is handy if the terrain isnt flat, like going up a hill and you want to use ALT hold (say 4m).

I did do a really quick test of the minimOSD the other night and it does the booting up bit then it flashes an OSD screen and then goes back to booting up again and then sits there forever....  I only had 5 to 10 mins to spare and didnt expect to get much happening in that time.  Tonight if my little girl is over her cold then she'll sleep through and I wont need to get up every 10 mins to settle her.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 15, 2014, 01:33:57 PM
The HC-SR04 is the one I have as well. The little bit of reading I have done suggests setting it's limit to 2 metres and allowing the barometer to work out the altitude above that.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 15, 2014, 02:26:40 PM
The HC-SR04 is the one I have as well. The little bit of reading I have done suggests setting it's limit to 2 metres and allowing the barometer to work out the altitude above that.

Grrr, now I read the same that most arent getting the full 5m out of it, closer to 3.5m max with APM saying take 60% of that.... Sigh, why do I see these things afterwards.  So basically it'll be there only in the event that I really stuff up then, or for really low level flights, right about head chopping head wonderful....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 15, 2014, 02:34:50 PM
Grrr, now I read the same that most arent getting the full 5m out of it, closer to 3.5m max with APM saying take 60% of that.... Sigh, why do I see these things afterwards.  So basically it'll be there only in the event that I really stuff up then, or for really low level flights, right about head chopping head wonderful....
Realistically, I only wanted to get one to help with landing. So 2 metres range will work I reckon.

I reckon the good thing about the APM platform is you can spend as little $$ as you want or as much as you want. You can get the 3DRobitics Sonar for $90 or around that mark. It's much more accurate than the HC-SR04, but you get what you pay for. For around $5 the HC-SR04 will do me fine. If it makes my landings look any better than what mine currently do, I'll be more than happy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 15, 2014, 09:02:35 PM
The 3DRRadio is working from my desktop PC and MinimOSD is working as well. Still working out how to connect the 3DRRadio to my tablet.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 15, 2014, 09:10:42 PM
Sorted, just unplugged my OTG cable from my nexus, started Droidplanner, reconnect the OTG cable and the radio and it works. Cool, almost there, just have to do the wiring for the receiver and motors, then I'm ready to do the final tune then fly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 16, 2014, 08:20:13 PM
Almost there now, just got to put a few more cable ties on to hold the ESC's on properly, then I'm ready for tuning, then flying.

This is my complete setup for the F450 quadcopter frame with APM 2.6 flight controller and NEO 6M GPS.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48978-1/F450+Full+Setup.JPG)

I've changed my radio over from mode 1 to mode 2 by swapping the gimbals over so I can have a shot at 'Drift' mode. Pretty simple to do, took about 1 hour. Not too happy with how easy the OSD is to read on the Fatshark Dominator goggles, actually not overly thrilled with the goggles at all to be frank. I've order a 7 inch monitor, so I'll be able to see which I prefer. I've got to find a way to secure the 3DRRadio receiver which is just hanging down at the moment from the tablet OTG cable. I should be able to secure it in a similar way to the remote antenna I have for the flight radio transmitter which uses the frame for holding my tablet to secure the remote antenna.

There is a lot of kit on these things when you break it all down.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48982-1/F450+Left.JPG)

On this side the red LED on the right side of the picture is the satellite receiver, the red LED's in the middle are the MinimOSD sandwiched above the 3DRRadio transmitter with the dipole antenna hanging down.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48984-1/F450+Rear.JPG)

Here you can see the FPV camera transmitter with it's circular polarised antenna, and above it the 9 channel OrangeRX receiver. Above it is a capacitor to help stop receiver 'brownouts' due to voltage spikes. I used the nozzle off a Mortein insect spray can to feed the receiver antenna through, otherwise you're left with a loose piece of antenna wire flapping around. You could probably use a chupa chup stick as well. It's all very DIY putting these things together so getting everything nice and neat and tidy is a challenge.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48986-1/F450+Right.JPG)

I've made a connector to allow two 3 cell 2200 mAh batteries to be connected in parallel to give me 4400 mAh. That feeds into the power module then the flight control board sandwiched right in the guts of the copter.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48980-1/F450+Front.JPG)

And finally, the gimbal with GoPro knockoff camera on the front, and the FPV camera above that.

I'm charging all of my flight batteries tonight in anticipation of a flight tomorrow.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 17, 2014, 02:30:05 AM
Hi Marschy,

Very jealous, you've gone pretty far in that time :-)

I've got my MinimOSD and Telemetry working together, turns out I had to move 3 pins on the piggyback connector.  I was lucky I had the working telemetry cable by itself to compare the piggyback cable.  So I've moved those and it seems good, board starts up properly now and I can arm it.  It's nice isnt it to not need to connect with the usb cable.  Note that it's still needed for the pulling logs off, I found that out on the flight that didnt go so well.

Tomorrow I'll try to enable the OSD and mount it, without the camera....  Will be interesting to see if that works.  Will be interesting to see if the rain lets me (I'm the SES duty officer for my area this week, and Sydney's due for some heavy rain and strong winds).  Was kinda hoping I'd be able to do a flight today but I doubt that will happen.

I burnt a camera yesterday, not happy with myself right now.  So I've order two more just in case.  This just took the mistake tax up another $50.  I forgot that the Boscam vTx passes the voltage through, which was great while I was powering it all with a 2S LiFE battery.  I thought I'd power it off the main battery and forgot that I had a UBEC to keep the voltage at the happy 5v for the camera (I got the UBEC specifically for this).  I can say the camera doesnt like 12v, no magic smoke, just a dim red light teasing me......  It normally has a bright red light.  For some reason late last night I thought it was like the immersionRC which does do a regulated 5v supply.  One of cameras is a replacement for the same PilotHD (I like have a small 720p with a microSD card slot - even if it isnt perfect in light balance, etc) the other is the camera recommended earlier (it takes 12v so I will run it without the UBEC).  So tonight was wiring up the harness to include the UBEC as a module (the number of servo connectors I'm going through is amazing).  Works nicely (as far as my multimeter is concerned), would be nice to have a camera to test it with.  Ready to mount it on the frame tomorrow.

Nice pics, it's inspired me, I'll take some tomorrow, if time permits.  Yours is looking like mine, very little free space left :-)  Although yours is looking very tidy and professional, mine has that home built look, cables not perfect but getting better..  Love the fact you've used colour coded zip ties.

Interesting that you have the tablet doing the telmetry mounted there, I have my monitor for FPV in that spot.  Although if I had it there last time I would have known what was happening......

Soon as I get my new camera I should be at the same stage.  Fingers crossed it will arrive next week.  I will try to get a flight in before work next week.  I'm thinking my next flight will be with a tether until I trust it not to RTL if it's out of the geofence area.

I've been reading up on the sonar we have, seems that we have some work ahead of us.  It's not a simple plug and play for this sonar.  So it looks like it'll have to wait till after Fraser.  I'll most likely mod it to become a plug and play with a small arduino add on board so that it gives the same data as the plug and play sonars.  I'm thinking of getting a sonar that is plug and play for the short term and then work on the other one in my spare time.  Wow at $35+ plug and play sonars are expensive little beasts.

I'll order one next pay and hope it arrives in time before I leave...

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 17, 2014, 02:38:00 AM
Sorted, just unplugged my OTG cable from my nexus, started Droidplanner, reconnect the OTG cable and the radio and it works. Cool, almost there, just have to do the wiring for the receiver and motors, then I'm ready to do the final tune then fly.

If its an android tab and if you use multiple apps, I have DroidPlanner 1 & 2, and ardupilot installed.  You'll need to disconnect the OTG cable and reconnect once the application is open as it ties the connection to the application.  In my case since I have all those apps I do a choose each time as to which app will use the connection, remember you cant just switch from one to the next easily, you have to unplug and replug it in again.  Hope it didnt take too long to work that one out, it took me an 30+ mins to work that one out.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 17, 2014, 08:14:47 AM
My burntout components list now totals

2 x minimosd boards
1 x 9 channel OrangeRX receiver that I connected straight to my battery (only likes 6 volts max). That was fun, lots of smoke. Good thing I had a couple for building my other quads.

Thanks for the tip, got the 3DRRadio receiver working. I plugged everything in this morning and the OSD is not working due to a loose connection somewhere, but I'm thinking if it's going to be flakey, I may do away with it and just use the 3DRRadio telemetry. I'm always going to have my tablet with me anyway. I bought a heap of servo connectors, so I'm going to change the connectors over to the new ones, and crimp and solder all connectors so these sort of problems go away. If that doesn't work and the OSD plays up with its connection from time to time, I'll ditch the OSD. Better to have the FPV camera work all the time without stuffing around with the OSD.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 17, 2014, 06:00:03 PM
I didn't get to do much more that trim the pitch, roll and yaw today. Trying to get the channel 7 tuning working, but it is not working for me. I'll keep trying.

Sparkfun website sells all of the recommended 3DRobitics sonars, bit dearer than 3DRRobitics website, but shipping is a lot less. You can get an LV-EZ4 for $27.95 US and international Economy shipping $2.72. Look in the sensor section under 'proximity'.

3DRRobitics shipping is outrageous, it's dearer than the actual sonar. Even worse is the Maxbotics web site who make the sonars.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 17, 2014, 10:29:08 PM
Hi,

Since Marschy did such a good job of showing us where he's up to, he inspired me to do the same.

So this is my tricopter:
(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/48996-2/20140817_211152+_1280x720_.jpg)

It consists of 7mm ply wood for the plates and 12mm x 12mm pine for three booms.  I'm using the DT750 motors with 10x4.5 props.  Seems to have plenty of power.  It's based upon the rcexplorer.se tricopter (v2.5)

I typically power it using a 3s 2200mah battery but I also use 3s 5000mah for when I want a longer flight time.  On the KK2 board I was getting 12 - 14 mins on the 2200 and about 20-22 mins on the 5000.  Now that I'm using the HKPilot 2.7 board I'm expecting this to go down as I'm now powering my camera and OSD through the main battery, and the APM board I think will be a bit more hungry (I have telemetry and GPS that my KK2 config didnt have).  Those times were with an action cam mounted on the front instead of the PilotHD.  I am building my Go Pro mount this week and plan to mount it onto the frame.

Can you spot the minumOSD tucked away:
(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49010-2/20140817_211300+_1280x720_.jpg)

It's tucked away with the custom harness I made.  Hoping it will work when I get my replacement camera this week.

My radio and monitor:
(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49019-2/20140817_211340+_1280x720_.jpg)

I've just got a basic Turnigy 9x (running stock firmware), I plan to upgrade to the 9XR soon.

My yaw control:
(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49013-2/20140817_211313+_1280x720_.jpg)

My telemetry on PC (use my phone or tab when out and about):
(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49025-2/20140817_212522+_1280x720_.jpg)

This was one part that was easy for the PC, took 30 mins to work out how to hook up to the Android tablet.

Now that I've got every thing working (minus the camera) I'm hoping that I'll get a break one of the days before work this week and give it a test flight.  The KK2 board worked well and I can switch back to it easily as the tray on top can be swapped for the KK2.  Really looking forward to testing out this APM board.  It looked so graceful on the last test flight, until the failsafe kicked in.

I cant say it enough, this gear is not plug and play.....  Just about everything needed some tweaking.  The only part that was really plug and play was the power module.  I've had to switch wires for the external compass, I've had to cut the GPS from 6 pins to 5 pins and I've had to move wires on the OSD telemtry piggy back cable. 

I've also built a custom harness for the MinimOSD to work.

I need to feel confident that it will fly how I want so I can take it to Fraser with me in the next couple of weeks.

One of the mainstream providers would do so well like HK if they did this for you, even if you buy the kits you still need to tweak this stuff, absolutely crazy.  If you didn't have basic electronics skills you'd be stuffed, you'd give up.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 17, 2014, 10:46:57 PM
Hello Chris, if at some stage you are looking at tidying up the wiring, then consider putting some of this stuff on your shopping list.

(https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/spiral-black(4).jpg) (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=23568)

The mesh works as well, but the problem with the mesh is that the ends need to have heat shrink put over it to secure the end of the mesh to stop it from unravelling.

The spiral wrap tubing is more versatile, because if you need to, you can remove it and reuse it. The mesh is remove and bin. This stuff makes the job so much tidier.

The 9XR is a good radio, more so with the accessories they flog it off with as well. Plus, as I have already done myself, you can swap between mode 1 and 2. I've reflashed mine with OpenTx, which is used by other open source radio's like the Taranis which is a logical radio to move onto if I need something with more grunt than the 9XR. And if I do move on, then at least the firmware is familiar.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 19, 2014, 01:17:16 PM
How long till this happens I wonder http://www.abovetopsecret.com/forum/thread907188/pg1 (http://www.abovetopsecret.com/forum/thread907188/pg1)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 19, 2014, 01:48:24 PM
How long till this happens I wonder http://www.abovetopsecret.com/forum/thread907188/pg1 (http://www.abovetopsecret.com/forum/thread907188/pg1)


Hopefully it won't happen here, some people do strange things (each to there own though).

People have been using airsoft (bb guns) and fire crackers off multirotors for a while (in US and Europe).  For the firecrackers they use a remote channel to light them and then they have wait for it to finish.  Luckily guns weigh a lot generally so I dont think it will be something that people do a lot, even in the US which has a very vocal gun crazy group.  Although to my knowledge this has been done a few times over there.

Here in Aus it would be a lot harder to do, it would be a very quick way to loose your firearms license as I'm pretty sure this would breach many of the conditions.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 19, 2014, 01:58:23 PM
Pretty sure the guy is breaking US FAA laws as well. The guy obviously doesn't want to be identified. No different to mounting a gun on the fender of your car or the handlebars of your pushbike.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 19, 2014, 02:49:43 PM
Pretty sure the guy is breaking US FAA laws as well. The guy obviously doesn't want to be identified. No different to mounting a gun on the fender of your car or the handlebars of your pushbike.

I'd agree with that, It would more likely be state or county laws than federal laws though.  I'm sure there'd be a few federal laws that would help too.

I'm not sure if any of the ones I've seen of guns mounted on a multicopter have ever had the firearm discharged, I'm thinking that the FC would have a hell of a time counteracting it and not letting it fall out of the sky.

The only question I have is: WHY?

What is wrong with people.....  Cameras make sense as we want to see pictures from up there, but a gun, can only mean he wants to use it surely?

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 19, 2014, 03:03:48 PM
I'm thinking that the FC would have a hell of a time counteracting it and not letting it fall out of the sky.
It could be used in place of FLIP flightmode  ;D

It's going to happen one day though. Lets face it, some crackpot is going to use one as a means for delivering a lethal payload one day. Most likely something that blows up, more so than a firearm.

May as well fly quad's while the sun shines, I reckon the US will have an incident either from a domestic or foreign threat and it will be all over for quadcopters and possibly fixed wing RC models as well. Long range FPV systems are already capable of 10+ km range, this puts a perpetrator well away from the scene of the incident with a good head start to get the hell of out Dodge and all done anonymously and autonomously.

 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 19, 2014, 08:52:59 PM
Just read on fpvlab that the ban on FPV by the FAA includes autopilot systems as well.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 23, 2014, 04:49:53 PM
Haven't had a chance to get out and fly today, few jobs around the house were begging to be done, so all I've done this week is have a go at making my own clover leaf antenna for the next quad.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49036-1/Clover+Leaf+5_8gHz.JPG)

It turned out very well. I used brass standoffs that are used for mounting computer motherboards which are ideal for soldering the wire to. They have been ground down to about 4mm and because the standoff is a hex shape, when drilled with a 1mm drill every second face of the hex nut, gives you a good reference for each petal of the antenna to be 120 degrees from the next.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49038-1/Clover+Leaf+5_8gHz+closeup.JPG)

The SMA connector from Jaycar is a ripoff at $5.95. I ordered a metre of RG316 coax months ago for next to nothing off ebay. The next lot of SMA's I'll order from ebay which you can get for around a buck a piece.

I'm certainly not going to buy 5.8gHz antennas anymore when you can make them so cheaply if you already have a heap of old 240 volt cable with 1mm copper wire. I reckon I should be able to knock these up for about $3/each.

Edit: Finished making the 4 petal clover leaf antenna for the receiver today. Works like a bought one.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49040-1/Receiver+Antenna.JPG)

Very impressed with the 700tvl CCD camera. The image is very sharp in full sunlight, bit grainy in low light, but again much better than the Pilot HD and half the price. The Pilot HD was originally going to go on the F450, but I've put the 700tvl camera on there now. So I've ordered another for the Alien quad.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 24, 2014, 06:37:56 PM
Was looking through Aliexpress today and found this ...
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-RC-airplane-RC-Cessna-182-plane-EPO-hobby-model-aircraft-RTF-aeromodelo-eletricorc-planes/2025038921.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-RC-airplane-RC-Cessna-182-plane-EPO-hobby-model-aircraft-RTF-aeromodelo-eletricorc-planes/2025038921.html)

Might be my next RC machine ... Its pretty big !!!

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 25, 2014, 01:52:05 PM
Was looking through Aliexpress today and found this ...
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-RC-airplane-RC-Cessna-182-plane-EPO-hobby-model-aircraft-RTF-aeromodelo-eletricorc-planes/2025038921.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-RC-airplane-RC-Cessna-182-plane-EPO-hobby-model-aircraft-RTF-aeromodelo-eletricorc-planes/2025038921.html)

Might be my next RC machine ... Its pretty big !!!

Mandrake


Looks nice, I like the free shipping.

Once I've got the tricopter working nicely (and I can fly it well) I'm planning on buying a Bixler 2 (I think it's 1.5m wingspan).  That'll be a few months down the track, should be in time for Christmas :-)

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 25, 2014, 02:04:42 PM
Hmmm, my luck is not so good right now.  I stupidly plugged in the wrong plug to my 9x and as luck would have it was reversed so I fried it.  I have to remember to use the JR server plug and not the other plug on the battery.....

I have received a replacement, the 9XR and I have to say it's ok but I think my removal of my module from the 9x didnt work so well.  APM reports a very jittery input, the PWM values jump by 10-20, the 9x was rock solid.

I've got a orange reciever and module (2.4 Ghz) one the way so I'll see if that fixes it.  Will be interesting to see if it's the

I've also ordered a 9x replacement (Mode 1) as the 9XR doesnt look so nice.  I'll do the conversion to a Mode 2, looks easy as I checked out the dead 9x to see how to do it.  At least I have a 9x for spare parts - I opened it up to see if it was an easy fix.  First couple of regs seem ok and the capacitor seems ok too.  After opening it, it seems so stupid that there's a diode on the charger plug but not on the battery plug, so odd.  At least I have a dead 9x for spare parts now.....

So no flying for me over the weekend, grrrrr.  I have my cameras working so that is all good, both the 5v versions and the 12v versions.  Holy crap I see the difference in the quality between the PilotHD and the 700TVL camera, even the NTSC camera I thought was dead was good.  Minim OSD is still playing up, I'm going to try to keep the 12V off the board and do the solder trick to power the analogue side.  Will see how it goes.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 25, 2014, 02:24:14 PM
Not impressed with the PilotHD camera at all. The image is not the best even in good light, then throw OSD on top of that and through my goggles looks like garbage.

The swap from mode 1 to mode 2 took me about an hour on the 9XR and even then I took my time, its a simple swap over. I reckon it would take about the same amount of time on the 9X.

PWM from the 9XR on Mission Planner radio calibration is rock solid with my OrangeRX transmitter module (DSM2).

I haven't soldered anything on my last minimOSD from hobbyking and it worked no prob using seperate digital and analogue power supplies. The trick is to reload the boot strapper using an USBasp, then reload the firmware using the FDTI to UART connector with both the digital and analogue power supplies connected at the same time. When you reload the bootstapper using Arduino it gives an error right at the end, but it works because the OSDConfig software was no longer giving me 'Cannot load boot strapper' (or similar error) and the OSD config I setup was displayed on my screen correctly.

Apart from my crappy servo connections that allow the pins to come out, it's working fine now. I've got new servo connectors that I just have to swap over and I'm good to go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on August 25, 2014, 03:01:59 PM
Great to see some other RC nerds that are campers too :-)

I have been flying RC helis for 10 years and recently got into quads etc.

I have a heap of 3D helis in all shapes and sizes as well as a TBS discovery PRO with Go Pro on gimble and a Mini H Blackout racing quad.  FPV is so much fun racing with it is another level!!

Just getting into campers hope to see you guys at a campsite soon for a fly :-)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 25, 2014, 03:04:52 PM
Great to see some other RC nerds that are campers too :-)

I have been flying RC helis for 10 years and recently got into quads etc.

I have a heap of 3D helis in all shapes and sizes as well as a TBS discovery PRO with Go Pro on gimble and a Mini H Blackout racing quad.  FPV is so much fun racing with it is another level!!

Just getting into campers hope to see you guys at a campsite soon for a fly :-)
Excellent, however I prefer 'geek' to 'nerd'. I know, it's splitting hairs but I have standards  ;D

What do you think of the TBS discovery?

I think flitetest did a review of the mini h blackout, looked pretty cool.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on August 25, 2014, 04:00:19 PM
Geek it is  ;D

The TBS disco Pro is a very well made and well thought out machine indeed. I am super impressed with the level of design and quality in the integrated PCB design.

I bought everything and had it built with relative ease. It is super stable and the footage from it is very nice (from the gopro) I have the Gopro setup on a 3 position switch for straight fwd, 45 degree and straight down views.

It is not a cheap solution but it is a good one!!!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on August 25, 2014, 04:06:40 PM
The mini h is nuts on fpv solid and fun super cheap to fix


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 25, 2014, 04:08:51 PM
Not that I'm in the market for one, but the price for the TBS fibreglass boards without arms on goodluckbuy was about $120 US, which I thought was pretty good, but then you have to get the power module etc etc, so it starts adding up. But it's no different, expense wise, to getting the reptile knockoff of the TBS then adding ubec's and everything else to get the same level of functionality.

The TBS Discovery is certainly a nice frame. What flight controller are you using to keep in in the air?

I'm yet to pull my finger out and put my Reptile-Aphid together with the Naza M V2 system. Should start doing that soon now that I've got the F450 sorted. Just gotta convince the missus that this one needs t-motors.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 25, 2014, 05:14:08 PM
(http://mandrakessolar.com.au/Myswag Photos/Danger.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on August 25, 2014, 11:13:21 PM
Hey Marschy I am running the Naza v2 on the TBS with GPS and OSD etc.  great for plug and play and works no problem. The TBS adds up I got mine with the TBS upgraded motors and all the bels and whistles

I am running the Naze 32 on the racer cheap light and flys great.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 27, 2014, 01:02:35 AM
Well my new orange 2.4 Ghz transmitter module and receiver arrived today, I've fitted it and yes it is rock solid on the values according to my APM.  I think I must have some dodgy solder work on the old 2.4 Ghz module when I moved it to an independent module.  Will open it up again and try to fix it but I'm in no rush now I have the new stuff.

Now I've been using the 9XR (on the ground that is) it is growing on me.  I still have a 9X on the way as a backup.

If the weather is good on Saturday I plan to do my 2nd flight with the APM (damn the bad weather lately in Sydney.....), I'll do this one LOS but with a camera to record the event - hopefully uneventful unlike my previous APM flight.

I've learnt from my mistakes, I now have all the PreArm checks on, I have failsafe mode set to land, I've turned off the failsafe for low battery (just warns me now) - I'll use a fresh one on the day and I think I'll tether it with some cord so it cant go too far.  It needs to earn my trust again.......  Once it's hovered and done a few manoeuvres in a 5m x 5m x 5m area I'll feel confident enough to untether it.  It's not like the KK2 board where if I felt it's going bad I could just kill the throttle.....  If all goes well I'll try an FPV flight (within LOS) next week before work one day.

It has to perform this weekend or I wont take it with me to Fraser in Sept.......  I really want it to perform nicely.

Hi Marshy,

I think you mentioned you use a 9XR, I'm looking at how to mount my monitor mount onto the 9XR (I have a mount for the 9X with the metal bar), I noticed there are two bolt holes just above the transmitter module, do you know what size they are, the thread or what depth bolts are acceptable?  Just that I'm thinking of building a plywood adapter so I can use my existing mount, just the part I'm not sure about is those bolts......  I noticed you have the tablet holder for it, I'm thinking I could just buy one are they any good?  I found the 9X one to be pretty good, more solid than I expected.

Also thanks for the tips on the MinimOSD, I'll try it out on Thrusday night after work.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 27, 2014, 06:42:58 AM
Gday Chris,

I'm pretty sure the screws for holding the tablet mount are M3 about an inch long, but I'll check tonight after work. Only 2 screws hold the whole thing onto the back of the radio.

The mount is pretty handy. Here is the link. But you must get the antenna extension as well to move it away from all the clutter now at the back of the radio.

https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55688__Turnigy_9XR_9XR_Pro_Adjustable_Tablet_Mount_Stand_1pc_.html (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55688__Turnigy_9XR_9XR_Pro_Adjustable_Tablet_Mount_Stand_1pc_.html)

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49042-1/9xr+tablet+mount.JPG)

As you can see, it allows the transmitter antenna to be mounted remotely, and when I have the tablet hooked up it also secures the 3DR telemetry receiver. The neoprene on the bottom of the stand doesn't come with it. They supply some crap pieces of foam that don't fit. I had some airconditioning insulation neoprene out in the shed that fit the bill.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on August 27, 2014, 03:03:22 PM
http://www.iflscience.com/technology/3d-printed-robot-takes-hoverbike-out-spin (http://www.iflscience.com/technology/3d-printed-robot-takes-hoverbike-out-spin) - watch the vid!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 27, 2014, 11:21:55 PM
Gday Chris,

I'm pretty sure the screws for holding the tablet mount are M3 about an inch long, but I'll check tonight after work. Only 2 screws hold the whole thing onto the back of the radio.

The mount is pretty handy. Here is the link. But you must get the antenna extension as well to move it away from all the clutter now at the back of the radio.

https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55688__Turnigy_9XR_9XR_Pro_Adjustable_Tablet_Mount_Stand_1pc_.html (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55688__Turnigy_9XR_9XR_Pro_Adjustable_Tablet_Mount_Stand_1pc_.html)

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49042-1/9xr+tablet+mount.JPG)

As you can see, it allows the transmitter antenna to be mounted remotely, and when I have the tablet hooked up it also secures the 3DR telemetry receiver. The neoprene on the bottom of the stand doesn't come with it. They supply some crap pieces of foam that don't fit. I had some airconditioning insulation neoprene out in the shed that fit the bill.


Hi Marschy,

Sigh I looked at the time I have left and decided it was easier to just buy it....  By the time I design it up and then buy all the bits, it'll be a similar cost and wont be as nice, plus I've only got limited time to work on stuff.  So one order placed, hopefully it only takes 6 days like my last order did.  I think I have some thick foam that would do the trick, it's what was protecting my bullbar when I got it.  It seems that they sometimes skimp on the really little things that just finish it off nicely, kinda odd how they do this.

Thanks for the offer to confirm the screw sizes, but no need now :-)

Had some spare time tonight but not enough to do the camera work, I've got all my modes and mixing worked out on the APM, so now I'm just waiting for some decent weather and some free time to do the test flight, Friday morning is looking good.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on August 28, 2014, 08:03:02 PM
A bit of great footage from a swagger

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1OXreXKhY4&list=UU1P-KjyVXcKPi14nl3iR_vw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1OXreXKhY4&list=UU1P-KjyVXcKPi14nl3iR_vw)

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Basel on August 28, 2014, 08:16:28 PM
Wow! Amazing footage, looks pro
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on August 28, 2014, 08:19:41 PM
Excellent what rig you running ? Lot of over water shots awesome


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 28, 2014, 08:22:00 PM
Pretty amazing. Something to aspire to.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on August 28, 2014, 08:25:55 PM
Excellent what rig you running ? Lot of over water shots awesome


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I wish it was mine, just a mate I go camping with occasionally and he just did a huge trip. Not sure of what he is running. He may come along soon and let us know.

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: oldmate on August 29, 2014, 06:30:50 AM
That's an awesome bit of vid. Thanks for posting gg
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 29, 2014, 08:45:40 AM
Coincidence, or the Clive Palmer effect?

I've placed two orders, one with Aliexpress, one on Goodluckbuy. Paid for express shipping in both instances via China Post EMS.

Aliexpress sent my shipment via Hong Kong Air Mail and I'm still waiting for it over two weeks later. I will be disputing this order once it arrives so I can send evidence to Aliexpress that I was charged for shipping that I was not provided.

Goodluckbuy hadn't even processed my order as of this morning, 7 working days after I placed the order. I queried them this morning and the excuses started flying about taking upto 7 days to process an order, so I asked them if they hadn't even processed my order yet, how can they advertise 5-10 days delivery for EMS from the time of your order. I have asked for a refund of the $25 in shipping costs and to send it via Air Mail as they will already go over the 10 working days delivery time anyway by a long shot. So effectively I've paid for a service that they cannot provide either. It's only stuff that I ordered for Fathers day that I didn't really need, but made the missus happy that I was getting something for Fathers day so not concerned with getting it another 15-45 days from now.

It's just the principal, I don't like paying for a service that is not being provided. But somehow I don't think I will be buying from either seller again. Pity, Goodluckbuy has some great quadcopter stuff.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 29, 2014, 09:04:17 AM
I just ordered my FPV stuff from Banggood.com . The mini camera is already posted the other bits will be posted tomorrow they said..ordinary mail so will see how long it takes.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 29, 2014, 02:47:06 PM
Coincidence, or the Clive Palmer effect?

I've placed two orders, one with Aliexpress, one on Goodluckbuy. Paid for express shipping in both instances via China Post EMS.

Aliexpress sent my shipment via Hong Kong Air Mail and I'm still waiting for it over two weeks later. I will be disputing this order once it arrives so I can send evidence to Aliexpress that I was charged for shipping that I was not provided.

Goodluckbuy hadn't even processed my order as of this morning, 7 working days after I placed the order. I queried them this morning and the excuses started flying about taking upto 7 days to process an order, so I asked them if they hadn't even processed my order yet, how can they advertise 5-10 days delivery for EMS from the time of your order. I have asked for a refund of the $25 in shipping costs and to send it via Air Mail as they will already go over the 10 working days delivery time anyway by a long shot. So effectively I've paid for a service that they cannot provide either. It's only stuff that I ordered for Fathers day that I didn't really need, but made the missus happy that I was getting something for Fathers day so not concerned with getting it another 15-45 days from now.

It's just the principal, I don't like paying for a service that is not being provided. But somehow I don't think I will be buying from either seller again. Pity, Goodluckbuy has some great quadcopter stuff.

Coincidence I'd say :-)

On this note, I think that companies need to improve there dispatch times.  How hard is it to print an order to a warehouse, get it picked and packed for pickup.  HK though is pretty good, most ebay sellers ship the next day, because there is a rating system.

The area that can do with improvement is the couriers.  I guess that's why you have express delivery as a choice and you pay for it, but dammit if you pay for it you expect it.  Not that hard a concept for them you'd think.

I think those companies trying to sell based upon unrealistic times is extremely bad form and they will loose customers from that.  HK has gotten a large some of money from me because they have been good to me, as soon as I get mucked around my money goes elsewhere.  I love the response to questions about delivery of items, well its out of our hands its the couriers issue, not ours.  Yours though is even weirder in that they havent even dispatched it for delivery, not a hard thing for them to do if they think about it, unless they have a stock issue.  Don't they get that the customer only cares about the time from order to them, not that it's out of suppliers hands as normally the supplier chooses the courier.....  The customer only cares that it arrives in a reasonable time and with a reasonable service (having to drive to a place to pick it up, not leaving cards, not knocking & only leaving a card, or call 4+ times to get it redelivered is not acceptable).

I have a list of couriers who I refuse to use and they will never get my business, and I mean never.  I have even asked places before I order if it is on that list and told them while they use that courier they wont get my money.  I've had some places organise alternatives, others have said well that's who we use.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on August 29, 2014, 04:47:41 PM
I wish it was mine, just a mate I go camping with occasionally and he just did a huge trip. Not sure of what he is running. He may come along soon and let us know.

GG
He is running A DJI F550 flame wheel with a NAZA Controller and fatshark FPV The F550 is a hexcopter. Mostly stock standard I think but he does get some great footage. Flight times are about 7-8 min with a 6ah battery.
This is what I can remember about his gear. Oh and he uses a Spektrum DX8 Radio.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on August 29, 2014, 08:39:14 PM
Had success with Goodluckbuy. They have refunded the EMS shipping that I paid for. They still haven't processed the order, that's another issue.

The Aliexpress transaction is another story. They are claiming that they sent the 7 inch monitor via Hong Kong Registered Letter rather than EMS because it has an inbuilt lipo battery. BS is all I can say, the monitor doesn't have an inbuilt battery from the description, that is the next model up with diversity receiver, so this one looks like it will go all the way to a dispute and possibly having to unscrew the cover off the monitor once I receive it to take photos to support my dispute claim to Aliexpress.

Don't deal with this store on Aliexpress. They will rip you off for shipping.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/1185701 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/1185701)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on August 29, 2014, 09:14:28 PM
He is running A DJI F550 flame wheel with a NAZA Controller and fatshark FPV The F550 is a hexcopter. Mostly stock standard I think but he does get some great footage. Flight times are about 7-8 min with a 6ah battery.
This is what I can remember about his gear. Oh and he uses a Spektrum DX8 Radio.
Regards
Crispy

He also has a new fold up model as well which fits in his back pack. It goes up takes some great video and normally comes back  ;D

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on August 29, 2014, 09:34:01 PM
He also has a new fold up model as well which fits in his back pack. It goes up takes some great video and normally comes back  ;D

GG
Now that would be good. Take it into remote areas where the car can't get to and then fly.
I have been thinking about something like that but have not come across anything I like yet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 02, 2014, 11:02:23 PM
Eureka,  minimosd is finally working!

So happy, now it gets to come to Fraser with us!

Chris

Sent from my GT-I9506 using Tapatalk 2

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 03, 2014, 07:27:27 AM
Would you believe it. My minimOSD is working fine, but I just felt the temperature of the 3DRRadio Air module and it's cooking, jiggled the molex connector about, poof, blue smoke, and because it's piggy backed to the minimOSD it took that out as well.

The minimOSD that I thought I buggered up by removing the diode is actually working as I found out last night, but now I have to get a new 3DRRadio telemetry set. I'll get the Hobbyking version this time.

Well done on getting yours working Chris. I am going to solder the minimOSD connectors for the video in and out and power. What I'm finding is vibration is causing the video to break up really badly due to the el-cheapo props causing lots of vibration through the frame. I don't want to loose video during flight, so I think soldering the connections is my best option.

Another thing I noticed as well is the Hobbyking MinimOSD gives a very nice video feed with the OSD overlay using separate power for digital and analogue, whereas the one from Aliexpress that I removed the diode and is using 5 volts for the analogue side tends to flicker. The very reason for the separate power feeds.

The new 7 inch monitor also arrived yesterday with built in 5.8 gHz receiver. Very nice little screen, also came with XT60 power connectors. This is the one I got ripped off for shipping, but admittedly it is a nice monitor, so I might as well just suck it up and wear the $10 additional shipping cost that they ripped me off for.

I see you've also got the tablet mount for your 9XR. Good piece of kit, hey? The large holes at the very top allow the antenna for the 3DRRadio SMA connector to poke through then connect the antenna, so it's a really useful bit of gear.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 03, 2014, 04:04:02 PM
Would you believe it. My minimOSD is working fine, but I just felt the temperature of the 3DRRadio Air module and it's cooking, jiggled the molex connector about, poof, blue smoke, and because it's piggy backed to the minimOSD it took that out as well.

The minimOSD that I thought I buggered up by removing the diode is actually working as I found out last night, but now I have to get a new 3DRRadio telemetry set. I'll get the Hobbyking version this time.

Well done on getting yours working Chris. I am going to solder the minimOSD connectors for the video in and out and power. What I'm finding is vibration is causing the video to break up really badly due to the el-cheapo props causing lots of vibration through the frame. I don't want to loose video during flight, so I think soldering the connections is my best option.

Another thing I noticed as well is the Hobbyking MinimOSD gives a very nice video feed with the OSD overlay using separate power for digital and analogue, whereas the one from Aliexpress that I removed the diode and is using 5 volts for the analogue side tends to flicker. The very reason for the separate power feeds.

The new 7 inch monitor also arrived yesterday with built in 5.8 gHz receiver. Very nice little screen, also came with XT60 power connectors. This is the one I got ripped off for shipping, but admittedly it is a nice monitor, so I might as well just suck it up and wear the $10 additional shipping cost that they ripped me off for.

I see you've also got the tablet mount for your 9XR. Good piece of kit, hey? The large holes at the very top allow the antenna for the 3DRRadio SMA connector to poke through then connect the antenna, so it's a really useful bit of gear.

Hi Marschy,

Hmmm that is not good, dont tell me between us we are only allowed one working MinimOSD, let me know when yours is working so I can avoid killing mine :-)  On a plus they are $20 odd from HK and I usually get it 48 hours after I've ordered it.

On the HK MinimOSD, be careful if using two batteries, I may have gone through 2 others due to the ground potential not being the same.  I was using a separate battery for my camera (analogue side) to the FC which was powering the Digital side.  If there is more than 0.3V difference in ground between the two circuits it fries the board.  If you plan to use separate batteries make sure that the grounds are connected to avoid this issue.  I'm going to try to resurrect my two dead ones by soldering the analogue and digital circuits together  Should result in a simpler circuit as one of my cameras is a 5V camera - will have to check the current draw (which I suspect will be higher).  Then again I plan to just plug in the other Minim's to my working config and confirm there status.

So I now power it all of the one battery and it works nicely, although it also piggybacking off the telemetry radio rather than it's own connection.  I'll deal with that one issue after I get back.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 03, 2014, 04:14:19 PM
I see you've also got the tablet mount for your 9XR. Good piece of kit, hey? The large holes at the very top allow the antenna for the 3DRRadio SMA connector to poke through then connect the antenna, so it's a really useful bit of gear.

I picked it up a few hours before the photo was taken.  Its pretty good so far, I had to remove a bit of the rubber to mount the monitor, due to the way the monitor is moulded.  So I guess I had two wins last night, MinimOSD and the mount kit!

Easy to build and seems reasonable quality.  I'll have to do some flying with it to see how good it is :-)

Thanks for the suggestion.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 03, 2014, 04:31:26 PM
Not 100% sure what I did to fry the 3DRRadio, needless to say, as soon as I connect it, it heats up like a stove.

The minimosd that I thought I stuffed by removing the diode is working now all on 5 volt supply for both the atmega chip and the video chip, but getting flickering on the screen, could be dodgy solder on either the ground plane solder pad, or the one on the front for joining the two supplies for 5 volt.

Removing the diode right next to the vin/vout pins is to isolate the 5 volt power supply from the 12 volt video power supply. There are other ways of doing this as well which involves not joining the ground wire (I think this is what you are referring to ^^^^ about the 0.3 volt difference using 2 batteries). I didn't know about the 0.3 volt difference on the ground causing the board to fry, I wonder if that is what I did with the Hobbyking board, as this one I didn't do any soldering whatsoever and just used 5v digital power and 12 volt analogue power as per the bog standard instructions?

Either way, I'll be resoldering the solder pads for the 5 volt supply joints and getting rid of the servo connectors and soldering them directly to the vin/vout pins. It works perfectly other than the annoying flicker (more a pulse than a flicker if that makes sense). It's the OSD text that is flickering, not the actual video, but quite noticeable.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on September 03, 2014, 10:25:32 PM
Which Mini OSD is that I like the layout etc..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 04, 2014, 01:37:58 AM
It's called the "MinimOSD".

Minim OSD v1.1 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=36844)

It uses the Mavlink protocol so your flight control board must be compatible.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 04, 2014, 01:27:51 PM
Not 100% sure what I did to fry the 3DRRadio, needless to say, as soon as I connect it, it heats up like a stove.

The minimosd that I thought I stuffed by removing the diode is working now all on 5 volt supply for both the atmega chip and the video chip, but getting flickering on the screen, could be dodgy solder on either the ground plane solder pad, or the one on the front for joining the two supplies for 5 volt.

Removing the diode right next to the vin/vout pins is to isolate the 5 volt power supply from the 12 volt video power supply. There are other ways of doing this as well which involves not joining the ground wire (I think this is what you are referring to ^^^^ about the 0.3 volt difference using 2 batteries). I didn't know about the 0.3 volt difference on the ground causing the board to fry, I wonder if that is what I did with the Hobbyking board, as this one I didn't do any soldering whatsoever and just used 5v digital power and 12 volt analogue power as per the bog standard instructions?

Either way, I'll be resoldering the solder pads for the 5 volt supply joints and getting rid of the servo connectors and soldering them directly to the vin/vout pins. It works perfectly other than the annoying flicker (more a pulse than a flicker if that makes sense). It's the OSD text that is flickering, not the actual video, but quite noticeable.

I'm thinking it might be what happened to yours, I think I've killed two before I realised what was happening.  None of the diagrams on the Ardu stuff says this...  Had to read it in forums.  Having done it, the board just worked without issues (3rd) as did my 2nd one until I tried it on two batteries.  Must link the grounds together as I'm sure that you'll have the same problem.  The + stay separate it's only the ground's that need to be linked.  I found it easier to just run it off the one battery and use a BEC to down it to 5V for the camera that needs 5 V, I just remove the BEC for the cameras that need 12V.  There are downsides and that is if the flight battery dies so does everything else but I figure if I loose the main battery I loose the APM which has the data I want anyway, so I'd have to use the telemetry data which is on the tablet or PC so no major loss really.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: gec on September 05, 2014, 12:02:44 AM
Was looking through Aliexpress today and found this ...
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-RC-airplane-RC-Cessna-182-plane-EPO-hobby-model-aircraft-RTF-aeromodelo-eletricorc-planes/2025038921.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-shipping-RC-airplane-RC-Cessna-182-plane-EPO-hobby-model-aircraft-RTF-aeromodelo-eletricorc-planes/2025038921.html)

Might be my next RC machine ... Its pretty big !!!

Mandrake


I bought that very same plane the other day, but much cheaper, here is a link to it if your still interested.

http://www.pw-rc.com/product_info.php/cPath/126/products_id/3585?osCsid=7c26c592d7650e1e87bf95aa2be4e438 (http://www.pw-rc.com/product_info.php/cPath/126/products_id/3585?osCsid=7c26c592d7650e1e87bf95aa2be4e438)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 05, 2014, 03:42:34 AM
Price difference is the radio controller I think my one is included ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 05, 2014, 06:33:36 AM
I'm thinking it might be what happened to yours, I think I've killed two before I realised what was happening.  None of the diagrams on the Ardu stuff says this...  Had to read it in forums.  Having done it, the board just worked without issues (3rd) as did my 2nd one until I tried it on two batteries.  Must link the grounds together as I'm sure that you'll have the same problem.  The + stay separate it's only the ground's that need to be linked.  I found it easier to just run it off the one battery and use a BEC to down it to 5V for the camera that needs 5 V, I just remove the BEC for the cameras that need 12V.  There are downsides and that is if the flight battery dies so does everything else but I figure if I loose the main battery I loose the APM which has the data I want anyway, so I'd have to use the telemetry data which is on the tablet or PC so no major loss really.

Chris

I have to do a bit of reading on this. My camera is 12 volt, hence the reason why I went down the route of removing the diode. I found a thread on rcgroups but I'm buggered if I can find it again, but this picture from the 'Files' section of the Hobbyking site for the MinimOSD shows what I did with regard removing the diode.

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uploads/1055128464X312706X51.jpg)

The reason why I removed my diode was for a few reasons, my camera is 12 volt, and the replacement board already had the ground and 5 volt pads soldered together. and I found (and subsequently lost) a thread on rcgroups that explained why this was done.

A common theme with these boards though, is people frying them all the time.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 05, 2014, 07:06:38 AM
I found a possible solution to my OSD flickering problem. Apparently 12 volt cameras can cause the OSD text to flicker due to the video signal voltage being too high. Putting a 150ohm resistor in line with the video in signal fixes it. Read reply # 38. It's obscure stuff like this with this OSD that can do your head in.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1858197&page=3 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1858197&page=3)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 05, 2014, 07:31:39 AM
This is cheap. $134.72 including EMS shipping

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html)

I'm getting another one for my Reptile-Aphid frame. I've been toying with getting a Pixhawk, but they are almost twice the cost, putting one of these on the Xmas wish list.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 05, 2014, 05:07:15 PM
Well I have launched into FPV and possibly OSD ( If I can fit it all together !! ) ..
Ordered a mini camera on Thursday 28th arrived today .. Pretty good I thought - Boscam 2.4Ghz Tx/Rx , 4.5" screen and mushroom antennae should be here early next week .. Then after that a Remzibi OSD and GPS if I can add them in to the spaghetti wiring loom --
I hope I have all the correct bits that will go together ... ...  Time will tell eh !!
Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 05, 2014, 05:10:27 PM
Yep, this OSD stuff is proving to be fun, getting it work that is.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: gec on September 06, 2014, 02:47:45 AM
Price difference is the radio controller I think my one is included ..


Possibly mate, weve bought a few RTF planes and the transmitters are usually rubbish, if you are looking for a good digital 2.4 ghz radio you cant go past this one from HobbyKing, Its a 6 channel radio, it has a 10 model memory and the receivers are cheap.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__54822__OrangeRx_T_SIX_2_4GHz_DSM2_Compatible_6CH_Transmitter_w_10_Model_Memory_and_3_Pos_Switch_Mode_2_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__54822__OrangeRx_T_SIX_2_4GHz_DSM2_Compatible_6CH_Transmitter_w_10_Model_Memory_and_3_Pos_Switch_Mode_2_.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anythingq
Post by: yogi on September 06, 2014, 07:04:14 PM
Anyone after a gopro but can't afford $500 .... Ebay a sj4000 cam ;) less than $100 with all of the fitting mounts !!!! And you can use it for fpv and aerial photography.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on September 08, 2014, 09:52:58 AM
Can I ask you guys please stop talking about flying????
I am starting looking at it again, just to start simple with a Horizon Hobby Super Cub RTF.
Maybe..................

Not sure where you can fly these things in Perth.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 08, 2014, 09:59:45 AM
Flying fixed wing can be problematic with regard places you can take-off and land and the space you need to fly the model.

Maybe a model club may be an option.

http://www.maaa.asn.au/state-associations (http://www.maaa.asn.au/state-associations)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on September 08, 2014, 10:10:21 AM
Ok managed to dodge the weather yesterday and get out with the multi and get some vid (first one so be gentle LOL)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVed33cyedw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVed33cyedw)

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 08, 2014, 10:18:31 AM
All I can say is wow, wow, wow.

The obvious advantage of FPV over LOS.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on September 08, 2014, 10:30:19 AM
Great glad you liked it I will have another one from yesterdays adventure later in the week (when i get time to edit it).
It was actually quite windy (being at the beach) and therefore the quad was fighting it but I think the footage hides the majority of it well!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on September 08, 2014, 11:16:57 AM
Flying fixed wing can be problematic with regard places you can take-off and land and the space you need to fly the model.

Maybe a model club may be an option.

http://www.maaa.asn.au/state-associations (http://www.maaa.asn.au/state-associations)


True but I think with only the use of one arm a simple 3 channel plane might work better then a 4 channel helicopter.
I might be wrong.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on September 08, 2014, 02:04:43 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNPJMk2fgJU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNPJMk2fgJU)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 08, 2014, 04:34:04 PM
XD9 Pro can do up to 24 channels .... how do you do this .... bind multiple 8 channel receivers ? Also what modules is everyone using on them .... my RX’s are all spectrum currently are they as good ?

Thanks
yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 08, 2014, 04:44:23 PM
XD9 Pro can do up to 24 channels .... how do you do this .... bind multiple 8 channel receivers ? Also what modules is everyone using on them .... mine RX’s are all spectrum currently are they as good ?

Thanks
yogi

Can't help with 24 channels. I wouldn't know what to do with that many. Setup a servo as an bum scratcher I suppose as I would be too busy pushing buttons, flicking switches. Now that'd be good. But think it would probably use some sort of s.bus system.

I use the OrangeRX DSM2/DSMX compatible transmitter module on my Turnigy 9XR configured for PWM and OrangeRX 9 channel receiver with satellite. The receivers are compatible with spectrum, and a lot cheaper. The receiver is capable of being used for s.bus configurations as well. But I haven't used this functionality.

This is from the Futaba site giving you an idea of what s.bus systems are capable of.
(http://www.futaba-rc.com/sbus/sbus-diagram-lg.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 09, 2014, 01:53:24 PM
Thanks for the info ... I think I might get the FrSky Taranis if I go this way ... costs more but has built in 2.4Ghz and can also do JR style external TX modules.

yogi

PS(there are a couple of ways to do the 8+ channels with this radio)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on September 09, 2014, 09:09:14 PM
Here is another video from last Sunday can see some gimble tweaks I need to make yet

http://youtu.be/3_L0e4PTm4g (http://youtu.be/3_L0e4PTm4g)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 14, 2014, 06:37:41 PM
Added a bit of bling. A 4x3watt LED module. It is really bright so you can see the LED's in broad daylight.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on September 14, 2014, 06:43:19 PM
Very bright :-)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 14, 2014, 06:46:12 PM
Yeah I hope it wont affect the camera, hence I put it as far away as I can. Green tells me I have GPS lock, then it flashes red when arming and disarming, and also when the battery is running low.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on September 15, 2014, 09:55:34 AM
Marschy, I see a lot of static pictures.
When are you going to fly them?  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 15, 2014, 09:56:37 AM
Hoping to have some video after the long weekend.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 15, 2014, 11:39:18 AM
What FPV goggles is everyone using ? I am looking at the new SkyZone V2 .... seem like the best bang for buck.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 15, 2014, 11:40:38 AM
What FPV goggles is everyone using ? I am looking at the new SkyZone V2 .... seem like the best bang for buck.

yogi
Drop Crispy a PM, that's what he is using, I don't recommend the Fatshark Teleporters, the resolution is crap.

I received a HIEE 7 inch monitor from Aliexpress, so I'm going to see if I prefer goggles or screen. I will be giving this a go on the long weekend in October.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 15, 2014, 03:16:40 PM
I am not sure about the goggles myself .... nearly have all the bits to get a screen based FPV system going. But since I am going to be ordering a new Taranis radio as I need more channels for my 2 axis gimbal to do what I want .... thought I might get some goggles too :D

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 15, 2014, 05:50:53 PM
I am not sure about the goggles myself .... nearly have all the bits to get a screen based FPV system going. But since I am going to be ordering a new Taranis radio as I need more channels for my 2 axis gimbal to do what I want .... thought I might get some goggles too :D

yogi
The Taranis is very popular, but you don't necessarily have to have more than 8 channels to control your gimbal. The flight control board can sometimes control the gimbal by allowing channel 7 and 8 to control pitch and roll. The APM is a good example. But for auto tuning and other functions, yes, you can run out of channels. Having said that, if I thought about things a bit more rather than jump in with both feet, I would have bought the Taranis. How could you argue with a 16+ channel radio for under $200

The resolution of most of the googles at best seems to be 640x480, which you can get with the small 7 inch monitors. The advantage of the googles seems to be the 'immersion' factor which can make some people feel sick, sort of like motion sickness. I reckon this is going to happen to me. I was in my sons room watching him play the new version of Wolfenstein which is a first person shooter game, I felt sick watching that on a 50 inch plasma, so the chances of me feeling sick with goggles is probably going to be pretty high.

I'm planning on planting my bum in a comfy chair with my camera tripod setup next to me and seeing how both the monitor and goggles go. I'm in the process of hooking up a video recorder to the monitor, which means I have to pull the back off and hook up the receiver to the DVR and then the DVR back into the monitor. I didn't think about this before (jumped in with both feet again) and I should have bought a simple monitor and separate receiver and DVR, it would have made life a lot easier.

What frame and flight control board are you getting?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 15, 2014, 06:10:45 PM
I'm currently trying to get 2.4 Ghz FPV up and running on the Phantom --

I found this little piece of kit and am trying to work out how to mount the camera -- If I figure that out them I'll buy this

and see how it goes... LOL..

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/2-4GHz-Wireless-Digital-Camera-2-4GHz-Wireless-Digital-DVR-Free-shipping/495597153.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/2-4GHz-Wireless-Digital-Camera-2-4GHz-Wireless-Digital-DVR-Free-shipping/495597153.html)

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 08:45:20 AM
Marschy ..... yeah I need 6 channels for my 350 QX standard. Then when I upgrade to the v2 code I will need to be able to mix 2 x 3 way switches to get all of the modes and then at least 1 extra channel for the tilt function on my brushless gimbal, plus I want to put this on a variable pot for a bit more control. None of which my current controller has got .... lol ..... So the Taranis will give me up to 32 channels with full telemetry. Bring on head tracking and full manual gimbal control ;D

I am using an SJCAM / SJ4000 gopro clone for my video recording and FPV. If I find the need I will swap to a video switch setup on one of my extra channels and a dedicated FPV camera / gimbal camera. Maybe when I go a 3 axis gimbal.

Mandrake .... most people find they get to much interference running their video and controls on the same band. the 5.8ghz stuff is cheap and easy to setup for video.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 08:51:20 AM
Hello Yogi, nice quad. I think Mandrake has previously indicated that his setup uses a 5.8 gHz transmitter for the quad, this sorta limits his options with the FPV camera.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 16, 2014, 08:59:40 AM
Yup - Its the only thing wrong with the Phantom FC40 model !! If it ran guidance on 2.4 I would not have such a big problem .. Mind you I see goggles are now coming out that are switchable on both frequency bands 5.8 and 2.4 .. Trying to find a Black Pearl style monitor with an inbuilt 2.4 receiver - getting closer ... M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 09:01:58 AM
I am using an SJCAM / SJ4000 gopro clone for my video recording and FPV. If I find the need I will swap to a video switch setup on one of my extra channels and a dedicated FPV camera / gimbal camera. Maybe when I go a 3 axis gimbal.
You may need a HDMI to AV convertor for the SJ4000 camera to work with FPV transmitter. Also check the dimensions of the camera, otherwise you will need to possibly limit your gimbal to a generic gimbal that fits any gopro knockoff. E.g. the Tarot T-2D gimbal I have is designed for the gopro 3+ and I had to hunt around for a gopro knockoff that would fit because it has an aluminium frame that limits what you can put in it. This led me to the GoTop knockoff of the gopro. But as you are probably finding, the closer the knockoffs resemble a gopro, the closer the price resembles a gopro.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 09:21:19 AM
Yeah the new SJCAM has upgraded board and firmwear .... so does video out on the USB I have just tested it and have it installed on my gimbal and it all appears to work so all good. The only potential issue with the gimbal were trimming the velcro strap so I could still use the slot on the bottom arm when the USB cable was in for FPV and the weight difference between the gopro and the SJCAM ... the weight doesn't seem to be an issue with my initial tests but have downloaded the tuning tool for the gimbal control board in case it becomes one. Some of the cheap ebay gimbals have a high pitched wine when running and with the tuning tool you can easily get rid of it.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 09:23:34 AM
I haven't worked out how to 'trim' the gimbal yet. Mine is the same as Mandrakes. I need to adjust the 'roll' as it is tilted ever so slightly and not sitting level.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 09:28:18 AM
Yup - Its the only thing wrong with the Phantom FC40 model !! If it ran guidance on 2.4 I would not have such a big problem .. Mind you I see goggles are now coming out that are switchable on both frequency bands 5.8 and 2.4 .. Trying to find a Black Pearl style monitor with an inbuilt 2.4 receiver - getting closer ... M

OK I see .... 5.8 for the controls !!!! Guess you could always use the video in on a 5.8 goggle set Mandrake ?

Yeah the 350 QX is good right out of the box and with the v2 upgrade is even better. It still has short comings like using DSM2 / DSMX technology and limited control board interfaces and is apparently only a park flyer (but I can bind 2 receivers  to the transmitter and solve most of the expandability issues) but stability / power and feature wise it's right up there.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 09:32:01 AM
I haven't worked out how to 'trim' the gimbal yet. Mine is the same as Mandrakes. I need to adjust the 'roll' as it is tilted ever so slightly and not sitting level.


Which gimbal do you guys have ? Does your control board have a button ? Most do and these buttons are programed to do different features ie on mine if I press it 3 times I can manually set the defualt gimbal position by simply holding the gimbal in the position I want it in after pressing the button. It then holds that position.

(http://img.dxcdn.com/productimages/sku_316196_8.jpg)
You can see the button here ... bottom right and it's red.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 09:38:58 AM
This is my gimbal, which looks pretty much the same as Mandrakes, I also have the Tarot T-2D, but that one works beautifully.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Details-about-Black-DJI-Phantom-Brushless-Gimbal-Cam-Mount-with-Motor-BGC3-1-Controller/1581189044.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Details-about-Black-DJI-Phantom-Brushless-Gimbal-Cam-Mount-with-Motor-BGC3-1-Controller/1581189044.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 09:51:56 AM
I am 99.9% sure it has a button ..... you will also be able to do what I have done and hook it up to your PC via USB and tune it .... do a google on "AlexMos BGC V2.3B5 2-Axis Simple Brushless Gimbal" heaps of info and youtube goodness for you.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 16, 2014, 10:02:39 AM
I can adjust mine through the Naza m lite program..think I set it to 20 at rest .the pitch is set to 10 which is looking down about 5 degrees from level..I have both pitch and roll cables fitted..
You should be able to balance it by moving the camera along the gimbal arm.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 11:00:08 AM
Not sure about the NAZA but you can do things like set the travel limit of the gimbal and tune the motor speed and sensativity ect ect ect .... very powerful for the price :D

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 11:02:11 AM
Got given a link by Goodluckbuy for the AlexMos software, wasn't worth a cracker, so I'll try the search and see how I go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 16, 2014, 11:04:06 AM
Naza is the same . I limit my pitch to straight down and forward 5 degrees down . Works for me . Just wish my camera would do FPV .. But it doesn't so I have to add another camera for FPV.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 11:13:15 AM
Mandrake ... can the NAZA do RTH, and waypoint flights ?

Marschy ... let me know if you can't get it going as I will find the vid on youtube I got all the info from on installing the driver and where to get the software. You have to download the right bundle version from the download section for you controller version .... as I found out.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 16, 2014, 11:16:59 AM
RTH for sure .. both Naza M and Naza M Lite have GPS options .
I think that Naza M only can do waypoint stuff .. Not something I have looked into at this stage but people are doing waypoint stuff with Phantom 2 , vision and vision + ..M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 11:24:00 AM
Naza M V2 with the bluetooth connection can do waypoint, but I think the software is only iOS, not Android. I'll find out soon enough, I have all the kit, just need to put it together.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 16, 2014, 11:26:47 AM
Theres an Android ground station app for the vision and vision +..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 16, 2014, 07:34:59 PM
The new 7 inch monitor is now hacked so the receiver can be sent through a DVR recorder. I have found that a 3S 2200mAh doesn't last too long, so I've put one of my 4S 4000mAh batteries on with a 12 volt UBEC.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49144-1/FPV+7+inch+Screen+Setup.JPG)

Unlike a lot of the monitors that I've seen on Aliexpress, this one appears to be purpose built for FPV. The circuit boards are all made for the job, so I had to get the multimeter out to determine the video signal and the power supply for the receiver. I did away with the long cable that came with the monitor and put some RCA jacks on the back for video 1 and 2 input, and a cable hangs out the bottom which comes from the receiver that just plugs into one of the video inputs.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49142-1/7+inch+Screen+Hack.JPG)

All ready to go for a flight with FPV now and I can record the OSD information on screen, so if I ditch the quad, the recorded GPS coords will let me know where it is.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 16, 2014, 07:57:02 PM
Looking good .... 8)

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 18, 2014, 09:36:06 AM
Hello Yogi,

Is this the button you are referring to? If so how do you adjust the gimbal using it? I'd love to get this sorted out.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49190-1/Camera+gimbal.jpg)

Cheers, Marshy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 18, 2014, 09:44:39 AM
Just hook up switch on power .
 Make sure the bird is sitting level then press that button .. its a reset switch of sorts...;
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 18, 2014, 09:59:58 AM
OK I'm going to fess up, see the 6 pin outlet to the right of the arrow. I was measuring the height of the camera after powering it up with a steel ruler. You guessed it, I touched the pins and got smoke, so I'm now waiting for a new controller, LOL, gotta update my fried components list.

So, does that button change the pitch and roll?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 18, 2014, 10:02:40 AM
It sets the camera and arm level.Pitch is still controlled by the radio ( I think !!) LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 18, 2014, 10:04:19 AM
Excellent, hopefully the new controller should be here mid next week before the long weekend. Lesson learnt, I'm going to put hot glue on any exposed pins from now on.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 18, 2014, 10:05:12 AM
Get a plastic ruler too LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 18, 2014, 10:06:02 AM
That what my missus said.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 18, 2014, 10:06:43 AM
She's clever too .. like me .. LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 18, 2014, 11:25:44 AM
Here you go .... down load the version you have from this page.

http://www.basecamelectronics.com/downloads/8bit/ (http://www.basecamelectronics.com/downloads/8bit/)

It will also have the drive for your USB interface when you plug in your gimbal. From there you can upload your config and see what the button has been progrmammed to do and also change it if you want to.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 18, 2014, 11:41:28 AM
Yup - Its the only thing wrong with the Phantom FC40 model !! If it ran guidance on 2.4 I would not have such a big problem .. Mind you I see goggles are now coming out that are switchable on both frequency bands 5.8 and 2.4 .. Trying to find a Black Pearl style monitor with an inbuilt 2.4 receiver - getting closer ... M


You can get Goggles :D

http://www.fpvmodel.com/boscam-gs920-2-4g-5-8g-wireless-fpv-aio-goggles_g750.html (http://www.fpvmodel.com/boscam-gs920-2-4g-5-8g-wireless-fpv-aio-goggles_g750.html)

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 18, 2014, 01:05:43 PM
Cheers Yogi, as soon as I get the replacement control board i'll give the software a go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 18, 2014, 03:13:57 PM
Be vewwy vewwy careful !!
I had a lot of trouble with the 8 bit / 32 bit software to match the board .. In the end I gave up and used the Naza assistant software ..
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on September 18, 2014, 04:26:35 PM
Took the bird out on the weekend to have a ..........birds eye look at a camping spot.
I noticed some noise on the Gopro but not sure where it came from. It is the first time I have seen it.
Might have to check the cabling.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 19, 2014, 07:34:43 AM
Be vewwy vewwy careful !!
I had a lot of trouble with the 8 bit / 32 bit software to match the board .. In the end I gave up and used the Naza assistant software ..
Steve
Hello Mandrake

I haven't worked out how to use the flight control board software to adjust the gimbal yet. If the link provided by yogi becomes an issue I'll have to connect the gimbal to the fc board and give that a go.

Does that require a row of header pins to be soldered onto the gimbal controller to connect to the fc board?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 19, 2014, 07:46:44 AM
On the Naza its 2 single pin cables .. Pitch and Roll .. to the 2 top left pins on the multi connector on the gimbal board ..( Far left top is Pitch next one across is roll .) On the Naza its a 3 pin vertical setup and the top 2 are used .. can't remember if its M1 , M2 or something else ... If you need to know I can open it up and take a photo .. But its a pain to get to  easily !!  Steve

Edit - F1 socket top pin is Gimbal roll , F2 socket top pin is Gimbal Pitch .. ( Forgot I had the manual !! )  Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 19, 2014, 09:08:30 AM
On the Naza its 2 single pin cables .. Pitch and Roll .. to the 2 top left pins on the multi connector on the gimbal board ..( Far left top is Pitch next one across is roll .) On the Naza its a 3 pin vertical setup and the top 2 are used .. can't remember if its M1 , M2 or something else ... If you need to know I can open it up and take a photo .. But its a pain to get to  easily !!  Steve

Edit - F1 socket top pin is Gimbal roll , F2 socket top pin is Gimbal Pitch .. ( Forgot I had the manual !! )  Mandrake
Righto, so I'm assuming, but want to check, the pins on the gimbal control board you are referring to are the ones in the picture below next to the arrow. I can see one of them is marked 'Roll' and I'll check tonight when I get home as I assume the other side has the pitch pin.

Are these the ones you connect to the flight control board?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 19, 2014, 09:34:11 AM
Yup !! The 3 pin sockets at the back are motor control for pitch and roll .. The top pins on the 6 pin socket on the side are Pitch and Roll - You may need a 3 wire connecting cable for all 3 vertical pins --  but the Naza only needs one for control as the battery negative is common for the main control board and the gimbal control board .. Mandrake

Still too f@@@ ing windy down here .. I'm waiting on the 2.4Ghz FPV unit , OSD and GPS unit and a nice big back pack to carry all this stuff ... Might have to invest in a donkey to cart it all around !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 28, 2014, 05:44:13 PM
Well finally got my gimbal hooked up on the bottom of the 350 QX with GoPro quick release mount. Have my 7 inch monitor mounted to my TX ..... hooked up all the cables for FPV and it actually works ..... lol .... Now I just need to do the V2 software upgrade to the 350 QX once my new battery tray and 3000mAh batteries turn up next week. Have done all the GPS relocation modes the 350 QX AP has so should be interference free :cheers:

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on September 28, 2014, 06:07:39 PM
I had time to put the bird in the sky last week while on holidays.
I am yet to do a video of it but I will do this week I hope.
I had to do a temp repair on the beach as my gimbal stopped working but after a short delay it was up and running again.
I have made an order with Hobby king for some replacement parts and a new battery. Didn't break anything just reconfiguring.
When I get the video done I shall post up.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 01, 2014, 09:53:21 PM
Well I am stoked ( I think ?? ) I bought this and it arrived today and although it has not been up in the air yet it works really well .. I won't be able to have OSD on it but the FPV
will be good - It even has a X2 zoom option on the mini-screen / recorder -
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6240034397.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6240034397.html)
Normally if I walk through my house I lose contact with these types of 2.4 Ghz things - I had all 5 bars right through to the garden ..
There seems to be a little trick to switching on the camera which I am having a small amount of difficulty with but i'm sure I'll get it ok soon and then when
the wind decides to P off I'll fly it ...
I also am looking at this for my next toy now .. Project 2015 it will be ...
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__29600__Hobbyking_X650F_Glass_Fiber_Quadcopter_Frame_550mm.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__29600__Hobbyking_X650F_Glass_Fiber_Quadcopter_Frame_550mm.html)
Seems pretty good - Opinions ??
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 01, 2014, 10:37:05 PM
G'day Steve,

I had a good look at both this frame, and many others when I settled on the Alien 560 quad from Hobbyking.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__61221__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_AU_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__61221__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_AU_Warehouse_.html)

Now, I haven't put this frame together completely yet, but the noticeable difference between the 560 frame and my F450 frame was the real estate that you have for putting everything on the frame.

Having said that I would choose the following frame over the Hobbyking Alien 560 anyday. Very similar but the crab landing gear is apparently not a 'brittle' as the Hobbyking Alien.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/atg-tt-x4-12-reptile-4-axis-quadcopter-folding-frame-kit-with-tall-landing-skid-gear-gopro-ptz.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/atg-tt-x4-12-reptile-4-axis-quadcopter-folding-frame-kit-with-tall-landing-skid-gear-gopro-ptz.html)

The amount of space on these frames influenced me so much that the next frame I bought was the Reptile-Aphid from Goodluckbuy.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/reptile-aphid-x450-fpv-quadcopter-aircraft-frame-kit-with-700tvl-camera-lens.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/reptile-aphid-x450-fpv-quadcopter-aircraft-frame-kit-with-700tvl-camera-lens.html)

Now this frame is a ripper. It comes with a built in 700tvl FPV camera on a single axis tilt servo that I have hooked up to the flight control board (APM 2.6) and channel 8 on my radio (trimpot). It has allowed all my electronic hardware to be mounted within the frame in an extremely tidy manner.

Have a look at some of the frames on Goodluckbuy. Search for 'quadcopter frame'. They have some great frames that have varying amounts of real estate to mount all of the electrical components and many come with gimbals. A bit more expensive than Hobbyking, but a far greater choice of frame types and sizes. The built in FPV camera is a brilliant idea, and one that I will look for options for first in the future. The reason being that the in-built FPV cameras seem to fit like a glove and because this is typically what we are trying to do, why stuff around doing it yourself.

Here are a couple of pictures on my new Reptile-Aphid. Note, I've changed the arms because the frame comes with black acrylic (I think) arms which appear quite brittle, so I swapped them over to red/white nylon arms.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49256-1/New+Reptile-Aphid.JPG)

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49258-1/PDB+Reptile-Aphid.JPG)

Short of a bit of velcro for holding the battery in place, this frame is now ready to fly. I'm hoping to get some video this weekend. (And yes, the yellow legs are tent pegs from our ensuite tent, never used the bloody thing that often anyway. And who showers when they go bush anyway?)

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 01, 2014, 10:56:14 PM
Hello Steve,

Here is another well priced frame with built in single axis gimbal for a go-pro style camera. This is single axis gimbal similar to the gimbal you and I are already familiar with. But importantly, the frame has lots of room, and the arms allow stuff to be mounted to them if you need to get your FPV camera transmitter as far away from your GPS receiver if need be, or even like in my photos from the previous post above, for mounting the telemetry radio.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/reptile550-v2-quadcopter-frame-kit-and-1-axis-gopro-3-brushless-gimbal-for-fpv.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/reptile550-v2-quadcopter-frame-kit-and-1-axis-gopro-3-brushless-gimbal-for-fpv.html)

or for a few bucks more, a two axis gimbal frame.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/locust-quadcopter-frame-and-2-axis-gopro-3-aluminum-gimbal-bgc-3-0-mos-controller-for-fpv.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/locust-quadcopter-frame-and-2-axis-gopro-3-aluminum-gimbal-bgc-3-0-mos-controller-for-fpv.html)

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 02, 2014, 01:14:40 PM
Something like one of these would be cool ;D

http://www.fpvguy.com/2014/05/walkera-goes-pro-the-tali-h500-hexa-copter.html (http://www.fpvguy.com/2014/05/walkera-goes-pro-the-tali-h500-hexa-copter.html)

https://www.airdog.com/products (https://www.airdog.com/products)

Do any of the cheap MAV type boards have a follow me and circle type function ?

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 02, 2014, 01:19:48 PM
Was looking good for a while - Those battery units $150 each - ouch !! Price on the complete kit hurts a bit too .. But nice VERY nice - Love th controller

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 02, 2014, 01:22:53 PM
Do any of the cheap MAV type boards have a follow me and circle type function ?

Yep APM 2.6
http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/flight-modes/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/flight-modes/)
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 02, 2014, 01:41:49 PM
There are 14 flight modes available in APM:Copter

 ?Stabilize
 ?Alt Hold
 ?Loiter (& OF_loiter)
 ?RTL (Return-to-Launch)
 ?Auto
 ?Acro
 ?Sport
 ?Drift
 ?Guided
 ?Circle
 ?Position
 ?Land
 ?Follow Me
 ?Simple and Super Simple

That's a few modes ;D Does it do OSD and telematry ?

Thanks
yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 02, 2014, 01:46:57 PM
That's a few modes ;D Does it do OSD and telematry ?

Yes to both.
MinimOSD (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/common-minim-osd-quick-installation-guide/)
Telemetry (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/common-using-the-3dr-radio-for-telemetry-with-apm-and-px4/)

For the money spent and features, they are a bloody great board.

Look at the upper white arm on the photo above, you can see the antenna for the 915MHz telemetry radio.

Also check out the videos for the flight modes. Drift caught my attention, basically flying in mode 2 using only pitch and roll stick and throttle only needed if altitude needs adjusting.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 05, 2014, 01:51:28 PM
Here's what the Phantom looks like now...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/04/9bb7548f8d78294bf52a80930a81e602.jpg)

The camera on the leg is my FPV unit. It doesn't have OSD . Monitor at left is velcroed to the radio ..Flew it yesterday and needed a clear LOS for reception will be trying a different antenna to see if that makes a difference...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 05, 2014, 02:20:53 PM
No footage this weekend. Lots of stuff broken. 4 props, landing gear, one motor boom. My first F450 is behaving very erratically, reckon it needs recalibrating. The second F450 has demonstrated my poorly designed undercarriage which snapped the motor boom right near the motor. New undercarriage should be arriving soon so I'll get that sorted and tune the quads before I go on my next outing rather than trying to tune them when I've got an audience.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 05, 2014, 04:07:23 PM
I was all prepared to fly this weekend on our camping trip however the wind came up and I really didn't feel like flying between the trees with wind.
On the up side I tried out the Solar Panel I got from Mandrake. Seemed to do the job keeping the battery charged so I can then charge my quads batteries in the field without worrying about the fridge stopping
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 06, 2014, 08:52:36 PM
Looking good guys .... Finally found a mob that have a Taranis Plus in stock and worked up enough courage to ask the wife permission .... Web site is now undergoing maintenance .... Lol

Got the 2.4 DSM module ordered from HobbyKing using DHL .... Anyone used them before and got an idea how long I will have to wait ?

Looks like the Taranis telemetry receiver can interface with a MAV board for all of the telemetry stuff on the radio and OSD ..... My next project will be a fully functioning MAV enhanced hexocopter ..... Full autonomy :cheers: But for now I just need to get the gimbal and 350 QX working with my new radio once it turns up ;D

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 06, 2014, 08:59:16 PM
I ordered some Hobbyking stuff last Thursday got it tonight by DHL... M
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 06, 2014, 09:26:21 PM
Not as long as I thought then .... Thanks

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 07, 2014, 06:44:24 AM
Looks like the Taranis telemetry receiver can interface with a MAV board for all of the telemetry stuff on the radio and OSD
If you need any help with the setup of the OSD board, shoot me or CBRK a message. I'm sure he would be willing to help as well. May save you blowing up a board or two. They are very temperamental.
My last one worked first attempt and even though it is wired up to my camera and video transmitter exactly the same as the first one, and the same board, the second board wouldn't allow the video to work with the ground wire connected to the video in pins, I had to disconnect the ground for it to work. They say they are all the same, but there appears to be subtle differences, which can make setting them up very frustrating.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 07, 2014, 09:50:37 AM
Thanks Marschy will keep it in mind :cup:

Anyone ordered stuff from BoltRC.com ?

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 10, 2014, 02:57:00 PM
Was trying to wire up OSD and transmitter etc this arvo and let the smoke out ... apparently my 12 volt camera was actually 5 volt !!  THATS IT !!! No more wasting money -
LOS for me !! LOL ...
Next bird will be a Naza M plug and play job !! ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 10, 2014, 03:03:56 PM
Bugger. I know how you feel. My fried components list is getting longer all the time.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Markoutback on October 10, 2014, 08:13:35 PM
Hi all have just purchased my first quad a Phantom 2 with FPV looking forward to flying it this weekend. Will keep you posted
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 10, 2014, 08:30:30 PM
Cool, this aerial photography gig is getting very popular.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 10, 2014, 08:39:55 PM
I did some mods to my F450 this week.
I have removed the second battery that powered the Gimbal and have replaces it with a 12v ubec.
It is now under 2kg by about 5g.
I will have to do some more tests with flight times as the VTx is also on the main battery.
If I can still get about 9 min I will be happy.
I also replaced the standard GPS mast with a folding one so the quad should fit in the car better.
I think I will remove another part which is doubling up on anti vibration for the camera as the dampeners are all failing but my gimbal has anti vibration built in.
Have to suck it and see.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 12, 2014, 12:26:44 AM
something I found on a hobby shop site
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpa1/t31.0-8/1519407_753121264776271_3984517751392801460_o.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 16, 2014, 11:58:22 AM
Well I've taken the plunge as well and ordered a heap of gear to scratch build a tricopter. I'm going to build the tricopter v3 from David Windeståls site rcexplorer.com using pretty much his exact parts list. Being a novice I'm trying to stick with something reasonably simple so it will just be the basic tricopter with no cameras/fpv gear...... yet!

I pulled the trigger on a couple of orders from Hobbyking last night - the main order is from the Australian warehouse but I've had to order the radio gear from China. I went with a Turnigy 9xr and OrangeRx Tx module and receiver. Hopefully the radio will be ok for a beginner and still allow me to grow into it.

The radio gear from China is on back order and the frame is coming from Sweden and is also on back order for another 2 or 3 weeks so I'll be at the door waiting for the delivery man every day for a while.

Can't wait!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 16, 2014, 12:13:31 PM
Cool Spartan,

What flight control board are you going to fly with?

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 16, 2014, 08:39:11 PM
The 3DRobitics guys have been busy again.

http://youtu.be/_yOCTgVqmeQ (http://youtu.be/_yOCTgVqmeQ)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Markoutback on October 18, 2014, 08:32:46 PM
Been out flying my Phantom taking off from the deck and flying down to check on the cows has been great seeing it all in real time back to screen mounted on controller.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 19, 2014, 12:51:13 PM
What screen are you using.
I am considering the boscam one.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 19, 2014, 04:00:24 PM
What screen are you using.
I am considering the boscam one.
Regards
Crispy

Be careful with which screen with built in receiver you buy. The Boscam doesn't always have the same channels as the fatshark/immersionRC transmitters for VTx.

Have a look at the new Quanum 7 inch monitor at Hobbyking. You can connect a DVR to record your FPV camera from the ground without having to modify it, and has 32 channels dual diversity in-built receiver, so no matter what transmitter you get in the future, your receiver will work.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__64660__Quanum_7inch_Auto_Scan_32CH_5_8GHz_Diversity_Monitor_With_Built_In_Battery.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__64660__Quanum_7inch_Auto_Scan_32CH_5_8GHz_Diversity_Monitor_With_Built_In_Battery.html)

Bit better than the one I bought.  I had to modify mine to connect a DVR but it at least has 32 channels.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-Arriving-5-8ghz-32channels-LCD-wireless-receiver-7-inch-quadcopter-fpv-monitor/1730659499.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-Arriving-5-8ghz-32channels-LCD-wireless-receiver-7-inch-quadcopter-fpv-monitor/1730659499.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 19, 2014, 07:43:37 PM
Be careful with which screen with built in receiver you buy. The Boscam doesn't always have the same channels as the fatshark/immersionRC transmitters for VTx.

Have a look at the new Quanum 7 inch monitor at Hobbyking. You can connect a DVR to record your FPV camera from the ground without having to modify it, and has 32 channels dual diversity in-built receiver, so no matter what transmitter you get in the future, your receiver will work.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__64660__Quanum_7inch_Auto_Scan_32CH_5_8GHz_Diversity_Monitor_With_Built_In_Battery.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__64660__Quanum_7inch_Auto_Scan_32CH_5_8GHz_Diversity_Monitor_With_Built_In_Battery.html)

Bit better than the one I bought.  I had to modify mine to connect a DVR but it at least has 32 channels.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-Arriving-5-8ghz-32channels-LCD-wireless-receiver-7-inch-quadcopter-fpv-monitor/1730659499.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/New-Arriving-5-8ghz-32channels-LCD-wireless-receiver-7-inch-quadcopter-fpv-monitor/1730659499.html)


Hi Marschy and Crisp Image,

I looked into this when I was getting my screen.  I use a 7inch RC800 DVR screen so that I can capture screen data.  It runs off a 1.5c 3s tx lipo and seems to go for around an hour so off the battery which is good.

It's okay as long as you get a full 32 channel receiver, the issue is when you get an 8 channel receiver it may not cover the 8 channels that FatShark use.  They break it up into 4 frames of 8 channels, the Fatshark and the Boscam (or skyzone as I'm seeing everything as now) use different frames.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 19, 2014, 07:51:15 PM
Hi guys,

I'm back!!!

I was busy getting ready for Fraser, then I was away for 2 weeks on Fraser (did over 1000km) and then stayed up in Queensland for a few more and then when I got back it has been hectic (between work, family, SES and being sick I've had no spare time).

I finally got my tricopter up and flying today on the APM board.  No fly away this time, very nice board and I put in loiter mode and it just worked nicely.  Stabilise had some drift but it was a little windy where I was.  I'm uploading some video footage to youtube, it's not very good but I wasnt strapping my $500 gopro to something that was going to fly away....

I also now make sure I do a read WP from the APM before flying, it apparently updates the home location, so this happens everytime now.

Now to play with the setting to get a more fluid feel, it was a bit too jerky.  I'll try the simple settings first and then move into the Advanced PID settings if needed (hoping not).

Now I trust it again, I'll strap the cheap action cam back on and put the non recording FPV camera on (much better quality).

I also picked up a bixler 2 which I've assembled and waiting to maiden (with an APM 2.6 board in it).  Also have FPV gear on it and telemetry (I pickup a 2nd set for this - I hate having to swap stuff around).  I think I need a bigger area to test it out, thinking I should have gone smaller.....

I'll post an message when my upload to youtube finishes.

Hi Marshy,

How'd you go with the sonar?  I'm almost ready to order and thought I'd see how you went first :-)

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 19, 2014, 08:31:18 PM
Gday Chris,

Looking forward to seeing some of your video.

Haven't done much of late. I broke the under carriage when I came into to land too hard with both quads on the October long weekend, I have been waiting for parts since for my quad that's setup for aerial photography, which is also the one with the sonar on it. So nothing of note to report here yet.

I've got my second quad going again, but I've been slack this weekend. I ended up tidying up my computer/work room where I put them all together, as the missus was getting a bit sick of it looking too much like a workshop and not so much a computer room.

Interested in the 'read WP' you refer to you, so much to learn with the APM.

I still have my Tek Sumo flying wing I am yet to maiden. I've got a head strap for my AEE Magicam now, so hoping to do this shortly as well and get some footage.

On another note, I've put in my Xmas order in for all the bits and pieces I need to put my Alien 560 into operation with the DJI Naza M V2 flight controller. It's going to be a fun time this Xmas, not so sure the missus is going to be happy though. The October long weekend she banged on at me to do something with her rather than the quads, so I will have to be careful to keep her happy as well.

I know what Crispy meant now when he said they attract an audience. A bloke at Port Hughes came wandering over as soon as I started flying my quad. He crashed his Walkera 350 the day before I arrived when the battery died at about 70 feet high and it fell on the road (ouch). When I broke the undercarriage he wandered off and returned with his quad and showed me the damage to his quad. He commented that he was going to look into a quad that was less expensive to repair, something along the lines of the F450. That was my thinking right from the word go. It is proving to be less expensive to repair, but you still have to wait for parts to arrive if you are doing it on the cheap from China.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 20, 2014, 07:24:36 AM
The boscam screen I am looking at has a 32ch receiver and covers the immersion frequencies that I use.  It also gets a good rap and has a built in battery.  Not sure about the quantum.  I need to look into it a bit further.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 20, 2014, 07:36:40 AM
Hello Crispy,

Then perhaps the only thing to consider is, but only if required, how easy is it to hook up a DVR?

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 20, 2014, 01:34:33 PM
Hi Crisp ... went through the same when I was choosing my screen. Got the same screen with no RX for less than $40 and put a 200w RX on it for $20. Not as neat but upgradable ect. Now to fine tune my gimbal.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on October 20, 2014, 09:00:55 PM
New toy arrived today :-)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/20/02d6100baa3bea2c7fee5015cde16da2.jpg)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Nomad on October 20, 2014, 09:05:04 PM
Quick question to everyone here.......

What is the cheapest flying thing I can get my hands on that will work to chase off a Common Koel.......

Just so you no what I am talking about have a listen...........

A Common Koel and Its Annoying Bird Call / Sound - A Black Bird with Distinctive Red Eyes (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoBlkaGJk4s#ws)

I have thought about an air rifle and slingshot but theres to many branches and houses around so figure a noisy helicopter or something might do the trick.

Thoughts......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 20, 2014, 09:31:12 PM
A cardboard cutout of a Falcon from a pest remover would do the trick - just place it up on a branch near where the koel "sings".. Mandrake 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Nomad on October 21, 2014, 06:39:04 AM
A cardboard cutout of a Falcon from a pest remover would do the trick - just place it up on a branch near where the koel "sings".. Mandrake


Yep tired that, even downloaded some falcon calls and played them through the stereo......worked for about 2 days. Its time to get aggresive unfortunately.

This things starts at 3.30am.....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 21, 2014, 06:49:23 AM
New toy arrived today :-)
Same as mine
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 21, 2014, 05:35:40 PM
Well I pitched the boscam today.  Now have to wait for the post to arrive.  When I get it I'll post my thoughts.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 21, 2014, 05:40:29 PM
The quanum is pretty similar by the look of it. So the boscam will be just as good I reckon. Pretty good features on both. Are you not happy with your goggles Crispy?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 21, 2014, 05:50:34 PM
Goggles are illegal aren't they unless you have a watcher ??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 21, 2014, 05:57:13 PM
Yep, law says you've got to have line of sight
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 21, 2014, 06:19:10 PM
Goggles are good but to play the correct way we should be Los. Now even using a screen is not playing right but when I get to the limit of my vision I can't tell which way the quad is pointing so a quick reference to the screen will let me know how to bring it home again. It will also include the osd information so I don't have to keep asking how much battery I have used. It will also make it easier to show the crowd that will show up what we are looking at.
Always looking at improving the way I do stuff.
Work is looking at using quads for a bit of thermal imaging subject to the laws of course.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 21, 2014, 07:03:57 PM
Which of the two OSDs are you going to get Crispy? iOSD mini or the full blown iOSD. Haven't used my iOSD mini yet, so I can't comment on it yet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on October 21, 2014, 09:38:24 PM
Yeah I am looking for a super light cheap and basic OSD for my mini quad racer
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 22, 2014, 05:37:35 AM
I bought Remzibi .. Still waiting for monitor to hook it all up.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 22, 2014, 06:32:08 AM
Yeah I am looking for a super light cheap and basic OSD for my mini quad racer

Hello Hogbert,

There is apparently different firmware for the MinimOSD that can run on the Naze 32. This could be an option. Found this on FPVtalk forum.

http://www.fpvtalk.com/community/threads/naze32-by-timecop.57/page-3 (http://www.fpvtalk.com/community/threads/naze32-by-timecop.57/page-3)

If you go down this route, make sure you buy a MinimOSD with the pins broken out like this. (notice the row of solder pads under the Atmel chip.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/On-Screen-Display-OSD-Board-MinimOSD-APM-Telemetry-to-APM-1-and-APM-2-5-2/2030314952.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/On-Screen-Display-OSD-Board-MinimOSD-APM-Telemetry-to-APM-1-and-APM-2-5-2/2030314952.html)

Not like this. These boards require excellent soldering skills to solder connections directly to the Atmel chip and are a PITA when you get it wrong and leave you with basically no option other than throw it in the bin.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/CRIUS-MAVLink-OSD-Compatible-With-Original-MinimOSD-ATMEGA328P-Microcontroller-For-RC-FPV-Flight-Control-Part/1931192828.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/CRIUS-MAVLink-OSD-Compatible-With-Original-MinimOSD-ATMEGA328P-Microcontroller-For-RC-FPV-Flight-Control-Part/1931192828.html)

Hello Mandrake, the Ramzibi gets good reviews, it's fun putting all this stuff together, I love it.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 22, 2014, 06:58:08 AM
Not sure about the Remzibi yet .. There's a lot of talk about setting it up software-wise that may prove too difficult ! LOL . I'm kinda hoping it will work as soon as fired up ..

I'll know later this week maybe as I am waiting on a new 12 volt ( really really 12V not 5V in disguise ) camera and a small monitor .. Lots of smoke goes out of 5V camera

when 12V is applied !! LOL .. Great hobby but ... Just wish this wind would stop ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 22, 2014, 08:45:43 AM
I use the Immersion osd which plugs in line with the battery and the to the vtx. No set up really required just plug and play. It has its own gps to show you which way is home and how far it is. It also gives a height relative to where you take off from.
A search on youtube will show how it works.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 22, 2014, 09:45:25 AM
Yeah I am looking for a super light cheap and basic OSD for my mini quad racer
Hello Hogbert,
What racing quad are you flying?
Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on October 22, 2014, 04:26:55 PM
Many thanks for the osd info :-)

I am Running the mini h blackout


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 22, 2014, 04:53:10 PM
Another question for you Hogbert.

With the Naze32, are you running the native firmware or MultiWii and do you have it setup with GPS or not?

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on October 22, 2014, 09:39:16 PM
Hey Marschy,

I am running whatever Baseflight uses as that what I programmed it with.  No GPS on Naze for Racer did not see the need.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 23, 2014, 07:31:57 PM
Look what I found. A sonar for the APM for about $15.00 US.

http://www.thanksbuyer.com/cjmcu-891-ultrasonic-module-testing-distance-module-range-finder-for-apm2-5-apm2-52-apm2-6-flight-controller-27600 (http://www.thanksbuyer.com/cjmcu-891-ultrasonic-module-testing-distance-module-range-finder-for-apm2-5-apm2-52-apm2-6-flight-controller-27600)

This is the same sonar that works on the Multiwii that I got working, but the firmware for Multiwii APM 3.1 doesn't support sonar. This one has an additional board added to a standard HC-SR04 ultrasonic module.

Look at the back of the sonar from this picture on Goodluckbuy. Apparently made for the APM. Hmmmmm, maybe worth a go for the price.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/cjmcu-89-apm2-ultrasonic-module-plug-and-play.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/cjmcu-89-apm2-ultrasonic-module-plug-and-play.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 23, 2014, 08:49:56 PM
Received my very cheap 5" monitor today ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/311012571268?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/311012571268?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
Now all I need is the camera to turn up and I can start testing again - Hopefully without blowing smoke !! LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 01:06:37 PM
Hi,

Here is a quick test flight I did last weekend, battery was running low at this point.  This is the video capture from the ground with OSD output.  I think I need to adjust the focus, it seems way out from previous flights....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjbbrsA3kXc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjbbrsA3kXc)

The inflight mircoSD card didnt capture all my flight for some reason, sigh.....

I plan to take her up to 30-50m over the weekend and test out some auto missions, just have to switch out this camera and put on the other two (FPV and Go Pro clone), so I get better footage.   I'll also give the autotune a go, so I'll let you know how that pans out......

Fingers crossed the weather holds out....

I finally weighed my Tricopter, with no battery (but everything else) it came to exactly 1kg, so with battery (3s 2200mah) it will be about 1.2kg and if I put on the other camera on I should still be well under 1.5kg, very happy with that.  I was getting flight times of around 12-15 mins on the KK2 board which was even lighter, so I'm hoping I can get 12 mins of actual flight time out of this config.

I'm starting to trust it again, once I'm really happy with it I'll strap the go pro on it

Hi Marschy,

I just ordered one of those sonar's so I'll test it out, now the wait for it to arrive.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 01:12:14 PM
Received my very cheap 5" monitor today ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/311012571268?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/311012571268?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
Now all I need is the camera to turn up and I can start testing again - Hopefully without blowing smoke !! LOL


That is cheap.  I know the feeling I've burnt quite a few items, but the good news is I'm letting less of that magic smoke out of things these days :-)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 24, 2014, 01:40:26 PM
Fantastic Chris,

How accurate are you finding the OSD battery monitor? When I connect the battery to my quad, at first it seems reasonably accurate, then when I arm it and get off the ground, it jumps up to 40+ volts! Not sure what's going on there.

Great find for the sonar hey? If it works that is. I am going to order one as well. For under $20 bucks delivered worth a shot.

Have a look see at this as well, an optical flow for under $30 bucks. There is a good article on the Arducopter web site about how to install it. Good for holding horizontal position in loiter mode.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/cjmcu-110-optical-flow-sensor-for-apm2-52-apm2-6-flight-controller.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/cjmcu-110-optical-flow-sensor-for-apm2-52-apm2-6-flight-controller.html)

I don't know what the CJMCU stands for but there seems to be a number of products prefixed with CJMCU that are all Arduino products, some for the APM, some not.

Cheers, Marschy

Edit: CJMCU is a Chinese company. Obviously one that makes quadcopter and arduino products.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 24, 2014, 01:54:40 PM
I'll also give the autotune a go, so I'll let you know how that pans out......
Hello Chris,
I've got mine setup for Trim save, but it's not working as well as I was hoping. But then I really do need to trim my quad on a nice still morning with bugger all or no wind. Definitely let me know how you get on with autotune.

Was your flight in stabilize mode only? If it was, then looking at the shadow of your tri-copter on the ground, it was holding its position bloody nicely.

Just something else I found as well, set the stall speed to zero on the OSD configurator, that disables the STALL warning that I noticed you had coming up on your OSD.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 24, 2014, 02:03:26 PM
Cool Spartan,

What flight control board are you going to fly with?

Cheers, Marschy

Hey Marschy,

I went with the standard KK2.1.5 board not the mini one. There seems to be heaps of info and videos on youtube etc so I should be able to figure out setting it up and tuning it.

The HK order from Australia was waiting for me yesterday when I got home from work (I work away a week at a time) along with my new soldering station so I've already started changing battery plugs and doing a few little jobs like that while I wait for the rest of the gear to turn up.

The HK order from China says it's shipped  which I'm glad about as I was a bit worried about how long the backorders might take to turn up.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 24, 2014, 02:12:13 PM
Received my very cheap 5" monitor today ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/311012571268?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/311012571268?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
Now all I need is the camera to turn up and I can start testing again - Hopefully without blowing smoke !! LOL

I watched a video on Flitetest where they recommend 5 volt cameras because they reckon that once the 11.1 lipo starts running low, the 12 volt cameras can play up. But I guess you have to weigh that up with possibly hooking your 5 volt camera up directly to a 11.1 volt lipo and getting smoke. I've done this with a receiver, but not a camera yet, touch wood.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 24, 2014, 02:22:07 PM
Hey Marschy,

I went with the standard KK2.1.5 board not the mini one. There seems to be heaps of info and videos on youtube etc so I should be able to figure out setting it up and tuning it.

The HK order from Australia was waiting for me yesterday when I got home from work (I work away a week at a time) along with my new soldering station so I've already started changing battery plugs and doing a few little jobs like that while I wait for the rest of the gear to turn up.

The HK order from China says it's shipped  which I'm glad about as I was a bit worried about how long the backorders might take to turn up.
G'day Spartan,

My replacement undercarriage turned up yesterday from HK Australia as well, I paid the cheapest postage, so I was actually surprised it arrived so quickly, about a week and a half. I'm yet to have one problem with Hobbyking postage after 25+ orders. Whereas Goodluckbuy sent me one less undercarriage leg instead of 4, diddled me on postage, which to their credit they refunded. I don't order directly from them on their website now. I only order from Goodluckbuy via Aliexpress as Aliexpress seems to be pretty strict with their buyer protection policy. If the seller stuffs up, you get a refund and if they send the wrong item, you don't have to return it to get a refund.

Read Crispy's comment to me really early in this thread, I am going to echo what he said. Once you start on the KK it won't be long before you start looking at a flight controller that supports GPS.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 05:17:43 PM
Read Crispy's comment to me really early in this thread, I am going to echo what he said. Once you start on the KK it won't be long before you start looking at a flight controller that supports GPS.

Hi Spartan,

I agree with Marschy, I had my KK2 board for about 2-3 months before I switched over to the APM board.  I give you a few months before you want to switch.

I'm thinking of building a small quad with my old kk2 board, its a good board for learning on too - it was very plug and play.  APM took a bit more to get right.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 05:19:06 PM
I watched a video on Flitetest where they recommend 5 volt cameras because they reckon that once the 11.1 lipo starts running low, the 12 volt cameras can play up. But I guess you have to weigh that up with possibly hooking your 5 volt camera up directly to a 11.1 volt lipo and getting smoke. I've done this with a receiver, but not a camera yet, touch wood.

Must be the cameras they've tested....  I've found that most of the 12V cameras are 7V - 15V, so it should work even at 7V, in theory.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 05:34:33 PM
Fantastic Chris,

How accurate are you finding the OSD battery monitor? When I connect the battery to my quad, at first it seems reasonably accurate, then when I arm it and get off the ground, it jumps up to 40+ volts! Not sure what's going on there.

Great find for the sonar hey? If it works that is. I am going to order one as well. For under $20 bucks delivered worth a shot.

Have a look see at this as well, an optical flow for under $30 bucks. There is a good article on the Arducopter web site about how to install it. Good for holding horizontal position in loiter mode.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/cjmcu-110-optical-flow-sensor-for-apm2-52-apm2-6-flight-controller.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/cjmcu-110-optical-flow-sensor-for-apm2-52-apm2-6-flight-controller.html)

I don't know what the CJMCU stands for but there seems to be a number of products prefixed with CJMCU that are all Arduino products, some for the APM, some not.

Cheers, Marschy

Edit: CJMCU is a Chinese company. Obviously one that makes quadcopter and arduino products.


Hi Marschy,

The battery readings are pretty good, the voltage reading drops a bit as the amps go up as expected.  No jumps for me, I'd recommend checking the power module setup?  There seems to be a few settings for it, but it seems to be an auto detect thing.  Hate to say it but it might be a dodgy power module.  Do you have a spare to try?  I'm kind of happy I bought the bixler 2 and put an APM in it, I now have spares to test with!  Have you had a look at the dataflash logs or telemetry logs, wondering what they report?  If you can tie it a consistent action I'd raise it on diydrones and see if one of the devs can have a look.

I've been looking at the optical flow technology, I'm thinking in a years time it will be a must have item.  In the past 2 years it has jumped along in leaps and bounds.   I'll wait to see how the sonar sensor goes first.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 05:54:16 PM
Hello Chris,
I've got mine setup for Trim save, but it's not working as well as I was hoping. But then I really do need to trim my quad on a nice still morning with bugger all or no wind. Definitely let me know how you get on with autotune.

Was your flight in stabilize mode only? If it was, then looking at the shadow of your tri-copter on the ground, it was holding its position bloody nicely.

Just something else I found as well, set the stall speed to zero on the OSD configurator, that disables the STALL warning that I noticed you had coming up on your OSD.

Cheers, Marschy

Hi,

I was in loiter mode, so I'm pretty happy it just stayed in place.  It's a good bit of kit.  In stabilise mode it had a bit of drift, slightly backwards, so I'll redo the accel calibration.  I'm going to reflash my OSD as the mode doesnt appear to work.....  Thinking of loading MinimOSD-extra so that I can see the amps used, I dont like the % thing....  I use both 2200mah and 5000mah batteries.  Means updating the board each time I change battery sizes....

I havent needed to trim it at all, although I could counter the slight drift rearwards if I did, but I figure it would be better to fix the problem first :-)

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 24, 2014, 08:24:58 PM
Just ordered one of those sonars, and an optical flow sensor. Snail mail. Thought to myself, it's getting closer to Xmas everyday. Better do it now, or it may not get here before my time off at Xmas.

It will be interesting to see if the sonar needs a filter like the LV-EZ4.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 24, 2014, 09:51:10 PM
Hi Spartan,

I agree with Marschy, I had my KK2 board for about 2-3 months before I switched over to the APM board.  I give you a few months before you want to switch.

I'm thinking of building a small quad with my old kk2 board, its a good board for learning on too - it was very plug and play.  APM took a bit more to get right.

Regards,

Chris

Thanks for the advice guys.

I went with the KK for a few reasons I guess - it's cheap, there's plenty of info on the internet about them and I figured it would be a good board to learn with. I think if I had the security of GPS I would be too likely to flick it into altitude hold mode and cruise around or something relying on the board to do the hard work for me - rather than actually learning how to fly properly.

There's so many options out there that it's too overwhelming. I think if I can build this tri and get it flying then I'll be doing pretty well!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 24, 2014, 10:39:15 PM
Thanks for the advice guys.

I went with the KK for a few reasons I guess - it's cheap, there's plenty of info on the internet about them and I figured it would be a good board to learn with. I think if I had the security of GPS I would be too likely to flick it into altitude hold mode and cruise around or something relying on the board to do the hard work for me - rather than actually learning how to fly properly.

There's so many options out there that it's too overwhelming. I think if I can build this tri and get it flying then I'll be doing pretty well!

Hi Spartan,

I had the same thoughts too when I started, I started with the KK2 board and it does a good job particularly at the price.  I agree its a great board to learn on and if you feel you want more (which I reckon you will) you can upgrade the flight control board.  My tricopter is the same as when I had the KK2 board, I just swapped out the KK2 for the APM and made a easy removable tray so I can swap back to it if I want a 'fun fly'.

My tri is based upon the V2.5 version, I use wood for landing gear and I have broken more than one or two with some hard landings - well mostly it's been the cable ties.  Luckily the hard landings seem to be behind me now.

You'll do fine assembling the tricopter.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 25, 2014, 01:25:06 PM
My local Auspost contractor works on Saturdays, gotta love him. He delivered a bag of goodies from AliExpress/Goodluckbuy this morning. I now have most of the bits and pieces to finish off my Alien 560 quadcopter. I still have to get a 12 volt BEC to run the camera and gimbal.

Part of the shipment was spare parts, new arms for the F450, spare landing gear, and some new Tarot motor mounts for the Alien 560 where the plate for the motor is mounted on rubber grommets which provides some vibration isolation between the motors and the frame. They add 40mm in length each arm, so the wheel base for the quad will be 640mm rather than 560mm.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49326-1/Tarot+Motor+Mount.JPG)

I'm going to run this quad on Turnigy NTM Propdrive 2830 800kv motors for now. They can run at 4S with a 12 inch prop, but in line with my wish to make this into a very nice quad, I'm going to look at some of the new Multistar Elite 4006-740KV in the new year, then the NTM's will become spares for my 2 F450's. This rig is going to be 4S from the start. I'll post up some pictures as I progress with the build.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 25, 2014, 01:30:16 PM
I don't know if its been mentioned anywhere in the last 10941203948 posts, but is there an out of the box one you can buy and fly without having to rebuild it and upgrade it everytime you use it? as that doesn't appeal to me at all.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 25, 2014, 01:37:22 PM
Phantom 2 or Walkera QR350
http://www.hobbywow.com/en-dji-phantom-2-gps-smart-drone-quadcopter-with-h3-3d-camera-gimbal-rtf-2-4ghz-p237025.htm (http://www.hobbywow.com/en-dji-phantom-2-gps-smart-drone-quadcopter-with-h3-3d-camera-gimbal-rtf-2-4ghz-p237025.htm)
http://www.hobbywow.com/en-walkera-qr-x350-with-fpv-f7-quadcopter-rtf-combo-gopro-camera-mount-ptz-shock-absorbers-p236144.htm?source=ProductListAds&id=56128534817&currency=aud&country=AU&gclid=Cj0KEQjw8aeiBRCknPXk-u_V_4gBEiQAD2-mgcHFGz9CqXE6BL-3Tq_wTSrAo_82dbvxOo9bXBXPUjkaAkAo8P8HAQ (http://www.hobbywow.com/en-walkera-qr-x350-with-fpv-f7-quadcopter-rtf-combo-gopro-camera-mount-ptz-shock-absorbers-p236144.htm?source=ProductListAds&id=56128534817&currency=aud&country=AU&gclid=Cj0KEQjw8aeiBRCknPXk-u_V_4gBEiQAD2-mgcHFGz9CqXE6BL-3Tq_wTSrAo_82dbvxOo9bXBXPUjkaAkAo8P8HAQ)
Then all you need is a GoPro style camera !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on October 25, 2014, 01:42:20 PM
Theres plenty Bird ... $$ range from $300 ish to several thousands $$ .. just depends on what the wallet limit is..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 25, 2014, 01:43:22 PM
Phantom 2 or Walkera QR350
Then all you need is a GoPro style camera !!
Is that price correct, or did they use their phone number by accident...
(http://www.birdmansworld.com/dog2.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 25, 2014, 02:52:48 PM
Being such a nice day and the cook is in the kitchen......cooking and master CI is out the back mowing the lawns I said to my self "self it is time to play" so off t my shed with the trusty scratch built quad with the KK2.1 FC and fitted u the spare camera and VTx. Charged the batteries and had a play. Now I have no way to video the output from this camera.
I did have to ditch it in the neighbours yard when I could not quite get the control correct. I jumped the fence and got it back.
What I have had problems with is the stability. I am using Stevis 1.5 beginner FW and in Self level mode when ever I do a movement I have to compensate other movements as well. Like when I go forward the quad will not go straight forward but on a diagonal. And when I start from a hover and yaw the quad moves forward instead of just rotating. No I do expect a little drift but I feel this is too much.
Does any one have a solution for this without replacing the FC with another?
I also gave it a quick spray paint so I could see the front from the rear. Something I have been lacking in from when I built it.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 25, 2014, 04:03:28 PM
G'day Crispy, upgrade the firmware to 1.6.

1.5 had issues, mainly with tri-copters I believe, but it wouldn't hurt to use some of the later firmware. Latest FW is about 1.12 now I think from memory.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 25, 2014, 04:10:26 PM
Is that price correct, or did they use their phone number by accident...
(http://www.birdmansworld.com/dog2.jpg)

This one is exceptional value, as you get a radio with it.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55106__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_Mode_2_Ready_to_Fly_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55106__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_Mode_2_Ready_to_Fly_.html)

Have a look at these quads at Hobbyking, lots to choose from for varying budgets.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__592__501__Multi_Rotors_Parts-RTF_PNF_ARF.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__592__501__Multi_Rotors_Parts-RTF_PNF_ARF.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Markoutback on October 26, 2014, 08:34:30 PM
Went flying my quad tonight decide to chase a heard of kangaroos off the padock worked a treat until I hit the fence oh well off tomorrow to buy spares to fix gimble mount
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 26, 2014, 08:37:51 PM
Went flying my quad tonight decide to chase a heard of kangaroos off the padock worked a treat until I hit the fence oh well off tomorrow to buy spares to fix gimble mount
Repairing my quad as we speak, just got some new arms. Used the wrong loctite, red instead of blue. What a PITA.

Did you get it on video?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Tim - Stratford on October 26, 2014, 10:24:10 PM
Saw an add for this one, Iris 3d - it has a 'follow me' feature which is very impressive.

http://www.gizmag.com/3d-robotics-iris-plus-follow-me-drone/33747/ (http://www.gizmag.com/3d-robotics-iris-plus-follow-me-drone/33747/)


Tim
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 27, 2014, 12:02:16 AM
Hi,

Well the 3rd test flight happened today, good weather although by the time I was ready I had a bit of a wind.

Got 30 mins of flying into today.  According to APM's logs I got it to 25m high, still not as high as I've had it on the kk2 board and could have happily gone much higher but I was still primarily using LOS.

My first take off was aborted as I had changed the battery tray to a thinner but longer one and I had mounted the cheap action cam, well the weight was too far forward, so I detached it to make it easier.  Once it was off the CG was much better and it took off without major issues.  The new tray does add alot of wobble to the camera footage, so I'll need to rethink it.

I tested out the auto tune option, I was using my notebook and couldnt see the telemetry data (my wife who was sitting next to it was busy with my daugther) and I didn't see any movement like I'd expect and so I cancelled it after 20-30 seconds.  On review of the log I noticed it had entered the mode, I just needed to leave it longer.  My advice is using the APM autotune feature give it time.

I'll try it again tomorrow before work if I get enough time.

I also did a bit of alt hold and loitering.  With Alt hold I was very confident to throw the tri around and it worked really well, got it upto around 25km/h before I had to turn to avoid people, sigh.....  Coordinated turns were easy at speed with alt hold.

I did learn an a good lesson and that was when coming off alt hold to stabilise remember to check your throttle (or only change when it's stable and not moving or changing alt), mine was down to 20% as I was descending when I came off alt hold and into stabilise, all I can say is I was lucky it was at 6m when it happened, any less and I reckon I would have hit the ground (missed it by 30cm at most).

I tried RTL as I got a low battery warning and all seemed good, it climbed up to 15m and moved to the right spot and then it started to descend.  I thought it was descending really slowly (I had forgotten to I had set the descent rate to 30cm/s as I thought the default would be too fast), well at 1m off the ground my rear motor experienced an outage and it tail speared into the ground.  Only damage was the GPS mount, needed a fix at home so my day was over.....

I have some footage which I'll upload to my youtube channel during the week.

Still to update my minimOSD, not seeing which mode I'm in is annoying.  I have to use the telemetry feed to know for sure.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 27, 2014, 01:28:17 AM
Just a quick question.

How much heat can the components in an ESC take? I've been extending wires in the Afro ESCs that I ordered and my soldering skills leave a bit to be desired so I'm worried that I might overheat something.

I've mainly had trouble desoldering and resoldering the servo leads. I'm not so worried about the power leads and motor leads as the pads are a bit further away from the other components on the board.

I didn't order any extra ESCs when I ordered the parts to build my tri - should I have?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 27, 2014, 07:22:42 AM
Hello Spartan,

What you need is an iron that will heat up the solder joint on the 14 AWG wire quickly, otherwise just slowly heating the joint transfers a lot of heat to the surrounding components and the 14 AWG wire acts like a heatsink.

I use a 80 watt iron for this. It's hotter than my soldering station. You can get them rather cheaply from Jaycar ($22).

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 27, 2014, 10:07:24 AM
Just a quick question.

How much heat can the components in an ESC take? I've been extending wires in the Afro ESCs that I ordered and my soldering skills leave a bit to be desired so I'm worried that I might overheat something.

I've mainly had trouble desoldering and resoldering the servo leads. I'm not so worried about the power leads and motor leads as the pads are a bit further away from the other components on the board.

I didn't order any extra ESCs when I ordered the parts to build my tri - should I have?

Hi Spartan,

I agree with Marschy, a quick solder will reduce the risk to the components.  Just be careful though you need both the surfaces to be up to temp otherwise you'll end up with dry joint.  It's a balancing act.

I use a soldering station and turn it up a bit higher than what I normally solder with.

Just a question are you using lead free solder?  If so then swap back to lead solder.  Lead free solder needs much higher temps to work with and I hate the stuff.

My recommendation is that you always buy at least 1 spare, so if you need 3 ESC's get 4 as you never know when one will die on you.  On motors I have a full set of replacement motors (in hindsight just 1 spare will be fine).  Oh and if you havent already get at a dozen spare props.  Although now I'm on the cheap plastic ones (i was using carbon fibre mixed ones), I've only broken 1 or 2 since I switched back to the plastic ones.

Get a few spare tail servo's if you haven't already, I killed one in a hard landing in the early days.  I'm still on my 2nd but I have 2 spares.  Use metal geared ones if you can as the plastic ones die quicker.

Regards,

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 27, 2014, 07:38:32 PM
Thanks for the feedback guys.

I had a 70 or 80 watt iron which was good for doing automotive stuff but it was one of those cheap ones and the tip crapped out on it really fast. I just bought a soldering station from Dick Smith in the hope that it would be better for this sort of thing and last a bit longer - it's this one: http://www.dicksmith.com.au/tools-hobbyist/temperature-controlled-soldering-station-dsau-t2200 (http://www.dicksmith.com.au/tools-hobbyist/temperature-controlled-soldering-station-dsau-t2200)
 Maybe I'll just have to go back to a cheap high powered one for doing occasional heavier stuff.

Using normal old 60/40 solder.

I seem to be having trouble getting both the pad and the wire heated up at the same time when I'm doing the servo wires. If I put the wire on the pad and then the iron on top of that I just end up mashing the wire and it bridges across to the next pad and I have to desolder it, cut it off, retin and start again.

Sounds like I had better order another ESC and motor then. I ordered some spare props but I'll have to go back and see which ones I ordered as I had heaps of trouble finding the right sized props from HK Australia. I only ordered black too and should have gotten coloured ones in hindsight especially considering the whole tri is black! Any recommendations on cheap plastic coloured 9x5 props in Australia or another size that would suit this motor for a 4s setup? http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__25081__NTM_Prop_Drive_Series_28_30S_900kv_270w_short_shaft_version_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__25081__NTM_Prop_Drive_Series_28_30S_900kv_270w_short_shaft_version_.html)

I've got one of the servos recommended on RCexplorer so I'm hoping it's up to the job! I guess I'll order a spare one of those too. http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=46215 (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=46215)

Thanks for your help fellas.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 27, 2014, 07:52:25 PM
Something else I just thought of: Will I need a separate BEC to power the tilt servo or will the built in BECs in the ESCs do the job?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 28, 2014, 01:19:35 AM
Something else I just thought of: Will I need a separate BEC to power the tilt servo or will the built in BECs in the ESCs do the job?

Hi Spartan,

From memory you are using the KK2 FC board, you can use the BEC from the ESC, it is plugged into the KK2 board and this in turn will power the servo.  As long as all three wires are plugged in there should be no issues.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 28, 2014, 01:37:00 AM
Ok cool. I wasn't sure if the BECs would have enough grunt to power a servo - they supply .5amp according to the specs.

From what I understand the M1 plug powers the KK board and it's "separate" from the others.

M2-M8 are linked together so that's where I'll run my tail servo from.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 28, 2014, 06:37:58 AM
Any recommendations on cheap plastic coloured 9x5 props in Australia or another size that would suit this motor for a 4s setup[/url]

Hello Spartan,

I use these.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__25824__10x4_5_SF_Props_Black_CW_2pc_CCW_2pc_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__25824__10x4_5_SF_Props_Black_CW_2pc_CCW_2pc_.html)

Black is out of stock at the moment, but there are heaps of other colours. If you order them from the Australian warehouse you will typically get them in under 2 weeks.

Order heaps, some of the are really badly balanced, others don't track well, but that shouldn't be a big problem while you are learning how to fly the quad as you going to go through quite a few. 10 inch props are a good general purpose prop, but may cause your ESC's to run warm to hot on 4S.

I've got 12 now of the 2830 800kv NTM propdrives. These motors are rated to 6S. One has a bit of a sticky bearing and does not spin up as well as the others. Doing a bit of reading, other people have had similar issues with bearings, but apparently taking them out and giving them a soak in sewing machine oil sorts it out. These motors apparently run fine on 4S with 10 inch props. These motors have HEAPS of power and torque. Don't forget to get the prop adapter kit.

Cheers, Marschy

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 28, 2014, 09:19:38 AM
The battery readings are pretty good, the voltage reading drops a bit as the amps go up as expected.  No jumps for me, I'd recommend checking the power module setup?  There seems to be a few settings for it, but it seems to be an auto detect thing.  Hate to say it but it might be a dodgy power module.  Do you have a spare to try?
I think your right, did a bit of research and it appears as though the cheap power modules can give dodgy voltage readings, and can blow up flight control boards. Time to invest in a couple of decent modules I think.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 28, 2014, 08:03:33 PM
I think your right, did a bit of research and it appears as though the cheap power modules can give dodgy voltage readings, and can blow up flight control boards. Time to invest in a couple of decent modules I think.

Hmmm best to replace it I reckon....  Killing an APM is expensive, touch wood I've not done that, a $20 MinimOSD is okay but a $75 board hits the pocket.

Grrrr, couldnt get to the oval on Monday morning and then Monday a windstorm hits and then I'm out chainsawing till 2am in the morning.  That scratched Tuesday morning, so now I'm trying for Wednesday morning.

I reviewed my video from the go pro which was on a tripod and it got the tail motor stopping.  I thought I was around 2m when it happened.  Nope was closer to 6m from the video.  I was lucky to get away with just the GPS mast connection breaking.  I'll spend some time on the weekend or maybe one night this week to make a couple of clips.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 28, 2014, 10:40:09 PM
The cheap modules have far less components. It's not only the flight control board you have to worry about, it's also the quad as well. If it fails out of the sky, more than just the flight controller will be damaged. This first picture shows the dodgy power module that came with the flight control board I bought, the second shows the good power module which is similar to the Hobbyking modules I have just ordered.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on October 29, 2014, 12:01:51 AM
The postman dropped off the rest of my HK order today - 2 weeks from China is pretty good I think.

I spent half the day mucking around with the radio gear and trying to calibrate ESCs etc but I think I really need to wait until the frame turns up so that the motors are actually bolted down and the wiring has some sort of organization in the chaos.

Bad news is the props I ordered are wrong and the credit card bill also came today - ouch!!

Didn't stop me from firing off another $100 order to HK for more props and other spares tonight but!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 29, 2014, 06:39:45 AM
I just bought one of these - I'll let you know the outcome - Pretty sure this will not happen at this price but its Paypal secure so I thought I would try .. LOL Mandrake
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Walkera-TALI-H500-RTF-FPV-Hexrcopter-G-3D-Gimbal-iLook-Cam-DEVO-F12E-GIFT-/201201591414? (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Walkera-TALI-H500-RTF-FPV-Hexrcopter-G-3D-Gimbal-iLook-Cam-DEVO-F12E-GIFT-/201201591414?)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on October 29, 2014, 07:48:05 AM
I just bought one of these - I'll let you know the outcome - Pretty sure this will not happen at this price but its Paypal secure so I thought I would try .. LOL Mandrake
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Walkera-TALI-H500-RTF-FPV-Hexrcopter-G-3D-Gimbal-iLook-Cam-DEVO-F12E-GIFT-/201201591414? (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Walkera-TALI-H500-RTF-FPV-Hexrcopter-G-3D-Gimbal-iLook-Cam-DEVO-F12E-GIFT-/201201591414?)


I have tried for one as well and my payment is on hold, bet its a return payment for sure

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 29, 2014, 07:51:31 AM
$39 bucks can't be right
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 29, 2014, 08:10:11 AM
I just bought one of these - I'll let you know the outcome - Pretty sure this will not happen at this price but its Paypal secure so I thought I would try .. LOL Mandrake
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Walkera-TALI-H500-RTF-FPV-Hexrcopter-G-3D-Gimbal-iLook-Cam-DEVO-F12E-GIFT-/201201591414? (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Walkera-TALI-H500-RTF-FPV-Hexrcopter-G-3D-Gimbal-iLook-Cam-DEVO-F12E-GIFT-/201201591414?)


LOL, how do you keep finding these????

That is cheap, the batteries and charger alone would come to that price by themselves......  I wonder about the quality of the batteries, I'd expect them to have a short life.

Good luck with the purchase :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 29, 2014, 08:12:35 AM
The cheap modules have far less components. It's not only the flight control board you have to worry about, it's also the quad as well. If it fails out of the sky, more than just the flight controller will be damaged. This first picture shows the dodgy power module that came with the flight control board I bought, the second shows the good power module which is similar to the Hobbyking modules I have just ordered.

Yep, if it goes while you flying at 30+km/h and 20m high, it could go very, very bad.

I'm very happy with both of my HK version of the power module.  They seem to be fairly accurate.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 29, 2014, 08:49:26 AM
Just did it too. Lets see.
Payment is currently unclaimed
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 29, 2014, 09:19:06 AM
Ok now for a roll call.
I have read most of the posts in this thread.  What fc is everyone using. I want to upgrade the kk2.1 but am not sure what to go for. I want something that is not too hard to setup but also I don't want another naza.
Gps capability might be nice.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 29, 2014, 10:32:19 AM
Listing removed.  Going to reverse the payment.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 29, 2014, 10:36:34 AM
Mine says this ---
"We had to remove this listing from the site and you're not required to complete the transaction. If you've already sent payment, the sale should process as normal and you don't have anything to worry about. If you have any questions about delivery, please check tracking or contact your seller. If you run into any trouble along the way eBay is here to help. Please visit the Resolution Centre to help resolve any problems you may encounter."..

So maybe I still get a Hal500 ?? LOL

Edit - Just got the one from Ebay - Not getting it .. Bugger !! LOL

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 29, 2014, 10:41:17 AM
Forgot this little gem -- Someone on another site posted it up - So I bought one - seems like a great idea ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/171513089844?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/171513089844?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
Makes removing batteries a whole lot easier ... Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 29, 2014, 11:39:14 AM
Same seller

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Action-Sport-Cam-Camera-Waterproof-Full-HD-1080p-Video-Photo-Helmetcam-SJ4000-DV/390957314130?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122130056%26meid%3Dc579a1bc817042548a313a7d16d2ccb6%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20140122130056%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D171515318343 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Action-Sport-Cam-Camera-Waterproof-Full-HD-1080p-Video-Photo-Helmetcam-SJ4000-DV/390957314130?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122130056%26meid%3Dc579a1bc817042548a313a7d16d2ccb6%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20140122130056%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D171515318343)

Fishy me thinks
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 29, 2014, 11:44:34 AM
Same seller

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Action-Sport-Cam-Camera-Waterproof-Full-HD-1080p-Video-Photo-Helmetcam-SJ4000-DV/390957314130?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122130056%26meid%3Dc579a1bc817042548a313a7d16d2ccb6%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20140122130056%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D171515318343 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Action-Sport-Cam-Camera-Waterproof-Full-HD-1080p-Video-Photo-Helmetcam-SJ4000-DV/390957314130?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122130056%26meid%3Dc579a1bc817042548a313a7d16d2ccb6%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20140122130056%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D171515318343)

Fishy me thinks

A Go pro for $20 !! Bargain !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 29, 2014, 01:45:40 PM
Ok now for a roll call.
I have read most of the posts in this thread.  What fc is everyone using. I want to upgrade the kk2.1 but am not sure what to go for. I want something that is not too hard to setup but also I don't want another naza.
Gps capability might be nice.
Regards
Crispy

I started with KK2 and it was a good starting board.

I now use the APM2.6 (Plane) and APM2.7 (tricopter).  Both with GPS, OSD, power module and Telemetry.  Soon to add sonar to the tricopter.

My next one will likely be a Pixhawk, just that the APM's time is limited as they are hitting hardware limits now with the code.

I skipped the MultiWii's and various other ones after researching adding GPS.

I'm an IT consultant so I like to tinker with stuff so the APM / Pixhawk meets my needs.  Be prepared to tinker with the APM / Pixhawk, it is far from plug and play.  I have a tray to swap back to the KK2 for my tricopter so that I can have a fun fly (havent yet but I'm sure I will).  I really like the Alt Hold mode, means I can really throw the tri around and I can feel reasonably confident it will all be okay (that and loiter mode is not far away).

Everyone is different though......

Hmmm, I recall saying that you'll be singing out for something a bit more advanced than the KK2 within 2-3 months.....  I think there are alot of KK2 boards collecting dust....

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: ScottH on October 29, 2014, 02:21:09 PM
Same seller

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Action-Sport-Cam-Camera-Waterproof-Full-HD-1080p-Video-Photo-Helmetcam-SJ4000-DV/390957314130?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122130056%26meid%3Dc579a1bc817042548a313a7d16d2ccb6%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20140122130056%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D171515318343 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Action-Sport-Cam-Camera-Waterproof-Full-HD-1080p-Video-Photo-Helmetcam-SJ4000-DV/390957314130?_trksid=p2047675.c100010.m2109&_trkparms=aid%3D555012%26algo%3DPW.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20140122130056%26meid%3Dc579a1bc817042548a313a7d16d2ccb6%26pid%3D100010%26prg%3D20140122130056%26rk%3D6%26rkt%3D24%26sd%3D171515318343)

Fishy me thinks

The SJ4000 camera is a very good unit. I got mine via FoxOffer - http://www.foxoffer.com/outdoor-sports-camera-sjcam-action-camera-c-57_80.html?zenid=de7d39bc42da11bec3833769ca72b5ab (http://www.foxoffer.com/outdoor-sports-camera-sjcam-action-camera-c-57_80.html?zenid=de7d39bc42da11bec3833769ca72b5ab)

Not so sure about the seller...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 29, 2014, 02:33:44 PM
I started with KK2 and it was a good starting board.

I now use the APM2.6 (Plane) and APM2.7 (tricopter).  Both with GPS, OSD, power module and Telemetry.  Soon to add sonar to the tricopter.

My next one will likely be a Pixhawk, just that the APM's time is limited as they are hitting hardware limits now with the code.

I skipped the MultiWii's and various other ones after researching adding GPS.

I'm an IT consultant so I like to tinker with stuff so the APM / Pixhawk meets my needs.  Be prepared to tinker with the APM / Pixhawk, it is far from plug and play.  I have a tray to swap back to the KK2 for my tricopter so that I can have a fun fly (havent yet but I'm sure I will).  I really like the Alt Hold mode, means I can really throw the tri around and I can feel reasonably confident it will all be okay (that and loiter mode is not far away).

Everyone is different though......

Hmmm, I recall saying that you'll be singing out for something a bit more advanced than the KK2 within 2-3 months.....  I think there are alot of KK2 boards collecting dust....

Regards,

Chris

X2, plus I like the look of simple mode and super simple mode. They look like they will be great when orientation is lost.

These two modes are very similar. Check out the video on this link. Niotice that the quad is constantly yawing. Very clever software.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/flight-modes/simpleandsuper-simple-modes/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/flight-modes/simpleandsuper-simple-modes/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 29, 2014, 04:48:51 PM
The SJ4000 camera is a very good unit. I got mine via FoxOffer - http://www.foxoffer.com/outdoor-sports-camera-sjcam-action-camera-c-57_80.html?zenid=de7d39bc42da11bec3833769ca72b5ab (http://www.foxoffer.com/outdoor-sports-camera-sjcam-action-camera-c-57_80.html?zenid=de7d39bc42da11bec3833769ca72b5ab)

Not so sure about the seller...

It must be. It's a clone of the GoPro that has proved to be so popular, there are now clones of the clone. Apparently cloned so much that the original makers are now putting 'SJCAM' on the original SJ4000's to identify them from the others.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Nomad on October 29, 2014, 07:23:44 PM
Mine says this ---
"We had to remove this listing from the site and you're not required to complete the transaction. If you've already sent payment, the sale should process as normal and you don't have anything to worry about. If you have any questions about delivery, please check tracking or contact your seller. If you run into any trouble along the way eBay is here to help. Please visit the Resolution Centre to help resolve any problems you may encounter."..

So maybe I still get a Hal500 ?? LOL

Edit - Just got the one from Ebay - Not getting it .. Bugger !! LOL

I have only got the one email from ebay so far............same as yours............I was hoping to video the common koel as I chased it out of the tree lol................will wait and see if i get a second email like yours.
Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 29, 2014, 07:32:22 PM
That first bit is in the purchase history on E-Bay ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 29, 2014, 09:00:38 PM
Mine says this ---
"We had to remove this listing from the site and you're not required to complete the transaction. If you've already sent payment, the sale should process as normal and you don't have anything to worry about. If you have any questions about delivery, please check tracking or contact your seller. If you run into any trouble along the way eBay is here to help. Please visit the Resolution Centre to help resolve any problems you may encounter."..

So maybe I still get a Hal500 ?? LOL

Edit - Just got the one from Ebay - Not getting it .. Bugger !! LOL

Mandrake

My money has already been refunded .... Lol .... They are also listings for $37 and $25 on Ebay ..... They all can't be rip offs .... :D

This will be my Next toy .... Working on the ground station and converting it to my new Taranis .... Don't tell the boss ok :cheers:

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: gec on October 29, 2014, 10:31:23 PM
Just bought these from Hobbyking the other day, https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=53706 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=53706)     https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=66474 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=66474)
First tried it out on my RC Car, the dog was not impressed lol, I was sitting at the kitchen table as this car was chasing him around the back yard, definitely good for a laugh, I also have a 1.6 meter flying wing which I have now fitted it up to, keen to try it out when the wind calms a little.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 06:22:34 AM
These $39 quads on ebay remind me of the Canon 100-400mm lenses that were being sold from Manila for under $100. I got sucked in on that scam, got my money back pretty quickly though. But it makes you wonder if these sellers actually get away with anybodies money.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 06:24:35 AM
Just bought these from Hobbyking the other day, https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=53706 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=53706)     https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=66474 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=66474)
First tried it out on my RC Car, the dog was not impressed lol, I was sitting at the kitchen table as this car was chasing him around the back yard, definitely good for a laugh, I also have a 1.6 meter flying wing which I have now fitted it up to, keen to try it out when the wind calms a little.
You'll be happy with the 700tvl camera. I have three of them now. The picture quality is fantastic for such a little camera.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 08:52:24 AM
Looks like McGirr just got stung with a similar scam for a $19.99 GoPro.

http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=25760.msg658728#msg658728 (http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=25760.msg658728#msg658728)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 30, 2014, 10:34:47 AM
Got my 800TVL camera yesterday .. Bench test ..OK..
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/10/29/ef0c6446b78a7d7e5045adf25e051e94.jpg)
Will fit to front of Phantom for FPV..
Looks like I blew up the Boscam transmitter the other day too ... New one on its way !!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 30, 2014, 10:37:04 AM
Quote from: Marschy
Looks like McGirr just got stung with a similar scam for a $19.99 GoPro.

Sorry but would anyone honestly expect a Gopro with accessories for $20 ??? Come in sucker.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 12:35:35 PM
Looks like I blew up the Boscam transmitter the other day too ... New one on its way !!!

Your 'white smoke' list must get getting as long as mine Mandrake? Crikey I get annoyed with myself when I do it. It's always because I'm not taking my time and not double checking how I've connected something up, or getting the multimeter out.

My 700 tvl camera's are a tiny bit grainy inside in low light, but outside they transmit beautifully, very crisp and sharp image. There was no appreciable difference between it being hooked up directly to the monitor, to when it was hooked up via the transmitter at close range. I haven't had an opportunity to see how well they work at greater range, but that will be more dependent upon the VTx more so than the camera.  I reckon you'll be pleased with the results from you 800 tvl camera. Now you'll have to put one of these on your Xmas shopping list so if you crash you can record the GPS coordinates from your Rambizi OSD.

http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6218210501.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6218210501.html)

Looking forward to your thoughts on the Rambizi OSD you bought as well. I wouldn't mind getting one down the track for my flying wing (if i ever fly the bloody thing that is).
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 30, 2014, 01:12:04 PM
Your 'white smoke' list must get getting as long as mine Mandrake? Crikey I get annoyed with myself when I do it. It's always because I'm not taking my time and not double checking how I've connected something up, or getting the multimeter out.

My 700 tvl camera's are a tiny bit grainy inside in low light, but outside they transmit beautifully, very crisp and sharp image. There was no appreciable difference between it being hooked up directly to the monitor, to when it was hooked up via the transmitter at close range. I haven't had an opportunity to see how well they work at greater range, but that will be more dependent upon the VTx more so than the camera.  I reckon you'll be pleased with the results from you 800 tvl camera. Now you'll have to put one of these on your Xmas shopping list so if you crash you can record the GPS coordinates from your Rambizi OSD.

http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6218210501.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6218210501.html)

Looking forward to your thoughts on the Rambizi OSD you bought as well. I wouldn't mind getting one down the track for my flying wing (if i ever fly the bloody thing that is).


I'm yet to put my 700 TVL camera on my tricopter, its got a huge heavy lens on it.  Great video quality when I tested it, but damn it's a heavy beast.

Ummm, correct me if I'm wrong but isnt PAL 768x576, so anything above 600 isnt going to come through when going over the VTx?  I get why 700 is a jump up from 420 or even 480 TVL. Have I missed something?  I get it if you want to record the stream up on the craft, just cant see the benfit to transmitting it.

Mandrake, how heavy is the 800TVL camera, it looks like it has a smaller lens (normal miniature lens) on it which will cut down on the weight.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 01:28:00 PM
Yeah, not sure how that works, I think it probably more to do with the CCD sensor over the CMOS sensor's when comparing the 420 or 480 camera's to the 800tvl as far as image quality is concerned. My lens is the same as Mandrakes. Just checked what I previously purchased, and mine is 800tvl as well. These camera's all seem to get quite grainy the less light you throw at them.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/1-3-sony-hq1-super-had-ccd-camera-lens-module-set-800tvl-for-fpv.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/1-3-sony-hq1-super-had-ccd-camera-lens-module-set-800tvl-for-fpv.html)

Same size lens as the Fatshark PilotHD 3.6mm, so I assume a 120 degree FOV.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 01:33:04 PM
Just bought these from Hobbyking the other day, https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=53706 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=53706)     https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=66474 (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=66474)
First tried it out on my RC Car, the dog was not impressed lol, I was sitting at the kitchen table as this car was chasing him around the back yard, definitely good for a laugh, I also have a 1.6 meter flying wing which I have now fitted it up to, keen to try it out when the wind calms a little.
Been looking and looking at the Quanum FPV diy goggles, what's your verdict?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 30, 2014, 02:37:39 PM

Mandrake, how heavy is the 800TVL camera, it looks like it has a smaller lens (normal miniature lens) on it which will cut down on the weight.

Regards,

Chris
Chris - Its 48 gms with the bracket and 44 gms without .. Gives a really clear picture on my 5" monitor ...

Mandrake ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 30, 2014, 02:40:11 PM
Dunno if I mentioned this thing - It'll be here soon too !! LOL

This is all because I have to use 2.4Ghz for FPV ... I think now ( looking back ) would have been cheaper to get the Phantom 2 plus ..

Oh well !! LOL

http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6302497143.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6302497143.html)

Has a range of 100m with standard mini antenna so I'm hoping to double that with a mushroom ... Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: gec on October 30, 2014, 05:14:05 PM
Been looking and looking at the Quanum FPV diy goggles, what's your verdict?

I didn't get to try them on the wing this morning as it was blowing a gale, but as for the goggles them selves, they are a little agricultural but for under $35 so what, the picture seems really good and it doesn't go to blue screen when it gets out of range, just starts to get a bit snowy so ya know when to turn around, so far I'm pretty impressed and even if I just use them for a while and move on to some proper goggles down the track, I think they are still worth the asking price.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 30, 2014, 05:20:36 PM
I didn't get to try them on the wing this morning as it was blowing a gale, but as for the goggles them selves, they are a little agricultural but for under $35 so what, the picture seems really good and it doesn't go to blue screen when it gets out of range, just starts to get a bit snowy so ya know when to turn around, so far I'm pretty impressed and even if I just use them for a while and move on to some proper goggles down the track, I think they are still worth the asking price.
So the picture quality is pretty good? My Fatshark Teleporter V2 goggles picture quality is pretty ordinary, so I don't think getting goggles is necessarily moving on to something better unless you spend some serious dough. Thanks for the feedback about the picture quality. I reckon for the price, like you say, worth a shot.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 30, 2014, 11:16:45 PM
Well I had some good news tonight, it is confirmed one of the MinimOSD's that I thought I had killed is working!!  ;D  So I now have 2 out of 3 Minim's working.  Nice feeling to take items out of the dead pile (none of them seemed to release the white smoke but they didnt work for me before for some reason).

I spent the evening loading up MinimOSD extra and I have to say I'm impressed with it.  I have configured a HUD and will test it out on the weekend.  Process was straight forwards but little frustrating as as I am using lots of single connectors, so I'll whip up a cable with a 6 pin connector.

I downloaded the Minim Config Tool and grabbed a firmware update.  I tried a new layout and uploaded it, I forgot I hadnt updated the firmware orthe character set and was a little surprised when I had lots of odd characters.  Plus things didn't seem right, so I went back to basics.  I updated the firmware, then I updated the character set and then I was happy as I finally got a good display.

Took about 6 goes to get something I was happy with.

Things I like about it:
- Ability to see mah consumed instead of % of battery
- Distance traveled
- I can see my flight mode (wasn't working on stock firmware for some reason)
- I now have a HUD i like

Things I don't like about it:
- Time is now based upon flight time (so power up time until take off, then time since off time), I preferred the time since power up

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49344-2/2014-10-30+23_30_43_001.jpg)

I may have to look at the source code to return it to the old method or give a choice at least.  I'll try the new method for a few flights before I change anything.

I'm thinking of removing the GPS alt (and use relative home alt only) and the Airspeed.

Tomorrow night I will replace my battery tray yet again, I'm going to try the music wire (1.2mm and 1.5mm) to see if I can improve vibration dampening and get more space.  I need to move the battery further back to accommodate the weight of the action cam and gimbal, but I know that I'll have reduced flight time.  With the change in board I'm down to 8.5 mins flight time, it was at 12 mins with my KK2 - on a 2200mah battery.  I've only weight it as the APM at 1kg (no battery), so I dont know how much lighter it was with the KK2.

I will test out my 5000mah batteries on the weekend (if rain and wind holds off) but I wanted to have it bedded down first on the 2200mah.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 30, 2014, 11:35:36 PM
Chris - Its 48 gms with the bracket and 44 gms without .. Gives a really clear picture on my 5" monitor ...

Mandrake ..

Hmmm, thats lighter than my heavy 700TVL camera... It's 70g, still not sure if I'll put it on, the other cameras I use are 15-35g (but they arent 700+TVL).  Food for thought......  No I have to control myself, I have around 6 cameras that I need to use first, but 800 TVL is attractive.....




Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 30, 2014, 11:38:51 PM
Yeah, not sure how that works, I think it probably more to do with the CCD sensor over the CMOS sensor's when comparing the 420 or 480 camera's to the 800tvl as far as image quality is concerned. My lens is the same as Mandrakes. Just checked what I previously purchased, and mine is 800tvl as well. These camera's all seem to get quite grainy the less light you throw at them.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/1-3-sony-hq1-super-had-ccd-camera-lens-module-set-800tvl-for-fpv.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/1-3-sony-hq1-super-had-ccd-camera-lens-module-set-800tvl-for-fpv.html)

Same size lens as the Fatshark PilotHD 3.6mm, so I assume a 120 degree FOV.


Grrr, your not making it easy with prices like that......  I'm so tempted to get one.....

I think I'll need to do some reading up on this, will have to wait until next week.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 30, 2014, 11:41:22 PM
So the picture quality is pretty good? My Fatshark Teleporter V2 goggles picture quality is pretty ordinary, so I don't think getting goggles is necessarily moving on to something better unless you spend some serious dough. Thanks for the feedback about the picture quality. I reckon for the price, like you say, worth a shot.

I reckon such a big thing wont feel right on your head, might be okay for quick flights but anything longer.....  I think if you did it as a tripod mount it would be okay, but why not a larger screen with a shade on it.

I looked at them early on, I'll wait for you guys to review it first  ;D

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 01:48:21 AM
Chris, check the Arducopter website. They recommend 1000mah per motor as a rule of thumb. So for your tricopter you are a little short on power at 2200.
Cheers Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 06:00:45 AM
I'm going to try the music wire (1.2mm and 1.5mm) to see if I can improve vibration dampening and get more space.
Chris, If like me, you have collected a large number of USB cables over the years, you probably have a few that are surplus to your needs. Good size wire for this sort of stuff.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 31, 2014, 06:37:05 AM
Mine was $21 free post .. I'll do the link when I get up ..LOL

EDIT -- LINK http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361000019522?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361000019522?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 08:18:33 AM
Mine was $21 free post .. I'll do the link when I get up ..LOL

EDIT -- LINK http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361000019522?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361000019522?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

Same lens as mine, 3.6mm, so probably 120 degree FOV. It doesn't state this on the ebay listing, neither did mine. So I only have the Fatshark PilotHD specs on Hobbyking to base this on. But 120 degrees seems pretty good for FPV. Bloody great price. Can you let us know if the camera is CCD or CMOS, it should say what it is on the back of the camera or maybe with any documentation that accompanied the camera (wishful thinking, I don't think any of my camera's came with documentation other that what was printed on the box). Difference in price maybe due to CMOS camera, but if it's CCD, absolute bargain.

Only difference to mine is mine has the OSD menu board, which I haven't used anyway. I've just plugged it in and used it. It has features like it will turn off the colour image to black and white to increase contrast in low light. It does that by default, but you can turn that functionality off, plus you can adjust the white balance, again I haven't bothered.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 31, 2014, 08:35:29 AM
Model No FX-811 , 12V and on the "installation guide " ( HOHOHO basic wiring diagram ) it shows the lens as F2.0 ?? But the picture is crystal clear ..
So no idea if its CCD or CMOS ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 08:43:40 AM
Just doing some reading on the Effio-V on this link

http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?26970-Sony-CCD-Effio-V-800TVL-Ultra-WDR-Camera-2.8mm-Lens-with-OSD (http://fpvlab.com/forums/showthread.php?26970-Sony-CCD-Effio-V-800TVL-Ultra-WDR-Camera-2.8mm-Lens-with-OSD)

The effio-p is CCD, bargain (see http://www.surveilzone.com (http://www.surveilzone.com)).

One post mentions a plastic case which would save a lot of weight, which you can get from surveilzone, just search for plastic case. Seems the 3.6mm lens is VERY desirable for FPV according to all of the requests on the link above.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 31, 2014, 10:38:07 AM
Chris, check the Arducopter website. They recommend 1000mah per motor as a rule of thumb. So for your tricopter you are a little short on power at 2200.
Cheers Marschy

Hi Mark,

True, I am a bit short but lots of factors go into which battery to use (capacity, C rating, weight, price, weight of the frame, motors being used, etc).  I have the 2200mah batts from when I was using the KK2 board (and getting great flight times), but I have a bit more weight now which impacts it a bit more than I expected.  I've got the 5000mah's for the longer flights, I'm hoping to get 16+ mins out of it.

I can always hook the 2200's up in parallel if i need longer flight times.  Although 2 x 2200mah (376g + Y harness) is heavier than 1 x 5000mah (354g).

I only have 2 of the 5000mah batts, depending how it goes this weekend I may have to order another couple :-)  They do take a long time to charge up though......  The biggest charger I've got is a 5A charger, so that's a 1 hour charge (at 1C, I'd test out 2C but I dont have a charger that big).  With the 2200's I can push 4A in safely (2C - they are cheap so if they have a short life that is ok), so much quicker charge time.  Oddly the 2200's are rated at 4C for charging, which is quite high, I've not gone over 4A on them (just under 2C).

I might look at some other options, I think I'll be ordering some new batteries after this weekend.  The 2200mah's are perfect for my Bixler2, so they'll still feel loved (if I can find somewhere to fly the thing....)

Decisions, decisions.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 31, 2014, 12:52:25 PM
hey guys .... Help me with connector phraseology please ..
I need a couple of 3 and 4 pin cables with the small white connectors --
I can get them in Nano , Mini Micro , Micro and Mini - sizing appears to be either 1.25 or 1.5 mm between the pins ??? Is that right ??
Seems I'll have to buy packets of 20 ..
The ones on a gimbal are Nano or Mini-micro or micro ?? Coz that's the size I need ..
I'm in the last stages of hooking in my Remzibi and the video in / out socket / header is a 4-pin job and I don't have the right size
plug here for it , so I need to order some .... For what they cost I suppose I'll buy them all - LOL .
Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 12:54:05 PM
hey guys .... Help me with connector phraseology please ..
I need a couple of 3 and 4 pin cables with the small white connectors --
I can get them in Nano , Mini Micro , Micro and Mini - sizing appears to be either 1.25 or 1.5 mm between the pins ??? Is that right ??
Seems I'll have to buy packets of 20 ..
The ones on a gimbal are Nano or Mini-micro or micro ?? Coz that's the size I need ..
I'm in the last stages of hooking in my Remzibi and the video in / out socket / header is a 4-pin job and I don't have the right size
plug here for it , so I need to order some .... For what they cost I suppose I'll buy them all - LOL .
Cheers
Steve
Look on youtube for Mochaboy's crimping 101 where he describes what the connectors are called. I found it the other day and book marked it at home, but I am at work at the moment without access to youtube.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 31, 2014, 01:00:07 PM
hey guys .... Help me with connector phraseology please ..
I need a couple of 3 and 4 pin cables with the small white connectors --
I can get them in Nano , Mini Micro , Micro and Mini - sizing appears to be either 1.25 or 1.5 mm between the pins ??? Is that right ??
Seems I'll have to buy packets of 20 ..
The ones on a gimbal are Nano or Mini-micro or micro ?? Coz that's the size I need ..
I'm in the last stages of hooking in my Remzibi and the video in / out socket / header is a 4-pin job and I don't have the right size
plug here for it , so I need to order some .... For what they cost I suppose I'll buy them all - LOL .
Cheers
Steve

Hi Steve,

I bought a bunch of them myself...  It was easier that way. 

I got several of the Micro JST and Micro Mini's JST as well DF13 connectors (deeper than the micro JST's).

I decided to buy some precrimped cables to save myself the hassle.

I think the one that seems to match the APM stuff is the micro JST and DF13 connectors.

The connectors are all over the place, so many different places calling them different things.  I've seen the same youtube clip Mark is referring too, it you search on rcgroups it should come up.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 01:04:34 PM
Some of the DF13s have a different pitch, whether they are still called DF13s, I don't know, but the mini video transmitter i have has a different spacing between the pins to all the other DF13s i have used so far.

Just looked on youtube on my phone. The poster is MochaboyRC and the posting is called 'How to crimp micro connectors',
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on October 31, 2014, 01:18:19 PM
Cheers guys - ordered 4 lots plus 2 Lipo low voltage alarms and a spinning blue LED police light .. LOL ,, $40 the lot ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on October 31, 2014, 01:20:11 PM
Cheers guys - ordered 4 lots plus 2 Lipo low voltage alarms and a spinning blue LED police light .. LOL ,, $40 the lot ..
You can never have enough spinning blue LED lights. You'll be buying blinking lights before you know it  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on November 01, 2014, 10:24:14 AM
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/drones-filling-queensland-skies-within-dangerous-proximity-of-aircraft/story-fnihsrk2-1227108980317 (http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/drones-filling-queensland-skies-within-dangerous-proximity-of-aircraft/story-fnihsrk2-1227108980317)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 01, 2014, 12:34:57 PM
http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/drones-filling-queensland-skies-within-dangerous-proximity-of-aircraft/story-fnihsrk2-1227108980317 (http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/drones-filling-queensland-skies-within-dangerous-proximity-of-aircraft/story-fnihsrk2-1227108980317)


There are lots of factual errors in that article.  There was alot I agree with too.

Some items that I have an issue with.....

Most cities are covered by controlled airspace but have a floor set on them, so once you get out of 5nm from an airfield the floor is often thousands of feet hight, so flying in a park at greater than 400ft is perfectly legal.  As long as you dont then go above the floor alt.  Case in point for where I fly, I am not in controlled airspace below several thoughts of feet, but I live in a special area that can be a nofly zone when advised by a NOTAM.  Can I access NOTAM's easily, nope and that is a real issue.

You are allowed to fly within 5nm of an airfield you must stay below 400ft.  And not fly over the airfield or fly in or around the approach / departure areas.  Thats what is in the CASA Regulation, not the fairy tale the person believes.

A sporting field is only a populous area once there are a volume of people.  So the odd person on the beach or the park is not considered populous (this is one that I feel the regulation doesn't have enough detail on when it switches so it's a bit subjective)

Commercial RPA operators like to think they are the only ones allowed to fly above 400ft, simply not true.  They have to seek approval to do so.  Commercial operators are the ones that are banned from a number of things, but they think that their rules apply to hobbyists, sure there are some rules that apply to all but they have additional restrictions on them.  It stems from the training they do, they get told it there and then believe it to be true.

There is plenty of existing regulations to that give CASA enforcement powers if a person flys in the vicinity of an airliner.....

I have strong doubts the drone operators he's talking about in the 'controlled' airspace of coolangatta are actually in the controlled part.  I've caught out other supposed RPA experts saying a person was in controlled airspace but once educated they realise I was right....

Things I agree with:

Idiots need to stop cloud surfing as it is not allowed at all.  Those posting and doing in Australian airspace should be fined.  These are the people that are really causing issues for this hobby.

Those flying in places like the harbour bridge, etc.... Should be fined.  If they get within 30m of the structure.


I think also people need to realise if they are in public then they have no expectation of privacy at all.  That means if you like to sunbake topless or nude in your backyard, then people need to realise they risk being seen by others, including those that might be flying.  Camera technology doesnt really allow for people to spy into peoples homes, but I do agree that existing privacy laws should be enforced if people try to see into homes that would not normally be able to from the street should be hit with the existing laws.  Plus if people move into the harassment territory then they should also be fined with existing legislation.

I think it shows a sad state of journalism when they cant even get the facts right, now people read this and think it's the truth when it is far from it, so many factual errors.

The above is based upon CASA regulations, the actual law that applies to this, not some fairy tale.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 01, 2014, 04:02:20 PM
What ticks me off is the quoting of part of the regulation in these articles that are deliberately phrased to make people question any person using a drone. Statements like "It also restricts users from flying over “populous areas” including beaches, backyards, heavily populated parks and sports ovals.", but fails to add the last part of the regulation from the CASA website with regard to sports ovals "where there is a game in progress". This makes a HUGE difference to peoples perceptions as most people read the crap in the media and take it as gospel.

The "What's allowed" rules for model aircraft and remote piloted aircraft are as follows directly from the CASA sight.

What's allowed?
RPA (Edit: Remote Piloted Aircraft, these rules apply when the aircraft is not operated within line of sight but are controlled via FPV, users of these vehicles must be licensed)


Model aircraft (Edit: These users do not need to be licensed)

pop•u•lous (?p?p y? l?s)

adj.
1. containing many residents or inhabitants; heavily populated: a populous area.
2. jammed or crowded with people.
3. forming or comprising a large number or quantity; numerous.

The image in the article showing a beach in the background next to a populated area does not show an operator breaking any law, what for example is directly below the UAV.

What is particularly annoying is the article states that there are 10,000+ drones in Australia, yet the article makes mention of less than a handful of incidents, work out the statistics for yourself, the number of reported incidents is stuff all, yet we are all being painted as irresponsible.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 02, 2014, 01:04:04 AM
What ticks me off is the quoting of part of the regulation in these articles that are deliberately phrased to make people question any person using a drone. Statements like "It also restricts users from flying over “populous areas” including beaches, backyards, heavily populated parks and sports ovals.", but fails to add the last part of the regulation from the CASA website with regard to sports ovals "where there is a game in progress". This makes a HUGE difference to peoples perceptions as most people read the crap in the media and take it as gospel.


I agree Mark, it's all about conditioning people which only causes issues.  State what is allowed, and that is what is really allowed and then people wont feel like we've doing the wrong thing and try to call someone to do something about it.  It annoys me when I see articles like this one.

Having said that I'm yet to have 1 person say they don't like what I'm doing, I've had heaps of people come and have a look and say it's really cool.

I think it's more about a commercial operator seeing hobbyists and saying hey if I have xyz restrictions so should they......  Not to mention I'd suggest a journalist (and I use that term loosely) has gone ringing around the commercial RPA operators trying to get someone willing to say that 'yep those cowboys are a risk to airplanes, just like happened recently in the US, can it happen here'.  Yep and if those cowboys did something wrong, there are existing regs to take care of them.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 02, 2014, 05:42:14 AM
What sets a precedence with this article is the mention of terrorism. Let's hope the media don't start using the word like a self fulfilling prophesy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 02, 2014, 07:10:15 AM
Chris and Spartan,

David Windestal's new V3 tricopter

http://youtu.be/2GwZsdEpAa4?list=UU9zTuyWffK9ckEz1216noAw (http://youtu.be/2GwZsdEpAa4?list=UU9zTuyWffK9ckEz1216noAw)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 02, 2014, 11:25:58 AM
Chris and Spartan,

David Windestal's new V3 tricopter

http://youtu.be/2GwZsdEpAa4?list=UU9zTuyWffK9ckEz1216noAw (http://youtu.be/2GwZsdEpAa4?list=UU9zTuyWffK9ckEz1216noAw)


He released it late September, I subscribe to his channel, he's now trying to make a living off it, I wish him well.  Good to see he was able to go visit the US and do some work on Rotor DR1.

It would be great to own a CNC machine.....  The things you can do.

I find the flite test guys to be a good bunch, just having fun and expanding the hobby, it's great.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on November 06, 2014, 11:06:59 PM
I knew the V3 was coming out so I was keeping a close eye on his website so I could order one, but of course I was away on holidays when he released them and they were all sold out by the time I got home.

Now I'm hanging out until probably late this month for it to turn up :'(.

I subscribe to and check out both him and flitetest every week when I'm home from work.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on November 07, 2014, 07:25:39 AM
OHHHHHHH

Seriously want one of these....!!!

http://www.news.com.au/video/id-Q2YXdocTo4vJAlLbDW2Y9n_Q8mepig0F (http://www.news.com.au/video/id-Q2YXdocTo4vJAlLbDW2Y9n_Q8mepig0F)
forget the Go Pro...!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 07, 2014, 07:30:50 AM
This technology has taken a giant leap forward in the last 12 months, its staggering how much it has advanced in so short an amount of time
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 09, 2014, 08:45:54 PM
Hi,

Finally got a chance to test out the flight time with a 3s 5000mah battery.  Overall very happy, I've calculated that I'll get between 20-22mins out of a full battery, I only had it up in the air for around 16 mins today.  I like the minimOSD-extra interface, I get a nice flight summary at the end of each flight.  Whats great is that the battery mah consumed is not reset until you unplug the battery and plug a new one in so no need for me to modify the OSD code to do it.  Flight distance was 1.2km today, so I'm pretty happy.

Was using my new camera tray (homemade), and I'm impressed the vibrations are minimal (just using bent 1.2mm music wire).  I'll upload the OSD footage to my youtube channel.  I'm yet to look at the footage saved on the camera, so wont know how good it is until I have a look at it.

I was surprised when the OSD was reporting low voltage after only 3000mah consumed so I put it on the ground to work out what was going on.  Time to update the OSD low voltage warning, it seems i have it set too high as the battery bounced back to 12.3v within a second or two on the ground.

Something posted on diydrones is a new tool which you can upload your tlogs or logs to and it will do all the flight logging.  It's a beta so there a lot of missing basic features but I like it, you just upload the log and it does the rest :-).  It's called exmaps.com

It looks like they'll be adding features as they go which is good.  I was looking at doing something up myself but just dont have the time and this tool has a great potential.  What are others using to track the flight time, etc.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 10, 2014, 01:08:15 PM
Hi,

Well I have to say that the stabilisation of using the 1.2mm music wire is brilliant, there is very little vibration coming through on the Pilot HD camera.  It seems so odd that something that is so easily pushed laterally just absorbs the vibrations.  I've got some 1.5mm music wire that I'll try too, as David's switched to using 1.5mm in his most recent design.

So now that I have far more space, I can finally mount both the gopro clone and the FPV camera!!  Will be trying that out on Thursday night.  After a few weeks of good flights I'll strap the gopro on.

Hi Mark,

lol, i've been waiting for my sonar to arrive and thought I'd check when I'm likely to get it.  Sigh it looks like I didnt hit one of the submit buttons..... Grrr, so I just ordered it again.  Has your's arrived yet?

How's your flying going so far?  This week looks like a bust for me as it is forecast to rain for most of it....

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 10, 2014, 02:35:18 PM
G'day Chris,

Since I found out my power modules were a POS, the quads haven't been back in the air. I want to make sure all of the failsafe systems are working like they should be before I fly them again. I'm expecting them to arrive any day now from Hobbyking.

I ordered the sonar and optical flow sensor from Thanksbuyer on the 24th October. It was still sitting in an airport in China as of the 6th November according to the tracking status. What I've read about Thanksbuyer and Goodluckbuiy is much the same. If you order directly from them and not through Aliexpress, order via snail mail. Otherwise they just take your money for shipping and pocket it. This has already happened to me with Goodluckbuy. However Goodluckbuy's service through Aliexpress has been nothing but brilliant.

I haven't been using the logging feature yet in APM, but plan to.

I've been busy though, putting the Alien560 together. So far lot's of soldering and crimping getting servo leads and ESC power cables to the right length to save weight. The cable runs are quite long so the weight saving should be considerable. I was originally going to put new Tarot motor mounts on without trimming the boom arms, which would have added 104mm to the wheelbase, making it 664mm, but I ended up trimming them so the wheel base is back to 560mm. The frame is turning out quite nicely. Waiting on a power distribution board from Aliexpress which has been in-country since the 25th October. I'm not sure what the holdup is, but I would expect it is the usual Xmas holdup with customs.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 10, 2014, 05:00:30 PM
G'day Chris,

Since I found out my power modules were a POS, the quads haven't been back in the air. I want to make sure all of the failsafe systems are working like they should be before I fly them again. I'm expecting them to arrive any day now from Hobbyking.

I ordered the sonar and optical flow sensor from Thanksbuyer on the 24th October. It was still sitting in an airport in China as of the 6th November according to the tracking status. What I've read about Thanksbuyer and Goodluckbuiy is much the same. If you order directly from them and not through Aliexpress, order via snail mail. Otherwise they just take your money for shipping and pocket it. This has already happened to me with Goodluckbuy. However Goodluckbuy's service through Aliexpress has been nothing but brilliant.

I haven't been using the logging feature yet in APM, but plan to.

I've been busy though, putting the Alien560 together. So far lot's of soldering and crimping getting servo leads and ESC power cables to the right length to save weight. The cable runs are quite long so the weight saving should be considerable. I was originally going to put new Tarot motor mounts on without trimming the boom arms, which would have added 104mm to the wheelbase, making it 664mm, but I ended up trimming them so the wheel base is back to 560mm. The frame is turning out quite nicely. Waiting on a power distribution board from Aliexpress which has been in-country since the 25th October. I'm not sure what the holdup is, but I would expect it is the usual Xmas holdup with customs.

Cheers, Mark

Hi,

I hate that waiting game :-(

Hmmm, so I have a long wait then for the sonar, I cant believe that I hadnt hit the last button, I hate my work PC.....

Is that board carbon fibre?  Looks nice I have to say.

The logging feature is great, I've been able to review each of my flights which has been extremely handy.  It's nice to know that I have both the onboard logs and the telemetry logs, so if I loose the thing I'll know where it is (not to mention the saved OSD output).

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 10, 2014, 06:55:50 PM
Is that board carbon fibre?  Looks nice I have to say.
Yes it is carbon fibre. This is the frame on Hobbyking.

https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51425__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_.html (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51425__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_.html)

There are quite a few variations of this frame on Goodluckbuy, but the Hobbyking version is considerably cheaper considering it's carbon fibre. Most of the GLB versions are around the same price but the frame is usually glass fibre.

I'm waiting for pay day to get some of these motors from Hobbyking. They have long leads which will work perfectly on the Alien which has hollow carbon fibre booms. It is going to be a very tidy quad once it's finished.

(https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/41617.jpg) (https://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__41617__3508_700KV_Turnigy_Multistar_14_Pole_Brushless_Multi_Rotor_Motor_With_Extra_Long_Leads.html)

These are the reason I went for different motor mounts. I've seen examples of the Alien560 with similar size motors, but with only 2 screws holding the motor to the mount because that is all that it appears it will fit.

My working conditions have changed considerably due to poor health. So I'm now only working 4 days/week, and my pay has dived by 20%. So once I get these quads all sorted out, then I will be just maintaining them to keep them in the air.

The only remaining big ticket items I need to buy to get the Alien going is the motors, a Vtx, suitable carbon fibre props, another satellite receiver, that'll make it two satellites plus the actual receiver and some sundry stuff like more cable ties etc.

My son is getting me a Turnigy Action Camera for Xmas, so the flight camera is sorted. I notice that the latest version of this camera now has video out via the mini USB connection and has the same firmware as the SJ4000. I've already got the FPV camera, so I may need a receiver switch to swap between the two cameras.

Spent today getting as much done on the Alien as I can, plus I oiled the bearings on the F450 motors. One of the NTM 2830 800kv motors wasn't spinning up as quickly as the other motors and was stopping much quicker. I pulled that one motor apart and the top bearing was quite rusty, so I gave it a good clean and connected it to my Dremel and oiled it while spinning around 2000rpm. It's now spinning up as quickly as the other motors. The motor has been used on about 10 flights, so being rusty is a bit concerning, but the forums all suggest that the NTM motors bearings are cheap and nasty. Not going to worry about upgrading the bearings, when the time comes I'll just get better quality motors. But the NTM's have proved to be pretty good value otherwise.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 10, 2014, 07:28:06 PM
http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Warrnambool.mp4 (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Warrnambool.mp4)

Warrnambool - Merri River mouth - sunset - was a bit windy .. Realised my gimbal settings prevented the camera from moving when I accelerated forward ... Fixed now ..

Lots of Gulls on the sand .. Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 10, 2014, 07:48:38 PM
http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Warrnambool.mp4 (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Warrnambool.mp4)

Warrnambool - Merri River mouth - sunset - was a bit windy .. Realised my gimbal settings prevented the camera from moving when I accelerated forward ... Fixed now ..

Lots of Gulls on the sand .. Steve

Any video much appreciated Steve, better than my efforts to date. What a stunning location.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 10, 2014, 08:53:12 PM
We went to Hopkins Falls - got some really nice Photos - tried to get video but the wind was coming up river hitting the curved falls wall and spiralling up up and away --
I had no control over the Phantom until it got out of the updraught .. I really wanted the video but it didnt happn this time ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/10/9460dd82cc1edf1251a13bdcbd6579d7.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on November 11, 2014, 12:02:34 AM

Spent today getting as much done on the Alien as I can, plus I oiled the bearings on the F450 motors. One of the NTM 2830 800kv motors wasn't spinning up as quickly as the other motors and was stopping much quicker. I pulled that one motor apart and the top bearing was quite rusty, so I gave it a good clean and connected it to my Dremel and oiled it while spinning around 2000rpm. It's now spinning up as quickly as the other motors. The motor has been used on about 10 flights, so being rusty is a bit concerning, but the forums all suggest that the NTM motors bearings are cheap and nasty. Not going to worry about upgrading the bearings, when the time comes I'll just get better quality motors. But the NTM's have proved to be pretty good value otherwise.

When I calibrated my ESCs the other day I noticed a couple of the NTM 2830 900Kv motors I have seemed a bit noisier than the  other one. I was just going to leave them until after I get this thing in the air and actually get to fly it, but now I'm thinking I might have to pull them apart and oil them while I'm waiting for the frame.

What oil do you use. Something thin like gun or sowing machine oil?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 11, 2014, 12:19:40 AM
http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Warrnambool.mp4 (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Warrnambool.mp4)

Warrnambool - Merri River mouth - sunset - was a bit windy .. Realised my gimbal settings prevented the camera from moving when I accelerated forward ... Fixed now ..

Lots of Gulls on the sand .. Steve


Hi Steve,

Nice location and good to see some video footage!  Just a question what are you using to dampen the vibrations?  There seems to be a fair bit coming through, is it coming through because the gimbal issue you mentioned?

I've got to get my decent cameras mounted, making me jealous!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 11, 2014, 05:18:03 AM
When I calibrated my ESCs the other day I noticed a couple of the NTM 2830 900Kv motors I have seemed a bit noisier than the  other one. I was just going to leave them until after I get this thing in the air and actually get to fly it, but now I'm thinking I might have to pull them apart and oil them while I'm waiting for the frame.

What oil do you use. Something thin like gun or sowing machine oil?

Hello Spartan,

If you want to pull them apart, remove the grub screw at the top of the bell housing, then use a small nail to drive the shaft down and out of the housing. Then you have to pull really hard on the bell housing against the pull of the magnets to remove it from the stator.

Don't remove the circlip from the bottom of the shaft, otherwise you will need to replace them. They distort and are nearly impossible to make them grip satisfactorily when you put them back on. If you want to remove the bearings, here is a good video I found. I didn't do this, I just oiled the bearings once I had good access to them. Don't worry about getting oil on the windings, it does the motor no harm.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrOGKyXP0Ak (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrOGKyXP0Ak)

I used Castrol Handy Oil (sewing machine oil). It's been sitting in the cupboard for about 10 years and I have no idea where I got it from.

(http://www.derek.com.au/castrolhandyoil.jpg)

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 11, 2014, 08:46:56 PM
Hello Spartan,

If you want to pull them apart, remove the grub screw at the top of the bell housing, then use a small nail to drive the shaft down and out of the housing. Then you have to pull really hard on the bell housing against the pull of the magnets to remove it from the stator.

Don't remove the circlip from the bottom of the shaft, otherwise you will need to replace them. They distort and are nearly impossible to make them grip satisfactorily when you put them back on. If you want to remove the bearings, here is a good video I found. I didn't do this, I just oiled the bearings once I had good access to them. Don't worry about getting oil on the windings, it does the motor no harm.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrOGKyXP0Ak (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TrOGKyXP0Ak)

I used Castrol Handy Oil (sewing machine oil). It's been sitting in the cupboard for about 10 years and I have no idea where I got it from.

(http://www.derek.com.au/castrolhandyoil.jpg)

Cheers, Mark


Hi Spartan,

I've use the singer light machine oil (so sewing machine oil). You can pick it up at most of the supermarkets or hardware shops.

I've had the same bottle since I was 16.  I put a few drops in the shaver every couple of months (properly not needed in a modern shaver but still).

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on November 11, 2014, 09:32:19 PM
I've got some gun oil in the shed so I'll either use that or grab some sowing machine oil - thanks for the advice.

I think I might wait until I mount the motors on the frame so at least it's easy enough to spin them up again - probably should have taken notice which motors were noisy shouldn't I  ::).

I got up at 5.30 this morning to go and meet a mate of mine who was taking his walkera and tricopter out for a flight. How easy is it to fly with GPS! I've never flown a multicopter in my life and I was just cruising around in altitude hold mode. He took it up so high that we couldn't really make it out - flick the return to home switch and a couple of minutes later it turns up and even pulls off a decent landing!

But that's the main reason I went for a KK board - to actually learn how to fly properly without all the electronics doing half the work for me.

For those of you with KK boards - how many of you always fly/flew with the Self level on and how many switch it off?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 11, 2014, 10:10:19 PM
I think I might wait until I mount the motors on the frame so at least it's easy enough to spin them up again - probably should have taken notice which motors were noisy shouldn't I  ::).
Much easier that way. Give each prop a really good flick, you'll soon see which motor has issues with the bearings.
For those of you with KK boards - how many of you always fly/flew with the Self level on and how many switch it off?
I used the chicken switch all the time, full acro had my quad in the dirt in 2 seconds.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 12, 2014, 06:34:18 AM
Found a seller on Aliexpress with 100% feedback and over 150 sales which is pretty remarkable.

They sell some Emax motors that I am considering for the Alien.

This motor is pretty versatile in that it can be powered from 3S-5S and the thrust/weight/current ratios are pretty good. It's a pretty good package including t-prop adapters and CW/CCW accessory packs all nicely packaged.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMAX-MT-3506-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/1512065252.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMAX-MT-3506-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/1512065252.html)

The other Emax is a 600kv beast with maximum thrust of 1780g but nearly 40g heavier.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMAX-MT-3510-600KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/1512149723.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMAX-MT-3510-600KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/1512149723.html)

I'm leaning towards these motors now in favour of the multistar motors from Hobbyking. I am going to run the specs of all the motors I am considering through the ecalc website to make sure I'm making a good decision.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 12, 2014, 12:29:57 PM
I bit the bullet and bought 4 of the Emax MT3506 650kv (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMAX-MT-3506-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/1512065252.html) motors. They are apparently a clone of the T-Motor MT3506 650 (http://www.rctigermotor.com/html/2013/Professional_0912/49.html). Didn't bother with ecalc. I figure the versatility of the motor should make it worth while.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 12, 2014, 05:33:38 PM


But that's the main reason I went for a KK board - to actually learn how to fly properly without all the electronics doing half the work for me.

For those of you with KK boards - how many of you always fly/flew with the Self level on and how many switch it off?

I only used the self level occasionally,  i found it struggled with descents and getting clear air, when it tried to recover it would struggle. I think with some PID tuning it would have done better.

Those with tuned frames seem to say its a good recovery option if things go bad. So most seem to fly with no self level and use it when it goes bad.

Regards,

Chris


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 12, 2014, 05:43:45 PM
Curious things happened today !!
Couldn't get a GPS lock down by the Werribee River -- Tried to fly without GPS on and had a bit of trouble as there was a bit of wind -
After takeoff each time ( 3 times I tried ) the Gimbal went into pitch rollover mode continuously - tangled up the sensor cable -
Took it home to the work shed - GPS worked fine !! - Gimbal - hopeless - Just ordered a new controller board and sensor - and a complete new gimbal
(Just in case ) ...
The yanks are complaining about Solar Flares interrupting GPS signals ?? Could that be what it was or did I just strike the part of the day when only
3 or 4 satellites were overhead ??
So no video today boys n girls ... The FPV worked really well though !! LOL ..
Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on November 12, 2014, 07:54:47 PM
Thanks for the info. I would have thought the idea would be to fly fully manual and just use the self leveling to get you out of trouble. The tri I watched the other day was in self level the whole time and it really wobbled around on descent so I'm guessing it needed some more tuning or setting up.

The motors were only noisy at certain RPMs so I'll wait until they are all mounted and connected up so I can spin them up properly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 12, 2014, 09:35:32 PM
I think the reason my last flight with the F450 was such a disaster was simply due to that one motor binding. Every time I spun the motors up, that one motor was noticeably slower. If it doesn't improve the next time I fly it, I will use one of the other NTM's that I was originally going to put on the Alien. The Reptile was flying fine on 4 NTM's.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 12, 2014, 11:59:45 PM
Thanks for the info. I would have thought the idea would be to fly fully manual and just use the self leveling to get you out of trouble. The tri I watched the other day was in self level the whole time and it really wobbled around on descent so I'm guessing it needed some more tuning or setting up.

Hi Spartan,

Sounds good to me, just to let you know all rotor blades will stall during a fast vertical descent.  The only way to avoid this is to move either forwards, sideways or in reverse, to move the blades in to clean air.  Essentially the dirty air means the rotor blades stall (they still spin) and fail to generate lift.

I had two incidents where my tricopter became unstable and hit the ground from self level and descending too fast (basically one would stall and in a tri there is no forgiveness if you loose a motor - it cant relevel it).

Even the APM should have the same problem as it's more an airframe issue but so far I've not had a crash from this (had a close one but it was able to stay level and I just caught it in time).  Just remember you can go vertically up fast but coming straight down is slow or do it while moving.

When you think about the number of full size helos you see out there you rarely see them descend straight down (and if they do it's really, really slowly), this is because it's even worse for a helicopter, they have one rotor and if it loses lift then they have a significant risk of crashing.

Fingers crossed the 'forecast weather' is yet to occur and I think I'll finally get to go for a fly tomorrow afternoon!!!

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 13, 2014, 09:00:11 PM
The new Hobbyking power modules arrived today. In mission planner I have it setup as Monitor: current and amps, Sensor: 3DR power module, and APM Ver: APM 2.5+ - 3DR Power Module.

The voltage is out by 0.3 volts, which is just 0.1 volt higher than what they recommend without calibrating the module using the 'Other' sensor. But when I calibrate the module I am still getting extreme voltages when the quad is armed (40+ volts). It's not happening when it's set to 3DR power module. So I think I'll live with it being out by 0.3 volts. At least the failsafe warnings are not appearing on the HUD anymore.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 13, 2014, 11:29:45 PM
The new Hobbyking power modules arrived today. In mission planner I have it setup as Monitor: current and amps, Sensor: 3DR power module, and APM Ver: APM 2.5+ - 3DR Power Module.

The voltage is out by 0.3 volts, which is just 0.1 volt higher than what they recommend without calibrating the module using the 'Other' sensor. But when I calibrate the module I am still getting extreme voltages when the quad is armed (40+ volts). It's not happening when it's set to 3DR power module. So I think I'll live with it being out by 0.3 volts. At least the failsafe warnings are not appearing on the HUD anymore.

Hi Mark,

I think mine is out by .25V so I wouldnt think too much about it, much better to get figures that dont jump around.  My 12.6V batteries start with 12.35V or there abouts, so I know when it hits 10.1v under load that its time to land.  My 3s 5000mah seem to jump right back up to healthy 11.x after leaving to rest for a few minutes (I use approx 4200mah).

I got a good 4.5km flight in today (around 35 mins using 2 batteries) and could have stayed up even longer but had to get home :-)  Top speed was 45km/h so I'm pretty happy with that (even in strong winds).

Regards,

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 14, 2014, 05:00:04 AM
I got a good 4.5km flight in today (around 35 mins using 2 batteries) and could have stayed up even longer but had to get home :-)  Top speed was 45km/h so I'm pretty happy with that (even in strong winds).
Was that 2 x 5000mAH batteries paralleled? Thats pretty impressive.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 14, 2014, 08:57:11 AM
Was that 2 x 5000mAH batteries paralleled? Thats pretty impressive.

Sadly no, it should have said flights (2 in total)......  But I did get around 20 mins from one battery and 15 from the other, and the 2nd had some spare so I reckon I'd be able to get 30mins no problems if I put them in parallel.  Hmmmm, now you got me thinking :-)  I was driving it pretty hard most of the time, so I reckon I could get close to 35-40 mins if I was just cruising around.

I did have one failed takeoff, I think I need to redesign my landing gear to have flat plates at the bottom as they get stuck on the grass at the oval and it causes it to flip.  I have to really commit to a take off on non concrete ground....

At one stage I had it in loiter mode and took it up to around 25m and it was at a 30 degree bank just to hold position in the strong winds.  I brought it back down to around 5m so the wind wouldn't affect it so much.  Was interesting to see that I get the odd spike to 30+ amps, on review of the logs, my OSD reports around 10-16 amps for my flying (never noticed the 30+ amp spike).  It looks like when I rapidly go from fast forward flight to hover it it has to really work and it spikes up to 30+ amps.  Still well below any of my components thresholds :-)

Still yet to swap connectors on my 2 newer batteries, sigh.   So I'll have to see if I can get my batts charged when I get home for another set of flights.  Delivering an SES Floodboat course this weekend so no chance to fly (not to mention it is forecast to rain the weekend).

I was using the telemetry link for some of the flying, so I would set random GPS points in the oval and off it would go.  Very impressive.  Time for some planned missions next week.

I did an auto tune the other day and it was successful, just need to give it time (oh and lots of space, it does like to wander).

I did 30% of the flying FPV on the monitor, and it wasnt too bad, it was extremely helpful when I lost LOS as it blended in to a stadium that is in the background.  Looked right at the monitor and was able to bring it back to me without looking back up.  Much easier to keep an object in the cameras FOV using FPV.  Damn I can see myself investing in a set of googles.... Nooooooooooooooo!!!!!!

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: allan.kidd on November 14, 2014, 10:33:30 AM
My wife would KILL me if I were to buy one of these...... :police:

However (just asking) - what models are recommended and what are the merits/faults of each?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 14, 2014, 10:52:28 AM
My wife would KILL me if I were to buy one of these...... :police:

However (just asking) - what models are recommended and what are the merits/faults of each?
Really depends upon budget and what you want to do.

My aim is using my quads as a camera platform for getting aerial footage of places I visit and I am working towards this goal, albeit slowly.

Tri-copters have a good reputation as a camera platform due to their inherent stability. This is mostly due to their largish wheelbase size (space between each motor) but this stability is also achievable is similarly sized wheel base quads and other multi-rotors in my opinion  (y6, hex, octo).

Tri-copters also have nice yaw characteristics that result in pleasing results when videoing from them. There are good examples of this on Flitetest and rcexplorer web sites.
Similar 'pleasing' yaw characteristics can also be achieved using clever flight controllers such as the APM platform with flight modes such as Drift mode.

Others will weigh in with their opinions I am sure, but again, your budget will largely dictate what you are going to be able to do.

If you are looking at videography then you would not want to consider anything less than a 350mm wheelbase quad copter. Under this size and you will struggle to get sufficient flight time and/or payload in the air (camera gimbals etc) to achieve stable video. 450mm seems pretty popular in quads for videography, but the sizes of quads can go much higher when a digital SLR camera is slung under the quad, and as the size of the camera increases (the payload), so does the cost of the multi-rotor craft.

If you are looking for a platform for a bit of fun, then there are a whole heap of different configurations to meet virtually any budget. 250mm wheel base seems to be very popular for racing with FPV.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 14, 2014, 11:56:01 AM
My wife would KILL me if I were to buy one of these...... :police:

However (just asking) - what models are recommended and what are the merits/faults of each?

Hi Allan,

When you ask which models do we recommend, are you after something that is Ready to Fly?

Reason I ask is that you really have two options, do you buy or build.  This is will be linked to both desire and budget :-)

If your looking at buying a ready to fly I'm afraid I cant offer to much other than general advice and that there are a multitude of choices and make sure you read lots of reviews......

Now if you are planning on building, then we can help you out a bit more.

Firstly you need to work out what you intend to use it for.  Like Marschy, I like to get aerial footage of places I visit, plus I find it nice and relaxing, helps to destress me after work.  I'm also taking it slowly but I'm getting more confidence with it (wishing I was at this stage when I went to Fraser in Sept).

There are a range of reasons for wanting one, from aerial photography to have a FPV racer.  Once you know what you want to do with it then you can work out which frame or frames will suit you the best.

For me the Tricopter is a good stable platform for aerial photography and allows for some fun flying.  As Marschy pointed out, it has the benefit of a yaw mechanism which limits the roll on a yaw motion and the large motor to motor distance means it is very stable.

I'll be building a quad in the future, just not yet.  I have a Bixler 2 for more graceful higher flying (still plan to stay legal though), to get a longer duration and get better video footage, maybe even try from aerial mapping too, just for fun.

Once you start your bank balance and wife will not be thanking you but hell it is a lot of fun!!

The key bit of advice that you'll need is that if you buy a Ready to Fly (RTF) that you still buy lots of spare props and landing gear.  You'll go through them.  Also buy a few spare batteries, so much better to end your flying day when you want rather than the batteries running out.

Regards,

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 14, 2014, 11:58:12 AM
The other thing to consider right up front. Get at least an 8-9 channel radio, don't much around with a 6 channel.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 14, 2014, 12:12:44 PM
The other thing to consider right up front. Get at least an 8-9 channel radio, don't much around with a 6 channel.

Couldnt agree more, I'm using more and more channels......  Using 6 currently and soon to to be 7.....

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 14, 2014, 07:38:31 PM
Emax has some really cool, excellent quality quads, hexcopters, full kits including flight control boards. You need to register to see the prices and have either an MSN or Skype account.
Here are a few of the products they have on offer. Really good prices. Yes that is an SJ4000 for $66US.

http://www.emaxmodel.com/index.asp (http://www.emaxmodel.com/index.asp)

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 14, 2014, 08:26:09 PM
Christmas is coming early -- Bit the bullet and ordered some bits n pieces including one from the above - an Emax 4 in 1 ESC ...
Went nuts and bought this http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51425__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51425__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_.html)
Going to have DJI Naza M Lite and DJI radio ( I understand how they work and very little programming required . )
So I am constructing my own quad .. I hope I get it right >>> LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 15, 2014, 02:18:22 AM
Christmas is coming early -- Bit the bullet and ordered some bits n pieces including one from the above - an Emax 4 in 1 ESC ...
Went nuts and bought this http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51425__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__51425__HobbyKing_174_Alien_560_Folding_Quad_Copter_Carbon_Fiber_Version_Kit_.html)
Going to have DJI Naza M Lite and DJI radio ( I understand how they work and very little programming required . )
So I am constructing my own quad .. I hope I get it right >>> LOL

That quad looks familiar  :cup: :cup:

What motors are you considering? Did you order your ESC's from the Emax website Mandrake? If so, what where the shipping costs like?

Your setup is going to be very similar to mine. I opted for Multistar 30 amp OPTO's, which I put in to the landing gear which is where they are designed to go on this quad. It meant having to remove the heat shrink from the ESC's and reversing the direction of the power cables which was an easy job. Otherwise the power cables come out of the ESC in the opposite direction to the holes in the frame that they feed into. You have to lengthen the power cables if you put them here anyway, so I did this to keep it as tidy as possible.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49466-1/ESC+in+landing+gear.JPG)

As you can see there is so much real estate on these quads you have heaps of choices where to mount hardware. There is ample space to mount ESC's virtually anywhere.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49468-1/ESC+wiring.jpg)

My PSU is underneath the quad, but this give you a good idea of what distance I had to lengthen the ESC power cables. The black curly loom wiring is the ESC power cables. They are waiting for a power distribution board to arrive, then they will all be neatly tucked under the battery tray which is slung under the belly of the quad.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49470-1/ESC+Power+cables+to+PSU.JPG)

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 15, 2014, 03:17:16 AM
Only got one ESC so wiring will be extended from motors to the Emax 25amp 4 in 1..Motors are Mars MX2212 920 kV..
I just hope I've got that right as am a bit worried about how the 4 in 1 will connect to Naza ??
Guess I find out later ...,LOL.
Was the frame easy to put together ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 15, 2014, 07:59:23 AM
Only got one ESC so wiring will be extended from motors to the Emax 25amp 4 in 1..Motors are Mars MX2212 920 kV..
I just hope I've got that right as am a bit worried about how the 4 in 1 will connect to Naza ??
Guess I find out later ...,LOL.
Was the frame easy to put together ?
Just disconnect the red power lead from the BEC servo leads and the ESC will work fine with the Naza. Finding space for the ESC combo may be another issue. The combo units take up a lot of space so will probably have to go right up front on the quad. The good thing is, you have four surfaces to mount hardware, being the top and bottom of each of the carbon fibre sandwich plates. I'll leave that for you to work out, but in the meantime if you want dimensions sing out and I'll get the calipers out.

The sequence of putting it together gets a mention in the discussion thread on Hobbyking. Easy to put together, but once you have it together, just unscrew the top then you can work on it really easily, like in the second picture I posted above.

You will notice once you receive your kit that I've replaced the 14mm aluminium standoffs between the bottom of the quad and the battery tray with black nylon 20mm standoffs. You can see them in the last photo. In between that space is a great place for the PSU for the Naza and it isolates any noise from the PSU and the flight controller a bit because of the carbon fibre plate between the two. Plus I'll be putting a power distribution board in there as well (if I ever receive it that is, it's been in transit 31 days as of today).

The wire you need for extending motor leads to the ESC is 14 awg from HK.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 15, 2014, 08:41:40 AM
Thanks for the info ... Can't wait for all this to arrive now - Probably have to sell my FC40 once I get this going ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 15, 2014, 08:53:23 AM
I reckon a good investment with this hobby is getting one of these crimping tools. This size does servo leads, and at $14 well worth the money spent

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=TH1834 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=TH1834)

(http://www.jaycar.com.au/products_uploaded/productLarge_10145.jpg)

Also get yourself at least 100+ 2.5mm cable ties. You'll find, like me, you tie something down as you are building, then you find out it's not quite in the position you want it, so you cut the cable tie and start again.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: BBwilly on November 15, 2014, 08:54:23 AM
This thread needs to locked and deleted it could end up costing me some serious $$$ in the near future  :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: BBwilly on November 15, 2014, 09:20:08 AM
Hi Allan,

When you ask which models do we recommend, are you after something that is Ready to Fly?

Reason I ask is that you really have two options, do you buy or build.  This is will be linked to both desire and budget :-)

If your looking at buying a ready to fly I'm afraid I cant offer to much other than general advice and that there are a multitude of choices and make sure you read lots of reviews......

Now if you are planning on building, then we can help you out a bit more.

Firstly you need to work out what you intend to use it for.  Like Marschy, I like to get aerial footage of places I visit, plus I find it nice and relaxing, helps to destress me after work.  I'm also taking it slowly but I'm getting more confidence with it (wishing I was at this stage when I went to Fraser in Sept).

There are a range of reasons for wanting one, from aerial photography to have a FPV racer.  Once you know what you want to do with it then you can work out which frame or frames will suit you the best.

For me the Tricopter is a good stable platform for aerial photography and allows for some fun flying.  As Marschy pointed out, it has the benefit of a yaw mechanism which limits the roll on a yaw motion and the large motor to motor distance means it is very stable.

I'll be building a quad in the future, just not yet.  I have a Bixler 2 for more graceful higher flying (still plan to stay legal though), to get a longer duration and get better video footage, maybe even try from aerial mapping too, just for fun.

Once you start your bank balance and wife will not be thanking you but hell it is a lot of fun!!

The key bit of advice that you'll need is that if you buy a Ready to Fly (RTF) that you still buy lots of spare props and landing gear.  You'll go through them.  Also buy a few spare batteries, so much better to end your flying day when you want rather than the batteries running out.

Regards,

Chris

So what would be a good starting point with building do you import from overseas etc.

When I was a young my father and I built small fly by wire planes together the type you stood in the middle and smashed it into the ground lol it was a fun time of my life with him he would read the plans and we would work together on it something I remember fondly things have changed these days but my son loves working on projects with me and is bored with his toys unless he is taking it apart or putting it back together maybe its just in the blood?

I have built CNC routers and many other things etc so nothing much I cant put my mind into doing.



Thx Willy

So some guidance would be appreciated


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 15, 2014, 09:38:16 AM
I am an absolute num num when it comes to flying anything R/C so I bought the Phantom FC40 as a starter - It wasn't cheap but it had GPS control which means if its setup right if you let go of the sticks it stops and hovers until battery runs down then it lands all by itself ... I've had a ball with it and now I'm going to build something based on the Phantom electronics but with a bit more
capability as far as carrying camera etc ... My old FC40 will be up for sale probably early next year .. You can still get them from China and USA ..
http://www.ebay.com/itm/DJI-Phantom-FC40-RC-Quadcopter-Drone-UAV-WiFi-Camera-GPS-2-RTF-Spy-Aerial-Vision-/221352102486?pt=Radio_Control_Vehicles&hash=item33899d0a56 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/DJI-Phantom-FC40-RC-Quadcopter-Drone-UAV-WiFi-Camera-GPS-2-RTF-Spy-Aerial-Vision-/221352102486?pt=Radio_Control_Vehicles&hash=item33899d0a56)
They are pretty tough - crashed mine a few times and only broke props ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 15, 2014, 09:38:54 AM
Hello BBwilly,

If you want to build something yourself, there are two ways you can go.

1. Scratch build. Find some plans on the internet and build a tri-copter or a quadcopter out of light ply and timber booms. Heaps of plans to be found. Google is your friend. Recommend RC Explorer and Flite test web sites for sources of plans and information.
2. Kit build. Look at some of the excellent value kits that you can get from sites like eBay, Aliexpress, Goodluckbuy, Thanksbuyer. You will need some soldering skills, not too hard though. Just do a search on Aliexpress for quadcopter kit and lose a few hours while you search. There are hundreds of options, but I recommend getting a kit with a radio with at least 8 channels.

If you want to buy something that doesn't need assembly, or very little assembly, look for
1. ARF (Almost ready to fly, requires some assembly)
2. PNF (Plug and fly, plug in your own radio receiver and your ready to go)
3. BNF (Bind and fly, bind the radio to the receiver and you are ready to go, this is the most complete option)

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__592__501__Multi_Rotors_Parts-RTF_PNF_ARF.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__592__501__Multi_Rotors_Parts-RTF_PNF_ARF.html)

If you are looking for parts where you can roll your own, then Aliexpress, ebay, goodluckbuy, thanksbuyer have literally 100's of options. Some of the motor manufacturers have their own websites that offer kits, build your own parts, but as I have found, finding these sites is more a case of tripping over them as you cruise the net looking for parrts. Here is a site I found only this week.

http://www.emaxmodel.com/ (http://www.emaxmodel.com/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 15, 2014, 09:42:10 AM


If you want to buy something that doesn't need assembly, or very little assembly, look for
1. ARF (Almost ready to fly, requires some assembly)
2. PNF (Plug and fly, plug in your own radio receiver and your ready to go)
3. BNF (Bind and fly, bind the radio to the receiver and you are ready to go, this is the most complete option)
4. RTF ( Ready to Fly ) complete kit just charge batteries and fly.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 15, 2014, 04:11:19 PM
Hey Chris,

Here are some figures from the sonar.

Its working, but not as accurately as I hoped. The higher it gets the error in the reading grows by about the same percentage. The error may be due to the quad not being level during my tests. That would probably explain why the closer it gets to the ground the more accurate the reading becomes, maybe, read on.

I've hung it from my pergola and got the following measurements:

Measured height    Sonar Height   Difference  Error %
180cm                   228cm             +48cm        +26%
124cm                   158cm             +34cm        +27%
75cm                      96cm              +21cm        +28%
45cm                      57cm              +12cm        +26% (not much to worry about at this height)

Importantly the readings seem to only move about by a centimetre or two during the test in the Mission Planner CLI. So they are pretty consistent and were probably due to the slight breeze outside moving the quad around which is hanging from a piece of string.

The sonar has a separate board with an Atmel chip on it that must be taking a reading from the HC-SR04 ultrasonic module and tweaking the reading into something the APM can read, so I'm thinking they have an error in the firmware on the sonar Atmel chip given that the error percentage seems reasonably consistent.

Or because the quad is not 100% level, the reading is taking a longer path from the trigger to the echo transducer on the ultrasonic module. I reckon there is a high probability that this is what the problem is.

I think as long as the APM software can keep up with the readings then it should be a good sonar for assisted landing. I think I read somewhere that the sonar reading is only used under 2 metres anyway, I'll check some of the forums and see if I can find where I read that.

I've gotta say, I'm very happy with the Reptile-Aphid frame. I've pulled it partially apart numerous times to put more hardware on it and as can be seen from the picture below, it has a purpose made fibre glass mini board for the sonar that is connected to the main board by standoffs. I'm going to install the Optical Flow sensor that arrived with the sonar now, then I'll give it a flight.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 15, 2014, 04:23:01 PM
I was thinking the other day of putting a solar panel and mini reg on the top panel of the Alien .. I'll have to work out what size and milliamps I can get .. LOL - might get a little longer in the air ??

Why do you need sonar for landing ?? Can't you land manually ?

mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 15, 2014, 04:46:12 PM
I was thinking the other day of putting a solar panel and mini reg on the top panel of the Alien .. I'll have to work out what size and milliamps I can get .. LOL - might get a little longer in the air ??

Why do you need sonar for landing ?? Can't you land manually ?

mandrake
The sonar helps with altitude hold and landing, and no, I can't land without doing some damage nearly every time I take these bloody things out for a fly, LOL.

The Max-botics sonars are accurate to 5+ metres, but they cost 5 times the cost of this sonar, sometimes more depending on where you buy them from. I have an LV-EZ4 that I bought from Spark Fun via snail mail, it's not a top of the line model, and set me back $29 using snail mail. I haven't installed it yet though. The HC-SR04 is easy to install because my quad has provision on the frame for it.

The XL-EZ4 from Maxbotics will set you back about 70-80 dollars if you get them from Spark Fun. Aliexpress sell them for over $100. Must be that the sonar module is only made by one manufacturer so they are stitching up the Chinese resellers with  retail prices only so they can't discount them more than Spark Fun and Maxbotics web sites.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 15, 2014, 10:56:16 PM
Hey Chris,

Here are some figures from the sonar.

Its working, but not as accurately as I hoped. The higher it gets the error in the reading grows by about the same percentage. The error may be due to the quad not being level during my tests. That would probably explain why the closer it gets to the ground the more accurate the reading becomes, maybe, read on.

I've hung it from my pergola and got the following measurements:

Measured height    Sonar Height   Difference  Error %
180cm                   228cm             +48cm        +26%
124cm                   158cm             +34cm        +27%
75cm                      96cm              +21cm        +28%
45cm                      57cm              +12cm        +26% (not much to worry about at this height)

Importantly the readings seem to only move about by a centimetre or two during the test in the Mission Planner CLI. So they are pretty consistent and were probably due to the slight breeze outside moving the quad around which is hanging from a piece of string.

The sonar has a separate board with an Atmel chip on it that must be taking a reading from the HC-SR04 ultrasonic module and tweaking the reading into something the APM can read, so I'm thinking they have an error in the firmware on the sonar Atmel chip given that the error percentage seems reasonably consistent.

Or because the quad is not 100% level, the reading is taking a longer path from the trigger to the echo transducer on the ultrasonic module. I reckon there is a high probability that this is what the problem is.

I think as long as the APM software can keep up with the readings then it should be a good sonar for assisted landing. I think I read somewhere that the sonar reading is only used under 2 metres anyway, I'll check some of the forums and see if I can find where I read that.

I've gotta say, I'm very happy with the Reptile-Aphid frame. I've pulled it partially apart numerous times to put more hardware on it and as can be seen from the picture below, it has a purpose made fibre glass mini board for the sonar that is connected to the main board by standoffs. I'm going to install the Optical Flow sensor that arrived with the sonar now, then I'll give it a flight.

Cheers, Mark

Hi Mark,

To be out by 25% each time you'd need to mounted non square by a reasonable amount I'd have thought?  If it is firmware that would be a little disappointing.  I'll have to check out mine when it arrives.

I think there is a sonar max height, which is the 60% of the normal max range of the particular sonar.  If it's below that height and it's getting a reading then it uses it as the height.  So if even if it's out by 25% it should still be good.

Now the wait time for mine to arrive, sigh.....

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 15, 2014, 11:02:35 PM
The sonar helps with altitude hold and landing, and no, I can't land without doing some damage nearly every time I take these bloody things out for a fly, LOL.

Try landing in ALTHOLD or Loiter mode and you should land fairly easily without any damage.  I do so if the wind is gusty, just to make sure there is a level of redundancy.  Happy to say, landings are not my issue.  I have more failures and damage on takeoff's - from my landing gear getting stuck on grass.....

I had a catastrophic failure on a quick flight I did on Friday night.  I broke an arm.  At the time I thought I had thrown a motor as I found one disconnected on the ground next to it.  On review of the video footage the motor I thought I lost I hadnt as it flipped in the opposite direction, so I dont know what went wrong.....  Funny thing was I was only the air for a short time, I traveled 40m and then it happened.

After I finish delivering this floodboat course on Sunday I'll try to make the repairs (broken boom and one bullet connector was ripped off) and hopefully there will be some clear sky's next week.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 16, 2014, 06:23:39 AM
Hi Mark,

To be out by 25% each time you'd need to mounted non square by a reasonable amount I'd have thought?  If it is firmware that would be a little disappointing.  I'll have to check out mine when it arrives.

I think there is a sonar max height, which is the 60% of the normal max range of the particular sonar.  If it's below that height and it's getting a reading then it uses it as the height.  So if even if it's out by 25% it should still be good.

Now the wait time for mine to arrive, sigh.....

Regards,

Chris
I think once you receive your sonar and run some tests if the results are similar to mine it will indicate the firmware on the sonar as the culprit. I tried other sonars in Mission Planner (XL, XXL etc), they gave the same result, so it's not an MP firmware issue. I am going to try changing the sonar gain in MP today and see if that makes a difference.

The good thing is, for $15 they work.

I didn't end up putting the filter suggested on the arducopter website on the power cable. The sonar is supplied with a 3 wire servo cable which I wrapped a narrow piece of alfoil around then I wrapped that with spiral wrap tube to provide some shielding. I've used the same stuff on all the video cabling as well, it works really well.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on November 16, 2014, 01:01:46 PM
When landing in bad areas or windy conditions I hover my copter just above head height and the catch it before lowering the throttle for auto shutdown.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 16, 2014, 01:03:16 PM
When landing in bad areas or windy conditions I hover my copter just above head height and the catch it before lowering the throttle for auto shutdown.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
I'll have to give that a go.  :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on November 17, 2014, 05:44:17 AM
Oops :)

http://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fnii5sms-1227124892062 (http://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fnii5sms-1227124892062)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 17, 2014, 05:51:55 AM
Oops :)

http://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fnii5sms-1227124892062 (http://www.news.com.au/national/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fnii5sms-1227124892062)

I wouldn't be surprised if these real estate agents don't have the appropriate license for operating a drone for commercial purposes.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 17, 2014, 05:53:20 AM
If I was her I would sue them .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 17, 2014, 03:13:53 PM
If I was her I would sue them .

Why, what for?, what level of expectation of privacy does she have in her backyard?  The image of her is not exactly detailed now is it?  She admitted she was aware the drone was there, so its down to her not understanding what it can do, had she known then she would have retreated indoors.  The backyard is not exactly a private location anymore, any planes flying over could have gotten a much higher quality image than what we saw and operate at a much higher alt (such that she may not have realised it's doing aerial photography).  I have reasonable sized fences but I don't treat my yard as a private area anymore, I know that neighbors on their balconies can see in.

I think the question at hand here is was the person a licensed operator?

At least he is willing to blur it our for her and that will meet the privacy test.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 17, 2014, 03:19:47 PM
Common courtesy would have been to advise the neighbours that an aerial camera would be used tomorrow. Then its her fault if she gets caught out.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 17, 2014, 03:40:57 PM
Common courtesy would have been to advise the neighbours that an aerial camera would be used tomorrow. Then its her fault if she gets caught out.

Yes I agree that would have been nice, but no legal need to notify them so cant really sue them.  How far should he have notified?  Everyone has a different definition of a reasonable distance (would you say every property that can be seen, or just the immediate neighbor?  What I think is ok, may not be okay for someone else.

Now once it was noticed she was sunbathing, if he'd then hovered over her for further specific shots then sure she might have some argument but in this instance I think it would be covered as an unintentional intrusion and perfectly fine.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 17, 2014, 03:43:48 PM
Why did she go to the media to let the world know that the person in the photo was her?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on November 17, 2014, 05:22:25 PM
These guys took the pics http://www.skyrobot.com.au/ (http://www.skyrobot.com.au/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 17, 2014, 05:35:45 PM
The story from the women's perspective doesn't make sense. If she was embarrassed by the photos, she was obviously placated enough by the media for them to publish them to a much wider audience, otherwise wouldn't the media be complicit in her embarrassment as well?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on November 17, 2014, 05:55:33 PM
I did some googling and came across this thing: https://www.airdog.com/ (https://www.airdog.com/)

That seems very handy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DarWen on November 17, 2014, 07:44:01 PM
Just saw the story on ACA, one camera angle from the backyard over her shoulder you could clearly see through the chainwire fence out to the road. not very private in my eyes.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 17, 2014, 07:47:46 PM
Ahhhh, ACA, quality journalism, not. I can't remember the last time I watched that show.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 17, 2014, 08:03:50 PM
Read the comments from readers on the Herald Sun, most of them echo what I'm saying.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fni0fit3-1227124892062#itm=newscomau%7Cnews%7Cncam-story-body-link%7C3%7Chttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.heraldsun.com.au%2Fnews%2Fvictoria%2Fmt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone%2Fstory-fni0fit3-1227124892062%7Cstory%7CMum%26%238217%3Bs%20topless%20sunbake%20ends%20in%20ad%20nightmare&itmt=1416218426073 (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fni0fit3-1227124892062#itm=newscomau%7Cnews%7Cncam-story-body-link%7C3%7Chttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.heraldsun.com.au%2Fnews%2Fvictoria%2Fmt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone%2Fstory-fni0fit3-1227124892062%7Cstory%7CMum%26%238217%3Bs%20topless%20sunbake%20ends%20in%20ad%20nightmare&itmt=1416218426073)

The comments by 'Diane' are truly whackadoodle cr@p. She sounds as though she is a politician or a councillor with an election agenda. The accusations she is making about people who fly drones are offensive as she is suggesting that anyone and everyone who flies a drone is a pervert with plans to kidnap your children. She obviously knows 2/5 of stuff all about drones with her ignorant comments.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 18, 2014, 03:02:22 PM
Read the comments from readers on the Herald Sun, most of them echo what I'm saying.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fni0fit3-1227124892062#itm=newscomau%7Cnews%7Cncam-story-body-link%7C3%7Chttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.heraldsun.com.au%2Fnews%2Fvictoria%2Fmt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone%2Fstory-fni0fit3-1227124892062%7Cstory%7CMum%26%238217%3Bs%20topless%20sunbake%20ends%20in%20ad%20nightmare&itmt=1416218426073 (http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/mt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone/story-fni0fit3-1227124892062#itm=newscomau%7Cnews%7Cncam-story-body-link%7C3%7Chttp%3A%2F%2Fwww.heraldsun.com.au%2Fnews%2Fvictoria%2Fmt-martha-woman-snapped-sunbaking-in-gstring-by-real-estate-drone%2Fstory-fni0fit3-1227124892062%7Cstory%7CMum%26%238217%3Bs%20topless%20sunbake%20ends%20in%20ad%20nightmare&itmt=1416218426073)

The comments by 'Diane' are truly whackadoodle cr@p. She sounds as though she is a politician or a councillor with an election agenda. The accusations she is making about people who fly drones are offensive as she is suggesting that anyone and everyone who flies a drone is a pervert with plans to kidnap your children. She obviously knows 2/5 of stuff all about drones with her ignorant comments.


Yep she is absolutely crazy, I love how people think just because they dont like something that they can sue for it.  The world dont work that way.  There so many on the comments that are thinking like her, that really worries me.  What do people think, it's absolutely amazing.  Again it's covered under the common law unintentional intrusion, so really its a lot of noise about nothing.  I cant believe channel 7 has given so much coverage.

I find it absolutely amazing how she see's everyone as perverts.  It's people like her that give dads like me the evil eye when you take your daughter to the bathroom, I like to smile back to those people (I feel sorry for them, what a sad reality they live in).  I really think that there is a set of society that are so willing to give everything up to feel safer then in reality they gain nothing and lose so much.   Seems people like to be over regulated.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 18, 2014, 03:10:44 PM
Back to "reality" now ---
Just found and bought this Remzibi OSD for Naza M Lite !!!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/251714574158?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/251714574158?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

Hopefully this will prevent me from letting that electric smoke out .... Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 18, 2014, 03:20:28 PM
Back to "reality" now ---
Just found and bought this Remzibi OSD for Naza M Lite !!!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/251714574158?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/251714574158?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

Hopefully this will prevent me from letting that electric smoke out .... Mandrake


Are you sure, it looks like it has just as many wires if not more than anything else!  That looks like a magic white smoke generator to me.

I hope that it's forgiving if you get a few wrong :-)  I'll say good luck on that one.....

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 18, 2014, 03:21:43 PM
Are you sure, it looks like it has just as many wires if not more than anything else!  That looks like a magic white smoke generator to me.

I hope that it's forgiving if you get a few wrong :-)  I'll say good luck on that one.....

Chris

I forgot to say the OSD screen looks good though.  I love having all the data at hand.  Will be good to see some footage with it all working :-)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 18, 2014, 03:23:26 PM
Seeing it working is a long way away ... Got to build it - first I got to get all the bits n pieces here ... Happy Christmas to me ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 18, 2014, 03:57:00 PM
Seeing it working is a long way away ... Got to build it - first I got to get all the bits n pieces here ... Happy Christmas to me ...

LOL, I know the feeling, took me a while to get everything wired up how I want it.  I'm hoping my sonar will arrive soon.

Hmmm, Christmas...... I'm thinking I'll be spending some time flying these holidays......  I have 4 sets of 3s 5000mah batts so I should get around 60-70 mins of flying time (combined flights not in one flight) plus a bit extra when I pair up some 2200mah batts.  Hoping I can find somewhere to fly the bixler 2!  Need somewhere bigger than my local park.....  I think there is another nearby park that might work.

I'm thinking of buying the parts for a small quad for Christmas, thinking it would be a great present from my wife......  Not sure what she will think of that :-)  Otherwise I'll need to give myself a present....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 18, 2014, 04:04:19 PM
Hello Mandrake,

Pity Naza Lite does not support iOSD. But the outlay may cause a divorce if my wife ever finds out how much I paid for the Naza M V2 plus iOSD and BTU.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 18, 2014, 04:06:40 PM
Know what ya mean - Thats why I went with the Lite ... If I get confident I can always swap it over with the Phantom ( Naza M V2 ) .. But I gots to stops blowings things ups !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 18, 2014, 04:08:57 PM
The iOSD is about $80
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 19, 2014, 07:49:40 PM
The Alien landed today - Started the assembly - Seems fairly simple so far .. BUT .. I got a couple of extra panels and tubes that are not mentioned in the assembly guide - The two poles are for the gimbal .. What about the 2 plates ?? Any Ideas Marschy ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 19, 2014, 09:01:14 PM
The smaller plate goes on the top using the four long standoffs over the centre of the top sandwich plate., effectively over where your flight control board goes. Photo's on Hobbyking site would suggest it is where you mount your video transmitter and antenna.

The larger rectangular plate is slung under the bottom sandwich plate using the six short aluminium standoffs, which in this photo I have replaced with 20mm nylon standoffs. It favours the rear of the frame to allow a battery to be hung under the belly and balance the frame when a gimbal is put on the front rails. I've put the PSU inbetween the bottom sandwich plate and the battery plate. A power distribution board will also be put into the same space.

The second photo shows how I am going to mount the FPV camera on the front rails using a Tarot gimbal mount.

The third photo shows how I have mounted the rails inbetween the sandwich plates, because the gimbal couldn't be place far enough back on the rails without the mounting plate of the gimbal hitting the bottom sandwich plate. Moving the rails inside the sandwich plate now makes the mounting plate sit underneath the bottom sandwich plate.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 19, 2014, 10:14:07 PM
I'm thinking of buying the parts for a small quad for Christmas, thinking it would be a great present from my wife......  Not sure what she will think of that :-)  Otherwise I'll need to give myself a present....

Started my shopping list for my 50th birthday in the new year.

ZMR250, which gets touted as a Blackout Mini-H knockoff. Different geometry, but the way the frame is put together is certainly similar to the Blackout. Well actually similar is an understatement. I would say criminally similar, i.e. design is 100% pilfered. But $26.09 US for a ZMR250 frame from China compared to $149 US for a blackout frame, hmmmm. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html), I'm 'M***k S' on the Transaction History and Feedback list on page 3 of the listing, still waiting for it to arrive. (gotta cut up my credit card, this is getting ridiculous).

(http://img.dxcdn.com/productimages/sku_327429_1.jpg)

I'm putting Emax MT1806 2280kv motors and Emax 12A SimonK ESC's on it, with an APM Mini V3.1 and GPS and minimOSD. I'm going to drive this with a Mobius for FPV and recording and not bother with a dedicated FPV camera. There's no room for a gimbal anyway, so I don't see the point in having two cameras. I've ordered the motors and ESC's and have an OrangeRX R615X CPPM receiver on the way to cut down on the wiring. The mini APM and minimOSD and camera will have to wait until the new year.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 20, 2014, 12:53:16 PM
Started my shopping list for my 50th birthday in the new year.

ZMR250, which gets touted as a Blackout Mini-H knockoff. Different geometry, but the way the frame is put together is certainly similar to the Blackout. Well actually similar is an understatement. I would say criminally similar, i.e. design is 100% pilfered. But $26.09 US for a ZMR250 frame from China compared to $149 US for a blackout frame, hmmmm. http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html), I'm 'M***k S' on the Transaction History and Feedback list on page 3 of the listing, still waiting for it to arrive. (gotta cut up my credit card, this is getting ridiculous).

(http://img.dxcdn.com/productimages/sku_327429_1.jpg)

I'm putting Emax MT1806 2280kv motors and Emax 12A SimonK ESC's on it, with an APM Mini V3.1 and GPS and minimOSD. I'm going to drive this with a Mobius for FPV and recording and not bother with a dedicated FPV camera. There's no room for a gimbal anyway, so I don't see the point in having two cameras. I've ordered the motors and ESC's and have an OrangeRX R615X CPPM receiver on the way to cut down on the wiring. The mini APM and minimOSD and camera will have to wait until the new year.


Looks good to me, I know the feeling.  I cant wait to start on a quad......  But I made an agreement with myself, that I was only allowed to buy spares for my 2 craft until I have logged another 4 hours of flight.  I've done really well, I only bought 2 additional batteries in that time, so I'm doing well.  Well with the exception of the sonar which I thought I had bought but hadn't, it's one bit of kit that I'm really looking forward to playing with.

I plan to get another hour of flights in on the weekend. So I should hit my 4 hours soon, I've acrued 1.5 hours in Exmaps (since I started using it) and I had about 1 hour before I started using it, so I may hit it next week :-)

I cut my replacement front arm last night.  On closer inspection the last crash did a break more than I thought.  Luckily all the electronics are ok, so it turns out it broke the plywood electronics tray, the arm, bend the music wire that holds the camera tray and the camera tray mounts.  I've checked the motor that came off and it seems to function correctly, it just has one shorter wire now.....

So I'm redesigning it to not use anymore balsawood, it just gave in the crash which was good and bad.  I think that the music wire would have bend and absorbed most of the energy when it struck the ground.  Wire is easy to bend, I hate having to cut wood and glue it all up..... 

So now I need to disassemble most of the extra bits (camera tray and electronics tray), luckily the main frame didnt suffer any damage at all.  Not bad for a prototype I cut out of some scrap plywood I had lying around.  I did plan to make it out of carbon fibre but so far I'm liking the plywood.

I've got a plan to reinforce where the GPS mast goes as it is the item that breaks whenever it flips over.....   Currently it's just a small drill hole in the electronics tray (3mm ply) and some balsawood for depth.  I think I'll swap the balsawood for some 1.2mm x 1.2mm pine (same stuff I use on the arms), so reinforce it a bit.

I've got some fixing to do tonight so I can be ready for the weekend!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 20, 2014, 03:02:43 PM
Chris, have you considered spruce for the boom arms? This was/is the go to timber for spars in fixed wing RC aircraft.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on November 21, 2014, 07:15:57 AM
Another oops...

http://www.watoday.com.au/wa-news/drone-crashes-into-canning-vale-house-20141120-11qqa5.html (http://www.watoday.com.au/wa-news/drone-crashes-into-canning-vale-house-20141120-11qqa5.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 21, 2014, 07:36:34 AM
That looks like an expensive rig. It's a hex by the look of the frame, but there appears to be two arms missing.

I think its illegal to fly these at night regardless of whether you are licensed or not. I hope they catch the twit and throw the book at him.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Peterr on November 21, 2014, 07:48:29 AM
Hope someone's unplugged the lipo by now!!

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 21, 2014, 07:49:19 AM
Good point
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 21, 2014, 08:32:01 AM
I have this story on Facebook and the "hole" in the ceiling it supposedly came through ( after going through the roof tiles or colorbond ??? )
is about the size of a fist -- Certainly not big enough to get that quad through ... Its BS ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 21, 2014, 08:32:56 AM
My Alien frame is now complete and waiting on the electronics - Here's a pic next to the Phantom ... Its a wee bit bigger ....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/20/684e5baa0b2d505f9b50a6f6d96ea6c3.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 21, 2014, 08:38:36 AM
I have this story on Facebook and the "hole" in the ceiling it supposedly came through ( after going through the roof tiles or colorbond ??? )
is about the size of a fist -- Certainly not big enough to get that quad through ... Its BS ...
It's no wonder then why quadcopters are such an emotive topic. The media try to get as much mileage out of each story that they can to the extent where crucial information is not supplied in a story which helps sensationalise it.

Unfortunately I think the hobby is going to get an undeserved hiding.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 21, 2014, 08:43:36 AM
My Alien frame is now complete and waiting on the electronics - Here's a pic next to the Phantom ... Its a wee bit bigger ....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/20/684e5baa0b2d505f9b50a6f6d96ea6c3.jpg)

Should have seen mine with the Tarot motor mounts on it before I trimmed 52mm off each arm. It made the wheel base over 650mm. It was huge.

Nice frame aren't they? Heaps of space to mount everything. I have a crab landing gear sitting in it's box in anticipation of the landing gear snapping off. It's quite common apparently.

What gimbal are you contemplating?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 21, 2014, 09:16:16 AM
Chris, have you considered spruce for the boom arms? This was/is the go to timber for spars in fixed wing RC aircraft.

Hi Marschy,

I'm using pine for the arms.  As I understand Spruce is just a type of pine (norway pine?)......  Yes it is very strong, flexible and nice to work with, I did look into it but it's limited in supply options from what I can see.  I think this is only the 3rd time I've taken an arm out and they are cheap.  I get 3 arms to a 1.2m length for around $3.  Plus with timber this cheap I can change the length around and get a completely different feel for it.  I've using 40cm long arms so that I get a nice stable flight.  I could shrink this down to 25-30cm and get a much more nimble machine.  As a plus any broken arms are used to construct my landing gear :-)

It was a hard crash, I was going about 35km/h and it fell from about 4m up......  I'm surprised I didnt damage the plywood frame that I've got.  I don't think spruce would hold up to that either.

Sadly I had to leave some of the balsawood in place, they hold the music wires in place on the pine parts.  Tried to cut small bits of ply, not an easy task......  I was looking at it last night as I started to fix it all and decided I was going to revamp it so it's modular like my electronics tray (I love nylon bolts, great for attaching stuff and not paying the weight penalty).  But that involves moving where the music wire is currently placed, so that will be a weekend project (after I get flying for an hour).  I have it mostly reassembled, I just need to bolt the camera tray back on (plus the cameras) and cable tie the ESC and motor back on.  So all toll this this accident cost me about an hour or two of my time.  The mount for the GPS is now reinforced, I'll be pissed if I break it now...... 

I think I've added about 20g of weight to it by replacing some of the balsawood with pine but it will be much stronger.

So i've been looking at the footage from last Friday and reviewing the logs.....

I'm still not sure what happened though....  When it was flying I thought I saw the right motor separate from the airframe, however on the video footage I can clearly see that the right side just randomly went up, and it flipped over, almost back into a level position and then straight into the ground.  I cannot see the motor come away in the footage but it was separated from the frame when it hit the ground.  RC in on that channel shows no command for that.  Also the rollin log entries show no change but the roll certainly changed, so it didnt intend it that is for sure.  I'm wondering if a cable tie broke on the motor mount and it was wobbly?

All the footage I used was from the ground, the SD card on board were corrupted due to a loss of power.  My bad, I forgot to hit stop recording before I pulled the power plug.

Would love to know why, sometimes having the data logs can be helpful other times they still leave you scratching your head.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 21, 2014, 09:19:18 AM
That looks like an expensive rig. It's a hex by the look of the frame, but there appears to be two arms missing.

I think its illegal to fly these at night regardless of whether you are licensed or not. I hope they catch the twit and throw the book at him.

Definitely illegal to fly at night at this stage, no RPA is allowed to fly at night (hobby or commercial).

Unless CASA issued an exemption for this flight but given no owner has come forward I'd say they didn't.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 21, 2014, 01:41:12 PM


What gimbal are you contemplating?


Have bought a pair of Tarot brackets to hang a GBC 2D gimbal ( same as on the Phantom ) ..
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6363561248.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6363561248.html)]http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6363561248.html
Just ordered some extra hardware - M2.5x6 screws , M3x6 screws and some 35mm and 50mm standoffs ...
WILL IT EVER END ????? Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 21, 2014, 02:24:29 PM
Have bought a pair of Tarot brackets to hang a GBC 2D gimbal ( same as on the Phantom ) ..
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6363561248.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6363561248.html)]http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6363561248.html
Just ordered some extra hardware - M2.5x6 screws , M3x6 screws and some 35mm and 50mm standoffs ...
WILL IT EVER END ????? Steve

They are the same hooks that I bought separately that I use for the FPV camera. I've seen pictures of them in use with cable ties on them on the gimbal rails to make sure they don't come off easily, makes sense I suppose.

I going to hack my 2 axis GBC gimbal to make an inline gimbal for my Reptile Aphid which currently has a single axis tilt gimbal driven by a servo. I'll remove the anti-vibration plates from the GBC gimbal and mount the motor directly onto the front of the Reptile. I have 4 spare motor mounts from the Alien 560 so I'm going to use one of them for mounting the roll motor and I'll use some aluminium angle to make some vibration ball mounts. Then I'll use the damper balls from the GBC gimbal between the aluminium angle and the sandwich plates on the reptile. I'll post up some pictures once I get it underway.

I fried the first GBC control board and replaced it with another, only to stuff the second board up by reflashing it with Alexmos firmware. I've since replaced the second GBC control board with a Tarot ZZXY board only to find that when trying to get the reflashed Alexmos control board to work, I fried the roll motor on the GBC gimbal, crikey it never ends.

So, as soon as I receive the replacement motors I ordered, along with the new Tarot control board I already have, I will see if I can get the hacked GBC gimbal working again. What was a cheap gimbal has now cost me a fair bit of money, arrrrg. Because the Reptile Aphid doesn't have crab landing gear I'm trying to make an inline gimbal with the bits and pieces I already have. BMSWEB on youtube has done something similar and has made a couple of videos showing off it's performance, and has indicated that he will make a video of how he made it (still waiting for it), but I have a pretty good idea how to do it. The only problem I envisage with doing this is tuning it. It can be a real PITA tuning gimbals from scratch, as I have found out.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Signature035 on November 21, 2014, 04:58:35 PM

Could I ask an opinion on the Quanum Nova FPV GPS Waypoint QuadCopter (Mode 1 or 2) (Ready to Fly) ......as an entry level Quad.

http://hobbyking.com.au/hobbyking/store/__55105__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_Mode_1_Ready_to_Fly_.html (http://hobbyking.com.au/hobbyking/store/__55105__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_Mode_1_Ready_to_Fly_.html)

Thoughts really appreciated.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 21, 2014, 05:07:51 PM
Just an opinion as I don't own one, but for what it's worth, I think they are fantastic value for what you pay. They use Arducopter firmware which I am familiar with. Very clever software. Flying weight is pretty low at 875g so the battery power should be OK. 7 channel radio included in the price which will do everything you probably need to do for a starter quad, but that is something that can be upgraded down the track.

Read some of the forums to gauge what others think of the quad, but I'd buy one if I was in the market for a ready to fly.

I think the strong point with these products from Hobbyking is the spare parts that back up the product. If it goes into the deck, at least you know you can repair it, and from the prices of parts, pretty cheaply.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 21, 2014, 08:15:03 PM
Could I ask an opinion on the Quanum Nova FPV GPS Waypoint QuadCopter (Mode 1 or 2) (Ready to Fly) ......as an entry level Quad.

http://hobbyking.com.au/hobbyking/store/__55105__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_Mode_1_Ready_to_Fly_.html (http://hobbyking.com.au/hobbyking/store/__55105__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_Mode_1_Ready_to_Fly_.html)

Thoughts really appreciated.


I haven't used this particular model but for that cost for an RTF, I'd say if you arent a build it type then I'd say go for one of these.  I'd suggest going for a mode 2 radio if you can, just that mode 1 is not very common (even here in Aus - which mode in the US think we use...)

Just read Marschy's reply, I agree with what he's saying.  Good access to spares, ready do go.  Note the charger is a US plug, so I'd invest in another LiPo charger, plus a Lipo bag to charge it in too.

I'd also pick up a few extra batteries too.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Signature035 on November 22, 2014, 07:13:07 AM
Thanks Marschy & CBRK,  I have no idea, and thinking it might be a bit of fun over Christmas....
Like the idea of buying something with a bit of quality, not just a toy.
Just looked, Is Hobbyking not in Oz?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 22, 2014, 07:16:38 AM
Thanks Marschy & CBRK,  I have no idea, and thinking it might be a bit of fun over Christmas....
Like the idea of buying something with a bit of quality, not just a toy.
Just looked, Is Hobbyking not in Oz?
They have a Melbourne warehouse, and soon a Sydney one. But some products, like the Quanum Nova you can only purchase through the international warehouse which is in Hong Kong. Postage at this time of the year is slow because of lots of stuff going through customs, so if you want it for Xmas, you may have already missed the boat.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on November 22, 2014, 07:26:37 AM

They have a Melbourne warehouse, and soon a Sydney one. But some products, like the Quanum Nova you can only purchase through the international warehouse which is in Hong Kong. Postage at this time of the year is slow because of lots of stuff going through customs, so if you want it for Xmas, you may have already missed the boat.

Cheers, Marschy
I think the oz warehouse is in NSW South Coast near batemans bay. I had to return something and that is where I sent it.
But still it is in oz.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 22, 2014, 07:30:57 AM
You would also have to order the one without the battery as most carriers nowadays won't ship LiPo batteries from overseas. You will need to make two orders, one for the quad below, and another for the battery from the Australia warehouse. You'll find the batteries in the accessories list

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55108__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_w_out_Battery_Mode_2_Ready_to_Fly_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__55108__Quanum_Nova_FPV_GPS_Waypoint_QuadCopter_w_out_Battery_Mode_2_Ready_to_Fly_.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 22, 2014, 09:13:24 AM
My friendly Auspost contractor turned up again today (yep Saturday again). This time with an early Xmas present.

The EMAX MT3506 650Kv motors. A less expensive clone of the Tiger Motor equivalent. They are CW and CCW spinners, hence the different colour prop nuts.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49498-1/EMAX+MT3506+650Kv.JPG)

Comparison in size to the NTM 2830 800Kv motor

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49500-1/EMAX+MT3506+650Kv+vs+NTM+2830+800Kv.JPG)

And they fit nicely on the new Tarot motor mounts. They can fit on the original mounts, but these mounts have rubber anti-vibration screws between the carbon fibre plate and the aluminium mount to remove some of the vibration between the motor and the frame. All for the purpose of jello free video

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49502-1/EMAX+MT3506+650Kv+Tarot+TL68B33.JPG)

And the start of my hack job on the GBC gimbal. I have removed the housing and mounting frame from the roll motor, and attached it directly to a carbon fibre motor mount that I pinched from the Alien. I will make some brackets out of aluminium to which anti-vibration rubber balls will be mounted onto, which in turn will attach to the frame of my F450. I am going to make a fibre glass adapter plate to secure it to the frame. I want to get rid of the crab landing gear, so I need the gimbal to not hang under the frame anymore. Then I'll need to find some space to mount the control board.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49504-1/GBC+Gimbal+Hack.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 22, 2014, 08:32:17 PM
Done as much as I can now until more parts arrive. I've been waiting nearly 40 days for a power distribution board, I may have to bite the bullet and order by express post.

Just a bit of wiring to go then it will be ready for a flight.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 22, 2014, 08:34:37 PM
Have you got the receiver in yet ?? Just wondering where you placed it and the antenna/s ??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 22, 2014, 09:01:25 PM
Have you got the receiver in yet ?? Just wondering where you placed it and the antenna/s ??

Yes, mounted behind the Naza flight controller. The cables between the flight controller and the receiver have been shortened using my crimping tool and new servo connectors from Hobbyking.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49506-1/OrangeRX+Receiver+and+Satellite.JPG)

The receiver is a dual satellite receiver, I have installed one satellite so far and I have another on order. This is highly recommended for carbon fibre frames, so I'm playing it safe. The first satellite is mounted on the left rear leg, and once the other one arrives it will be mounted as far forward as possible.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49508-1/Pen+Tube+antenna.JPG)

I just used a biro ink tube that I emptied, messy job but works. The zip ties hold the pen tube in really well. The electronics for the satellite are wrapped in glad wrap then alfoil then finally heat shrink to shield the receiver. A bit of hot glue hold the antenna horizontally, but prop wash will stuff that up.

The receiver antenna just hangs under the belly with the unshielded part of the antenna clear of the biro tube.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 23, 2014, 09:13:30 AM
Sad Bad morning !! Phantom flew off - Went searching with video receiver and my Loc8tor - Nil Nada Gone ... Now can only rely on
someone finding it and reading the reward sticker with my mobile number ... Bugger !! Fingers are crossed ... Trouble is the direction it went off in is 50% house roofs so every possibility its up on someones roof within 500 metres of my home point ... God damn ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 23, 2014, 09:16:13 AM
Sad Bad morning !! Phantom flew off - Went searching with video receiver and my Loc8tor - Nil Nada Gone ... Now can only rely on
someone finding it and reading the reward sticker with my mobile number ... Bugger !! Fingers are crossed ... Trouble is the direction it went off in is 50% house roofs so every possibility its up on someones roof within 500 metres of my home point ... God damn ...
That not good. Did you have GPS lock before take-off? Shows how important an OSD with a ground station DVR is so you can record GPS location. Best of luck finding it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 23, 2014, 09:19:24 AM
A bit lost myself as I had both GPS and Homepoint locks established before take off and it refused to take any notice of the failsafe command .. I lost orientation and then lost sight of it for a second and it was gone ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 23, 2014, 09:21:20 AM
A bit lost myself as I had both GPS and Homepoint locks established before take off and it refused to take any notice of the failsafe command .. I lost orientation and then lost sight of it for a second and it was gone ...
The DJI Naza M V2 has a habit of this. Are you going to take this up with DJI?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 23, 2014, 09:23:30 AM
Don't think so .. its been working OK up til now.. plus I have modified it a bit...good job I am building the alien ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 23, 2014, 09:25:43 AM
Got me worried now. I am going to see if I can find the DJI video that gives advice on how to avoid this problem.

Did it head off determinedly in one direction?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 23, 2014, 09:28:40 AM
I think I had control up to a point but without FPV I didn't know which way it was pointing and it looked like every time I moved the sticks it went away from me even when I had selected home lock and hit the full throttle reverse ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 23, 2014, 09:33:41 AM
Did you have the latest firmware. It automatically goes into failsafe if transmitter signal is lost for more than 10 seconds. It's seems the most important issue is updating firmware then recalibration to fix up the known issues with fly aways.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 23, 2014, 09:36:15 AM
Yep.. as I said it was fine a few days ago...my fault for flying too far from me..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 23, 2014, 09:38:31 AM
Well, here's hoping you get it back. Lesson's learned with these things are rarely an inexpensive one unfortunatley.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on November 23, 2014, 09:09:20 PM
Looks like this weekend hasn't gone well for me either.... After fixing up my Tricopter from the previous week, I took it down to a different local park to the one I go to.  Good news was I met another guy who walked up as i was setting up, he asked if he could share the airspace.  I had no issues and he started setting up.
 
I took off and all was good - new site is very turbulent but manageable (tri was going bouncing from flat to up to 30 degree lean to the side to hold position on loiter), I flew around for a while without any issues.  After around 10mins for some reason as I was flying I had the same problem as last time, the left motor seemed to drop and it rolled upside down and fell 4m to the ground.  Almost made it around again but the rear hit the ground first.  So I should be able to flip in about 6m, say 10m with a bit of leeway (not that this is an acro platform).

Broke the tail boom this time and the camera tray again, grrrrrr.....  So now I have more repairs to make....  I needed to pull it apart to put my new method of attaching the battery tray.  I plan to reverse some of the bolts so it's easier to detach parts in the future, just wish I had more time between the last fix and this one.....

Given I've had that same side drop in catastrophic failures twice now, I plan to replace the motor and esc in that location....  I'll have to bench test them to see which one is the guilty culprit....

On a plus I have my airfame and electronics, I feel for you Mandrake, nothing worse than loosing an airframe.  Another plus is that I also might have a flying buddy which will be good.

I have abandoned my buying embargo, since it will take a few nights to fix it all up again.  So I will start purchasing the quad parts next week, thinking  of a small 250 size, but may go one up from there, haven't decided yet.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 07:50:27 AM
I've splashed out $20 US for an Alien 500 X-mode quad frame. It will easier to fit the inline gimbal I'm hacking. Swapping all the running gear from my F450 frame. Pulled my F450 apart on the weekend.

I don't know why they call it an X-mode frame. Its more a dead cat frame.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 24, 2014, 07:56:45 AM
Oh Santa stop this copter curse ---LOL

I now have 19 items at various stages of ordering / shipping -
Lovely wife decided to get me a new FC40 for Xmas 2014 - 2017  .. LOL
Got so much stuff on order I had to make up a spreadsheet to keep track of it all --
Got a Parcel locker from Aust Post ( Free ) so all my packets get shipped there now ..

Hope I get some stuff soon ...

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 07:59:31 AM
Oh Santa stop this copter curse ---LOL

I now have 19 items at various stages of ordering / shipping -
Lovely wife decided to get me a new FC40 for Xmas 2014 - 2017  .. LOL
Got so much stuff on order I had to make up a spreadsheet to keep track of it all --
Got a Parcel locker from Aust Post ( Free ) so all my packets get shipped there now ..

Hope I get some stuff soon ...

Steve
Howdy Steve,

Are you spending your allowance quicker than you're earning it , LOL? So I take it you have given up on the phantom?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 24, 2014, 08:05:26 AM
Yeah - Lost but not forgotten .. Walked the streets with my Loc8tor and the video receiver - Nothing -- not a beep .. SO
Its underwater or crashed with battery out , or up a tree , or on a roof ... etc etc -- Its got a reward sticker with Phone
which might help if anyone bumps into it ... Got to get a new loc8tor transmitter too ( Bugger that's 20 items )
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 08:10:01 AM
Better buy a gift for the missus, she's being very understanding. When I flew fixed wing I used to feel so self indulgant as this hobby is very selfish. Only you typically get to play with your toys and when they crash, well, you know what happens, lots of coin down the tube.

The FC40 looks like a nice piece of kit as well.

So does that comes with gimbal and camera?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 24, 2014, 08:16:22 AM
I had plenty of Brownie Point credits after her Canon 6D with 24-105 mm L kit , 32 Gb card ...
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 08:20:32 AM
I had plenty of Brownie Point credits after her Canon 6D with 24-105 mm L kit , 32 Gb card ...
Steve
Imagine the video you could get with that slung under your Alien, LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 24, 2014, 08:29:57 AM
Saw this one and bought it straightaway yesterday -

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361099982743?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361099982743?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

If its half as good as it sounds I'll be real happy ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 08:37:53 AM
Saw this one and bought it straightaway yesterday -

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361099982743?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/361099982743?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

If its half as good as it sounds I'll be real happy ...

I've got the same one Steve, good specs, but unfortunately they don't fit into Gopro gimbals that are 41mm high. These ones are 47mm high, so can only fit in the gimbals with velcro strap, aka (GBC style)

You can also get a HDMI to AV out converter, but you can't turn off the inbuilt OSD so no good for FPV because the camera's OSD overlays the flight OSD.

But apart from that they take a really nice video and still shot and work great in low light.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 24, 2014, 08:43:15 AM
I just wanted one with a tripod nut - Fits on my GBC that way - The On/Off remote was a bonus .. My current camera only has Off , record , snap , This new one has the correct USB socket too so I'm hoping that the GoPro cable I got with something might just work for FPV as well  ... Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 08:44:57 AM
I just wanted one with a tripod nut - Fits on my GBC that way - The On/Off remote was a bonus .. My current camera only has Off , record , snap , This new one has the correct USB socket too so I'm hoping that the GoPro cable I got with something might just work for FPV as well  ... Steve
Mine is live video out via mini HDMI, not USB. They may have updated them, like the SJ4000 now has live AV out via USB.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 24, 2014, 08:46:19 AM
Think I have that cable too..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 08:51:54 AM
Think I have that cable too..

I think mine came with a mini HDMI cable, but I don't think HDMI is compatible with the video transmitters, hence you need something like these converters on Goodluckbuy.

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/index.php?target=products&mode=search&subcats=Y&type=extended&avail=Y&pshort=Y&pfull=Y&pname=Y&pkeywords=Y&cid=0&q=hdmi+to+av+converter&x=0&y=0 (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/index.php?target=products&mode=search&subcats=Y&type=extended&avail=Y&pshort=Y&pfull=Y&pname=Y&pkeywords=Y&cid=0&q=hdmi+to+av+converter&x=0&y=0)

It'll still be good as a flight camera tho.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 24, 2014, 03:55:36 PM
I checked out the performance specs for the motors, they are very similar to the NTM 2830 800kv motors as far as thrust goes (1020g on a 11x4.7 prop for the Emax, 1050g on a 11x7 prop for the NTM), but far more efficient for the Emax 179 watts and 276 watts respectively on a 4S battery.

Only the video to connect now and the pesky power distribution board which still hasn't turned up. I'm about to open a dispute with Aliexpress. The shipping company has stopped tracking it.

Not much room under the top plate left now that the motors have been wired up to the ESC's. I moved the BTU to where the satellite receiver was on the left rear leg and put the LED module on the right hand rear leg and the satellite under it as far away from the BTU as possible. Once the video transmitter turns up in the mail from Hobbyking, I'll be able to finish all the wiring under the top plate then put the lid on permanently.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 29, 2014, 10:39:44 AM
The Emax motors and ESC's for the mini quad turned up yesterday. Hoepfully most of the bits and pieces, minus the flight control board will turn up before Xmas. I going to relax this Xmas (no camping) and finish the Alien, and start on the ZMR250. The wife wants to rest up and not do anything, so that suits me.

These motors come in a nice little box. Here they are in comparison to the NTM 2830 propdrives. They will spin a 5 inch prop at 15910 rpm!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 29, 2014, 02:10:57 PM
Got my tx and ESC , numbers on ESC don't match up to motors unless you turn it upside down ..This is going to be very interesting when the motors turn up...LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on November 29, 2014, 02:54:52 PM
What frequency transmitter are you running with this time?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on November 29, 2014, 03:36:50 PM
Got the Phantom 2 ,2.4 GHz , with 5.8 fpv stuff..Using DJI TX for now . Will probably change to Orange or Radiolink later...
gotta get off the ground first...;
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on December 01, 2014, 10:51:34 PM
catch of the day
(https://static.catchoftheday.com.au/assets/0000/0401/547c1b578b15d406436121.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 02, 2014, 09:32:16 PM
My power distribution board finally turned up.

So I've made a power distribution module for feeding the Naza PMU and the 12 volt video equipment.

I just need to solder some 4S balanced plugs onto the power cable for the Naza PMU and the 12 volt UBEC.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 03, 2014, 01:13:46 PM
Hi Marschy,

I've been informed a small box was delivered today, so it should be the sonar as I'm not expecting any other deliveries.

I'll see if I can spare some time over the next few nights to let you know if it's a firmware / hardware issue or if you're just unlucky with yours.

I've almost completed my rebuilding of the tricopter, should be a bit more resilient and easier to swap out the camera / battery tray.  I've swapped out a motor, not sure if I should swap out the ESC too.  I'll now have to run some tests on it as it definitely was loosing thrust from that side.

Just waiting to confirm what's happening with my contract at work to see if I'll spend the money on a quad......  Isn't it funny, you have the money to play when you work (but not the time) but when you have the time you don't want to spend the money, sigh......  Thinking I'll just buy one anyway, I'll need a pet project if I'm off work.....

I have to be honest and say I'm looking forward to a month or two off.....  Not the ideal time (I love camping just not in the middle of summer, sigh...)  Would have been perfect in March / April oh well......

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 03, 2014, 01:29:08 PM
Crikey that was quick Chris.

The power distribution board that I got from a seller on Aliexpress took 48 days to arrive (see picture above), but had been sitting somewhere in Australia since the 25th October (probably customs). Having said that, all my orders that I paid for EMS shipping are still only taking about 1.5 weeks to arrive from the date of payment.

I don't think the error on the sonar will cause any issues, because as I noted before, the error is consistently around 25%, which means the shorter the distance, the smaller the error.

You have to select the LV-EZ0 sonar in Mission Planner to get the HC-SR04 sonar with the additional board from Thanksbuyer to work. The documentation for Arducopter states that selecting the appropriate sonar is so the correct algorithm is used to get the correct scaling for the sonar you are using. When I selected other sonars, I got similar errors, but the  sonar distances where much further out when compared to when LV-EZ0 was selected.

Now to my mind being a programmer for nearly 30 years suggests to me that that statement suggests that the possible problem area may be the Arducopter firmware, and that perhaps it may be able to be corrected by customising the firmware. I may have a look at this at some point in the future.

The fact that different scaling is used for different sonars would suggest to me that it is quite fixable to someone who can interpret where this scaling is applied in the firmware.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 03, 2014, 01:35:08 PM
Forgot to mention, give the sonar a good coating of liquid electrical tape. The exposed circuitry can be shorted quite easily with a bit of moisture. Before and after shots below. I also coated the board camera circuit board.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 04, 2014, 09:57:20 AM
Forgot to mention, give the sonar a good coating of liquid electrical tape. The exposed circuitry can be shorted quite easily with a bit of moisture. Before and after shots below. I also coated the board camera circuit board.

That's a great idea, I noticed that I wasnt going to be able to shrink wrap it....  I'll get some before I do too much outdoors flying with the sonar.

Grrr, this weather is conspiring against me, was out again until 4am cutting trees and fixing roofs (hmmm 4 hours of sleep is not good).....  Forecast is not good for rest of week, sonar testing might have to wait till the weekend instead.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 04, 2014, 10:23:40 AM
Stuff isn't cheap, $25 from Jaycar for a small 4 oz tin, or $13 for a 1 oz tube. The can at least has a paint brush in it, so it's a bit more easier to use than the tube.

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=NM2832 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=NM2832)

I can think of lots of tasks for it though with quad building, so it will come in handy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 04, 2014, 10:40:31 AM
Stuff isn't cheap, $25 from Jaycar for a small 4 oz tin, or $13 for a 1 oz tube. The can at least has a paint brush in it, so it's a bit more easier to use than the tube.

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=NM2832 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=NM2832)

I can think of lots of tasks for it though with quad building, so it will come in handy.


You aren't wrong there, seems that it is the going rate....  Couldn't find any cheaper deals out there.  Unless I lived in the US, then it's $6USD for the same container, go figure.....

I've thought about buying the stuff ages ago, I think I'll get some because there is no way to protect it otherwise unless I do a dodgy wrap with electrical tape but it will only make it resistant and not proof :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 04, 2014, 06:12:35 PM
What about this stuff - does the same job - more of it and a little bit dearer ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHOOSE-YOUR-COLOUR-PERFORMIX-PLASTI-DIP-FLEXIBLE-RUBBER-DIP-BRUSH-214ml-/350586388029?pt=AU_Building_Materials&hash=item51a093be3d (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHOOSE-YOUR-COLOUR-PERFORMIX-PLASTI-DIP-FLEXIBLE-RUBBER-DIP-BRUSH-214ml-/350586388029?pt=AU_Building_Materials&hash=item51a093be3d)
Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 04, 2014, 06:16:39 PM
What about this stuff - does the same job - more of it and a little bit dearer ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHOOSE-YOUR-COLOUR-PERFORMIX-PLASTI-DIP-FLEXIBLE-RUBBER-DIP-BRUSH-214ml-/350586388029?pt=AU_Building_Materials&hash=item51a093be3d (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHOOSE-YOUR-COLOUR-PERFORMIX-PLASTI-DIP-FLEXIBLE-RUBBER-DIP-BRUSH-214ml-/350586388029?pt=AU_Building_Materials&hash=item51a093be3d)
Mandrake

Only 99 cents more for another 3.5 oz (nearly double the jaycar one). Good find. Have you used this before Steve?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 04, 2014, 06:19:46 PM
Only used it on handtools - Dip handle in and let it dry - Instant insulated handle .. Worked really well for that so a small drop over a solder point should be OK ... Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 04, 2014, 06:23:47 PM
I'll grab some of that Plasti Dip once the little tin I bought runs out. You should put that on the 'Have you found a bargain" thread. It's sure to be handy for lots of things in a camper trailer.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 05, 2014, 10:34:53 AM
I'm thinking of getting a tricopter frame, so I've been researching on rcgroups at what people are using. The Hobbyking Turnigy Talon seems to be very popular, but I think it has some shortcomings that make it a not so desirable option for me. Not the least is the expensive motor mounts that have a habit of bending if you land heavily on them, plus the very short landing legs.

I really like the look of this tricopter frame. The motor mounts should be cheap to replace if needed, it has an integrated PCB frame and the the yaw mechanism is very simple in comparison to the Talon and at only 450g is comparable in weight to the Talon, albeit 100g more which is probably attributable to the landing gear.

I've got everything I need to get it in the air, minus a decent servo for the yaw motor. I may get one in the new year. This will be the last one, I swear  >:D Best of all, it's cheaper than the Talon including express shipping.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49524-1/HMFY600.jpg) (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/F10811-HMF-Y600-Tricopter-3-Axis-Copter-Frame-Kit-w-High-Landing-Gear-Gimbal-Hanging-Rod/32241807316.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 05, 2014, 11:47:09 AM
Don't like those legs - Had a set on the Phantom for a couple of flights - Ends were in camera ( move them out of camera and it topples over !! ) .
Crashed once or twice and the carbon tubes cracked - Got rid of them after that ...
I've got this monster coming for the Alien ... http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6365949219.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6365949219.html) - Hope its sturdy enough ...
Motors arrived today - just finished fitting ... 6mm rubber O-rings on motor mount screws and motor screws - should dampen a bit of vibration ...
Pic coming soon ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/04/5f6794b40ad0cf000bb081c4cbee62d9.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 05, 2014, 12:08:18 PM
The crab legs are pretty forgiving, very bendy and bouncy. You may want to look for replacement legs as well. I have very similar crab undercarriage from Hobbyking. I've only broken one leg so far. The hook that attaches to the bottom rail snapped off.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__40671__Deluxe_Multifunction_Anti_Brake_Care_Free_High_Crab_FPV_Landing_Gear_Set_Black_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__40671__Deluxe_Multifunction_Anti_Brake_Care_Free_High_Crab_FPV_Landing_Gear_Set_Black_.html)

Hobbyking don't sell spare legs for the undercarriage with 8mm top rails, but fortunately I have bought 4 spare legs from Goodluckbuy for about $10/pair.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/DIY-Universal-190mm-Tall-landing-Skid-Gear-Stand-8mm-Tube-for-Quadcopter-Hexacopter-PTZ-FPV-1/1787193784.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/DIY-Universal-190mm-Tall-landing-Skid-Gear-Stand-8mm-Tube-for-Quadcopter-Hexacopter-PTZ-FPV-1/1787193784.html)

Hobbyking now stock spare legs for 10mm top rails, but not 12mm top rails, they have them on Aliexpress, just search for "landing gear 12mm tube"
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 05, 2014, 12:17:09 PM
How long before your first flight? You may beat me at this pace.

I'm waiting on some silicon wire to arrive to finish wiring the video camera and transmitter, then I'll be ready to maiden. Check out this thread on rcgroups dedicated to the Alien 560. PID's have been posted for DJI Naza on this frame which may prove handy.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2115146 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2115146)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 05, 2014, 12:25:28 PM
Hahaha - I got my silicone cables this morning 16 AWG and 14 AWG ...
I'm taking this real slow - Just a little bit everyday --
Still got a few bits n bobs to arrive -  hardware , cable wrap , gimbal hangy clips , OSD . FPV cameras ,Landing skid and some 4 pin micro cables n plugs ..

So I can't get too far ahead yet as I want to make it nice ..

I still have the new FC40 to play with weather permitting .. Waiting on bandy legs , FPV camera , 2.4Ghz Tx to complete it ...

Merry Xmas !!! LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 05, 2014, 12:38:09 PM
I'm waiting on 14, 12 and 24 AWG cable, and cable wrap as well for both the Alien and my F450 rebuild.That should see me through to the finish on the Alien and the F450 rebuild.

The F450 is about to get a frame upgrade to one of these.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MWC-X-Mode-Alien-Multicopter-Quadcopter-Frame-Kit-Random-Color-as-DJI-HJ-APM-GPS/1766737798.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MWC-X-Mode-Alien-Multicopter-Quadcopter-Frame-Kit-Random-Color-as-DJI-HJ-APM-GPS/1766737798.html)

I mean, for $20US why wouldn't you? Its got lot more room than the F450 and I'm hoping to do away with the crab landing gear and use an in-line gimbal to keep the centre of gravity as low as I can and keep the weight down as much as I can.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 05, 2014, 12:51:57 PM
What about this stuff - does the same job - more of it and a little bit dearer ...
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHOOSE-YOUR-COLOUR-PERFORMIX-PLASTI-DIP-FLEXIBLE-RUBBER-DIP-BRUSH-214ml-/350586388029?pt=AU_Building_Materials&hash=item51a093be3d (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/CHOOSE-YOUR-COLOUR-PERFORMIX-PLASTI-DIP-FLEXIBLE-RUBBER-DIP-BRUSH-214ml-/350586388029?pt=AU_Building_Materials&hash=item51a093be3d)
Mandrake


Good find, I'll see if I can find a local supplier.  Looks like some of the auto shops carry it.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 05, 2014, 01:04:32 PM
I could only find the spray cans locally .. Auto barn..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 05, 2014, 06:06:37 PM
Hey guys ... Help ...
Connected up the ESC , motors , naza and receiver ..
Got the correct blinky blinky LED for Naza
Got the audio from ESC ..
All good so far ..
Tries to start motors .. Nada
I know I am supposed to calibrate the ESC but should the motors turn over before that
or does the calib also fix the power up joystick combination -
Coz I can't calibrate using the DJI controller / receiver as it doesn't have a throttle set of pins ..
Any ideas please ..
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 05, 2014, 06:32:31 PM
Hey guys ... Help ...
Connected up the ESC , motors , naza and receiver ..
Got the correct blinky blinky LED for Naza
Got the audio from ESC ..
All good so far ..
Tries to start motors .. Nada
I know I am supposed to calibrate the ESC but should the motors turn over before that
or does the calib also fix the power up joystick combination -
Coz I can't calibrate using the DJI controller / receiver as it doesn't have a throttle set of pins ..
Any ideas please ..
Steve

Have you got a 5 volt BEC? If so, power up your receiver using the BEC. Don't connect it straight to your battery otherwise SMOKE.

Connect a speed controller directly to the throttle channel on your receiver and the power for the ESC directly to the battery.See if the motor spins up when everything is turned on. You'll need your transmitter for this.

You can also do this with a servo tester and not worry about a receiver or transmitter.I'll post a photo shortly to show what I mean.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 05, 2014, 06:41:21 PM
Ok

If you have a servo tester, you can test your motor and ESC by hooking it up like pictured below.

If you don't have a servo tester and your ESC is opto, leave the power from the battery connected directly to the power cables on the ESC, but connect a 5 volt BEC to your balanced output pn the battery, then power up your receiver from the BEC and connect the servo cable signal wire from the ESC to your throttle signal pin on your receiver. Power up your transmitter and use the throttle to see if the motor spins up.

If your ESC has a BEC, subsititute  the servo tester in the photo with your receiver and use your transmitter to spin up the motor.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 05, 2014, 10:54:14 PM
Hey guys ... Help ...
Connected up the ESC , motors , naza and receiver ..
Got the correct blinky blinky LED for Naza
Got the audio from ESC ..
All good so far ..
Tries to start motors .. Nada
I know I am supposed to calibrate the ESC but should the motors turn over before that
or does the calib also fix the power up joystick combination -
Coz I can't calibrate using the DJI controller / receiver as it doesn't have a throttle set of pins ..
Any ideas please ..
Steve

Hi Steve,

I would expect it to spin the motors still, even if they arent calibrated.  By starting the motor I presume you are trying to arm it and then throttle up.  The calibration will depend on the ESC's you are using, some controllers will let you do them all at once, others you have to individually.

I haven't used the naza so I'm not certain about that process for it.  Do you see feedback as to when it is armed? 

Marks method should test that the motor will fire up.  I'd do the test through the receiver though as it will give your true values from your tx (let you see if any mixing, d/r, limits or expo settings getting in the way).  I'm not sure if it's a worthwhile test as even if one was faulty it wouldn't stop the others, but if your ruling stuff out it would be a test to do.  If you have limits set it may prevent it from arming (as you never reach the far ends as far as it's concerned)....

Chris





Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 06, 2014, 12:30:10 AM
Hey guys ... Help ...
Connected up the ESC , motors , naza and receiver ..
Got the correct blinky blinky LED for Naza
Got the audio from ESC ..
All good so far ..
Tries to start motors .. Nada
I know I am supposed to calibrate the ESC but should the motors turn over before that
or does the calib also fix the power up joystick combination -
Coz I can't calibrate using the DJI controller / receiver as it doesn't have a throttle set of pins ..
Any ideas please ..
Steve
If it's a new receiver, did you bind it to the transmitter?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 06, 2014, 06:05:02 AM
Yep . Tx and Rx arrived in a bind . As I said I am getting home lock and GPS lock and ESC startup audio bings.. but I just don't seem to be able to fire up the motors .. I believe if one is stuffed nothing happens ?? Which is why I want to test each motor seperately .. Maybe I can get a single ESC and test each motor that is the cheapest option at the moment.. I will open up the 4in1 today  make sure its OK but it does make OK noises so should be alright.
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 06, 2014, 07:25:10 AM
I'm going to be upgrading the Hobbyking SS30A ESC's that I flashed with SimonK software. I was having problems with one motor not spinning up properly which I have narrowed down to one of the ESC's, so I'll replace them all.

 I quite like the Multistar 30A OPTO's but I notice that Hobbyking have taken them off their website. Curious??!!. I know people had issues with flashing them with SimonK, but I'm still using stock firmware on mine with no issues so far. I may get the Emax 30A OPTO's flashed with SimonK from the emaxmodel.com website.

It seems that BLHeli is the preferred firmware now over SimonK. Most of Hobbyking's Multistar ESC's are now flashed with it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 06, 2014, 07:33:01 AM
Have you got the naza assistant software for the computer. You might have to adjust the end points on some channels to get the start up to work
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 06, 2014, 07:41:39 AM
Just noticed on plugging in battery that during the ESC noise bit only 2 of the motors twitched - The other two are motionless - So I'm gunna pull the ESC apart and swap the boards around to see if the other 2 motors will twitch ... Seems like a plan ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 06, 2014, 07:53:43 AM
Well if you can narrow down the problem Steve, the emaxmodel.com website sell the power boards and UBEC boards for the 4 in 1.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 06, 2014, 10:44:02 AM
I was just trying to set the throttle limits for my 12 amp Emax ESC's. With the transmitter on and the receiver bound to the transmitter, the ESC was constantly beeping as soon as the power was connected, which means it thinks the throttle is neither at the top or bottom of its limits on the transmitter.

Had me scratching my head, so I created a new model on my transmitter, powered everything off, turned the radio on using the new model which has not had any settings changed, then connected the ESC to power with the receiver connected and bingo, now the motor spins up with the transmitter throttle and I can calibrate it.

Create a new model on your radio and give this a try
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 06, 2014, 10:50:42 AM
Can't do those tricky things with a DJI Tx - There are no options or extra settings etc .. Which is why I am having twubble .. Just ordered a Walkera Devo 7 ch Tx / Rx .. Will be here in 10 days ..

I tested what I could and the ESC is OK on all 4 channels - AND all the motors twitch on all 4 channels - So its the Tx / Rx combo that is not allowing the Arming of the motors ... Hopefully the

Walkera will address that and I will be able to buzz in quadruplicate vewwy vewwy soon ...

Thanks for all your help and advice - Its a HUGE learning curve for an old grumpy pensioner ... LOL

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 06, 2014, 11:02:46 AM
I haven't had this particular problem before.

The problem was that I calibrated the ESC using my servo tester which has lower and higher limits on the trim pot than the trim pot on the throttle of my transmitter. So when I connected the receiver and turned the transmitter on, the motors started constantly beeping, telling me that the throttle wasn't at the lowest or highest limiton the tranmitter throttle. The only way I could fix it was by creating a new model. This must reset the limits on the transmitter to zero is my guess.

This may be peculiar to the emax ESC's so I'll be filing this away in case it happens again.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 07, 2014, 06:48:36 AM
Great priced on a 3 axis gimbal.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/-/1986705158.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/-/1986705158.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 07, 2014, 07:26:08 AM
In the description it says only for PWM signal not PPM ...
Aren't most controllers PPM ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 07, 2014, 07:30:28 AM
In the description it says only for PWM signal not PPM ...
Aren't most controllers PPM ?
No, most of them are PWM. It just means you can't use one signal wire for manual control, you need three servo leads, one each for yaw, pitch and roll. I'm going to keep an eye on this one to see what the feedback is like. It looks a little too good to be true.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on December 07, 2014, 09:31:51 AM
These look like fun

http://www.helipal.com/storm-racing-drone-rtf-type-a.html (http://www.helipal.com/storm-racing-drone-rtf-type-a.html)

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 07, 2014, 09:41:52 AM
These look like fun

http://www.helipal.com/storm-racing-drone-rtf-type-a.html (http://www.helipal.com/storm-racing-drone-rtf-type-a.html)

GG

Similar to what I'm waiting for in my Xmas stocking.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html)

Check out this thread on rcgroups. These guys are nuts on these things. Racing 250 class quads are HUGELY popular in the US and gaining popularity everywhere. This thread is only about the blackout mini-h clone called the ZMR250 and grows by about 10-20 replies per day. The ZMR250 is also the name by which the one I'm waiting is also sold as. The QAV250 is actually a French made mini that looks nothing like the one I'm buying. The one I am buying is identical to the mini quad in this thread (nearly 10000 replies since June 2014, amazing).

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2180331 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2180331)

http://youtu.be/lbgGO0489Gk (http://youtu.be/lbgGO0489Gk)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 07, 2014, 06:43:18 PM
I just put my DJI 2.4 Ghz Tx/Rx up on Ebay to recoup some of my expenses ( as I can't use it for the Alien .. ) -- Sat down , had lunch , then thought "D...H.... " should have put the 2.4 on my Phantom and get rid of the 5.8 -- Pulled the Ebay Ad ... removed the 5.8 receiver - fitted the 2.4 --- fired up the Tx and hey presto I have a Phantom FC40 running on a 2.4Ghz setup !!!

I think I'm slowly getting the hang of this stuff >>>>

If I can get this Alien up and running how about a competition / Race around some slalom sticks at a large open paddock somewhere ??? Huntingdale Golf Course round the flag and back ?? LOL

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 07, 2014, 06:50:03 PM
I just put my DJI 2.4 Ghz Tx/Rx up on Ebay to recoup some of my expenses ( as I can't use it for the Alien .. ) -- Sat down , had lunch , then thought "D...H.... " should have put the 2.4 on my Phantom and get rid of the 5.8 -- Pulled the Ebay Ad ... removed the 5.8 receiver - fitted the 2.4 --- fired up the Tx and hey presto I have a Phantom FC40 running on a 2.4Ghz setup !!!

I think I'm slowly getting the hang of this stuff >>>>

If I can get this Alien up and running how about a competition / Race around some slalom sticks at a large open paddock somewhere ??? Huntingdale Golf Course round the flag and back ?? LOL

Steve
I think you'll find out the benefits of 5.8 FPV equipment soon enough Steve, the antenna size for a start is much smaller for circular polarised antennas.

I'm going to need a bloody big battery pack to get around the flag at the Huntingdale Golf Course from here in Adelaide, but your on.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 07, 2014, 06:59:28 PM
There's a bit of empty desert halfway between us isn't there ?? Might see if I can find a campsite for next autumn -- might be cool enough then .. Could be a Myswag gathering ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 07, 2014, 07:12:44 PM
Sounds like a bloody good idea.

It would be good to go where the scenery from the air would make it just as worthy for a gathering as well. I don't think that would be too hard, there is lots of beautiful scenery between Melbourne and Adelaide.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 07, 2014, 07:20:59 PM
Have to get me paper maps out ... I'll get one of the mods to make it a mini-meet in Trips -" Build it and they will come "
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 07, 2014, 07:22:27 PM
LOL, you're an ideas man Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on December 08, 2014, 09:01:26 AM
http://www.catchoftheday.com.au/event/43700/product/dji-phantom-2-flying-drone-zenmuse-h3-3d-331275/ (http://www.catchoftheday.com.au/event/43700/product/dji-phantom-2-flying-drone-zenmuse-h3-3d-331275/)

any good?>
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 08, 2014, 09:18:09 AM
Yes Excellent machine and a pretty good price

BUT -- Spare batteries are currently $170 each !!! No cheap copies yet as far as I know .

And I'm not sure how the 3D gimbal works as there's only one spare channel which is normally
used for the tilt action of the gimbal so I don't know how you can rotate the gimbal ??

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on December 08, 2014, 09:19:12 AM
Yes Excellent machine and a pretty good price

BUT -- Spare batteries are currently $170 each !!! No cheap copies yet as far as I know .

And I'm not sure how the 3D gimbal works as there's only one spare channel which is normally
used for the tilt action of the gimbal so I don't know how you can rotate the gimbal ??

Steve
That's ok, I don't know what a gimbal is anyway so I wont need it :P
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 08, 2014, 09:20:50 AM
Its the gizmo that holds the camera in the same position regardless of how the aircraft is tilted.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on December 08, 2014, 09:23:23 AM
Quote from: Mandrake
Its the gizmo that holds the camera in the same position regardless of how the aircraft is tilted.
Ahhh. ok.. I'd probably need that :(
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 08, 2014, 01:18:12 PM
Sounds like a bloody good idea.

It would be good to go where the scenery from the air would make it just as worthy for a gathering as well. I don't think that would be too hard, there is lots of beautiful scenery between Melbourne and Adelaide.

I'd come along to something like that :-)....  Joins my two favorite hobbies!!

I'll get to the sonar on Wednesday night, last week and my weekend have been written off.  Seems if I buy a new toy the weather punishes me.....  Been out most nights after work either dealing with trees that have fallen on cars and roads or leaking roofs.....  That will be tonight's fun.....

Hate to think what the weathers going to do when i get the quad (still tossing up a 250 or a 330 - so hard to decide), damn if a sonar brings this amount of storms.......  I think I should order a bunker too.....

Looks like I'm out of work (IT contractor) after Christmas so I'll have lots of time as I plan to take 8-10 weeks off.  So I should be able to catch up on my flying (and order and build the quad).  Was two months earlier than I had hoped but not the end of the world....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 08, 2014, 05:49:53 PM
Just got a 30% off offer for the Radiolink Tx/Rx combo - Now AU$140 -- Yeah had too !! LOL
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6397266588.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6397266588.html)
I'm gunna get killed ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 08, 2014, 07:51:37 PM
Just got a 30% off offer for the Radiolink Tx/Rx combo - Now AU$140 -- Yeah had too !! LOL
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6397266588.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6397266588.html)
I'm gunna get killed ...

I find if I put items on my wish list on Aliexpress, within a day or two I get a notification that the item is now cheaper. I wish they would stop doing that, I keep sucked in to buying things.

So is this on top of the Devo 7 radio? I must say, the Radiolink is a nice looking radio though. Very new on the market, so little information available as yet, but the only negative (if you can call it that) is that they only work with their own receiver.

Speaking of getting killed.

I just unsoldered the motor leads from all four of my ESC's for my mini quad. they are Emax 12A SimonK flashed controllers. I did this because to save weight on the mini quads this is pretty well standard practice to solder the motor leads directly to the ESC's after removing the ESC motor leads.

The problem is that each of the three leads are soldered between a pair of FET's on the board and there is nothing consistent between one ESC and the next as to the pins that the motor leads are connected to on the FET's. I even took photographs of the ESC's before I unsoldered them so I could see which pins on the FET's the leads were soldered to because of the inconsistancies.

So after disconnecting the leads that came with the ESC's, when I soldered the one of the motors directly to the ESC and connected it up to my servo tester and battery, I burnt the motor out in 2 seconds flat once I turned on the servo tester. Now I have no confidence that I will be able to resolder any of the remaining 3 motors to the ESC's without the same result. Not happy. 4 ESC's in the bin and one motor.

I've just ordered some replacement ESC's from Hobbyking this time. Some Blue Series 12A ESC's that get good reviews and can be reflashed, but I've read that the stock firmware is pretty good on multicopters, so I'm going to leave them as they are. I've also ordered a replacement motor.

I reckon my magic smoke list must be getting pretty close to 10 items if not more now.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 08, 2014, 08:04:24 PM
LOL, just put the Radiolink transmitter on my wish list and got an pay less alert straight away.  :cup:

Not going to push my luck though. I've already got 2 radio's. The Frsky 6 channel I haven't even used yet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 09, 2014, 07:07:15 AM
Just got a 30% off offer for the Radiolink Tx/Rx combo - Now AU$140 -- Yeah had too !! LOL
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6397266588.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6397266588.html)
I'm gunna get killed ...

Hi,

I had a look but doesnt seem to have ppm output...... Only pwm.

New player, not a lot of info about them, tx is not open source either so no tinkering, maybe thats a good thing ?.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 07:38:12 AM
Good price for a telemetry radio though.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: allan.kidd on December 09, 2014, 08:43:10 AM
Well I have "bitten the bullet" and placed an order for
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__58351__Walkera_QR_X350_PRO_FPV_GPS_RC_Quadcopter_DEVO_7_Mode_2_Ready_to_Fly_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__58351__Walkera_QR_X350_PRO_FPV_GPS_RC_Quadcopter_DEVO_7_Mode_2_Ready_to_Fly_.html) :cup:

Now I have to learn how to fly it without destroying it.

I have found an Android app - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Creativeworld.QuadcopterFX&hl=en (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Creativeworld.QuadcopterFX&hl=en) - which is giving me an introduction to the controls.

I have found a simulator which plugs into the transmitter - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Creativeworld.QuadcopterFX&hl=en (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Creativeworld.QuadcopterFX&hl=en)
Is the best way of learning before using the real thing?

Any suggestions?

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 08:49:30 AM
I have found a simulator which plugs into the transmitter - https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Creativeworld.QuadcopterFX&hl=en (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.Creativeworld.QuadcopterFX&hl=en)
Is the best way of learning before using the real thing?
They help, but they are no substitute for flying, crashing, swearing, repairing.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 09, 2014, 08:59:33 AM
Like driving a car - read as much as you like but experience behind the wheel means everything ... GPS mode on and failsafe  on and you should have a lot of fun .. First few flights are best in wide open paddock .... They are comparitively easy to fly in GPS mode - manual mode is a whole different ballgame !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 09:04:23 AM
Agree with that, an nice open field is the go. With nothing that will cause you to make rash decisions if you come too close to an obstacle. Flat as possible is also the best place to start learning, landing on a slope when learning will make you go through more propellers than you will landing on a flat surface.

Set your failsafe to "Return to Launch".
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 09, 2014, 09:42:10 AM
Postman turned up before with my S-OSD Remzibi for Naza - plugged it in and it seems to be OK - No camera yet so can't see anything on screen --
But I am fast running out of space to put boards and YARDS and YARDS of bloody cables !! This is the most difficult bit isn't it - keeping it neat but workable !!!
I am having fun ... Ommm -- repeat several times in lotus position !! Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 10:02:18 AM
Crimping tool is my best friend. Great for shortening your leads and tidying everything up.

You can get new sockets for the servo leads from Jaycar http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HP1260 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HP1260), but they are much cheaper online. These Jayco ones are suitable for shortening you servo leads.

That and Hobbyking spiral wrap http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__23568__Spiral_wrap_tube_ID_3mm_OD_4mm_Black_2_Metre_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__23568__Spiral_wrap_tube_ID_3mm_OD_4mm_Black_2_Metre_.html). I find 3mm and 5mm uselful for 99% of the wiring I need to do.

I'm still on the hunt for DF13 sockets, but no luck yet, but I haven't looked too hard yet.

The mesh is Ok, but you need to singe the ends with a cigarette lighter otherwise it unravels and then to tidy it up you have to use heat shrink which stiffens the cable up and because this can be close to your control board, transfers vibrations to your flight controller. The spiral wrap is much more flexible, and if you need to rearrange things you can reuse it easily.

I used the spiral wrap anywhere there are two or more cables, or where wiring passes through an opening in the frame and abrasion could cause the wiring to become exposed.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 10:13:49 AM
But I am fast running out of space to put boards and YARDS and YARDS of bloody cables !!
Using the purpose built space for the ESC's in the undercarriage has saved me heaps of space. Even if at some stage I break the undercarriage, where they are at the moment is perfect. Have a look at the thread on rcgroups for the Alien 560 I posted before. A lot of people have replaced the undercarriage with crab landing gear and lost that space altogether, but it would be simple enough to cut the ESC mounts off of the legs if need be and still have a purpose made place for your ESC's.

I have removed the heat shrink from the ESC's unsoldered the power supply cables and then soldered them back on so the cables face in the same direction as the motor cables, all in the name of making sure the cables are as short as possible.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 09, 2014, 03:39:46 PM
Using the purpose built space for the ESC's in the undercarriage has saved me heaps of space. Even if at some stage I break the undercarriage, where they are at the moment is perfect. Have a look at the thread on rcgroups for the Alien 560 I posted before. A lot of people have replaced the undercarriage with crab landing gear and lost that space altogether, but it would be simple enough to cut the ESC mounts off of the legs if need be and still have a purpose made place for your ESC's.

I have removed the heat shrink from the ESC's unsoldered the power supply cables and then soldered them back on so the cables face in the same direction as the motor cables, all in the name of making sure the cables are as short as possible.

Very nice, I like that little spot for the ESC's.  Offers some protection there too by the looks of things.  I'd also say that they'd get some of the prop tip air pushing onto them too to help keep them cooled.

I just put an order into HK for my quad bits, I'm going to try a 250 frame.....  I'm going to order a blackout clone frame but that can wait till after Christmas, till then it will be the HK frame....  I cant believe that HK is out of 2 bladed 5030 props.....  I had to buy the clear ones, I'll have to order some from elsewhere as I will get disorientated.

Plan is to move the APM board and bits from my Bixler 2 to the Quad 250 and swap them over as required (the tricopter will keep it's APM).  I may give up on that and just used my old KK2 board if the APM and it's gear is too heavy, it will largely depend on how punchy it feels.....  In order to get most of it built before Christmas I've gone with most of the parts from HK.  Was about to try emax for motors and ESC's but with the trouble you had Marschy I decided to order some HK ESC's so then the motors (using 2204's) were a no brainer (didnt want to pay 2 lots of freight).  Plan is to use the 2200mah 3s batteries I have, now that I've switched the Tri over to larger batteries.  I did order one smaller 3s 1300mah 30C battery so that if the 2200's are too heavy I can still have some fun :-)

Now the waiting game..... 

Oh, I realised that I have a meeting tomorrow night so sonar will have to weight even longer, I was going to be running a flood rescue professional development day on Saturday but due to lack of numbers I'm cancelling it so I'll play with the sonar then (hoping I'll get some flying in too).  Getting the feeling that something doesnt want me to play with this sonar.....

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 04:30:11 PM
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49547-1/Unboxing+X-mode+Alien.JPG)

The X-mode Alien frame arrived in the mail today. So did the miniAPM (Aliexpress variety, not Hobbyking) with GPS for the blackout clone and an OrangeRX R615X CPPM receiver for the mini, and the cable I need to 100% finish off the Alien 560. The blackout clone frame was ordered the day before the X-mode Alien frame, so I'm hoping it will turn up before the end of the week.

My wife wants me to do some welding on the weekend to add another concrete sleeper to one of the retaining wall bays, so I am going to try and get as much done before the weekend because I have a feeling the retaining wall is going to be a PITA.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 09, 2014, 07:37:23 PM
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas.....

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49547-1/Unboxing+X-mode+Alien.JPG)

The X-mode Alien frame arrived in the mail today. So did the miniAPM (Aliexpress variety, not Hobbyking) with GPS for the blackout clone and an OrangeRX R615X CPPM receiver for the mini, and the cable I need to 100% finish off the Alien 560. The blackout clone frame was ordered the day before the X-mode Alien frame, so I'm hoping it will turn up before the end of the week.

My wife wants me to do some welding on the weekend to add another concrete sleeper to one of the retaining wall bays, so I am going to try and get as much done before the weekend because I have a feeling the retaining wall is going to be a PITA.


That has to bite, you have newly acquired toys but you cant play with them.  I know that feeling.  Worse yet when the wife has expectations.  I'm guessing I'll have a big list of items to work through during my downtime.....

I've just put the order in for a miniAPM (from aliexpress) as it will fit in the 250 quad better, plus I wont have to swap stuff around as much.  This hobby is costing me a small fortune.....

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 07:56:18 PM
I bought mine from the 'Ready to Sky' store. $59.85US plus $14.05 EMS shipping. Got it in 11 days.

I have just finished shaping the aluminium mount for the gimbal motor for the front of the Alien. I made a head start on it on the weekend by drilling the holes for the motor. I just have to drill and tap some holes to secure it to the frame, then I can start putting all the other hardware on from the F450.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 09, 2014, 11:21:28 PM
I'm liking this frame a lot.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 12:41:29 AM
All silicon wire, cool!! The single connectors make it look like there is a lot of cable here.

Once I've had a bit of sleep and can get my head around this, I'll hook it up to the computer and see if it's working. The GPS is supposed to have a compass, so I need to test that as well.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 10, 2014, 07:02:29 AM
Come on you blokes us wanabi's are hanging for the inflight footage of all these techno gadgets your playing with Christmas is nearly here you know . ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 08:46:11 AM
Was about to try emax for motors and ESC's but with the trouble you had Marschy I decided to order some HK ESC's so then the motors (using 2204's) were a no brainer
The Emax motors seem pretty good, and the ESC's are popular due to their small size. I just stuffed up by unsoldering the leads. I should have soldered the leads directly to the motor leads and heat shrunk them. So now I've gone with HK Blue Series 12A. These are only 1 gram heavier, but a bit larger due to the heat sink.

Are the 2204's the Multistar Elites?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 10:07:58 AM
The Emax motors seem pretty good, and the ESC's are popular due to their small size. I just stuffed up by unsoldering the leads. I should have soldered the leads directly to the motor leads and heat shrunk them. So now I've gone with HK Blue Series 12A. These are only 1 gram heavier, but a bit larger due to the heat sink.

Are the 2204's the Multistar Elites?

Hi,

I've gone with the 2204 Multistar Elites (2300Kv), I did a bit of read up about them, and they appeared to be reasonable.  A little pricey, I could have gotten equivalent emax ones for a few dollars less, but then you factor the freight was already paid for on the HK order I couldn't refuse.  Please dont say you have seen some bad reviews somewhere....

LOL, just realised I bought the same 12A ESC's as you.  Also couldn't find any bad info on them, and they are above the required max amps.....

I'm putting it on the long version 250FPV frame, will switch to the blackout next month.

I was weak and I ordered the APM Mini last night, as well as a GPS, and MinimOSD.  I have a spare telemetry radio so no need to order another one plus if it needs a diet there are a couple of grams there.  I have a couple of spare cameras too.  I also picked up a RC305 and TS351 combo too, I have a USB analogue capture device and didnt like the idea of the screen being tethered to the computer (for a ground station), so I can use the VTx from the combo for it (or work out which one is the lightest).  I figured I'd get tired of moving stuff around.

I figure the 250 on the HK frame will weigh in at 450g - no battery.  With battery approx 600g, with 1.55kg of thrust on 5x3 props.  I figure I've got 2.5/1 thrust to weight ratio, so it shouldnt be too sluggish.  I have a 3 to 1 ratio on the Tricopter (with only the FPV camera) and in acro mode it really moves.

I'm hoping the blackout 250 frame will lighten it a bit and bring it almost to a 2.8 to 2.9/1 ratio.  I am working on the 2200mah 3s batteries giving me approx 10-11 mins flight time (with 400mah in reserve).  Although I'm going to redo the numbers because it seems low for the 2200mah's

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 10, 2014, 10:16:03 AM
Post arrived again today - 2.4Ghz Video receiver ( which I now no longer need !! ) and my bandy leg setup for the alien - Had a quick look at it and am wondering how to fit it to the frame ??

Hopefully some bolt/screw holes will match up as it seems to hang off the twin rods that the gimbal/ camera hangs off ??

Will probably wait until Friday now to have a good look - Waiting on my 12V FPV cameras so I can finish the FPV setup wiring - Then its just wait for the new controllers / receivers to arrive and

I can start flying /  testing ....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 10:30:18 AM
Hi,

I've gone with the 2204 Multistar Elites (2300Kv), I did a bit of read up about them, and they appeared to be reasonable.  A little pricey, I could have gotten equivalent emax ones for a few dollars less, but then you factor the freight was already paid for on the HK order I couldn't refuse.  Please dont say you have seen some bad reviews somewhere....

LOL, just realised I bought the same 12A ESC's as you.  Also couldn't find any bad info on them, and they are above the required max amps.....

I'm putting it on the long version 250FPV frame, will switch to the blackout next month.

I was weak and I ordered the APM Mini last night, as well as a GPS, and MinimOSD.  I have a spare telemetry radio so no need to order another one plus if it needs a diet there are a couple of grams there.  I have a couple of spare cameras too.  I also picked up a RC305 and TS351 combo too, I have a USB analogue capture device and didnt like the idea of the screen being tethered to the computer (for a ground station), so I can use the VTx from the combo for it (or work out which one is the lightest).  I figured I'd get tired of moving stuff around.

I figure the 250 on the HK frame will weigh in at 450g - no battery.  With battery approx 600g, with 1.55kg of thrust on 5x3 props.  I figure I've got 2.5/1 thrust to weight ratio, so it shouldnt be too sluggish.  I have a 3 to 1 ratio on the Tricopter (with only the FPV camera) and in acro mode it really moves.

I'm hoping the blackout 250 frame will lighten it a bit and bring it almost to a 2.8 to 2.9/1 ratio.  I am working on the 2200mah 3s batteries giving me approx 10-11 mins flight time (with 400mah in reserve).  Although I'm going to redo the numbers because it seems low for the 2200mah's

Chris
The Multistar Elite motors are very nice. The good thing about the ESC's with stock firmware is you can wire them all up the same to the motors and then use the transmitter to program motor direction.

Your order for the APM was who I was going to order from (91 Hobby?), there were two sellers with similar prices, both the cheapest APM's with GPS combo's. Can't remember which one was cheaper, but I think we are both in the running for the biggest cheap skate award  ;D ;D. The only thing I'm worried about is if the GPS has a compass. The ad is ripped off from the Goodluckbuy web site (refer to the SKU numbers on the ad and you'll see what I mean). But the GPS module from Goodluckbuy is different. I'll check the GPS when I get home tonight to make sure it has a compass.

I have a bluetooth module that I want to see if it works with the APM mini. If not, I'll order a telemetry module in the new year. I have 2 spare power modules/BEC's after I replaced the ones that had dodgy voltage monitor outputs. I'm going to use one of them and see how it goes on the mini APM.

I have a MavlinkOSD which is a version of the minimOSD that does not have the ability to run the whole board on 5 volts, it has 5 volts for the atmel chip and 12 volts for the video chip with a BEC to reduce the power to 5 volts. I'll see how that goes as well and if it overheats the regulator then I'll replace it with a minimOSD.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 01:08:52 PM
The Multistar Elite motors are very nice. The good thing about the ESC's with stock firmware is you can wire them all up the same to the motors and then use the transmitter to program motor direction.

Your order for the APM was who I was going to order from (91 Hobby?), there were two sellers with similar prices, both the cheapest APM's with GPS combo's. Can't remember which one was cheaper, but I think we are both in the running for the biggest cheap skate award  ;D ;D. The only thing I'm worried about is if the GPS has a compass. The ad is ripped off from the Goodluckbuy web site (refer to the SKU numbers on the ad and you'll see what I mean). But the GPS module from Goodluckbuy is different. I'll check the GPS when I get home tonight to make sure it has a compass.

I have a bluetooth module that I want to see if it works with the APM mini. If not, I'll order a telemetry module in the new year. I have 2 spare power modules/BEC's after I replaced the ones that had dodgy voltage monitor outputs. I'm going to use one of them and see how it goes on the mini APM.

I have a MavlinkOSD which is a version of the minimOSD that does not have the ability to run the whole board on 5 volts, it has 5 volts for the atmel chip and 12 volts for the video chip with a BEC to reduce the power to 5 volts. I'll see how that goes as well and if it overheats the regulator then I'll replace it with a minimOSD.

Hi Mark,

Yep your right it was with 91 Hobby, do you have a pic of the GPS, it should be the stuff on the opposite side of the GPS antenna.  If it looks light of IC's then we may have been burnt on that one.  No biggy, I've got a GPS sitting on the Bixler 2 I can use in the mean time while I get it sorted.  How long did your aliexpress order take from order to the door?

Yeah I thought the motors looked good and I couldn't find people complaining much about them so I figured I'd give them a chance.  Seem to have good thrust ratings on a 5x3 prop.

Bluetooth range is pretty limited, I'd be going the telemetry module (even if you had to swap it over each time), plus BT can be power hungry beast......

My additional minimOSD is from ebay - was the cheapest I could find, if the pics are right then it looks just like the HK one....  Only way to know for sure is when I get it here.

Looks like most of my stuff has been marked as shipped.  So that means my HK stuff will be here for the weekend.  My other stuff will be here when I get back from Christmas holidays!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 07:12:29 PM
Hi Mark,

Yep your right it was with 91 Hobby, do you have a pic of the GPS, it should be the stuff on the opposite side of the GPS antenna.  If it looks light of IC's then we may have been burnt on that one.  No biggy, I've got a GPS sitting on the Bixler 2 I can use in the mean time while I get it sorted.  How long did your aliexpress order take from order to the door?

Yeah I thought the motors looked good and I couldn't find people complaining much about them so I figured I'd give them a chance.  Seem to have good thrust ratings on a 5x3 prop.

Bluetooth range is pretty limited, I'd be going the telemetry module (even if you had to swap it over each time), plus BT can be power hungry beast......

My additional minimOSD is from ebay - was the cheapest I could find, if the pics are right then it looks just like the HK one....  Only way to know for sure is when I get it here.

Looks like most of my stuff has been marked as shipped.  So that means my HK stuff will be here for the weekend.  My other stuff will be here when I get back from Christmas holidays!!

Chris
Ok, the GPS does have a compass. It's an L883. Mine is date stamped 2412, your will probably have a different date stamp.

EMS shipping with the APM took 11 days from order to delivery.

I'm only going to use the bluetooth module for changing settings, otherwise I'm going to disconnect it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 08:53:56 PM
Here is a photo of the mini GPS next to my full size GPS that came with the APM 2.6 flight controller. No, the mini is the one on the right, yes that's correct, the bigger one.  ??? ???

And also the location of the compass chip.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 09:32:01 PM
Ok, the GPS does have a compass. It's an L883. Mine is date stamped 2412, your will probably have a different date stamp.

EMS shipping with the APM took 11 days from order to delivery.

I'm only going to use the bluetooth module for changing settings, otherwise I'm going to disconnect it.

Yay, no dud then!  Hmmm, with some luck I might have my other stuff before xmas then......

Ah, that makes sense on the BT module.  Not a bad idea for the 250 quad.....  If I had one laying around I'd do the same otherwise my strategy will be if needs to go on a diet then I'll remove the telemetry radio and do the usb plug in method.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 09:45:18 PM
I'm going to wait until the mini quad arrives so I can get some measurements, then I'll get a case for the GPS.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 09:48:07 PM
The Multistar Elite motors are very nice. The good thing about the ESC's with stock firmware is you can wire them all up the same to the motors and then use the transmitter to program motor direction.

I'm guessing that would be in the APM that it would be reversed?  I wonder how that is done, I'm thinking the motor must be a signed value and the negative PWM is then filtered in the ESC so that it reverses the polarity and and use the positive value.

I might have to read up a bit on that feature, to be honest I'll most likely just swap the power around till I'm happy, that is if I use the 2mm bullet connectors.  If I direct solder then yes I'll be using that feature :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 09:51:35 PM
There is nothing mini about this GPS at all. Its 35x35mm and about 30x30 between centres on the mounting holes. Its designed more for mounting directly to standoffs than putting them in a case. The inner size of most cases is 28x28mm
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 09:52:54 PM
I'm going to wait until the mini quad arrives so I can get some measurements, then I'll get a case for the GPS.

My plan for the GPS is to just clear shrink wrap it to help keep the weight down and provide some protection.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 09:54:42 PM
I think I'll do the same. I found a case though.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Protective-Case-with-GPS-Mount-KITS-For-APM-UBLOX-NEO-6m-UBLOX-LEA-6H-GPS-Free/2009483417.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Protective-Case-with-GPS-Mount-KITS-For-APM-UBLOX-NEO-6m-UBLOX-LEA-6H-GPS-Free/2009483417.html)

The only issue will be is it wider than the mini quad top plate. I don't want to use a pedestal.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 10, 2014, 09:56:20 PM
I have a mini GPS antenna from the Remzibi OSD that I fizzled with 12 volts ... Any good for either of you two ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 09:58:56 PM
I have a mini GPS antenna from the Remzibi OSD that I fizzled with 12 volts ... Any good for either of you two ?

Thanks for the offer but I'll pass, I have enough items without magic white smoke.  I've tried to resurrect some items and have had mixed success.

I just realised your offering the antenna.  Do you know the rough dimensions?

I'm thinking it would be some tiny connectors to connect the GPS antenna to the chip....  My soldering skills are ok, but not the best out there.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 10, 2014, 10:03:30 PM
I've got my full quota of GPS modules, thanks for the offer though Steve. I think the GPS also has to have compatible firmware, not sure if the Remzibi GPS would be.

Im about to try and resurrect my OrangeRX R900 receiver that I created magic smoke with when I connected it directly to my 3S lipo. I ordered some 6206A 3.3v regulators for 7 bucks delivered. If it works, I'll save myself about 20 bucks, if not, it was worth a shot.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 10, 2014, 10:13:32 PM
I've got my full quota of GPS modules, thanks for the offer though Steve. I think the GPS also has to have compatible firmware, not sure if the Remzibi GPS would be.

Im about to try and resurrect my OrangeRX R900 receiver that I created magic smoke with when I connected it directly to my 3S lipo. I ordered some 6206A 3.3v regulators for 7 bucks delivered. If it works, I'll save myself about 20 bucks, if not, it was worth a shot.

I think he's offering the antenna component.  I'm not sure I'm game to test out on a now working GPS module the swapping out to a smaller antenna - not sure of what the results would be.

I'm guessing you realised the mistake in less than a second right :-)  Have to say I'm yet to kill a receiver, I've done a Tx by with reverse polarity.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 11, 2014, 05:46:45 AM
I think he's offering the antenna component.  I'm not sure I'm game to test out on a now working GPS module the swapping out to a smaller antenna - not sure of what the results would be.

I'm guessing you realised the mistake in less than a second right :-)  Have to say I'm yet to kill a receiver, I've done a Tx by with reverse polarity.....

Chris
Yep, the regulator made a really good 'Pop' sound which was immediately followed by me making an 'ah cr@p' sound. It blew the top right off the regulator. I've checked the regulator on my other R900 receiver, I asked my daughter to read the letters on the top with a magnifying glass as I couldn't do it for the life of me. I should have done what I did with the GPS compass chip, take a photo of it then zoom in using Microsoft Paint.

To solder the regulator  back on I've ordered a $9 jewellers headband magnifyer with LED light. 10x magnificaction.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 11, 2014, 09:05:10 AM
Fitted the BIG BANDY legs to the Alien today - Weight is now 843 gms for frame motors and motor cables ... I've run the rods underneath from end to the other with a short stub out front for the gimbal to hang off ( just realised this won't work coz of two brackets not one - Damn !! ) anyway workaround that later ... Plenty of room underneath now - Just hope I have enough lift when the time comes ... LOL
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/10/1fe0b694e04439c0973302fe14c9cc9f.jpg)
Steve
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 11, 2014, 09:06:19 AM
Any pictures Steve?
Oops there they are
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 11, 2014, 09:07:55 AM
Yup now - I use tapatalk to upload pics its easier ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 11, 2014, 09:13:25 AM
The additional height is certainly noticeable. I've got a set sitting under the xmas tree but i'm waiting to put them on until I break the stock legs
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 11, 2014, 09:59:27 AM
was wondering how to do the LED on the Alien and came up with this idea -- I'll tizz it up a bit later -- Half a white PingPong ball and I'll stick it in place with a few drops of the
electronic rubber paint ? Once I get a nice new clean ball I'll do this up -- Meantime I have 3 parcels to go and collect at my Parcel Locker ... Cameras , Legs and some hardwares ... Yeehaa ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/10/047e1a15152fd0d9cd0819f88a8ad1f9.jpg)
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 11, 2014, 07:09:43 PM
was wondering how to do the LED on the Alien and came up with this idea -- I'll tizz it up a bit later -- Half a white PingPong ball and I'll stick it in place with a few drops of the
electronic rubber paint ? Once I get a nice new clean ball I'll do this up -- Meantime I have 3 parcels to go and collect at my Parcel Locker ... Cameras , Legs and some hardwares ... Yeehaa ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/10/047e1a15152fd0d9cd0819f88a8ad1f9.jpg)
Steve

Is that the Naza LED module? Great diffuser.

I received what should have been the last parcel today, the ZMR250 mini quad frame and the jewellers magnifying headband. But I've also got a replacement motor coming for the one I fried and the ESC's as well.

I have to go to the post office to pick up the mini quad frame so I will have to wait until tomorrow to see what it looks like.

The magnifying headband is going to be really handy. No more contortionist acts with magnifying glasses, and small torch held between the teeth while soldering. I've actually started wearing the paint off the end of the P3 Led Lenser torch.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 11, 2014, 07:14:49 PM
My Parcel Locker is at the local shopping centre so I gave it a miss today - Christmas shoppers - Sheesh !!
Looks like I might have the Walkera controller tomorrow -- Could be up for some test flights very soon ...
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 12, 2014, 12:13:43 AM
Just testing my new magnifying headset. This is going to be soooooo handy. The little flip down magnifier at 10x magnification won't be much chop for soldering as you have to get within about 2 inches to focus while closing your left eye, still doable though. Reading any chip is no problem.

When you flip it out of the way the focal distance is about 5-6 inches to the front of the headset. So it will be very handy for soldering and possibly getting a snoot full of burnt flux. The LED is really bright and you can adjust the angle of the light with the little metal toggle you can see in front of the power switch. This is probably to allow you to see what your looking at without getting light reflected back at you.

I used it to look at the chips on the miniAPM to determine if there was an onboard compass chip and to check if the JP1 pad was cut that disables the onboard compass if it is present. No onboard compass and JP1 is pre-cut, making the miniAPM a true 2.6 version. Very happy with these purchases so far. I will be testing the miniAPM this weekend on Mission Planner.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 12, 2014, 04:57:47 PM
Picked up the ZMR250 frame from the post office on the way home from work. The holes for the arms are a little bit difficult to get in as they are spot on the same size as the bolts and the holes line up pretty well perfectly, so there is no tolerance for anything to be misaligned.

This is the frame in comparison with the Reptile-Aphid X450.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 12, 2014, 05:08:10 PM
I just received my Devo 7 / RX701 combo -- Looks like I have to learn a whole new programming skill set ....

One question for ye who know this stuff - The receiver has 7 ports and a Batt/Bind port - Do I need 7 cables to join up to the naza ?? DJI only had one going into the X2 slot -

Coz I'll have to make up some short 3 conductor leads if its necessary ---

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 12, 2014, 05:18:21 PM
I just received my Devo 7 / RX701 combo -- Looks like I have to learn a whole new programming skill set ....

One question for ye who know this stuff - The receiver has 7 ports and a Batt/Bind port - Do I need 7 cables to join up to the naza ?? DJI only had one going into the X2 slot -

Coz I'll have to make up some short 3 conductor leads if its necessary ---

Cheers

Steve
I've only got 5 at the moment, 4 for AETR, one for flight modes on 3 position switch, that's the bare minimum you need for the Naza. But I'll be using one more receiver channel for gimbal tilt, and possibly another for switching between FPV camera and SJ4000 gopro knockoff. I'm not sure if the Naza has auto tune, so the last channel I have may be used for that if it's a feature on the Naza.

I made up short connectors, keeps it real tidy. X3 connector is the voltage sensor from the PMU.

If your receiver is CPPM compatible, you can use just one servo connection between the receiver and Naza. That why I bought this little sucker for the mini quad. A six channel CPPM receiver.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 14, 2014, 09:53:42 AM
Connected everything up today -- Got the Naza to bind OK BUT for the life of me I cannot get the Emax / motors to fire up -- I've done the calib procedure several times with one connection to throttle and although it makes all the correct beep beep noises - Not one motor will kick -
So gunna try a Q-Brain 4 in 1 .. After that it will be 4 x ESCs and some very messy soldering ...Ughhh
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 14, 2014, 02:20:10 PM
Connected everything up today -- Got the Naza to bind OK BUT for the life of me I cannot get the Emax / motors to fire up -- I've done the calib procedure several times with one connection to throttle and although it makes all the correct beep beep noises - Not one motor will kick -
So gunna try a Q-Brain 4 in 1 .. After that it will be 4 x ESCs and some very messy soldering ...Ughhh
Steve
Hmmm, if the motors are beeping it says that the motor is powered up and it is has powered up the receiver via the ESC cable, but not necessarily a signal. Have you tried moving the ESC cable between channel 1 through 4 on the receiver and then moving the throttle. Once you find the correct channel, it should still fire up the motors without calibrating it.If thats what the problem is that is. If you look at the picture of the CPPM receiver I posted above with two red antennas, the sticker on the receiver says throttle is channel 1, but my radio is configured to output throttle on channel 3.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 14, 2014, 03:28:34 PM
OK -- a little more care and attention to detail and from what you said above - I now have motor working when plugged directly into the receiver when I include the Naza I don't get any motor motion UNTIL I unplug the ESC from Naza then motor runs for about 1 second ... Does that sound like my Naza has problems ??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 14, 2014, 03:35:07 PM
OK -- a little more care and attention to detail and from what you said above - I now have motor working when plugged directly into the receiver when I include the Naza I don't get any motor motion UNTIL I unplug the ESC from Naza then motor runs for about 1 second ... Does that sound like my Naza has problems ??
Steve,
Have you got the NAZA assistant software? If not then get it and have a look at what the software is telling you.
That is where I would start.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 14, 2014, 03:38:12 PM
I'm playing with Naza Assistant now and the throttle indicator is going across and back as it should but I'm not getting output to the ESC ... Tried flipping the plug and makes no dofference ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 14, 2014, 03:40:15 PM
Are you doing the arming procedure? How about using the motor test section to check rotation?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 14, 2014, 03:42:06 PM
Arming the motors - Hmmmm - That would be a good idea wouldn't it !! I'll let ya know ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 14, 2014, 03:49:49 PM
Arming the motors - Hmmmm - That would be a good idea wouldn't it !! I'll let ya know ...
Motors will only arm when not connected to the PC via USB
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 14, 2014, 04:37:19 PM
Bummer -- Tried every combination - As soon as I add in the Naza I have no motor operations at all.. Leave it out and Elev , Ail , Throt and Rudd all work the motors....
AND
the usual arming sequence of sticks to lowest position in corners DON"t work either connected to PC or not connected ....

I'm lost ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 05:05:22 PM
Well I managed to get some flying into today!!!!  Thank you mother in law who was able to babysit for an hour to let me do this.  I put the tricopter up and I was right about my previous front left motor, I replaced it after last time and the issue has gone away, no random stalling of the motor.  Got about 35 mins in of actual flying time, and used about 8500mah off two 3s 5000mah (not mounted at the same time), so very happy with the flying times.  Would have gotten nearly 18 mins a battery with 20% spare.

I'm happy with my reinforcing of the battery tray, I had some strong winds today and when I was flying at around 30km/h with a -45 degree pitch it became unstable in the wind.  Had a spinning wild pitching blackhawk down type moment.  Felt like I was recovering with stabilise mode but stupidly thought loiter would be better....  Nope, another 1m higher and keeping it in stabilise and I would have recovered.  No real damage with a hit to the ground from several metres with an vertical impact speed of 2m per sec.....  Wasn't my plan to test out the new mounts but it certainly did handle it well.

Rest of the flying went well but I kept the pitch to less than 30 degrees and kept to less than 30km/h.  I think my autotune needs to be done again, seemed to have to correct excessively, but it might have been the wind.  Will test again in still winds to see if it was just the winds today.

On another note, I have the mini 250 quad build happening.  I have the frame assembled, mounted the motors and props (wow not much clearance at all, 5inch is the largest I can put on this thing.  I have a good use for a rp-sma extension cable, so I have the FPV Tx antenna mounted off the frame nicely.  Most stuff will be kept to to inside of the frame, so far only the battery (2200mah) is going to be mounted on the bottom but still clear of the ground with the landing gear and the FPV tx is sitting horizontal on the top.  I will most likely move this to the inside as I should have spare room for it.  Will leave plenty of room for the action cam if I want it in the future.

I had one of those moments....... You know the kind where you ask yourself, "are you stupid....."  I thought I had everything to put this together....  Nope I realised that I forgot to buy 2mm bullet connectors.....  I'd have to direct solder the motors but since this wont be the frame I use in the long run I thought It was best to use the connectors so now I have to wait till Tuesday for a rush order to arrive, otherwise I'd have had the quad up today too.  I'll swap over to the mini APM when it arrives too.

I plan to do everything else tonight on the quad so that I can take it for a spin as soon as I get the connectors (will post pics later tonight).  Best part is that after it's first test flight (at my normal oval I fly at) I can do some serious testing out the front of my place as I've got a small reserve that has a few trees.  If all goes well I should be zipping around those by the end of the week :-)

Marschy, I should be able to do the sonar testing tonight (once my daughter goes to bed) and plan to mount it to the Tricopter if it works well.  Will let you know hoe it goes.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 05:06:51 PM
Bummer -- Tried every combination - As soon as I add in the Naza I have no motor operations at all.. Leave it out and Elev , Ail , Throt and Rudd all work the motors....
AND
the usual arming sequence of sticks to lowest position in corners DON"t work either connected to PC or not connected ....

I'm lost ...

Have you checked that the endpoints are allowing it go get to the full extents?  That might be stopping it from arming?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 05:10:46 PM
Have you checked that the endpoints are allowing it go get to the full extents?  That might be stopping it from arming?

Chris

Some have suggested on RCGroups to try calibrating the ESC off the Naza with a higher endpoint (116%) and then calibrating on the Naza with 100% endpoints.  Seems to have worked for some.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 14, 2014, 05:16:56 PM
In the DJI world their controller has a spring loaded centre position throttle - so up is forward throttle and down is reverse throttle - So the end points for that stick would be max rev throttle and max left or right - On the Devo 7 throttle only goes from 0 to 100% ( no reverse ) - Could that be the problemo ??? Maybe I can alter the end point from 0 to negative 100% ??
I'll go get the controller and see if there's an option .... I'm tired -- my head hurts -
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 05:30:59 PM
In the DJI world their controller has a spring loaded centre position throttle - so up is forward throttle and down is reverse throttle - So the end points for that stick would be max rev throttle and max left or right - On the Devo 7 throttle only goes from 0 to 100% ( no reverse ) - Could that be the problemo ??? Maybe I can alter the end point from 0 to negative 100% ??
I'll go get the controller and see if there's an option .... I'm tired -- my head hurts -



Hope this helps, according to the manual it's called travel adjust, it's on page 48 of http://www.walkera.com/en/productinformation/DEVO7_EM.pdf (http://www.walkera.com/en/productinformation/DEVO7_EM.pdf)

Also make sure that you dont have any sub trim or expo turned on either.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 05:35:52 PM
In the DJI world their controller has a spring loaded centre position throttle - so up is forward throttle and down is reverse throttle - So the end points for that stick would be max rev throttle and max left or right - On the Devo 7 throttle only goes from 0 to 100% ( no reverse ) - Could that be the problemo ??? Maybe I can alter the end point from 0 to negative 100% ??
I'll go get the controller and see if there's an option .... I'm tired -- my head hurts -

Ah, now I understand the 0 to 100% will amplify it - both directions.  Seems it only goes to 100%, bugger.

Also make sure there isnt a throttle curve programmed in as it might be preventing it reaching the right point.   Does the Naza software say what the PWM values are?

In the Naza assistant what is it saying for the values, as you move the throttle does it go the full range or is it less than that?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 10:23:55 PM
Hi Mark,

I've got some interesting news for you....

I hooked up the sonar, here are my results:

Measured Distance / Reported Distance
20cm / 20cm
40cm / 40cm
80cm / 77cm
100cm / 105cm
180cm / 170cm

APM 2.6 Board running AC3.2 firmware.

These were very quick and dirty tests, but so far I'm impressed for a $15 item.  I tried a wall that was approx 3m away and the figures just bounced around so I'm taking that as it cant really do good measurements that far off.  Good enough for me though if I want to do an alt hold and stay above 2m off any object below I'll be happy with that.

I'll do some better testing once I've mounted it on the Tricoper.  Was pretty simple to setup just plug and play :-)  Not sure why I havent got this thing already mounted on the Tri.

If you are running the AC3.2 firmware the bad news for you is it appears it it isnt the APM firmware, likely to be the piggyback boards firmware....  If your still on 3.1 then I'd suggest upgrading to AC3.2 to see if that fixes it, if not then I'd recommend playing with the RNGFND_SCALING variable, since yours is out by a consistent amount you might find a slightly more optimal value?  If you change the APM code to adjust you'll need to keep merging your code in everytime you update the firmware.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 14, 2014, 11:21:30 PM
Bummer -- Tried every combination - As soon as I add in the Naza I have no motor operations at all.. Leave it out and Elev , Ail , Throt and Rudd all work the motors....
AND
the usual arming sequence of sticks to lowest position in corners DON"t work either connected to PC or not connected ....

I'm lost ...
I'm now playing catch up to you Steve. Putting together 3 quads at the same time will probably do that.

I've now loaded the drivers, firmware and I'm getting the same problems as you. I can't arm the motors. Time to start reading the wiki's on the DJI website I think. I'm having problems calibrating channel 5 on the radio, probably the servo lead. This appears to be putting the flight controller in failsafe mode when you look at the Basic > Rc page in Naza Assist. The 'Failsafe' option is highlighted, so I think I've got to get that sorted out before I can proceed any further.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 14, 2014, 11:27:27 PM
Hi Mark,

I've got some interesting news for you....

I hooked up the sonar, here are my results:

Measured Distance / Reported Distance
20cm / 20cm
40cm / 40cm
80cm / 77cm
100cm / 105cm
180cm / 170cm

APM 2.6 Board running AC3.2 firmware.

These were very quick and dirty tests, but so far I'm impressed for a $15 item.  I tried a wall that was approx 3m away and the figures just bounced around so I'm taking that as it cant really do good measurements that far off.  Good enough for me though if I want to do an alt hold and stay above 2m off any object below I'll be happy with that.

I'll do some better testing once I've mounted it on the Tricoper.  Was pretty simple to setup just plug and play :-)  Not sure why I havent got this thing already mounted on the Tri.

If you are running the AC3.2 firmware the bad news for you is it appears it it isnt the APM firmware, likely to be the piggyback boards firmware....  If your still on 3.1 then I'd suggest upgrading to AC3.2 to see if that fixes it, if not then I'd recommend playing with the RNGFND_SCALING variable, since yours is out by a consistent amount you might find a slightly more optimal value?  If you change the APM code to adjust you'll need to keep merging your code in everytime you update the firmware.

Chris
Ah, didn't know about that. Just hooking the Reptile up now. It's updating Mission Planner first, so I'll check what firmware is loaded after that using the CLI.

Edit: Yep, I'm running 3.1.5. I'm going to upgrade right now and see what happens with the sonar after that. Tomorrow that is.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 14, 2014, 11:58:34 PM
Well that was 3 hours I'll never get back.....  Sigh, I had a spare R615X laying around that I thought ripper that will go into the 250 Quad.  Seemed to do odd stuff with PPM mode until, I decided to start from scratch and rebind, and reconnect it to the APM step by step.....  Then it just worked.  So annoying.....  Why didnt it do this the first time.....

So I only got some sonar testing and stuffing around with the receiver and basic APM checks....  Grrr, no pics tonight as I havent got all the stuff mounted yet, will have to be during the week for that one.  This quad better take flight this week or I'm going to go insane!!

Also no time to post any vids to youtube, time to go to bed and restart afresh tomorrow.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 12:17:28 AM
Well that was 3 hours I'll never get back.....  Sigh, I had a spare R615X laying around that I thought ripper that will go into the 250 Quad.  Seemed to do odd stuff with PPM mode until, I decided to start from scratch and rebind, and reconnect it to the APM step by step.....  Then it just worked.  So annoying.....  Why didnt it do this the first time.....

So I only got some sonar testing and stuffing around with the receiver and basic APM checks....  Grrr, no pics tonight as I havent got all the stuff mounted yet, will have to be during the week for that one.  This quad better take flight this week or I'm going to go insane!!

Also no time to post any vids to youtube, time to go to bed and restart afresh tomorrow.

Chris
Is this the new mini quad?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 12:21:22 AM
Chris,

Can you post your RNGFND params please?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 12:35:55 AM
Ah, didn't know about that. Just hooking the Reptile up now. It's updating Mission Planner first, so I'll check what firmware is loaded after that using the CLI.

Edit: Yep, I'm running 3.1.5. I'm going to upgrade right now and see what happens with the sonar after that. Tomorrow that is.

Hi Mark,

I only found out today too, I hooked up the Bixler APM to put in the 250 quad and got a message saying I could update.....  I figured why not.

If it is still an issue after the update I think the parameter RNGFND_OFFSET is the one that will fix your woes.  Since it's consistently off by a percentage I'd say the volts it's reading are too high, maybe tinker with this setting and the other one to find something that works for you.

I should by shares in cable ties....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 07:14:45 AM
Is this the new mini quad?
Sure is, this thing is going to heaps of fun and its so small (very portable). Cant wait for it to take flight.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 07:19:04 AM
Chris,

Can you post your RNGFND params please?

Cheers, Mark
RNGFND_PIN 0
RNGFND_MAX_CM 250
RNGFND_SCALING 2.04
RNDFND_TYPE 1
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 07:29:15 AM
Chris, have you had any trouble connecting to the CLI since upgrading the firmware?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 08:59:08 AM
Chris, have you had any trouble connecting to the CLI since upgrading the firmware?

Sorry should have mentioned they had to drop the CLI to make room in the APM.  All CLI functions have been moved to the various screens.  I miss it too....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 09:44:35 AM
Where do you see the sonar height?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 09:45:07 AM
After much fiddling around with Devo and Naza assistant I finally have a centre position throttle and managed to arm the motors ...

For some reason I am getting RED blinking light on the Naza - obviously one of my switch setting changes has done something there - However motors work and now
I have to get them to rotate in the correct ways ... Once all 4 are working CW and CCW then I'll try and investigate the GPS / Naza RED LED situation ---

Another 4 pkgs at Post today to collect - Should be the FPV cameras , Gimbal hooks , and the Radiolink controller ( no 4 is an ABC DVD for Xmas.)

Once again thanks for your help guys - Pointed me in the right direction again ..

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 09:52:50 AM
After much fiddling around with Devo and Naza assistant I finally have a centre position throttle and managed to arm the motors ...

For some reason I am getting RED blinking light on the Naza - obviously one of my switch setting changes has done something there - However motors work and now
I have to get them to rotate in the correct ways ... Once all 4 are working CW and CCW then I'll try and investigate the GPS / Naza RED LED situation ---

Another 4 pkgs at Post today to collect - Should be the FPV cameras , Gimbal hooks , and the Radiolink controller ( no 4 is an ABC DVD for Xmas.)

Once again thanks for your help guys - Pointed me in the right direction again ..

Cheers

Steve
Hello Steve, What did you do to get the motors to arm?
Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 09:56:19 AM
Once I had the throttle position at centre - It armed with the DJI setting - Both sticks full down and pushed to a lower opposite corner ..
Reverse throttle doesn't seem to work but I can work around that now that the motors and ESC are working ---
Looks like I may build another one as I bought the Q Brain ESC 4 in 1 ... Bit hasty methinks !! LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 09:59:31 AM
Forgot --- Also calibrated sticks in Naza and got them working in the correct directions
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 10:15:39 AM
Steve, do you get an indication that the mode switch is working when your in the RC calibration screen. Does the blue highlighted area change from GPS, Atti, Failsafe as you flick the 3 way switch?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 10:32:44 AM
Worked it out. I have to program a mix on my 3 position switch.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 10:39:11 AM
Yeah - I'm having trouble setting the FMD switch -- Hoping the Radiolink will be easier to setup ... Its all about Input / Output and TRVAD of the correct switches -- I wanted to use my FMD switch on the right hand top of the Devo but I can't seem to find the settings for it - MIX switch is OK but its not the one I want to use ...

By the way DJI controls - to arm motors as I said BUT must be in GPS mode Throttle low must be at 100%.
After calibration in Naza the centre position becomes 50% and thats Idle when armed ?? Still can't figure that out but it works ...

.. to disarm push throttle to lowest centre position and hold for 3 seconds ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 10:42:31 AM
One other thing - When you switch off the controller the Naza is supposed to drop into Failsafe - It doesn't with my Devo and I don't know why yet -- Still working on that too !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 12:12:15 PM
Where do you see the sonar height?

In two locations, the first is the on the optional hardware screen it is next to the enable tick box (enable tick box doesnt work for me...), it should have the height and voltage reading.

Second location is on the status screen of the flight data screen, if you scroll it across (the tab that has all the raw data values) you'll find one that says sonar height.

If they are showing 0 then try restarting the APM, that's what worked for me, since then it shows up unless I restart it without the sonar settings turned off.  Even when I disconnect the sonar and leave the settings it still gives some values, so watch out for that one.  If sonar on board make sure it's connected, if not then make sure the settings are turned off for it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 12:25:28 PM
Hi Mark and Steve,

I have to ask, what's the attraction with the Naza?  Besides it appears to have a really smooth out of the box feel?  I did a quick look today and seems the full version is very pricey and the lite version is a good price but it is very restricted (did I read that right no pmu or osd)?  I'm guessing if you went with the lite version you'd need to add a third party OSD, etc which is just more weight?

Before I saw all the issues you guys are having I would have said it was easier to setup than the APM but I'm rethinking that comment now  ;D

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 12:55:51 PM
I went with it because I have a  Phantom and understood how it operated..Building my own has shown a lot of shortcomings. DJI stuff is obviously very user simplified..My OSD weighs 5 GMs so not too worried.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 02:46:37 PM
I went with it because I have a  Phantom and understood how it operated..Building my own has shown a lot of shortcomings. DJI stuff is obviously very user simplified..My OSD weighs 5 GMs so not too worried.

Makes sense, before the posts I would have steered people towards it, not so sure now.  Sounds like if you buy a kit or buy a RTF then it looks good, appears to be very smooth from what I can see.  If your a builder I'll recommend other boards, depending on what they need to do.

Is the OSD a 3rd party OSD or is the Naza OSD?  Just that I thought the lite version didn't allow it to be added?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 03:49:35 PM
Its a Remzibi OSD but its designed for DJI use - Its got the correct sockets to plug in the LED and GPS - I might get to test it soon ...

Alien completion is now on the back burner again ...
One of my motors doesn't want to go around and around it likes to go backwards and forwards sort of vibrating - tried it in a couple of ESC sockets all the same ...!!!!
Is that kaput ??
Do I need to buy a new one ??
Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 04:08:47 PM
Hi Mark and Steve,

I have to ask, what's the attraction with the Naza?  Besides it appears to have a really smooth out of the box feel?  I did a quick look today and seems the full version is very pricey and the lite version is a good price but it is very restricted (did I read that right no pmu or osd)?  I'm guessing if you went with the lite version you'd need to add a third party OSD, etc which is just more weight?

Before I saw all the issues you guys are having I would have said it was easier to setup than the APM but I'm rethinking that comment now  ;D

Chris
My wife gave me some pocket money, so I bought the best that my allowance would buy, but it had to include automation to some degree and an OSD/FPV system to allow me to get in flight video using better methods than LOS could provide.

If the allowance hadn't come my way I would have opted for a cheaper flight controller.

The only advantage I am seeing with the Naza flight controller so far is the tidy cabling and the simple software for setup, but I haven't put it in the air yet, apparently the Attitude and GPS modes are killer for aerial videography.

Having said that the supported frames, flight modes and add-ons with the APM are great fun to muck around with.

All of my quads have been self build so far, just the way I like 'em.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 15, 2014, 04:34:44 PM
Its a Remzibi OSD but its designed for DJI use - Its got the correct sockets to plug in the LED and GPS - I might get to test it soon ...

Alien completion is now on the back burner again ...
One of my motors doesn't want to go around and around it likes to go backwards and forwards sort of vibrating - tried it in a couple of ESC sockets all the same ...!!!!
Is that kaput ??
Do I need to buy a new one ??
Cheers
Steve
If you have used 3.5mm bullet connectors on the motor leads, or it came with them, then cut the heat shrink off and check the solder joints. If one of the motor leads has a dry joint, this is symptomatic of a dry solder joint. Don't run the motor up again until you've checked it out because you can burn your ESC out.

I've had similar issues with my 2280kv Emax motors, the motor leads use enamelled copper wire and getting rid of the enamel without weakening the wire is proving quite difficult. I have to get some acetone which will apparently dissolve the enamelling and allow them to be tinned properly prior to soldering them directly to my ESC's.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 15, 2014, 05:27:06 PM
Bugger - Could be my bodgy soldering coz I extended the leads by soldering and shrink tube .. Better check them then ... Thanks mate !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 11:49:03 PM
Hmmm, just when you think you have the MinimOSD stuff sorted, it bites you in the arse.....

I was wiring up the 250 Mini Quad and hooked it all up and it kind of worked.  Had the OSD boot screen, and it was waiting for mavlink heartbeat messages.  I then hooked up the telemetry radio to supply those, I did it without the Minim connected, it wouldnt connect, so I rejigged the wire layout to be the same as on my tricopter and I could then connect.  Next I plugged in the MinimOSD, and I got lots of magic smoke......  Seems it's from the analogue side, pin 4 on the top left has burn marks.

I think I'm going to just run the damn things as 5v from now on.  It's just too expensive to run them as 12V.  So I've ordered 3 new minims, hoping to receive two of them before I drive to the Gold Coast for Christmas it will be touch and go.  The other is a MavlinkOSD, not sure if there is much of a deference but I'll read up some more.

I also ordered 5 analogue chips for $15 so I'll see if I can resurrect the dead board (and have 4 spares for when I do it again....)

Such a bad design.  On a plus my wiring all looked nice, but since I'm dropping to 5v for the minimOSD I'll have to redo parts of it.  Once those bullet connectors arrive and I have the ESC's mounted I'll take some happy snaps.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 15, 2014, 11:57:02 PM
The only advantage I am seeing with the Naza flight controller so far is the tidy cabling and the simple software for setup, but I haven't put it in the air yet, apparently the Attitude and GPS modes are killer for aerial videography.

This is what I hear, I'll wait to see the results from you guys.  Doubt I'll make the jump to it, I do plan to pick up a pixhawk clone in the new year.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 06:11:10 AM
Hmmm, just when you think you have the MinimOSD stuff sorted, it bites you in the arse.....

I was wiring up the 250 Mini Quad and hooked it all up and it kind of worked.  Had the OSD boot screen, and it was waiting for mavlink heartbeat messages.  I then hooked up the telemetry radio to supply those, I did it without the Minim connected, it wouldnt connect, so I rejigged the wire layout to be the same as on my tricopter and I could then connect.  Next I plugged in the MinimOSD, and I got lots of magic smoke......  Seems it's from the analogue side, pin 4 on the top left has burn marks.

I think I'm going to just run the damn things as 5v from now on.  It's just too expensive to run them as 12V.  So I've ordered 3 new minims, hoping to receive two of them before I drive to the Gold Coast for Christmas it will be touch and go.  The other is a MavlinkOSD, not sure if there is much of a deference but I'll read up some more.

I also ordered 5 analogue chips for $15 so I'll see if I can resurrect the dead board (and have 4 spares for when I do it again....)

Such a bad design.  On a plus my wiring all looked nice, but since I'm dropping to 5v for the minimOSD I'll have to redo parts of it.  Once those bullet connectors arrive and I have the ESC's mounted I'll take some happy snaps.

Chris
Hate to be the bearer of bad news. The Mavlink-OSD's don't have the solder pads to run the video chip on 5 volts. It is powered via an onboard 5 volt regulator that is supplied from the 12 volt video transmitter supply.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 16, 2014, 06:46:14 AM
Here's something you don't need to find out the hard way --- coupla months back I bought a 12v camera for FPV ( Its on the FC40 I lost ) - So I figured it was a nice easy 12v install so I bought 2 more - one for Alien and one for the new FC40 ... All wired up plugged in battery and Phhht Pop smoke !! Fortunately for me I opened the dead one up to see what happened - The previous connecting cable that I used is the reverse of the one supplied with the new camera ( I figured they would be the same from same supplier ) -
So I've had to swap the video and +ve leads around and it sort of works now - Got to find the correct frequency settings on the Boscams as its a bit scratchy at the moment but OSD is showing ..
Progress ??
Had to drill 4 holes in the Alien floor to hold the new landing gear as the gimbal mounting hooks are 10mm not 12mm !! So had to replace the Aliens support rods and add the landing gear support rods behind .. Now All I have to do is fix that motor .... More work later today ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 08:44:12 AM
Have you added a filter for your FPV camera Steve?

If you are running the camera from the same power supply as your ESC's you will possibly get lines on the video output when the motors are spinning under load.

I made the inductor myself, but you can purchase them from Jaycar. You will also need a 470uF 25 volt capacitor.

http://search.jaycar.com.au/search?w=ferrite%20choke&view=list (http://search.jaycar.com.au/search?w=ferrite%20choke&view=list)

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/1/4/5/3/2/a7338889-32-PDM%20Exploded%20view.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 16, 2014, 08:51:02 AM
Hooked it up before and I have very crappy OSD but no video feed from camera ??? Will try again later today..No filters or capacitors yet
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 09:39:06 AM
Hate to be the bearer of bad news. The Mavlink-OSD's don't have the solder pads to run the video chip on 5 volts. It is powered via an onboard 5 volt regulator that is supplied from the 12 volt video transmitter supply.

Hmmm, I was reading up on these, sounds like they have a better regulator that is less likely to go poof.....  I might be on a winner here.

The MinimOSD's seems to be a very poor design, it looks like what they should have done all along is make the 12V line a passthrough (connect the input pin to the output pin) and ran the board off 5V.  Crazy since the analogue chip can only take 5.25V max according to it's datasheet.  I think it was when people were using a 2nd battery for their video and wanted the power to be used from it, now we run it off the one battery it makes absolutely no sense to build it the way they have.  I'm strongly thinking of trying to modify one so that it does the above.

Good news is I have 1 of these on the way (MAVLINK OSD) and 2 HK MinimOSD's on the way.  With 5 spare chips on the way I should be able to fix the issue - should have these boards coming out of my ears :-).  I've never had to solder so many SMD components before, this is getting fun, I haven't soldered an SMD IC in 10+ years, I've done other components, will be interesting.

Now I have to work out what the actual issue is, I'm wondering if this happened because the telemetry harness is wrong.  I had to do alot of moving stuff on the telemetry radio plug and the APM end, wondering if that stuffed up something on the Minim's input (maybe I'm applying 5V to a 3.3V circuit somewhere?).  Lots of checking tonight.

To get it up and running I'll just run the feed from the camera straight to the VTx so that it wont hold me up waiting for the Minim's.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 09:50:52 AM
Here's something you don't need to find out the hard way --- coupla months back I bought a 12v camera for FPV ( Its on the FC40 I lost ) - So I figured it was a nice easy 12v install so I bought 2 more - one for Alien and one for the new FC40 ... All wired up plugged in battery and Phhht Pop smoke !! Fortunately for me I opened the dead one up to see what happened - The previous connecting cable that I used is the reverse of the one supplied with the new camera ( I figured they would be the same from same supplier ) -
So I've had to swap the video and +ve leads around and it sort of works now - Got to find the correct frequency settings on the Boscams as its a bit scratchy at the moment but OSD is showing ..
Progress ??
Had to drill 4 holes in the Alien floor to hold the new landing gear as the gimbal mounting hooks are 10mm not 12mm !! So had to replace the Aliens support rods and add the landing gear support rods behind .. Now All I have to do is fix that motor .... More work later today ...

I've done this before (swapped power wires), but in my case it killed my VTX (camera was fine, although I thought I had fried it but it's now getting mounted on the mini quad!).  I agree with Mark I'd put a ferrite choke on it, you might find that is all is needed.  If not then step it up with the capacitor.  I have several ferrites in my draw (clip on and doughnut shaped) for this reason, never know when interference will strike.

For this reason I now triple check my VTx to camera power arrangements.....  Now adding checking the digital end on the MinimOSD......  Hmmm, maybe I should triple check everything before powering up the first time.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 10:03:33 AM
Looking forward to seeing some progress pictures on your mini quad Chris. The MavlinkOSD's are a lot cheaper for some reason, curious.

I reckon I know why the Multistar 30A ESC's were pulled from the Hobbyking website. The 4 that I have on the Alien spin up the motors with no problem, but don't make any beeping noises whatsoever when powered up. I reckon I scored some of the ESC's that many people have been complaining about as being duds. I tried programming one of them using the multistar programming card and they don't respond to programming whatsoever.

The multistars I have on the Reptile make all the appropriate noises and can be programmed.

I swapped one over for one of the new blue series 30A ESC's and it works a treat. No sync issues at all using stock firmware. I'm going to swap them all over now. It's a time consuming process though as I have to solder extensions onto the power and motor wires.

This might be the reason I can't arm the motors.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 10:26:37 AM
I bought some 12x40x1.6mm aluminium angle yesterday. I'm going to make a tilt gimbal for the mini quad. I've ordered two of these pan-tilt gimbals from Hobbyking and I'm going to pinch the bearings and servo tie rods and the fiberglass plate that the camera and servo is attached to.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__11442__FPV_Fiberglass_Pan_Tilt_Camera_Mount_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__11442__FPV_Fiberglass_Pan_Tilt_Camera_Mount_.html)

The aluminium bracket is going to be used to replace the fiberglass frame so the bracket will fit inside the mini quad frame. There is a lot of wasted space between the fiberglass plate and the bottom plate where the pan servo goes, so I'm going to lose that space when I make the bracket.

The bracket will look something like either of these designs that I am toying around with. The 12mm part of the angle will be screwed to the mini quad frame. I reckon the second one should work. The hole is where the flange bearing will go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: allan.kidd on December 16, 2014, 10:48:50 AM
Well - mine has arrived!  Now to find a very large, flat, treeless area with no wind. Heart in mouth for the first flight!

The camera attachment should arrive in a few weeks.

(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/_DSC2520_zps3ff790ec.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/_DSC2520_zps3ff790ec.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 10:58:35 AM
Very nice
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 11:08:33 AM
I bought some 12x40x1.6mm aluminium angle yesterday. I'm going to make a tilt gimbal for the mini quad. I've ordered two of these pan-tilt gimbals from Hobbyking and I'm going to pinch the bearings and servo tie rods and the fiberglass plate that the camera and servo is attached to.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__11442__FPV_Fiberglass_Pan_Tilt_Camera_Mount_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__11442__FPV_Fiberglass_Pan_Tilt_Camera_Mount_.html)


Hi, I have some of these, just be aware that they are a tight fit.  The tabs that slide into the slots are a bit big for the slots, I used some sandpaper to widen the slots by a bit.  Don't sand the tabs as there isnt much to them to start with.....  Don't try to force it or the tabs will get damaged.

I also found out that none of my cameras mount to these without modification, the plugs get in the way (even though it has cutouts, they are never where my plugs are).  I thought about using some small standoffs, never got around to it, but might for the 700 TVL camera, when I find somewhere to put it.

Did you get some small micro servos to use on them?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 11:19:07 AM
Looking forward to seeing some progress pictures on your mini quad Chris. The MavlinkOSD's are a lot cheaper for some reason, curious.

I reckon I know why the Multistar 30A ESC's were pulled from the Hobbyking website. The 4 that I have on the Alien spin up the motors with no problem, but don't make any beeping noises whatsoever when powered up. I reckon I scored some of the ESC's that many people have been complaining about as being duds. I tried programming one of them using the multistar programming card and they don't respond to programming whatsoever.

The multistars I have on the Reptile make all the appropriate noises and can be programmed.

I swapped one over for one of the new blue series 30A ESC's and it works a treat. No sync issues at all using stock firmware. I'm going to swap them all over now. It's a time consuming process though as I have to solder extensions onto the power and motor wires.

This might be the reason I can't arm the motors.

Hoping that the bullet connectors will be in the letterbox when I get home, so fingers crossed I can take a few pics tonight.  I'm feeling happy about the build, besides killing the MinimOSD.....  I'm curious about the MavLink being cheaper, I'll have a closer look at the parts when I get it in my hands.

On the ESC's, do they work when you wire them up direct to a receiver?  The no sound could be that they have been programmed not to sing.  Having said that, if the programming card doesn't work, I'd return them if you can.  More HK credit to spend :-)  I'd suggest if the FC cant talk to the ESC's as it's expecting then I'd agree it would be a strong reason, I guess you'll know for sure when you swap out the ESC's.

I decided to take the few grams of weight and do the connectors for the mini quad, so it was easy to swap bits if I broke stuff......  For the Tri it's all soldered besides the connection to the motors.

Does it have a distribution system?  If it does I'd consider soldering on bullet connectors to the distribution system so it's easy to swap out in the future?

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 11:23:01 AM
Well - mine has arrived!  Now to find a very large, flat, treeless area with no wind. Heart in mouth for the first flight!

The camera attachment should arrive in a few weeks.

(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/_DSC2520_zps3ff790ec.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/_DSC2520_zps3ff790ec.jpg.html)


Looking nice an shiny and new!  You'll have a ball with it, even more when you get your camera mount.

Just keep it slow and steady for the first few flights, get a good feel for it, make sure that you go through all the prestart checks (props on tight, got GPS lock if it has one, etc.....)  Do not skip on any of the checks and if somethings not right, fix it first.  Oh and bring tools with you when you go, so that you can replace props, etc.....

If you have insurance already go to a local playing fields when no one's around, should give you plenty of space to work with.  I'd recommend going solo the first time.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 11:24:41 AM
Bugger - Could be my bodgy soldering coz I extended the leads by soldering and shrink tube .. Better check them then ... Thanks mate !!

So was that the cause?  Or is it a dodgy motor?  I'd agree it's more likely the wiring or the ESC that the issue.  The motor's a pretty simple beast.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 11:26:50 AM
Have you added a filter for your FPV camera Steve?

If you are running the camera from the same power supply as your ESC's you will possibly get lines on the video output when the motors are spinning under load.

I made the inductor myself, but you can purchase them from Jaycar. You will also need a 470uF 25 volt capacitor.

http://search.jaycar.com.au/search?w=ferrite%20choke&view=list (http://search.jaycar.com.au/search?w=ferrite%20choke&view=list)

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/1/4/5/3/2/a7338889-32-PDM%20Exploded%20view.JPG)


Holy crap Mark, I just noticed the ferrite and the wraps.... You dont want any interference do you, usually a few wraps is enough......

You should also use twisted wire after the plug, it's the only way to be sure......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 11:38:26 AM
G'day Chris,

The inductor is about 350uH according to my multimeter, should do the job. Not very clear in the photo, but to the left is a black electrolytic cap 470uF 25v. No different to the inductors sold by Jaycar, only difference is I rolled my own.

(http://www.jaycar.com.au/products_uploaded/product150_1632.jpg)

Unfortunately I've modified the ESC's by extending the wiring and reversed the direction of the power cables and re-heat shrunk them, so I cant return them.

If need be I can make a new backplate out of fiberglass for the gimbal. Already have some HXT900 9gm servos, I'll see if they fit, if not, I'll get some HXT500's. I'm going to connect it to the miniAPM like I have on the Reptile-Aphid. Just power it from a 5 volt BEC and connect the signal wire to A11 and configure the gimbal in Mission Planner

There are some simple designs on rcgroups that use cable ties as a hinge with a linear servo.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 16, 2014, 11:45:20 AM
Just removed my dodgy wiring from the equation -- plugged motor on its short leads into ESC and it just oscillates about 3mm forward and back - dodgy motor ...
I've already ordered Turnigy 2212 set , and complained to my Ebay supplier - If I can explain what the motor is doing I might get a replacement ??? Don't hold ya breath !!
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 11:46:33 AM
I'm not a fan of 3.5 bullet connectors. The number of times I've pulled the F450 apart and disconnected the motors from the ESC's, the bullet connectors now feel a little bit loose.

I'm also trying to eliminate any potential points of failure with the Alien560, so the less connectors, the better.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 11:52:32 AM
Just removed my dodgy wiring from the equation -- plugged motor on its short leads into ESC and it just oscillates about 3mm forward and back - dodgy motor ...
I've already ordered Turnigy 2212 set , and complained to my Ebay supplier - If I can explain what the motor is doing I might get a replacement ??? Don't hold ya breath !!
Steve
Do you mean the Multistar 2212 set? I've got the early version of these motors where all the prop nuts screw on in clockwise direction. Nice motors.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 16, 2014, 11:54:33 AM
These ones - http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=68693 (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=68693)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 11:55:47 AM
Yep, same as mine but yours have CW and CCW prop nuts. Good motors at a great price. When they first came out they had green prop nuts/spinners.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 12:39:04 PM
I'm not a fan of 3.5 bullet connectors. The number of times I've pulled the F450 apart and disconnected the motors from the ESC's, the bullet connectors now feel a little bit loose.

I'm also trying to eliminate any potential points of failure with the Alien560, so the less connectors, the better.

That's fair enough, I considered it for the mini quad but I thought I'll break stuff so I'd go with easy replacement strategy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 12:40:40 PM
I've just spent my allowance for this month on a FPV camera (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Free-Shipping-to-RU-1-3-SONY-CCD-Effio-E-DSP-700TVL-2-1mm-Lens-CCTV/1446416542.html) with a 2.1mm lens (150 degree FOV) for the mini quad. I also bought a 2.5mm (130 degree FOV) and a 2.8mm (115 degree FOV) lens. It will be interesting to see what the different lenses look like through my goggles and the ground station. They also have a 1.8mm lens (170 degree FOV) which I may give a go at some point in the future.

It took me a while to find a supplier that had each of the above lens sizes as well as a Sony Effio CCD board camera, so probably not the cheapest one I could have bought. Getting them all from the same supplier I can combine shipping and hopefully get them during my holidays over Xmas.

I've also got 16 pairs of Gemfan 5030 props coming from Hobbyking. I'm planning on breaking a few on the mini quad.

Edit:A good number of the camera's with these size lenses also mention the magic FPV three letter acronym, and along with that the price seems to increase accordingly. What I find interesting though is that the demand for these camera's by the RC fraternity must be so high that suppliers stick the FPV tag on these products, even though they are designed as security cameras. It gives some measure of the level of demand.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 03:49:03 PM
I've also got 16 pairs of Gemfan 5030 props coming from Hobbyking. I'm planning on breaking a few on the mini quad.

Seems we are thinking along the same lines, I some HK clear ones (12), I have 12 coloured GF on the way and I have some ebay specials on the way (another 12).  I just want to make sure that a broken prop wont ruin my day.

Mine are two bladed, are you using 2 or 3 bladed props?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 04:02:48 PM
Seems we are thinking along the same lines, I some HK clear ones (12), I have 12 coloured GF on the way and I have some ebay specials on the way (another 12).  I just want to make sure that a broken prop wont ruin my day.
Yep, lots of reading of the ZMR250 thread on rcgroups has lead me to this conclusion. I've ordered 8 pairs of orange props and 8 pairs of black. This is what I use on my F450 and Reptile. It helps with orientation no end.

I tend to break the front props more than the back ones due to me rolling the quad over when I land with any forward motion. This is why I'm doing away with the crab landing gear on the X-mode Alien once I've finished swapping over all the hardware from the F450 frame. The high centre of gravity on the F450 made it really easy to roll over, but I don't think this will be as much of a problem with the low centre of gravity with the mini quad or the X-mode Alien once its finished.

Are we going to see any build progress pictures of the mini quad Chris? Very keen to see what your doing with regard your build, I may be able to steal ideas from you. I'll post pictures as well once I make any progress other than just dry fitting the frame before I pull it apart again to start fitting electronic hardware.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 04:38:07 PM
Are we going to see any build progress pictures of the mini quad Chris? Very keen to see what your doing with regard your build, I may be able to steal ideas from you. I'll post pictures as well once I make any progress other than just dry fitting the frame before I pull it apart again to start fitting electronic hardware.

I can do that tonight, I'll take some pics tonight even if my bullet connectors aren't in yet (tonight is the first date on the expected arrival time - so I'm not realistically expecting them to be here since there is Christmas packages flying around.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 08:42:16 PM
Finally got the motors to arm. Dodgy bloody Multistar 30A Opto ESC's. Connected the Blue Series 30A ESC's and they all make the appropriate beeps and the motors spin up as soon as it arms. Yippee.

Just have the video transmitter to hook up then I'm ready to rock and roll.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 10:11:06 PM
Hi,

Had some success with the build of the mini quad.  I've got it to arm and I've been able to do a motor test which is great.

So here are some pics:

The camera that will be mounted, it has great low light abilities, seems to transition well between dark and light quickly:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/d039c8aec120551870309080913dbfe0.jpg)

Overall build pics:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/3a91637eec9a0adcf4068e2a4ca31a77.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/eca7d306d583519e9b055f5e5409b698.jpg)

Pics of motor, esc and cable management:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/e6d1f44c4f7802816bb6cfe70ff24f7a.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/8082d30cb543d7d41dc7a86f4967a850.jpg)

I plan to put all the cables underneath and running through the body with mesh guard (like I've done with the camera).

Motor test went well, I removed the props for that part.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 10:37:28 PM
I was happy when I got home, there was a couple of envelopes with 2mm bullet connectors.

Got lots done as can be seen.  I built the wiring harness and added the bullet connectors.  I added the bullet connectors to the ESC's.  Used miles of shrink wrap.  I think I should buy shares in cable ties and shrink wrap......  Did a rough setup with the APM and gave it a go.

I had one motor that wouldn't work with the motor test, I noticed that the ESC's didnt sing, so I swap two wires (thank god I spent the time to put the bullet connectors in).  I removed the props at this stage.  I rebooted it and it I had some music from the ESC's and the motor tests then were successful.

I had a few arming check issues, so I took the props off and told it to skip the checks (since it was going to stay on the table).  I was able to arm it, I was getting good telemetry data.  Only data I wasnt getting was the power module data, so I'll need to track that down.

Still lots to do with the wiring, to make it look nice.  Will be good when I can get the Mini APM it will fit in the square spot.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 10:42:12 PM
Looking great Chris. You must be itching to try those Multistar Elites out. What do the windings look like?

 I know what you mean about the cable ties, I don't know how many cable ties have ended up in the bin after cutting them off to reorientate something on the Alien560.

Here is a handy link for you. I'm looking at the datasheet for the MAX7456 chip to see if I can work out what pin the 5 volt supply is connecting to by the 'via' on the back of the board

Installing MavlinkOSD to ArduFlyer 2.5 without releasing Magic Smoke (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1865775)

I've got a few ESC's lying around now that I am going to pinch the thermal film and aluminium heat sink from to make into a heat sink for the MAX7456 chip on the MavlinkOSD when I'm ready to install it on the mini quad.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 16, 2014, 10:52:31 PM
Ok, the picture in the rcgroups thread with the enamelled wire running from the 5 volt pin to the via on the back of the board is soldered to the track that runs between pins 21 and 24 of the MAX7456 chip.

Pin 21 - Analog Power-Supply Input.
Pin 24 - Driver Power-Supply Input.

(http://wallyoz.smugmug.com/photos/i-gzP3jCV/0/X2/i-gzP3jCV-X2.jpg)

So all in all, a pretty simple mod to power the whole board via the 5 volt supply from the flight control board.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2014, 11:27:21 PM
Looking great Chris. You must be itching to try those Multistar Elites out. What do the windings look like?

 I know what you mean about the cable ties, I don't know how many cable ties have ended up in the bin after cutting them off to reorientate something on the Alien560.

Here is a handy link for you. I'm looking at the datasheet for the MAX7456 chip to see if I can work out what pin the 5 volt supply is connecting to by the 'via' on the back of the board

Installing MavlinkOSD to ArduFlyer 2.5 without releasing Magic Smoke (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1865775)

I've got a few ESC's lying around now that I am going to pinch the thermal film and aluminium heat sink from to make into a heat sink for the MAX7456 chip on the MavlinkOSD when I'm ready to install it on the mini quad.


I will most likely still run the Mavlink with a mix of 5v and 12V.  The two minim's I've got on order I'll do the 5V conversion (solder the pads).

Thats a good thread, I started reading it today at work but didnt get very far (when people know your leaving everyone has a question for you), had a chance to really look at it tonight after your link reminded me I had only had a cursory look at it.

Interesting it was pin 4 and pin 5 that has signs of damage (mostly to pin 4).  According to the datasheet pin 4 is DGND and 5 is a Clock input....  I'll have to recheck the wiring harness for the telemetry and OSD, something seems odd there.  Sadly I wont get to check on that till tomorrow night.

I'm thinking of trying the heatsink idea too.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2014, 12:23:51 AM
Looking great Chris. You must be itching to try those Multistar Elites out. What do the windings look like?

Thank you, I want this one to be right from the get go, so happy to take my time but not too long....

They are nice motors, nice and tight windings, when I did the arm test I spun them upto 50% power with no props and man they make some noise, a good kind of noise that is.  The motors and ESC's seem to be very responsive.

Lots to do but should be up in the air with camera but no OSD later this week.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 05:42:37 AM
Thank you, I want this one to be right from the get go, so happy to take my time but not too long....

They are nice motors, nice and tight windings, when I did the arm test I spun them upto 50% power with no props and man they make some noise, a good kind of noise that is.  The motors and ESC's seem to be very responsive.

Lots to do but should be up in the air with camera but no OSD later this week.
I know what you mean about the noise. Happened to me last night when I finally spun all 4 motors up at once. Great feeling after all the effort you go to build these things.

I put my finger on the bell housing to see which way the motors were spinning and got a surprise at the torque. Actually burnt the tip of my finger.

The good throttle response would come from how well the motors are matched to the ESC's. Gotta say I'm very happy with the Blue Series ESC's. So far from my brief experience with them with the Emax 2280kv motor for the mini quad and the Emax 650kv for the Alien the ESC's and motors are getting along very well. The 650 motors sounded really sweet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 17, 2014, 08:40:40 AM
Hooray and hallelujah !!!!
Finally got the OSD FPV working ...yeehaaa doing the happy dance...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/16/d9e46a54f98fd427221e77fb2640a741.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 08:42:24 AM
That's my next task, and hopefully final one before the Alien's maiden flight.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 17, 2014, 08:45:40 AM
Now I can finish the top deck stuff !! - Might get the new motors today with a bit of luck ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 08:51:23 AM
Looks fantastic Steve, I'll get mine up and running this weekend hopefully and post some pictures. Now that the Alien quad is close to completion, with the top plate removed, I removed each and every screw below the top plate and added a drop of Loctite 222 (purple stuff). Didn't see any point in doing it earlier. The I'll add a drop when the top plate goes on, hopefully for the last time.

After the top plate is attached, all that will be left to do is temporarily remove the motors from the mounts and use my 1 metre long steel ruler to level all of the motor mounts.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2014, 10:37:02 AM
Looks fantastic Steve, I'll get mine up and running this weekend hopefully and post some pictures. Now that the Alien quad is close to completion, with the top plate removed, I removed each and every screw below the top plate and added a drop of Loctite 222 (purple stuff). Didn't see any point in doing it earlier. The I'll add a drop when the top plate goes on, hopefully for the last time.

After the top plate is attached, all that will be left to do is temporarily remove the motors from the mounts and use my 1 metre long steel ruler to level all of the motor mounts.

Hi,

I'm thinking I'll loctite the motors but not sure about the frame.....  Might do the downwards facing bolts, the top plate I figured I'd be able to easily inspect those and I figure I'll be making some adjustments after the first couple of flights.

Might do the top plate after I'm sure I'm happy.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 10:45:44 AM
Hi,

I'm thinking I'll loctite the motors but not sure about the frame.....  Might do the downwards facing bolts, the top plate I figured I'd be able to easily inspect those and I figure I'll be making some adjustments after the first couple of flights.

Might do the top plate after I'm sure I'm happy.

Chris
Anything that screws in metal should ideally have thread locker, not so important if you are screwing into nylon, i.e. spacers. Saves having to check screws every few flights as well.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 17, 2014, 12:21:30 PM
Well - After all my good work getting the OSD up and running - When fitting to upper deck I must have reversed the GPS plug - GPS gone to Quadcopter parts heaven !!! This stuff is so touchy about +ve and -ve - Sheesh --- So a new GPS module $130 odd OR a complete Naza M Lite kit - $169 odd - Hmmmm - Looks like I'm making inroads into my next quad ???
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 12:42:36 PM
Well - After all my good work getting the OSD up and running - When fitting to upper deck I must have reversed the GPS plug - GPS gone to Quadcopter parts heaven !!! This stuff is so touchy about +ve and -ve - Sheesh --- So a new GPS module $130 odd OR a complete Naza M Lite kit - $169 odd - Hmmmm - Looks like I'm making inroads into my next quad ???

If you have fried the Naza GPS, for the sort of money you are talking about replacing the GPS or a complete Lite kit, I would be giving the APM flight controller some serious consideration. They just work, have more flight modes, you can add stuff to them like sonars which will impress your friends and there are at least 2 blokes here on myswag who have a pretty good working knowledge of how to set them up who I am sure would be willing to give advise.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-NEO-6M-GPS-Compass-Power-Module-Minim-OSD-915Mhz-915-Telemetry/32223424473.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-NEO-6M-GPS-Compass-Power-Module-Minim-OSD-915Mhz-915-Telemetry/32223424473.html)

Alternatively, see if there are GPS modules that can be reflashed to work with the Naza Lite. But I don't think there is. The Naza GPS is about the only piece of hardware that you can't reflash with new firmware in the Assistant software.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2014, 01:36:21 PM
Well - After all my good work getting the OSD up and running - When fitting to upper deck I must have reversed the GPS plug - GPS gone to Quadcopter parts heaven !!! This stuff is so touchy about +ve and -ve - Sheesh --- So a new GPS module $130 odd OR a complete Naza M Lite kit - $169 odd - Hmmmm - Looks like I'm making inroads into my next quad ???

Mandrake Nooooo.  That's an expensive bit to fry.  Having you tried opening it to see what has gone boom?

I think Marschy's got some good advice, I'd also recommend you switch to APM, GPS's are only $30-40 if you break one :-)  You can do 3 to 4 of them for the price of one Naza GPS.....

You know I fried a bit the other night (MinimOSD), you just did the Naza GPS.  Marschy I've got bad news, it's your turn  ;D

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 01:37:59 PM
Mandrake Nooooo.  That's an expensive bit to fry.  Having you tried opening it to see what has gone boom?

I think Marschy's got some good advice, I'd also recommend you switch to APM, GPS's are only $30-40 if you break one :-)  You can do 3 to 4 of them for the price of one Naza GPS.....

You know I fried a bit the other night (MinimOSD), you just did the Naza GPS.  Marschy I've got bad news, it's your turn  ;D

Chris
Nah, I fried an ESC the other day and a motor remember? Where's Crispy?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2014, 01:41:45 PM
Nah, I fried an ESC the other day and a motor remember? Where's Crispy?

Thats right I forgot about that, your done already, yep it's Crispy's turn :-)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 17, 2014, 02:09:08 PM
Gunna keep going - invested too much now --
Was playing out in the shed sticking little boxes into the lower deck and suddenly REALISED I hadn't any space left for the bloody battery -- I can't use the bandy legs as the tubes cover up the
holes for the battery tray !! - So gotta pull it apart AGAIN and refit the original legs .... Grrrrr
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 02:15:52 PM
Gunna keep going - invested too much now --
Was playing out in the shed sticking little boxes into the lower deck and suddenly REALISED I hadn't any space left for the bloody battery -- I can't use the bandy legs as the tubes cover up the
holes for the battery tray !! - So gotta pull it apart AGAIN and refit the original legs .... Grrrrr

You must be getting close to having to buy some more zip ties by now  ;D

Didn't your new crab legs come with a battery tray like this one? It just runs from left to right, instead of front to back. If not, Goodluckbuy sell an assortment of battery trays that hang off the landing gear rails.

(http://cdn.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/40671.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 17, 2014, 04:52:29 PM
Yep it did --- I forgot .... Duhhh ---
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2014, 05:33:17 PM
Gotta love this, I get home and there is a small package, it's a MinimOSD.....  I cant remember ordering it but according to aliexpress I ordered it about 3 weeks ago.....  Very handy timing, so now to convert it to 5v and be very careful.

With some luck I'll not only have this thing flying tomorrow night or Friday but it will be with OSD too!!!!

So now I have 2 MinimOSD's on the way and a MavLink OSD too.... I have 5 replacement analogue chips on the way too.  I have 2 dead boards and 2 good boards still, I think I'm good for OSD's for a while now.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 17, 2014, 06:18:33 PM
Nah, I fried an ESC the other day and a motor remember? Where's Crispy?
At home sitting on the couch smiling cause I have all my magic smoke still inside my gear. I am however planning to replace my KK FC with something a bit better. Maybe an APM  in the link. Then I might loose some smoke. But the AU has taken a tumble to 81c so it is getting more expensive.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 17, 2014, 06:35:09 PM
Busily tidying up cables and carefully made up a small wiring harness with 3 plugs and soldered in the DJI PMU -- Put it all together added some power -- Tana everything works except my
gimbal !! Forgot to add a plug for the gimbal .. Have to cut it into the harness tomorrow or Friday ... Time for Icecream and TV ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 17, 2014, 06:39:33 PM
These little critters seem to do an alright job . just have to get a phone to fly it though .https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZdSMAG90Rs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZdSMAG90Rs)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 17, 2014, 09:34:48 PM
Time for Icecream and TV ...

Is 10pm too late for a bowl of icecream?

My X-mode Alien frame is still very much a work in progress.

This is the gimbal bracket I fabricated that fits between the top and bottom plates of the frame.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49559-1/Gimbal+Bracket_001.JPG)

It still requires some holes to be drilled to allow the sensor, pitch and roll cables to pass through the bracket because the bracket fits up tightly against the back of the arm mounting pillars.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49561-1/Gimbsl+Bracket+in-situ_001.JPG)

I've replaced the GLB controller that I attempted to flash with Alexmos firmware with a Tarot control board that sits on spacers just behind the bracket. The spacers will allow me to connect leads to the pitch control pin underneath the board so I can control the pitch with my radio.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49565-1/Tarot+Gimbal+Control+Board.JPG)

I'm also in the process of sorting out a power distribution board that is slung under the bottom plate of the frame. I made a plate out of PCB fiberglass that I have etched to remove the copper,  that should provides a bit of protection for the Crius PDB.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49563-1/Power+Distribution+Board.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 18, 2014, 08:47:24 PM
Hey guys .... I was just looking for an FPV camera with a lens that doesn't bend so much 8mm or 12mm focal length -- Aliexpress has the 12mm in packs of 5 ... I only need 2 - and the 8mm in packs of 2 - If you wants one of thew 12mm ones lemme know - 
New Multistar motors arrive tomorrow and I can finish the build ( less the GPS and OSD . )
Thanks again Marschy - got the bandy legs back - with a dropdown battery tray ... So dum I are honestly ... LOL

I also found a pan and tilt unit for the 30mm x 30mm FPV camera complete with servos for $12 - bought one dunno if I can use it on the quad or not but will try with the 10 Ch TX ...LOL
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1set-Nylon-FPV-Pan-tilt-Camera-Mount-2pcs-Tower-Pro-SG90-9g-Servo-Retail-Promotion-Dropship/1623404058.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1set-Nylon-FPV-Pan-tilt-Camera-Mount-2pcs-Tower-Pro-SG90-9g-Servo-Retail-Promotion-Dropship/1623404058.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 18, 2014, 10:04:12 PM
Hey guys .... I was just looking for an FPV camera with a lens that doesn't bend so much 8mm or 12mm focal length -- Aliexpress has the 12mm in packs of 5 ... I only need 2 - and the 8mm in packs of 2 - If you wants one of thew 12mm ones lemme know - 
New Multistar motors arrive tomorrow and I can finish the build ( less the GPS and OSD . )
Thanks again Marschy - got the bandy legs back - with a dropdown battery tray ... So dum I are honestly ... LOL

I also found a pan and tilt unit for the 30mm x 30mm FPV camera complete with servos for $12 - bought one dunno if I can use it on the quad or not but will try with the 10 Ch TX ...LOL
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1set-Nylon-FPV-Pan-tilt-Camera-Mount-2pcs-Tower-Pro-SG90-9g-Servo-Retail-Promotion-Dropship/1623404058.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1set-Nylon-FPV-Pan-tilt-Camera-Mount-2pcs-Tower-Pro-SG90-9g-Servo-Retail-Promotion-Dropship/1623404058.html)

12mm might be too narrow a field of view. The three camera's I have have 3.6mm lenses and I think they are borderline too narrow. Gets to a point it is like looking through a tube. Wide angle at least gives you a bit of peripheral vision and the ability to see potential hazards.

The pan-tilt gimbal should be good, I was looking at these myself. Let us know what you think of it when you get it. You can get the gimbal minus servos dirt cheap on Aliexpress, so if you break it not a big issue to fix. I don't think the servos will be much good though. They look like plastic gear servos so if the gimbal takes a good knock, you'll probably strip the gears pretty quickly. Given these type gimbals stick up a fair bit, I think its a pretty safe bet that this will happen sooner or later.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 18, 2014, 10:54:10 PM
Hey guys .... I was just looking for an FPV camera with a lens that doesn't bend so much 8mm or 12mm focal length -- Aliexpress has the 12mm in packs of 5 ... I only need 2 - and the 8mm in packs of 2 - If you wants one of thew 12mm ones lemme know - 
New Multistar motors arrive tomorrow and I can finish the build ( less the GPS and OSD . )
Thanks again Marschy - got the bandy legs back - with a dropdown battery tray ... So dum I are honestly ... LOL

I also found a pan and tilt unit for the 30mm x 30mm FPV camera complete with servos for $12 - bought one dunno if I can use it on the quad or not but will try with the 10 Ch TX ...LOL
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1set-Nylon-FPV-Pan-tilt-Camera-Mount-2pcs-Tower-Pro-SG90-9g-Servo-Retail-Promotion-Dropship/1623404058.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1set-Nylon-FPV-Pan-tilt-Camera-Mount-2pcs-Tower-Pro-SG90-9g-Servo-Retail-Promotion-Dropship/1623404058.html)


Hi Steve,

I'm thinking that at 12mm that would be around 30 degrees, which will be very narrow.  I've got 2.1mm (150 deg), 2.4mm and 2.5mm (130 deg) and 2.xmm...

Thanks for the offer, is it possible when you get them can you put up an image and I'll go from there.

I've got some of these, they arent too bad for a cheapy, one is mounted on my Bixler 2.  The other is a spare...  Easy enough to replace the servo's if they get damaged.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 18, 2014, 11:11:09 PM
Progress on the 250 Mini Quad, I think I'm good for a test flight either tomorrow after work or on Saturday.

I have mounted all the gear, I'll tidy some of it up a bit later after I receive the MiniAPM.  I will swap out the large GPS for the one on the miniAPM (unless it's larger than this one).  I plan to move the FPV transmitter inside the cage once I get the miniAPM so that I can mount a mobius that I'll order in the next week or so.  The antenna will be moved towards the back, unfortunately it will move it closer to the GPS receiver which is not good.  I fixed the issue with the power module, seems I must have reset the APM and it was on no PM setting.

I've gone through all the setup items, learnt that lesson after the Tricopter....

GPS receiver is only so so, it took ages to get more than 3 sats and quickly dropped back to the 3 when inside (the Tricopters GPS maintains 4 or 5 in the same spot).

There are some oddities that I need to work through....  Firstly I'm not sure the compass calibration has worked (I'm using the internal compass - Bixler APM is a 2.5 version), it returned from the setup much quicker than it did for the Tricopter.  Seems to get the right compass values through (the learn feature is on, so it should adjust over time anyway).  It seems to arm regardless of what setting is in the APM, I enabled all checks and it still armed even though it the GPS was not locked on at all.

Pleased to say the MinimOSD is 5V converted, I built a small harness to flow 12v to the camera.  I'll be doing this on all my MinimOSD's from now on.

So here are some pics:

Front view - camera has been hot glued in place.  Will bolt in place at some stage in the future.....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/d194158f2ef4aabbf7f6751185691b91.jpg)


Side view - can see all the goodies tucked away.  Will cover all the wires with mesh at some stage.....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/a2bad6bf282f54637e6823a6a727c50e.jpg)

The motor wires are all cable tied back nicely, the main wiring harness is in view too.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/cceccffec927fbfd2f5acb6272ca9324.jpg)

Travel position, GPS and Telemetry antenna folded down, I will remove the 5.8 GHz CP antenna when transporting where it could be damaged.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/c29eba05dbdce038eec9c5583d357645.jpg)

OSD view, I need to flash it with MinimOSD-Extra and tell it that it's NTSC and not PAL (it is my first camera I bought - didn't realise it was NTSC till it arrived - handy to finally use it)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/b8b3265d51daea08bca724f24494dbef.jpg)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 18, 2014, 11:58:25 PM
Looking good Chris,

I did little bits and pieces tonight. I swapped the stock antennas on the R615X receiver for longer ones that will allow the antennas to be well away from the carbon frame.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 07:40:54 AM
Thanks Marshy, i think its turned out pretty good.

Forgot to say the auw ended up at 500g (inc 2200mah 3s battery), so even better than planned by about 50-100g. I will see what flight times i get off it and try the 1300mah battery to see if the lighter battery helps. Hoping the 2200mah will be good as i have a bunch (5 or 6) of them already.

With 1.6kg of thrust im thinking this thing will zip along.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 07:47:24 AM
That's a really good weight. People struggle to get near 500 grams with carbon fiber frames, let alone plastic and fiberglass.

I haven't got my flight batteries yet. I'm thinking nanotech 3S at the very least, but haven't decided on size or rating yet. It will be dependent upon weight before I add the battery into the mix. I'll also be looking at the Mobius camera in the new year, but I haven't done a thing to the mini quad short of solder one motor to an ESC, so no hurry yet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 07:53:48 AM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/c29eba05dbdce038eec9c5583d357645.jpg)

That is one awesome looking quad. I can't wait for this day to end, then I'm on 2 weeks leave and I can get stuck into mine.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 10:37:20 AM
That's a really good weight. People struggle to get near 500 grams with carbon fiber frames, let alone plastic and fiberglass.

I haven't got my flight batteries yet. I'm thinking nanotech 3S at the very least, but haven't decided on size or rating yet. It will be dependent upon weight before I add the battery into the mix. I'll also be looking at the Mobius camera in the new year, but I haven't done a thing to the mini quad short of solder one motor to an ESC, so no hurry yet.

I was surprised too, i was expecting it to weigh more than what I estimated.   I was using my luggage scales, might test it out on the kitchen scales when I get home to be sure.  It should be pretty close even if it's out by 50-100g that puts it back in my target zone.

I think the motors (25g/motor) and ESC's are bloody light which helps a lot in this instance.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 10:51:19 AM
My Emax 1806's are 18gm's, but I gained a couple going from the Emax ESC's to the Blue Series. Not enough to worry about though.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 11:10:29 AM
That is one awesome looking quad. I can't wait for this day to end, then I'm on 2 weeks leave and I can get stuck into mine.

I know it was a struggle to get it done after work, I'm so looking forward to having some time off.  I was in two minds to wait till I had time off to start the build or do it after work, this way I get to spend my time flying.  To be honest I find both parts equally as fun - the build and the flying..  I think I'll be getting some serious flying time it.  I revised my order of 2 bladed props, I've now either have or have on the way around 40 of the things.  I even picked up a packet of 3 bladed ones to see what they are like.

I feel odd walking into bunnings and not buying cable ties in small packets anymore, I now only buy the 500 packs.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 11:26:03 AM
I bought the 2 blade Gemfam 5030 props, orange and black.

I reckon I've ripped through 50+ cable ties in the past 2 weeks. The packet of 100 I bought from Hobbyking should hopefully see me through the remainder of the Alien560 build and the X-mode Alien rebuild, but only because the X-mode Alien will use different colour zip ties that I already bought from Bunnings. I'll need some more for building the mini quad.

The pan-tilt gimbal from Hobbyking should be here on Monday so I'll start on the tilt gimbal that I'm going to make for the mini quad next week.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 12:28:42 PM
Got the new GPS today so I am now complete except for motors and OSD ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/3c9df38c3b3424147ed72b8aef2214c0.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 12:34:50 PM
Did your camera come with a silver front plate?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 12:39:51 PM
Yep .. it pulls off to get at the battery...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 12:41:04 PM
Is that the one that you posted about that I have the same one? Looks better in silver I must say.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 12:42:13 PM
Yep same one .. the waterproof case is yellow at the front .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 01:25:21 PM
Just found out ( I think ) why my motor didnt want to work properly ... The supplied screws are too long and if you tighten them up through the alien carbon fibre motor mounts the bottom of the screw bites into the copper winding and effectively shorts it out I'm guessing ..
Check out the top screw hole in the pic ....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/46db9dd542ecdd8e78226c341f3a4c4c.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 01:30:36 PM
That'd do it.

Everything you touch with these quads needs measuring. It's starting to become a habit with me now.

Especially voltages. Using up to 3 different voltages on a 4S setup keeps you on your toes. 14.8 for the ESC's, 12 volts for gimbals cameras and transmitters, 5-6 volts for servos, 5 volts for the flight controller. It's not hard to see why so many people, including myself, fry stuff.

Thats why I use balance connectors for connecting hardware, so the 12 volt stuff can only plug into an 11.1 balance connector and not the same power supply as the ESC's. Same with servo's. I use a 7.4 volt balance connector just to make sure I don't plug any servo into an 11.1 balance socket and fry my gimbal servo.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 02:21:15 PM
Thats why I use balance connectors for connecting hardware, so the 12 volt stuff can only plug into an 11.1 balance connector and not the same power supply as the ESC's. Same with servo's. I use a 7.4 volt balance connector just to make sure I don't plug any servo into an 11.1 balance socket and fry my gimbal servo.

Now that is a brilliant idea, I think I'll be ordering a while heap of them tonight!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 02:22:07 PM
Just found out ( I think ) why my motor didnt want to work properly ... The supplied screws are too long and if you tighten them up through the alien carbon fibre motor mounts the bottom of the screw bites into the copper winding and effectively shorts it out I'm guessing ..
Check out the top screw hole in the pic ....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/18/46db9dd542ecdd8e78226c341f3a4c4c.jpg)


Thats the first thing I checked on my new motors, so many are provided with the incorrect sized bolts.....  Should be obvious since so many are bolted on to CF frames these days.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 02:29:20 PM
Now that is a brilliant idea, I think I'll be ordering a while heap of them tonight!!

I did this on my Reptile, and now I've done the same on my Alien560.

The filtered power supply on the left for gimbals etc has 3S balance connectors, the power distribution board on the right has 4S connectors for the Naza PMU and the connection to the 12 volt BEC.

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/1/4/5/3/2/a7338889-32-PDM%20Exploded%20view.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 03:05:29 PM
I did this on my Reptile, and now I've done the same on my Alien560.

The filtered power supply on the left for gimbals etc has 3S balance connectors, the power distribution board on the right has 4S connectors for the Naza PMU and the connection to the 12 volt BEC.

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/1/4/5/3/2/a7338889-32-PDM%20Exploded%20view.JPG)


You know I saw that and was wondering which connectors you were using.....

For most things it will be excellent, do you know the max current for them?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 03:59:33 PM
You know I saw that and was wondering which connectors you were using.....

For most things it will be excellent, do you know the max current for them?

Chris
No idea, but I should check shouldn't I!! I'll see if I can find the invoice and site I purchased them from to find out the current limit.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 07:09:52 PM
Hmmm, I've got mixed feeling on this, I just got a happy surprise that my MiniAPM and power module arrived today.......

Now do I pull everything apart again to do it right before it's taken off or do I to a few small test flights tomorrow and then swap it all over.... Choices, choices......

I got home too late tonight to go for a fly.... Grrr

Damn the miniAPM is tiny, even small than I thought it was going to be.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 07:20:20 PM
No idea, but I should check shouldn't I!! I'll see if I can find the invoice and site I purchased them from to find out the current limit.

Looks good, it seems they can handle 3A.  Where did you get them from?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 07:25:55 PM
Hmmm, I've got mixed feeling on this, I just got a happy surprise that my MiniAPM and power module arrived today.......

Now do I pull everything apart again to do it right before it's taken off or do I to a few small test flights tomorrow and then swap it all over.... Choices, choices......

I got home too late tonight to go for a fly.... Grrr

Damn the miniAPM is tiny, even small than I thought it was going to be.

I think I'll take my time with the miniAPM......  Looks like it will take some time to work it all out.  It would be nice to have it all done before I go up to my parents place but I want it done right.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 19, 2014, 08:51:25 PM
Looks good, it seems they can handle 3A.  Where did you get them from?

I found the JST connectors on ebay, but you can probably find cheaper examples. These ones at least come from the same seller.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10x-3S-4-Pin-JST-XH-2-54mm-LiPo-Balance-Connectors-w-Pins-/271687509859?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3f41d66763 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10x-3S-4-Pin-JST-XH-2-54mm-LiPo-Balance-Connectors-w-Pins-/271687509859?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3f41d66763)
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10x-4S-5-Pin-JST-XH-2-54mm-LiPo-Balance-Connectors-w-Pins-/111540450937?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item19f8543679 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10x-4S-5-Pin-JST-XH-2-54mm-LiPo-Balance-Connectors-w-Pins-/111540450937?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item19f8543679)
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10x-2S-3-Pin-JST-XH-2-54mm-LiPo-Balance-Connectors-w-Pins-/111540450940?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item19f854367c (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10x-2S-3-Pin-JST-XH-2-54mm-LiPo-Balance-Connectors-w-Pins-/111540450940?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item19f854367c)

Did your miniAPM come with silicon cables?

Found a better supplier for the connectors for you.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/group/XH-2-54mm-Connector-Series/1114121_253150454.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/group/XH-2-54mm-Connector-Series/1114121_253150454.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 09:01:06 PM
Got mine pre-wired from here - http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/230865244108?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/230865244108?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
This guy has 3 pin , 4 pin , JST and Micro mini jst ...
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 09:03:17 PM
And these too - http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10pcs-JST-XH-7S-30CM-LIPO-Balance-Plug-Extension-Lead-Charger-Cable-Wire-for-RC-/400566571561?pt=AU_Toys_Hobbies_Radio_Controlled_Vehicles&hash=item5d43a0d229 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10pcs-JST-XH-7S-30CM-LIPO-Balance-Plug-Extension-Lead-Charger-Cable-Wire-for-RC-/400566571561?pt=AU_Toys_Hobbies_Radio_Controlled_Vehicles&hash=item5d43a0d229)

Sorry - these -- http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10pcs-JST-XH-3S-Lipo-Balance-Wire-Extension-Lead-30cm-for-R-C-Boats-Airplanes-/400553393998?pt=AU_Toys_Hobbies_Radio_Controlled_Vehicles&hash=item5d42d7bf4e (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/10pcs-JST-XH-3S-Lipo-Balance-Wire-Extension-Lead-30cm-for-R-C-Boats-Airplanes-/400553393998?pt=AU_Toys_Hobbies_Radio_Controlled_Vehicles&hash=item5d42d7bf4e)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 09:41:38 PM
Thanks guys, I've just put in an order a bit from both of the piles (JST-XH 2.54 pitch).  I have plenty of the small 0.1 pitch stuff, wish I'd seen your latest post earlier Steve, I ordered some of the ones that Mark had mentioned and then saw your which are prewired.....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 19, 2014, 10:35:50 PM
Haste makes waste.. my old man used to say that all the time...He never got anything done.LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 19, 2014, 11:47:11 PM
Did your miniAPM come with silicon cables?

Yes I was most impressed by that.  My power module on the other hand isn't.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 01:41:10 AM
My V3 tricopter is finally alive!

After waiting for the frame for 2 months I flew back in from work yesterday to find it waiting on the doorstep for me!

I assembled most of it last night and then had to spend an hour or 2 this afternoon setting up the KK board and transmitter - a few little errors hear and there.

I didn't have the patience to wait until tomorrow morning to fly it in an open space so I maidened it on my front lawn. I didn't prang it either which I'm pretty chuffed about seeing as my lawn is about 7x12m with verandahs and limestone retaining walls all around! Did a little bit of pruning in the garden but it was a little bit gusty so I think that can be overlooked! I put 2 batteries through it but I could have gotten a bit longer out of them - only used around 1800 ah from the 3000 ah 4S batteries.

Only issue I am having is I can't get the self leveling to work on a switch - I've had to assign it to a stick for now which is not ideal as it is either on or off for the whole flight when I'd rather be able to switch it on during flight if I need to. I had it all working when I bench tested everything before I got the frame but now everything's assembled it won't work. I can see the switches working on the TX but even when I plug a servo into the receiver I get nothing which is leading me to think that The Orange R615x receiver is dodgy.

Anyone got any ideas?

I'll post up  a photo when I get a chance, although it's nothing special to look at and is a bit of a mess as far as wiring goes.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 03:42:18 AM
Thanks guys, I've just put in an order a bit from both of the piles (JST-XH 2.54 pitch).  I have plenty of the small 0.1 pitch stuff, wish I'd seen your latest post earlier Steve, I ordered some of the ones that Mark had mentioned and then saw your which are prewired.....
Same crimper I've posted info about before that does servo leads from Jaycar will do the JST-XH terminals as well. Great investment.

It's a habit of mine from when I used to fly fixed wing to always solder the crimped joint as well. To be sure, to be sure.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 03:48:33 AM
My V3 tricopter is finally alive!

After waiting for the frame for 2 months I flew back in from work yesterday to find it waiting on the doorstep for me!

I assembled most of it last night and then had to spend an hour or 2 this afternoon setting up the KK board and transmitter - a few little errors hear and there.

I didn't have the patience to wait until tomorrow morning to fly it in an open space so I maidened it on my front lawn. I didn't prang it either which I'm pretty chuffed about seeing as my lawn is about 7x12m with verandahs and limestone retaining walls all around! Did a little bit of pruning in the garden but it was a little bit gusty so I think that can be overlooked! I put 2 batteries through it but I could have gotten a bit longer out of them - only used around 1800 ah from the 3000 ah 4S batteries.

Only issue I am having is I can't get the self leveling to work on a switch - I've had to assign it to a stick for now which is not ideal as it is either on or off for the whole flight when I'd rather be able to switch it on during flight if I need to. I had it all working when I bench tested everything before I got the frame but now everything's assembled it won't work. I can see the switches working on the TX but even when I plug a servo into the receiver I get nothing which is leading me to think that The Orange R615x receiver is dodgy.

Anyone got any ideas?

I'll post up  a photo when I get a chance, although it's nothing special to look at and is a bit of a mess as far as wiring goes.
Howdy Spartan,

Crikey you are a patient man. That took a bloody long time.

Remind us what your transmitter is. It sounds as though it may not be configured correctly. Protocol may be wrong. I haven't used my R615X yet, but I will have an opportunity to do so over the next two weeks, so maybe we can help each other out if we get stuck.

Be careful with your KK and check and double check your wiring. It's a very easy board to get magic smoke out of.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 08:33:52 AM
Howdy Spartan,

Crikey you are a patient man. That took a bloody long time.

Remind us what your transmitter is. It sounds as though it may not be configured correctly. Protocol may be wrong. I haven't used my R615X yet, but I will have an opportunity to do so over the next two weeks, so maybe we can help each other out if we get stuck.

Be careful with your KK and check and double check your wiring. It's a very easy board to get magic smoke out of.

Cheers, Mark
Hi Spartan,

I'm using the R615x they are a pretty solid receiver. Are you using it in pwm mode or ppm mode?

Just checking, when you go into kk2 board settings in the receiver test can you see the aux ch change, it sounds like a no? On the Tx you mentioned you can see it change, which Tx are you using? Are you sure its outputting on ch 5 for the switch?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 20, 2014, 08:53:07 AM
If i was to get a apm fc is the initial setup simple like using usb and a setup program or do i have to wrte some sort of code which i have no idea about.
After christmas I plan to get a new fc. Either apm or multiwii both with gps.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 08:57:20 AM
If i was to get a apm fc is the initial setup simple like using usb and a setup program or do i have to wrte some sort of code which i have no idea about.
After christmas I plan to get a new fc. Either apm or multiwii both with gps.
Regards
Crispy
Get the APM,

No coding involved, but extremely versatile.

And yes it can be as simple as using the  USB, downloading the firmware, calibrating, auto tuning, flying. No different to Naza in a lot of ways.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 11:30:49 AM
I flew another 2 batteries this morning on a footy oval and still no crashes - a couple of rough landings but only flipped it over once so not too bad.

I'm using a 9xr reflashed with opentx. Pretty sure I'm using PWM - CPPM is when you only use 1 cable from the receiver to the fc correct?

When I do a receiver test on the board everything works correctly except the aux channel. I've tried every switch on the Tx and also plugged a servo into both the gear and aux1 slots on the receiver with no results.

I think I might have bench tested everything before I reflashed the Tx to opentx so it certainly could be a problem with the Tx setup but I can't figure out what. I would have thought that one of the switches would have outputted to channel 5?

I'm as sure as I can be that the receiver and KK are all hooked up correctly - everything else works and the magic smoke is still where it should be!

I wouldn't say I was patient but I didn't have much of a choice - plus they call WA "Wait Awhile" for a reason!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 11:48:04 AM
I flew another 2 batteries this morning on a footy oval and still no crashes - a couple of rough landings but only flipped it over once so not too bad.

I'm using a 9xr reflashed with opentx. Pretty sure I'm using PWM - CPPM is when you only use 1 cable from the receiver to the fc correct?

When I do a receiver test on the board everything works correctly except the aux channel. I've tried every switch on the Tx and also plugged a servo into both the gear and aux1 slots on the receiver with no results.

I think I might have bench tested everything before I reflashed the Tx to opentx so it certainly could be a problem with the Tx setup but I can't figure out what. I would have thought that one of the switches would have outputted to channel 5?

I'm as sure as I can be that the receiver and KK are all hooked up correctly - everything else works and the magic smoke is still where it should be!

I wouldn't say I was patient but I didn't have much of a choice - plus they call WA "Wait Awhile" for a reason!

That will explain it, if you flashed it after testing you'll need to go into the menu's and find where it is outputting stuff.  I havent played with opentx, I've looked at it but can say I know the menu's enough.  On the Stock 9XR it is in the mixer menu where you will say which switch outputs to CH5.

Yes PPM is where you use 1 wire.  If you have the R615X, your Tx supports it and I'm guessing so does the transmitter module, I'd go for it.  Less wires floating around.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 11:50:34 AM
Hello Spartan,

Try this.

In the mixer screen for channel 5, assign AIL to the SOURCE. This is the switch to the immediate right of your 3POS switch. To the 'Switch' value assign '!AIL'.

You can do this with any of the 2 way switches as follows

RUDD D/R
ELE D/R
GEAR
AIL D/R

See how you get on with that.

Cheers, Marschy

Edit: here's what your mixer screen should look like
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 11:55:16 AM
Well I got the maiden flight of the MiniQuad done today, I decided to use the front yard again.  I know bad idea from previous times, but this time it was all good.

Realised I had two of the motors spinning in the wrong direction (left side refused to go up, right side was lifting with ease).  Swapped over the motor inputs (thank god I used bullet connectors).

Total flight time was just on 10 mins used around 2000mah for that - was mainly hover and a bit of moving about in a 6mx10m area.

It was impacted by ground effect something savage, I almost terminated it as it was wobbling so much but I went up another 10cm and it disappeared, so at 20cm no impact, very stable.  Very fast on the controls, I used my tricopter Tx settings by default, will need to remove the limits on yaw as it was very docile.

Very happy with it, even worked in loiter mode.  I had to increase my HDOP check to 250 (so HDOP of 2.5) for me to arm, but once armed it never went above 2.....  In fact it stayed at 1.6 for most of the time.

Now to review the logs, update the Minim to use NTSC (getting annoying not seeing all the info) and post the video from the camera.

Will go for a 2nd flight this afternoon.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 12:19:49 PM
Hello Spartan,

Try this.

In the mixer screen for channel 5, assign AIL to the SOURCE. This is the switch to the immediate right of your 3POS switch. To the 'Switch' value assign '!AIL'.

You can do this with any of the 2 way switches as follows

RUDD D/R
ELE D/R
GEAR
AIL D/R

See how you get on with that.

Cheers, Marschy

Edit: here's what your mixer screen should look like

I would have thought you would assign FULL as the source and have it switched off AIL switch?

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 12:21:28 PM
I would have thought you would assign FULL as the source and have it switched off AIL switch?
Yeah, I think you're right, it should the other way around. !AIL in source and AIL in Switch. So that way the default should be the low PWM value.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 12:32:30 PM
Yeah, I think you're right, it should the other way around. !AIL in source and AIL in Switch. So that way the default should be the low PWM value.


I'd suggest using the Source FULL (it throws a full 2000PWM at it) and use the switch AIL.  That way there is no way it cant be full then you throw the switch (mines in the negative to reduce the PWM value to 900 when I hit the switch).  I use it for my safety override (to bring it back to stabilise mode).

Picture:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/dc236610982dacd3dee52270bf9110a5.jpg)

The last line (with a +100 instead of a -100) is the one I'd use, the others are there for the APM.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 12:35:15 PM
I'd suggest using the Source FULL (it throws a full 2000PWM at it) and use the switch AIL.  That way there is no way it cant be full then you throw the switch.  I use it for my safety override (to bring it back to stabilise mode).

Picture:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/dc236610982dacd3dee52270bf9110a5.jpg)

It doesn't have that value in OpenTX.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 12:38:03 PM
It doesn't have that value in OpenTX.

Bugger, wonder why they didnt do that, makes mixing rules very simple.

In that case Spartan I'd go ahead with the revised suggestion of Marschy's.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 12:59:07 PM
I did as Marschy suggested and I could see it changing the values in the receiver test when I changed the switch but it stayed negative so it was off all the time. I figured out it needed to be AIL in switch and AIL in source not !AIL so now it goes from -4 to +125.

I probably will change to CPPM at some stage but it was a big enough job for me to get my head around just getting this thing to fly so I didn't want the hassle of channel mapping or what ever else I would have to do just yet.

Thanks for sorting that out for me - I was all ready to buy another receiver!

I see you extended your antennas on your receiver Marschy. Is there some sort of special cable you used? I flew pretty much to the limit of LOS this morning and didn't have any issues but I'd rather be safe than sorry - especially with a carbon fibre frame.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 01:09:12 PM
I see you extended your antennas on your receiver Marschy. Is there some sort of special cable you used? I flew pretty much to the limit of LOS this morning and didn't have any issues but I'd rather be safe than sorry - especially with a carbon fibre frame.

Glad we could help. The reason I changed the antenna is because the receiver on my mini quad will be between carbon fibre plates, which will inhibit reception to some degree. I am going to get one of these antenna mounts very soon (as soon as they are in stock that is)

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67379__HobbyKing_Receiver_Antenna_Mount_Dual_45deg_with_Direct_or_Clip_Mount.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67379__HobbyKing_Receiver_Antenna_Mount_Dual_45deg_with_Direct_or_Clip_Mount.html)

Hold off making any change to your receiver until I test mine. It should work no problem, but better to be safe than sorry. The antenna I replaced them with was the GR300 (http://cdn.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/25381(1).jpg) from Hobbyking, I just cut the connection off. If you want to do it, I will get some decent photographs of what I did to mine.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 01:09:19 PM
Hi Marschy,

Wondering if you have thought about autotune and the Mini Quad on the R615X.....  Issue is that you cant move the autotune option to a channel other than 7 or 8.  Unfortunately the R615X only outputs 6 channels in CPPM mode.  If I have to do an autotune I'll have to switch back to PWM and plug ch 6 into RCIN 7 on the APM to do the autotune and then switch back.

I'm lucky I think the PID's that it have are spot on so no need to autotune, but thought you should know about it before you hit the issue.

I'm going to try to get the miniAPM wired up tomorrow during the day when my daughter is sleeping, fingers crossed I'll get it all done and tested before I leave on Tuesday morning.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 01:30:29 PM
If i was to get a apm fc is the initial setup simple like using usb and a setup program or do i have to wrte some sort of code which i have no idea about.
After christmas I plan to get a new fc. Either apm or multiwii both with gps.
Regards
Crispy

I'd go with the APM, it's mostly plug it in and choose options on the PC.  Just dont expect to plug it in and go fly straight away, there are settings and calibration items that you really cant skip.  The multiwii is really at the end of it's life - not much they can do extra as there are hardware limitiations, people seemed to have moved to other controllers in that price range such as the CC3D or the open aero flashed KK2 boards.  Note the APM is also heading that way too, we'll all need to switch to pixhawk's soon (same software as the APM but bigger hardware) :-)  I plan to pick one up in the new year if Santa is good it me :-)

My tricopter has the option to go back to the KK2 board but over the last couple of months, I've not bothered, the APM board does everything I need.  I can make it a fun fly or I can make it a stable aerial photography platform.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 01:47:42 PM
Here it is - if I can work out how to post a photo that is!

[img width= height= alt=]http://www.myswag.org/MGalleryItem.php?id=1305[/img]
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 01:48:31 PM
Oh FFS what have I done wrong now!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 01:53:09 PM
Looking mighty fine.

(http://www.myswag.org/MGalleryItem.php?id=1305")

Quote me and you'll see how the image is inserted
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 02:01:17 PM
Well the good news is my modification to the receiver antennas is working, but I need to range test it. For that I need to enlist the help of my daughter who is not here at the moment.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 02:05:53 PM
Looking mighty fine.

(http://www.myswag.org/MGalleryItem.php?id=1305")

Quote me and you'll see how the image is inserted


Ok cool thanks for that.

I mounted my own dodgy 90mm pvc stormwater pipe landing gear because I thought there would be a fair chance of me breaking the proper ones. They work well too - nice and springy.

And I'm only running 8x4.5 props because I bought the wrong 9x5 ones and haven't reordered the right ones yet. I maidened it with 10x4.5 on it and it had heaps of grunt and response but I was worried about overloading the ESCs or possibly the motors.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 04:09:01 PM
Ok cool thanks for that.

I mounted my own dodgy 90mm pvc stormwater pipe landing gear because I thought there would be a fair chance of me breaking the proper ones. They work well too - nice and springy.

And I'm only running 8x4.5 props because I bought the wrong 9x5 ones and haven't reordered the right ones yet. I maidened it with 10x4.5 on it and it had heaps of grunt and response but I was worried about overloading the ESCs or possibly the motors.

Hi Spartan,

It looks nice, well worth the wait.  You'll definitely want to be able to switch between auto level and not with that.  What camera are you planning to put on it?  Are you thinking of doing a FPV setup?

Looks nice and clean, just like mine used to look.  Wont take long for you to start adding bits :-)

What motors & ESC's do you have on it again?

On DT750's on 20A ESC's I run 10x4.5's and they keep well within the bounds of both.

The landing gear is a good idea that is out there, very forgiving.  I've used pine square which is cable tied on so that has some give in the cable ties (they break first).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 20, 2014, 05:33:48 PM
Thanks mate. Yeah I'm glad you guys sorted out the self level for me - I've only flown for a couple of minutes with it off and I definitely need the assistance!

I'd love to do FPV eventually once I learn to fly properly. I'm trying to decide between the Mobius and SJ4000 at the moment but I'll probably go with the Mobius because of it being smaller and lighter and the only reason I would go with the other one is because of it's Gopro form factor - can mount it onto a gimbal etc but I don't plan on doing that. From what I've looked at so far FPV is pretty expensive to get into too, so I'll be saving for a while and getting plenty of advice before I take the plunge.

I'm running 20A Afro ESCs with the NTM 28-30s 900kV motors. I thought the motors would be able to handle 10x4.5s but I thought I might have been pushing the ESCs a bit, although I won't be flying much full throttle if at all for a while. I'm getting around 15 minutes out of a 3000mah battery at the moment and only using about 2200ma so I'm happy with that.

It would be good if I can stick to 10" props because the 9x5s seem to be hard to get hold of and it felt like it was going to perform well on the 10" - plus I have a whole stack of them!

A mate of mine uses pine landing gear on his but stuck ping pong balls on the bottom because he kept getting the bare timber caught in grass etc on rough landings.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 20, 2014, 06:34:02 PM
I'd go with the APM, it's mostly plug it in and choose options on the PC.  Just dont expect to plug it in and go fly straight away, there are settings and calibration items that you really cant skip.  The multiwii is really at the end of it's life - not much they can do extra as there are hardware limitiations, people seemed to have moved to other controllers in that price range such as the CC3D or the open aero flashed KK2 boards.  Note the APM is also heading that way too, we'll all need to switch to pixhawk's soon (same software as the APM but bigger hardware) :-)  I plan to pick one up in the new year if Santa is good it me :-)

My tricopter has the option to go back to the KK2 board but over the last couple of months, I've not bothered, the APM board does everything I need.  I can make it a fun fly or I can make it a stable aerial photography platform.
Ok then where would you recommend I get one. I usually shop at Hobby King but open to suggestions.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 20, 2014, 06:42:47 PM
G'day Crispy,

Options are

3DRobitics (very expensive)
Hobbyking (complete kit here http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__58284__HKPilot_Mega_2_7_Master_Set_With_OSD_LEA_6H_GPS_Power_module_Telemetry_Radio_433Mhz_XT_60_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__58284__HKPilot_Mega_2_7_Master_Set_With_OSD_LEA_6H_GPS_Power_module_Telemetry_Radio_433Mhz_XT_60_.html))
Aliexpress also sell complete kits (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html))

but get a Hobbyking power module as the one they supply in these kits have issues with the voltage/current monitor. I have two of these kits and can't complain, they work, apart from the afore mentioned power module, but you can save a heap of coin going the Aliexpress route.

You've also got Goodluckbuy, Banggood, Thanksbuyer who all sell complete kits. There are any number of sources.

At the very least get the following for a complete solution

APM 2.6 FC
NEO 6M GPS or better
3DR Telemetry set 915 MHz
minimOSD
Power Module

Thanksbuyer sell an APM compatible sonar that Chris and I have been experimenting with. I don't really have much feedback with it yet, but Chris may have more info.

You can also get Air Pressure sensors for measuring air speed, Optical flow meters which are used when you don't have a GPS or if you live in an area where GPS reception is poor.

If you want the ducks guts of Arducopter compatible hardware in 32 bit architecture go for the Pixhawk or PX4 compatible setups.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Pixhawk-PX4-2-4-5-32-Bit-ARM-Flight-Controller-4G-TF-Led-External-NEO-6M/1085370_32257396276.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Pixhawk-PX4-2-4-5-32-Bit-ARM-Flight-Controller-4G-TF-Led-External-NEO-6M/1085370_32257396276.html)

but you will still need a minimOSD because most of the kits on Aliexpress don't come with them, and you still have the issue with the power module being the dodgy version.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 10:40:16 PM
Thanks mate. Yeah I'm glad you guys sorted out the self level for me - I've only flown for a couple of minutes with it off and I definitely need the assistance!

I'd love to do FPV eventually once I learn to fly properly. I'm trying to decide between the Mobius and SJ4000 at the moment but I'll probably go with the Mobius because of it being smaller and lighter and the only reason I would go with the other one is because of it's Gopro form factor - can mount it onto a gimbal etc but I don't plan on doing that. From what I've looked at so far FPV is pretty expensive to get into too, so I'll be saving for a while and getting plenty of advice before I take the plunge.

Keep it simple on the FPV, get the mobius so you can use it for FPV and also for HD video's.  There are small adapters for around $5 to feed it to FPV.  Then you just need a 5.8 Ghz Tx ($30) and a Rx monitor ($100-150 - for 7" and 8 ch 5.8Ghz Rx).  I agree not cheap at all, I still fly primarily LOS but do the odd FPV run - still learning myself :-)  The monitor is much cheaper than goggles, plus you can switch between LOS and FPV easier.

I'm running 20A Afro ESCs with the NTM 28-30s 900kV motors. I thought the motors would be able to handle 10x4.5s but I thought I might have been pushing the ESCs a bit, although I won't be flying much full throttle if at all for a while. I'm getting around 15 minutes out of a 3000mah battery at the moment and only using about 2200ma so I'm happy with that.

It would be good if I can stick to 10" props because the 9x5s seem to be hard to get hold of and it felt like it was going to perform well on the 10" - plus I have a whole stack of them!

A mate of mine uses pine landing gear on his but stuck ping pong balls on the bottom because he kept getting the bare timber caught in grass etc on rough landings.

Just noticed you are running 4s, you are right you might draw too much on full throttle.  Just remember the ESC's can do a burst mode to a larger current, if it's 18A then it should be able to keep small bursts to 25A.  You will find yourself typically well below max throttle.  On mine I draw about 18-20A from the three motors for hovering, and around 25-30A for harder maneuvers, I'm running 3s....

Your battery life is pretty good, I wouldn't push them to much further though you should be keeping 20% by the time you land.  How are you measuring your battery consumption?  I thought I was only using around 1800-1900 but once I started measuring it with the APM I found I was using far more than I thought.  If you are measuring on the battery charger, note that you'll have about 10% loss, so you are doing even better than you think.

I must admit I've been thinking of what to put on the bottom of the landing gear, I saw the ping pong ball idea on youtube a few months back and have been entertaining the idea.  I've had a couple of flips due to a single stuck landing gear......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 10:55:52 PM
G'day Crispy,

Options are

3DRobitics (very expensive)
Hobbyking (complete kit here http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__58284__HKPilot_Mega_2_7_Master_Set_With_OSD_LEA_6H_GPS_Power_module_Telemetry_Radio_433Mhz_XT_60_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__58284__HKPilot_Mega_2_7_Master_Set_With_OSD_LEA_6H_GPS_Power_module_Telemetry_Radio_433Mhz_XT_60_.html))
Aliexpress also sell complete kits (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/APM2-6-ArduPilot-UAV-Flight-Controller-APM-2-6-6M-GPS-w-Compass-Power-Module-915Mhz/2021736205.html))

but get a Hobbyking power module as the one they supply in these kits have issues with the voltage/current monitor. I have two of these kits and can't complain, they work, apart from the afore mentioned power module, but you can save a heap of coin going the Aliexpress route.

You've also got Goodluckbuy, Banggood, Thanksbuyer who all sell complete kits. There are any number of sources.

At the very least get the following for a complete solution

APM 2.6 FC
NEO 6M GPS or better
3DR Telemetry set 915 MHz
minimOSD
Power Module

Thanksbuyer sell an APM compatible sonar that Chris and I have been experimenting with. I don't really have much feedback with it yet, but Chris may have more info.

You can also get Air Pressure sensors for measuring air speed, Optical flow meters which are used when you don't have a GPS or if you live in an area where GPS reception is poor.

If you want the ducks guts of Arducopter compatible hardware in 32 bit architecture go for the Pixhawk or PX4 compatible setups.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Pixhawk-PX4-2-4-5-32-Bit-ARM-Flight-Controller-4G-TF-Led-External-NEO-6M/1085370_32257396276.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Pixhawk-PX4-2-4-5-32-Bit-ARM-Flight-Controller-4G-TF-Led-External-NEO-6M/1085370_32257396276.html)

but you will still need a minimOSD because most of the kits on Aliexpress don't come with them, and you still have the issue with the power module being the dodgy version.


Pretty spot to me, I'd recommend staying with the full size APM, unless you really want to do the modify everything.

Be aware that not all the parts will be plug and play, you need to check some things.  If you get the telemetry radio's and MinimOSD, be very aware that the cable supplied by HK is wired incorrectly.....  I can provide you with the change if you get one.

If you are a platinum HK member I'd recommend just going for their 2.7 combo deal, I think it's around $210.  If you want to keep the costs down, I'd suggest just going the board and power module (I have a non HK pm and it works ok - from what I can tell, Marks had bad luck on his), if you go down that route then you can get some good deals from aliexpress or other places Mark mentioned.  The GPS would be the next purchase, then OSD, then the telemetry radios.

The sonar has only been test benched so far.  Keep it simple at first and go without it I'd recommend, look at adding it later once you are happy with everything else.  I think I'll be looking at the more expensive versions later on that can do 7m, ours only are really good for around 2-3m.

I'd only go the Pixhawk if you are using a octocopter.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2014, 11:09:51 PM
Well the curse of the front yard struck again.....  I was testing out the updated OSD and at 11 minutes in (2nd battery) a tree jumped out above my quad and it hit my quad.....  I should have kept the throttle going but instead I killed the throttle (just commit and go).  Well the road was below.....  So good news is that only a few things broke, these things are pretty strong since it was a 5m free fall drop at a funny angle.

Broken items:
GPS mount, bent the bolt - moved GPS to sit on top of telemetry radio.  Not ideal as it will pickup interference from it
Top frame plate where the GPS mount connected - small split - will fix with some epoxy
One motor mount - small cracks - fixed with epoxy and a small wooden brace (ordered replacement frame - will order a carbon fiber kit from Aliexpress)
3 props
Lost one spinner (have a spare motor on way - will look for the lost one)

Fixed most of it, just need to go get a locking M5 nylock nut and I'll be back in the air tomorrow.  Tough little critters, it hit hard at impact, I'm impressed it didnt break any motors or snap any of the motor mounts.

Lesson learnt - fly at the local park where the softer ground will do less damage.

I'll work on the footage for the youtube channel.

Oddly I'm getting some interesting ALT values on the OSD, seems to way different to the values via the telemetry.  Everything else is spot on.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 12:22:34 AM
Hi Marschy,

Wondering if you have thought about autotune and the Mini Quad on the R615X.....  Issue is that you cant move the autotune option to a channel other than 7 or 8.  Unfortunately the R615X only outputs 6 channels in CPPM mode.  If I have to do an autotune I'll have to switch back to PWM and plug ch 6 into RCIN 7 on the APM to do the autotune and then switch back.

I'm lucky I think the PID's that it have are spot on so no need to autotune, but thought you should know about it before you hit the issue.

I'm going to try to get the miniAPM wired up tomorrow during the day when my daughter is sleeping, fingers crossed I'll get it all done and tested before I leave on Tuesday morning.

Chris

Can't autotrim be invoked by holding the throttle stick in the arm position for 15-20 seconds? Lemme check on the Arducopter site.

Edit: Yep, you don't need a channel to be assigned for autotrim.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotrim/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotrim/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 12:54:08 AM
Can't autotrim be invoked by holding the throttle stick in the arm position for 15-20 seconds? Lemme check on the Arducopter site.

Edit: Yep, you don't need a channel to be assigned for autotrim.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotrim/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotrim/)


Nice, I forgot you could do that.  I was lucky, the MiniQuad seemed to fly perfect straight off, no autotune needed.  Nice to know it's easy to turn it on if needed.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 12:55:57 AM
Almost finished the Alien560. Should be starting on the miniquad on Monday I reckon, looking forward to putting it together. I reckon I'll get a bit of time tomorrow to have a play with the miniAPM.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 21, 2014, 07:24:18 AM
Now I have done it!
I have hit the order button from HK for the APM kit.
Now to wait for it to arrive. I wounder how long it will take at this time of the year.
No hurry.
Hope to take my quad on the blue rag trip in a couple of weeks and if the wind is not blowing put her up on the top for some top video.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 07:27:48 AM
Now I have done it!
I have hit the order button from HK for the APM kit.
Now to wait for it to arrive. I wounder how long it will take at this time of the year.
No hurry.
Hope to take my quad on the blue rag trip in a couple of weeks and if the wind is not blowing put her up on the top for some top video.
Regards
Crispy
Probably 2-3 weeks to deliver if snail mail. Things should be getting less hectic by the time it hits Australia so it should clear customs quickly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 21, 2014, 07:51:19 AM
I am getting a little concerned about my Alien's weight - Already over 1600 gms with motors still to go on .... So looking at 1750 gms fully loaded that's with a very heavy 4500mah 385 gm battery.
How do you find out about lift / thrust / power of the motors ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 21, 2014, 08:18:44 AM
My DJI quad comes in at 1996gm ready to fly.
So 1750 is ok.
I would like to shed some more weight and if I ditched the crab landing gear I could. However I have an under slung gimbal so need to have something to land on.
Although I have taken to catching it lately so in theory I could take off from a box and catch it on return. The reason I catch it is so I don't fill the thing up with sand or dirt on landing.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 21, 2014, 08:44:21 AM
Ok next question.
Where do I get the software interface for the apm 2.7?
I have looked around and can't find it on the web.
A link would help me out so I can research stuff before I get the new FC hopefully I can get some understanding without the magic smoke!
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 09:07:43 AM
I am getting a little concerned about my Alien's weight - Already over 1600 gms with motors still to go on .... So looking at 1750 gms fully loaded that's with a very heavy 4500mah 385 gm battery.
How do you find out about lift / thrust / power of the motors ?


You could use ecalc (http://www.ecalc.ch/ (http://www.ecalc.ch/)) or if the manufacturer may have the info.  What motors and props are you using?

I'm guessing this is a 4s rig as my 5000mah 3s batteries are only 280-300g.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 09:08:41 AM
Go to the downloads section and download mission planner

http://copter.ardupilot.com/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/)

This is the go to web site for all stuff APM
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 09:10:26 AM
Where do I get the software interface for the apm 2.7?


Mission Planner is the software you'll need
http://ardupilot.com/downloads/?did=82 (http://ardupilot.com/downloads/?did=82)

Some important to avoid magic smoke link:
http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/table-of-contents/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/table-of-contents/)

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 09:12:49 AM
When it comes to doing your minimOSD, Chris or I can help you out. REALLY REALLY easy to get magic smoke.

Also get a FTDI programmer for loading the firmware on the minimOSD, or you can use your USBasp programmer to fix the bootstrapper and reload the firmware as well.

You can have your eye's gouged by Jaycar for one

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4241 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4241)

Or look around on the web for a cheaper option. Here you go, Hobbyking has a cheaper one. http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24779__FTDI_Adapter_USB_Controller_5V.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24779__FTDI_Adapter_USB_Controller_5V.html)

If you use your USBasp programmer you will need one of these cables that came with it and just put some pcb header pins in it. You don't need to solder anything onto the minimOSD that way. Again this is only if you need to reload the bootstrapper, which I have on a couple of occasions.

Also get the Arduino sofware. I think there is a link on the Arducopter website for that.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 09:40:51 AM
This is where you are going to spend a lot of time when you first get your flight controller.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 12:39:24 PM
Finally finished, well almost. I just have to level the motor mounts and its done.

Specs:
Flight Controller - Naza M V2
Motors - Emax MT3506 650kv
ESCs - Hobbyking Blue Series 30A
Receiver - OrangeRX R910 9 channel with dual R100 satellite receivers
Naza iOSD Mini
Naza BTU
Tarot T-2D Gimbal
Sony Effio-E 700TVL FPV camera
Tarot Motor mounts
11x4.7 carbon fibre props
Zippy 4000mAh 4S battery
GoTop 1080p HD camera
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 21, 2014, 12:50:31 PM
Finally finished, well almost. I just have to level the motor mounts and its done.
Well get it done and go fly.
Can you post some profile pix too?
Spent some time reading about the APM.
Lots to do and read. Will be good when I have it on the bench to play.
Thanks for the links guys.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 12:52:57 PM
I don't want to fly it, it's too pretty. LOL.

I have to duck out this afternoon, so it will probably be tomorrow at this stage.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 21, 2014, 04:00:25 PM
Here are some profiles. I love the super clean look of this quad, thanks to a large degree to the dedicated ESC mounting positions, which leaves heaps of room in the frame to mount everything, including the gimbal rails.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49580-1/Alien560+Front+view.JPG)

I made a double decker battery/power module which is also another reason for the extra clear top deck. I am either going to get rid of, or lower the stand in the middle of the top plate.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49583-1/Alien560+Left+view.JPG)

I've hot glued the BTU and LED modules onto the rear legs, they should be OK there.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49586-1/Alien560+Rear+view.JPG)

And I have some GR300 OrangeRX antennas that are about 290mm long, so I am going to move the receiver antenna which is hanging right next to the battery cable at the back of the quad by replacing it with a longer antenna.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49589-1/Alien560+Right+view.JPG)

I really like these motor mounts. Well thought out. The motor cables have three access holes on the carbon fibre plate. One at the front that you can see here that the motor wires are passing through, and two on the sides. You use the one the lines up best with the motor mounting bolt holes and your motor cables. The little bit of carbon fibre also give a little bit of protection to the cables if the arm comes in contact with the ground first and will probably save the cables from being cut more times than not than the stock mounts, time will tell at least.

Plus the carbon fibre plates have isolation rubber mounts onto the aluminium frame.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49592-1/Tarot+TL68B33+Motor+Mounts.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 09:22:14 PM
Here are some profiles. I love the super clean look of this quad, thanks to a large degree to the dedicated ESC mounting positions, which leaves heaps of room in the frame to mount everything, including the gimbal rails.

Looking very nice, I'm sure it will fly as good as it looks too.

Nice clean OSD too.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 10:31:13 PM
Got absolutely nothing done on the miniAPM today, grrrr.  On a plus it was an early Xmas lunch with the inlaws.  I did get a chance to fly (approx 16 mins of flight time) once I got home in some light unfortunately the wind was very gusty than earlier in the day.  I weighed it again on the kitchen scales, seems my other scales done do light weights very well, it comes in at 690g with battery.

I found out my GPS died in the crash yesterday.  Hmmm, I've tried some simple repairs, I get solid power but no GPS sats being found, so I think it's dead....  Off came the GPS on the Tri and onto the mini quad it went.

Wow, what a difference the wind makes to the 250 MiniQuad.  My tri would have handled the wind today with little notice, maybe the odd lateral push.  The mini quad was pushed all over the place, keeping a set alt was near impossible, was easy yesterday.  Lots of little wobbles as it struggled to keep itself level in unclean air, it was 4m up and it was like it was in ground effect.  To it's credit, all landings were soft (although there was one unplanned landing).  All my repairs appear to have held really well, still happy that I have a replacement frame but 2 sets of the blackout 250 clone on the way (2nd one is for spare parts, was cheaper than buying 4 spare arms).

GPS was moved to a direct mount on top of the quad (I don't want this one dying while I wait for the replacement which is on the way - I also have the miniAPM one but didnt want to hack at it's cables), this has meant that due to interference I'm getting no better than 2.5 HDOP with it sitting around 3.5-4.5, on the raised mount I was getting 1.6 with 2-2.5 being the norm.  Will look at moving the telemetry radio further away, hoping I dont have to move the FPV antenna any further away.  I tried a quick loiter mode and it started to veer to the right, so I terminated it after a few seconds, it didn't lock on like my Tri does (I had 9 sats at that time).  I think this is down to my high HDOP.  I also dont like out the APM sits on this mount, it's easy to get a slight lean on it, so I need to fix that before I go to QLD on Tuesday morning.

Due to the wobbles I think I do need to do the autotune.  I'll need to get it to hover in one place first, very sensitive to COG both forwards and backwards, but also to left and right.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 11:33:19 PM
Well I worked out why I'm down to 8min flight times on the mini quad today, I attached my action cam and the added weight I think hasn't helped (I should have weighed it before I removed the action cam).  I've got a mobius on the way, the plan is to put it on instead and remove the other FPV cam.  Should help to lighten it up a bit.

According to the APM the gps lock was good for todays flight, so not sure about the consistent drift when I flicked it to loiter mode, will have to play some more with it later.

I'll move the action cam over to the Tri and put the action cam onto a gimbal mount (like the one on your alien Mark).  I'l have to set it up be upside down as I dont have the height like you do (although I could extend the landing gear.....)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 21, 2014, 11:41:49 PM
Can't autotrim be invoked by holding the throttle stick in the arm position for 15-20 seconds? Lemme check on the Arducopter site.

Edit: Yep, you don't need a channel to be assigned for autotrim.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotrim/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotrim/)


Just realised it was the auto trim link you sent as I now need to do an autotune after todays efforts (will test in stable wind before deciding to do it or not).  I was talking about the autotune option (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotune/#How_to_invoke_AutoTune (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotune/#How_to_invoke_AutoTune)), seems we cant get to it with a 6 ch CPPM receiver signal.  Need to switch back to PWM mode to trick it into seeing ch 6's output to it's Ch 7 input.

Hoping I dont need to go through it.....

Why cant you auto tune through MP or droid planner.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 22, 2014, 12:30:21 AM
Keep it simple on the FPV, get the mobius so you can use it for FPV and also for HD video's.  There are small adapters for around $5 to feed it to FPV.  Then you just need a 5.8 Ghz Tx ($30) and a Rx monitor ($100-150 - for 7" and 8 ch 5.8Ghz Rx).  I agree not cheap at all, I still fly primarily LOS but do the odd FPV run - still learning myself :-)  The monitor is much cheaper than goggles, plus you can switch between LOS and FPV easier.

Just noticed you are running 4s, you are right you might draw too much on full throttle.  Just remember the ESC's can do a burst mode to a larger current, if it's 18A then it should be able to keep small bursts to 25A.  You will find yourself typically well below max throttle.  On mine I draw about 18-20A from the three motors for hovering, and around 25-30A for harder maneuvers, I'm running 3s....

Your battery life is pretty good, I wouldn't push them to much further though you should be keeping 20% by the time you land.  How are you measuring your battery consumption?  I thought I was only using around 1800-1900 but once I started measuring it with the APM I found I was using far more than I thought.  If you are measuring on the battery charger, note that you'll have about 10% loss, so you are doing even better than you think.


Yeah I think I'm sold on the Mobius and will probably start out with something like you've suggested. I'll look into it more closely when the time comes because I'd rather buy something decent the first time than by something that barely does the job and just needs upgrading in 6 months anyway.

I just checked the power use on my charger so I should be ok I think. Although I will take off a couple of minutes for a safety margin because it won't be long before I start flying harder and chewing more juice.

I'm still undecided on whether to use the 10" props so I'll just stick with 8" for now to be safe I think.

Had my first damage today. I folded it up a couple of times for transporting in the car today and when I went to have a fly this afternoon the rh motor wouldn't fire up. I found the servo cable to the esc had been pinched between the arm and the frame but also the insulation has already rubbed through where that cable comes out the end of the boom inside the frame so I think it was possibly shorting out on the carbon fibre? I moved it around and can't get it to play up again, but now I don't trust it so I think I will pull it apart and solder on a new cable to the esc. I've rerouted all the other cables so they shouldn't pinch and also left a bit more slack in them so they can move around without chafing. It looks messier but it doesn't really matter as I've gone with function over form with this one anyway. Glad it failed on the ground not mid flight!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 22, 2014, 08:33:56 AM
Well, I must have more burnt braincells that I realised, but I not remember ordering 4 Blue Series ESC programming cards, 1 yes, 4 no. They came with the pan-tilt gimbal this morning from Hobbyking.

Does anyone want one, my stuffup, your win. It should fit in a regular business envelope, so how much is a stamp worth now? 3 on offer.

Merry Xmas to the first lucky 3, I'll pay for shipping and you can have one for nothing. I can't use all 4.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 22, 2014, 09:46:47 AM
Yeah I think I'm sold on the Mobius and will probably start out with something like you've suggested. I'll look into it more closely when the time comes because I'd rather buy something decent the first time than by something that barely does the job and just needs upgrading in 6 months anyway.

I just checked the power use on my charger so I should be ok I think. Although I will take off a couple of minutes for a safety margin because it won't be long before I start flying harder and chewing more juice.

I'm still undecided on whether to use the 10" props so I'll just stick with 8" for now to be safe I think.

Had my first damage today. I folded it up a couple of times for transporting in the car today and when I went to have a fly this afternoon the rh motor wouldn't fire up. I found the servo cable to the esc had been pinched between the arm and the frame but also the insulation has already rubbed through where that cable comes out the end of the boom inside the frame so I think it was possibly shorting out on the carbon fibre? I moved it around and can't get it to play up again, but now I don't trust it so I think I will pull it apart and solder on a new cable to the esc. I've rerouted all the other cables so they shouldn't pinch and also left a bit more slack in them so they can move around without chafing. It looks messier but it doesn't really matter as I've gone with function over form with this one anyway. Glad it failed on the ground not mid flight!

At least you picked that up on the ground, could have been bad if it had given out in flight.

With the cabling for my tri, all the wires are on the front facing part so that I avoid pinching wires.  Still a chance but I'm careful on each fold up.

Looks like your's mainly run through the booms?  Maybe consider some of the mesh to protect it from that in future?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 22, 2014, 09:47:38 AM
Well, I must have more burnt braincells that I realised, but I not remember ordering 4 Blue Series ESC programming cards, 1 yes, 4 no. They came with the pan-tilt gimbal this morning from Hobbyking.

Does anyone want one, my stuffup, your win. It should fit in a regular business envelope, so how much is a stamp worth now? 3 on offer.

Merry Xmas to the first lucky 3, I'll pay for shipping and you can have one for nothing. I can't use all 4.

You sure the next order that arrives wont be one blue ESC?  Like you switched the orders around?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 22, 2014, 09:48:36 AM
You sure the next order that arrives wont be one blue ESC?  Like you switched the orders around?

Chris
LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 22, 2014, 12:47:43 PM
At least you picked that up on the ground, could have been bad if it had given out in flight.

With the cabling for my tri, all the wires are on the front facing part so that I avoid pinching wires.  Still a chance but I'm careful on each fold up.

Looks like your's mainly run through the booms?  Maybe consider some of the mesh to protect it from that in future?

Chris

I think my OCD got the better of me. I was trying to make everything neat and tidy which meant I put a bit too much tension on some of the cabling, so when the arms folded it pulled and rubbed on the cables. I took it apart last night and soldered the new one on and flew it for a bit this morning and it all seems good.

Yeah the wiring runs through the booms which was something I liked about this particular tri but now I'm thinking it might come back to bite me - definitely have to look at mesh or something I think.

I stuffed all the power distribution into the front and the servo wires come out the back which means when the booms fold, the servo wires get pulled by the back edge of the end of the boom and the power wires get pushed by the front edge, so there is a bit of a sharpish edge rubbing on the wires.

I'll just avoid folding it as much as possible for now.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rokster72 on December 22, 2014, 01:27:52 PM
Well, I must have more burnt braincells that I realised, but I not remember ordering 4 Blue Series ESC programming cards, 1 yes, 4 no. They came with the pan-tilt gimbal this morning from Hobbyking.

Does anyone want one, my stuffup, your win. It should fit in a regular business envelope, so how much is a stamp worth now? 3 on offer.

Merry Xmas to the first lucky 3, I'll pay for shipping and you can have one for nothing. I can't use all 4.

Hi Marschy..

Since I'm about to enter this quad-flying-thing.. if you have any left, can I stick my hand up for one ?

Thanks
Rokster
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 22, 2014, 01:57:22 PM
Hi Marschy..

Since I'm about to enter this quad-flying-thing.. if you have any left, can I stick my hand up for one ?

Thanks
Rokster
Sure thing, just PM your address
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 22, 2014, 02:01:51 PM
Only one left
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 23, 2014, 07:18:51 AM
Goodluckbuy have now got the mini OSD for Naza in stock .. This one has all the correct sockets for the Naza GPS and LED plugs ...

http://www.goodluckbuy.com/fpv-flight-controller-n1-osd-module-for-dji-naza-v1-v2-naza-lite-gps.html (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/fpv-flight-controller-n1-osd-module-for-dji-naza-v1-v2-naza-lite-gps.html)

Same as the one I'm getting through Ebay ... http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/251604435645?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/251604435645?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

but $15 cheaper !!! Dammit ...

My Radiolink 10 ch turned up today - I'll spend the next few days reading the 90 page instruction manual !!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 23, 2014, 05:25:44 PM
Ok, another call out for help please.

Tri flew great for about 4-6 batteries. Took it down to the footy oval on a reasonably breezy day and had a bit of trouble flying it - felt like a lack of power or response really but I thought maybe it was due to the wind, so the board was using up a fair amount of engine power just to keep steady?

Had a bit of a hard landing although landed perfectly level with a bit of sideways drift. Found the yaw mechanism cracked all the way through - not happy Jan considering the small amount of abuse it took. Took it apart, reglued it and reinforced it. Put it back together and went to fly it - then it yawed fast and uncontrollably one way (can't remember which way).

Spent the night trawling the internet for answer but didn't really come with anything except possibly reverse the yaw channel in the channel mixer from 100 to -100. I didn't think this would correct anything as it was flying fone before and nothing had changed except for the hard landing. So I tried it and it made it do the same thing - spin but in the opposite direction. So I set it back to how it was and take off again and low and behold it seems to fly fine again!

Put a fresh battery in this afternoon and it's back to yawing in one direction but slowly and I can stop it by holding in probably 15% yaw on the stick in the opposite direction. I tried trimming it on the Tx with no effect although in the receiver test screen it now shows 20 yaw instead of 0.

 I checked to make sure the servo was centered and adjusted it in the yaw mechanism with no effect - as soon as I lift off it tilts the prop and starts yawing again.

I've been through all the kk screens and can't see anything else to try. It does it in self level and I think it also does it in ACRO but it was a bit hard to check properly because I had my hands full just trying to control it in self level.

I'm pretty sure it's the board doing it - not anything mechanical or the Tx or anything like that although it seems strange that it changed after the landing.

Oh I also changed the servo because I thought it was faulty but that obviously didn't fix it.

Help!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 23, 2014, 07:52:08 PM
I may have it sorted.

I've adjusted the yaw offset in the channel mixer from 50 up to 75 and it seems to have cured it. Not sure if it's 100% because I've only been hovering in my front yard but fingers crossed....

Now to try and recover the over discharged battery - did a factory reset on the board and then forgot to reset the low voltage alarm  >:(.

I've managed to get my charger to recognize that it's a 4s not 3s by doing a dodgy NiCad charge on it for a couple of minutes so we'll see how it goes...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 23, 2014, 08:05:48 PM
I may have it sorted.

I've adjusted the yaw offset in the channel mixer from 50 up to 75 and it seems to have cured it. Not sure if it's 100% because I've only been hovering in my front yard but fingers crossed....

Now to try and recover the over discharged battery - did a factory reset on the board and then forgot to reset the low voltage alarm  >:(.

I've managed to get my charger to recognize that it's a 4s not 3s by doing a dodgy NiCad charge on it for a couple of minutes so we'll see how it goes...
Stick it on a 12 volt field charger (it must be a dumb charger, at least one that doesn't care if the battery voltage is too low for the type of battery) for about 15 minutes to a 1/2 hour or until it gets back to the minimum voltage that your balance charger doesn't reject it for too low voltage. If it has had it, nothing to lose. I've done this a couple of times now, pushing my luck though. One of my batteries has puffed up every so slightly and I keep a very close eye on it now.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 23, 2014, 08:55:36 PM
I had lots of trouble with getting anywhere near the CoG using the stock battery plate and the 4S battery. I tried extending the rear end of the existing tray, but the battery was hanging off the end of it and it still wouldn't balance.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49601-1/Extended+Battery+Plate.JPG)

I had a spare gimbal rail in my pile of stuff so I've hung that from the rear of the quad along with a battery tray that I pinched from my F450 crab undercarriage.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49599-1/New+Battery+Tray+on+rear+rail.JPG)

Thats taken care of the CoG problem. I can still move it back another 1.5 inches.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49603-1/New+Rail+for+battery+holder.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 23, 2014, 09:20:30 PM
I may have it sorted.

I've adjusted the yaw offset in the channel mixer from 50 up to 75 and it seems to have cured it. Not sure if it's 100% because I've only been hovering in my front yard but fingers crossed....

Now to try and recover the over discharged battery - did a factory reset on the board and then forgot to reset the low voltage alarm  >:(.

I've managed to get my charger to recognize that it's a 4s not 3s by doing a dodgy NiCad charge on it for a couple of minutes so we'll see how it goes...
That should do it if it was a consitent spin in the same direction. Just adjust till spin is gone, may need more or less. I take your taking about the kk2 setting. Its been a while for me with a kk2.

If you get a sloppy yaw, I'd suggest the servo but you switched it. Did you get metal gear servos? They survive crashes much better and last longer.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 23, 2014, 09:24:20 PM
I had lots of trouble with getting anywhere near the CoG using the stock battery plate and the 4S battery. I tried extending the rear end of the existing tray, but the battery was hanging off the end of it and it still wouldn't balance.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49601-1/Extended+Battery+Plate.JPG)

I had a spare gimbal rail in my pile of stuff so I've hung that from the rear of the quad along with a battery tray that I pinched from my F450 crab undercarriage.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49599-1/New+Battery+Tray+on+rear+rail.JPG)

Thats taken care of the CoG problem. I can still move it back another 1.5 inches.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49603-1/New+Rail+for+battery+holder.JPG)

Nice solution to the problem, its looking bigger and bigger every day . I had to shift my battery more rearward on the miniquad, had to balance the action cam...

Whats its overall length now?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 23, 2014, 09:48:12 PM
Stick it on a 12 volt field charger (it must be a dumb charger, at least one that doesn't care if the battery voltage is too low for the type of battery) for about 15 minutes to a 1/2 hour or until it gets back to the minimum voltage that your balance charger doesn't reject it for too low voltage. If it has had it, nothing to lose. I've done this a couple of times now, pushing my luck though. One of my batteries has puffed up every so slightly and I keep a very close eye on it now.

It took 2800 odd mA according to my charger so I'll use it and see how it goes. It didn't get warm or puff or anything so I might be lucky.

Ended up that I didn't sort the yawing problem. Went and flew it again and it was still doing it BUT I figured it out I think. I was checking out the slider output screen and noticed the yaw was doing some weird stuff so I checked the transmitter - you guessed it, weird stuff too!

Recalibrated the sticks and pots but still no good. When I move the throttle from 0 to full with no rudder input, the output from the transmitter actually goes from left rudder diagonally up to the centre and then from the centre to full throttle it jumps around randomly and ends up diagonally to left rudder again.

So I guess that means a new gimble coming from china for me  >:(. I know it's a cheap transmitter but pretty crap really. At least it's only about $7 because I won't get warranty due to reflashing it.

So hopefully that will sort it out. I'll post a video of what it's doing if I can figure out how.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on December 24, 2014, 01:49:06 AM
Here's a video of what the transmitter is doing. It's hard to see thanks to youtube but hopefully it's clear enough:

http://youtu.be/cVZSvWeDKTY?list=UU8wJXbd8Ith-1lypoxtCRkg (http://youtu.be/cVZSvWeDKTY?list=UU8wJXbd8Ith-1lypoxtCRkg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 24, 2014, 01:50:54 AM
It took 2800 odd mA according to my charger so I'll use it and see how it goes. It didn't get warm or puff or anything so I might be lucky.

Ended up that I didn't sort the yawing problem. Went and flew it again and it was still doing it BUT I figured it out I think. I was checking out the slider output screen and noticed the yaw was doing some weird stuff so I checked the transmitter - you guessed it, weird stuff too!

Recalibrated the sticks and pots but still no good. When I move the throttle from 0 to full with no rudder input, the output from the transmitter actually goes from left rudder diagonally up to the centre and then from the centre to full throttle it jumps around randomly and ends up diagonally to left rudder again.

So I guess that means a new gimble coming from china for me  >:(. I know it's a cheap transmitter but pretty crap really. At least it's only about $7 because I won't get warranty due to reflashing it.

So hopefully that will sort it out. I'll post a video of what it's doing if I can figure out how.
Disappointing for sure. But like you say $7 for a spare part, but you can actually get spare parts, that's the important thing in my book. I would suggest trying swapping over gimbals on your 9XR anyway just to see if the problem goes away with a different gimbal. Really simple job. there are instructions on the web on how to do it. Look for Turnigy 9XR Converting from Mode 1 to Mode 2 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbxrmN2sv7I)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 24, 2014, 12:23:49 PM
Got my Multistar motors today and fitted them onto the Alien - quick test with props on and all 4 fans are now pushing air downwards ... So we have lift capability ....

Now it has to wait until Boxing Day for a tethered test and final assembly of the frame parts ... Pics to follow after Xmas ... I'm not sure if it will do the DJI auto hover thing ....

Thinking I might have to set that myself on the Tx ... Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 24, 2014, 04:42:48 PM
Got my Multistar motors today and fitted them onto the Alien - quick test with props on and all 4 fans are now pushing air downwards ... So we have lift capability ....

Now it has to wait until Boxing Day for a tethered test and final assembly of the frame parts ... Pics to follow after Xmas ... I'm not sure if it will do the DJI auto hover thing ....

Thinking I might have to set that myself on the Tx ... Steve
Can you get some pictures of your tether test rig?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 24, 2014, 04:51:04 PM
Maybe ?? I'm going to use light chain about 2 foot long .. maybe.LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on December 24, 2014, 06:21:37 PM
Maybe ?? I'm going to use light chain about 2 foot long .. maybe.LOL
I could make you up a cable

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 24, 2014, 06:42:28 PM
Thanks GG but that cable might be a bit too springy...LOL.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on December 24, 2014, 09:19:26 PM
Plan on giving a drone as a holiday gift? The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority is urging recipients of unmanned aircraft to fly their new toys safely.

The agency has launched a campaign called Flying With Control, which offers tips on the right and wrong ways to pilot that newly unwrapped drone.

Among the tips offered by the CASA: Fly your aircraft below 400 feet (120 metres), don't fly near airports or manned aircraft, and keep your drone 30 metres away from vehicles, boats, buildings and people.

http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/digital-life-news/regulator-urges-drone-safety-ahead-of-holidays-20141224-12dkai.html (http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/digital-life-news/regulator-urges-drone-safety-ahead-of-holidays-20141224-12dkai.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 24, 2014, 09:45:06 PM
Plan on giving a drone as a holiday gift? The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority is urging recipients of unmanned aircraft to fly their new toys safely.

The agency has launched a campaign called Flying With Control, which offers tips on the right and wrong ways to pilot that newly unwrapped drone.

Among the tips offered by the CASA: Fly your aircraft below 400 feet (120 metres), don't fly near airports or manned aircraft, and keep your drone 30 metres away from vehicles, boats, buildings and people.

http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/digital-life-news/regulator-urges-drone-safety-ahead-of-holidays-20141224-12dkai.html (http://www.smh.com.au/digital-life/digital-life-news/regulator-urges-drone-safety-ahead-of-holidays-20141224-12dkai.html)

Hmmm, i really dislike campaigns like this. Its what the agency would like, it doesnt align with legislation.... Only 400ft limit applies when x nm from airport or when in controlled airspace. Think of controlled airspace in a stepped upside down cone from an airport. If they want to educate people do what the legislation says. If they want it to be this get it changed, dont do it by the back door.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 25, 2014, 07:20:07 AM
Nice solution to the problem, its looking bigger and bigger every day . I had to shift my battery more rearward on the miniquad, had to balance the action cam...

Whats its overall length now?
Merry Xmas

Overall length is now smack on 500mm, but you can adjust that by pushing or pulling the rails in or out.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 25, 2014, 07:24:03 AM
Merry Christmas to all ...

Off to son's for Xmas dinner in sunny Bendigo ..

Tomorrow - final assembly and COG tests tethered .. Then watch the test ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 26, 2014, 02:38:21 PM
Here's the Alien mounted on the tethered test bed --- I think the motors/esc need calibrating and I'm finding it VERY VERY difficult with the Emax 4in1 -- I will probably swap the Q-Brain into the Alien soon and the AT10 receiver and see how that works - Pretty sure the old 9" fans are a bit small as well - I have some 10" coming and got my eyes on a set of 12" self-tightening jobs

Pic in a sec ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/25/c395bc19db3a7d684bb94425e46af78b.jpg)

The chains are screwed to the MDF at each corner and wrapped over the landing leg and hooked to a small cup hook next to the leg..Works OK so far..

I did a time test while this was running and got 15 minutes to run the 4500mah 3S from 12.59 to 10.6 - Couple of stops and starts in the middle so probably about 12 minutes --
Response to the controls is a bit slow particularly when backing off the thrust .. Maybe because of the bad ( lack of ) calibration ???
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 26, 2014, 03:13:20 PM
How high does the test bed limit the height of the quad to ? That a really handy looking jig
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 26, 2014, 03:23:36 PM
Is that chandelier chain Steve?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 26, 2014, 03:59:49 PM
Its just twisted figure 8 loop chain - Weighs about 200 gms for those 4 pieces - They're about 50 cms long and by hooking the chain onto the cup hooks you can allow the Alien to hover at about 15 cm above the deck or as in the pic - keeping it to about 5 cms ... I've noticed the chain comes off the hook sometimes so it really needs a snap lock ( carabiner type ) just to make sure it doesn't let go one one side and tip over ... That could be ugly...
Will change it to an eyebolt with carabiner threaded through .. That will be much safer ...
Have to wait till Sunday now to get the calibration done - Will switch Tx/Rx and Emax for Q Brain ... More soldering ... LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 27, 2014, 06:39:34 AM
Can you get some closer photos of your Alien Steve?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 27, 2014, 06:47:13 AM
Yep no problems.. Will go to shed after brekky.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 27, 2014, 07:56:14 AM
Here ya go .. Wiring harness for PMU,FPV , gimbal and voltage alarm.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/26/a75736cd99cee186a1e8384c34ba7cc0.jpg)
front showing both cameras..nearly .
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/26/1a78ca902f83a5ae6fe24c895ec0faaf.jpg)
side showing voltage alarm
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/26/5a9e4e88e939a5b1ffd56461fb6367f4.jpg)
rear showing battery in its cradle.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/26/2448bfc0a683b2b17313f40ead2fffc0.jpg)
motor and prop setup.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/26/1aa663fb3401046f48d1cd77397b6ea4.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 27, 2014, 04:35:45 PM
Looking great Steve, great frame to play with.

I've been concreting around a friends house, dead beat. I am trying to tune the Goodluckbuy gimbal controller using the Alexmos 2.1 null firmware and my brain is just not thinking well enough to be bothered working it out. I wonder if you could possibly tell me what your PID's are for your gimbal Steve?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 27, 2014, 04:42:08 PM
Hello Steve,

Does your new camera have live video out via USB or miniHDMI?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 27, 2014, 05:40:48 PM
PIDs - Now thats a term i'm not familiar with -- My settings in naza are 0 - straight ahead , 25 for about 10 degrees down , 90 for about 85 degrees down ,, That's what you want ??? I'm using the

rotating knob on the Devo 7 via Aux2 / F1 on Naza for pitch control .. I'll check those numbers tomorrow too but I think they are about right ..

camera has USB and HDMI sockets but I haven't tried for FPV output with it as my other camera does that and will have the mini OSD board soon ..I have a DVR on the other end of the FPV

so hopefully I can record each flight with details ... ( Just in case it decides to go flyabout on me ... ) ... I might be able to test it over the next coupla days but I really want to get the Alien hovering

first of all...Bought 4 nice carabiner clips today for the tether bench .. So will swap out the Emax tomorrow and get the motors calibrated ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 28, 2014, 07:18:45 PM


PIDs - Now thats a term i'm not familiar with -- My settings in naza are 0 - straight ahead , 25 for about 10 degrees down , 90 for about 85 degrees down ,, That's what you want ???


PID's are the configuable inputs, it determines how much it applies to the control surfaces for leveling and other functions.  Its interesting to read up on it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 28, 2014, 07:24:48 PM
What I need to read up on is lift / power and thrust curves ... I'm having a LOT of trouble getting the Alien off the deck ...

When the motors run they seem to reach maximum screaming level at about 70% of throttle and that doesn't change when pushing the stick to 100% ...

I'm waiting on some 10" props and hopefully that will give me a bit more umphh to get off the ground ... Got my eye on 12" ones too but they will put a lot of

down draft on the corners of the upper deck so I may not gain anything ???  So at the moment the Alien is grounded ... LOL ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 29, 2014, 07:16:18 AM
What I need to read up on is lift / power and thrust curves ... I'm having a LOT of trouble getting the Alien off the deck ...

When the motors run they seem to reach maximum screaming level at about 70% of throttle and that doesn't change when pushing the stick to 100% ...

I'm waiting on some 10" props and hopefully that will give me a bit more umphh to get off the ground ... Got my eye on 12" ones too but they will put a lot of

down draft on the corners of the upper deck so I may not gain anything ???  So at the moment the Alien is grounded ... LOL ...
Hello Steve,

Although I did make the comment that the Multistar motors were good, which they are, you had unfortunately already purchased them. But if you check the recommendations on the Alien 560 frame listing on Hobbyking, they recommend a motor of 2820 to 3110 size and a prop size of 11 inches on a 4S setup. Most of the 'Multirotor' motors in that range are 600kv to 800kv.

The multistar's you have purchased will only swing a 10 inch prop maximum thrust of 554g on 3S.

I'm not sure of my all up weight yet, I'll find out today, but the general rule of thumb is to aim for a 2:1 thrust over weight ratio or better. I know my motors are rated at a maximum of 1200g on a 5S setup with 10 inch props, or 1020g/thrust on a 4S setup with 11 inch props. So as long as I keep the weight close to 2kg I should be good on a 4 cell setup.

The best figures I can find for the multistar motors is 10 inch props on a 3 cell setup with only around 554 grams of thrust. So if you figure on around 2kg AUW your thrust to weight ratio is undercooked @ 1.1:1.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 29, 2014, 07:26:43 AM
Thanks for the info - I was a bit hasty -  I'm going to try out my 3 bladers today see if the extra blade will get it off the deck .. Also have to pick up a parcel - could be my 10" props ..

Otherwise i'll have to get bigger motors ....

More expense !! LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 29, 2014, 07:51:18 AM
Figure on around $25-$40US per motor. Hobbyking have just released a whole new range of Quanum motors manufactured by DYS. They look pretty good, but you will need to go looking for the thrust/power charts for this motor. This Quanum MT3510 700kv motor (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67023__Quanum_MT_Series_3510_700KV_Brushless_Multirotor_Motor_Built_by_DYS.html) looks pretty good but I have no idea of the power these things put out. This one looks good as well Quanum MT3508 700kv motor (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__67020__Quanum_MT_Series_3508_700KV_Brushless_Multirotor_Motor_Built_by_DYS.html)

My best advise is read what other people are using.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2115146 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2115146)

These are my motors (note you do not have to upgrade the motor mounts for these to fit the stock Alien 560 motor mounts).

EMAX MT 3506-650KV (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/EMAX-MT-3506-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/1512065252.html)

The MT series of motors are clones or close to the kv ratings and motor sizes of the Tiger motor equivalents which you wont get any change out of a $50 note.

I am going to get a new battery for my scales today to get my AUW and start doing some static testing with my motors today.

The NTM propdrive 2830 800kv from Hobbyking is a suitable motor, which is what I originally purchased to put on my 560, but the motors are very thirsty at 234 watts at 1050g using a 9x6 prop on a 4S setup, compared to 179 watts at 1020g with an 11 inch prop on a 4S setup for my Emax motors. The pancake motors around the 550-750kv are very popular for this frame.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 30, 2014, 01:08:52 PM
The problem with building and rebuilding a number of quads at the same time is when something arrives in the mail for one of the other quads you are working on you tend to get distracted into doing more work on the quad that the parts just arrived for.

The tilt gimbal for my mini quad has turned out pretty well.

I bought a Hobbyking pan-tilt servo gimbal and made a bracket out of aluminium to suit the layout of the mini quad. I now need to get some new spacers as the camera is too big to fit between the upper and lower frame plates
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 30, 2014, 10:04:04 PM
The problem with building and rebuilding a number of quads at the same time is when something arrives in the mail for one of the other quads you are working on you tend to get distracted into doing more work on the quad that the parts just arrived for.

The tilt gimbal for my mini quad has turned out pretty well.

I bought a Hobbyking pan-tilt servo gimbal and made a bracket out of aluminium to suit the layout of the mini quad. I now need to get some new spacers as the camera is too big to fit between the upper and lower frame plates

I know the feeling.  It looks good ( I have two of these kits but I'm yet to fit one), are you sure you want the weight of the tilt frame on the mini?  I've set my FPV camera at a slight upwards angle as a compromise (of at speed and hovering).

I've arrived back home and holy hell I have a number of parcels, it'll take me days (or weeks) to fit all the items I've got.

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on December 30, 2014, 10:15:15 PM
I know the feeling.  It looks good ( I have two of these kits but I'm yet to fit one), are you sure you want the weight of the tilt frame on the mini?  I've set my FPV camera at a slight upwards angle as a compromise (of at speed and hovering).

I've arrived back home and holy hell I have a number of parcels, it'll take me days (or weeks) to fit all the items I've got.

Chris
G'day Chris,

Happy days, the parcels should keep you busy.

I'm not going to put an in flight camera on the mini quad. It's going to be purely FPV, so the weight of the gimbal should be OK.

I think my wife has started getting wise about how much this hobby is costing. I received the Gemfan props in the mail this morning and she made a comment about the number of parcels that have arrived since she and I have been on holiday.

I'm getting stuck into the X-mode Alien at the moment. Still waiting on parts for the mini quad. Hopefully the missus will be back at work by then.  ;D

The programming board for the blue series ESC's was mailed today and is now at the mercy of Auspost.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 31, 2014, 06:37:52 PM
G'day Chris,

Happy days, the parcels should keep you busy.

I'm not going to put an in flight camera on the mini quad. It's going to be purely FPV, so the weight of the gimbal should be OK.

I think my wife has started getting wise about how much this hobby is costing. I received the Gemfan props in the mail this morning and she made a comment about the number of parcels that have arrived since she and I have been on holiday.

I'm getting stuck into the X-mode Alien at the moment. Still waiting on parts for the mini quad. Hopefully the missus will be back at work by then.  ;D

The programming board for the blue series ESC's was mailed today and is now at the mercy of Auspost.

Cheers, Mark

On the mount, sounds like a good idea.  Are you saving any flight footage in air or only on the ground feed?

Thanks for misordering :-)    Will be nice to easily change direction via the programming card, I might even drop the connectors to help save some grams :-)  I had a freebie from HK yesterday, they put in some T connector adapter, I'll post a pic later on and if I've got no use I'll see if anyone would like them (its a 2 pack of something....).  I'm wishing that they'd thrown in something from the wishlist instead, oh well....

My wife was having a good look at my study / building room today while I was tinkering and I think she is on the same path as yours.....  She returns to work on the 5th Jan.....

I had a play with the Mini APM today, I have it taking in the PPM signal, the GPS seems to be working, the power module seems to be working too but I have an issue with the motor output.  Wondering if you have gotten to this stage with the miniAPM?

The one test ESC I have doesn't sing when I hook it up, it does if I bypass the ESC and go direct to the receive (in PWM mode).  I am definitely getting a PPM signal for the throttle....  I've checked the ESC is getting power (reading same as battery).  I thought I only needed to wire in the signal wire of the ESC as the ESC has ground return path via it's powered line.  I've checked that the +5V line on the miniAPM (motor output) is showing 5.27V so all good there.  I've double checked output signal line to make sure I've got the right one plugged in.  I've checked it with wiring in the GND line too just in case.  I only have the 1 ESC plugged in as it's my spare, I thought it worked if you only had one plugged in?

If I don't suss it out by tomorrow night I'll post up a pic to see if anyone can work out what I've done wrong.....

New to do list :-) or :-( not sure which yet....

- Get mini APM working so I can reclaim my full size APM, return my normal GPS to the Tricopter and lighten the mini Quad.
- Buy can of CorrosionX (that is some great stuff - will waterproof most electronics - absolutely magic stuff - wish I ordered it before I bought the liquid electrical tape)
- Mount the brushless gimbal mount onto the Tricopter and move FPV camera.
- Mount sonar onto Tricopter
- Mount Action Cam to new gimbal and have fun
- Mount new mobius onto the miniQuad
- Change power connectors to the lipo connectors
- Find my old IXUS HS115 and load CHDK - connect to APM and mount to Tricopter (for aerial mapping)
- Change the minimOSD's to 5V (2 new ones plus the 1 on the Tri)
- Desolder the 2 broken MinimOSD's and mount new chips
- Plus more I'm sure....

And in between each of those get lots of flying in.  I managed to get in nearly 30mins of flying up at QLD, so my total is just under 1 hour on the mini Quad.  I did have one moment of oh-oh while up there, in ALTHOLD mode it shot up vertically and I was able to return to normal flight by switching back to stabilise mode (after going inverted for a split second) - lucky save on my part or maybe I can call it skill by now :-).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 31, 2014, 07:06:22 PM
Hey guys - I got the 8mm lenses today - here's a compare pic for 3.6 mm and 8mm ...
Quality is crap but its only for FPV ...
(http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/LensCompare.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 01, 2015, 08:02:15 AM
Hey guys - I got the 8mm lenses today - here's a compare pic for 3.6 mm and 8mm ...
Quality is crap but its only for FPV ...
(http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/LensCompare.jpg)

Hi Steve,

It looks well focused and good but when you try flying with it I think you'll find it too narrow. Let us know how you find it, i might be wrong ?. If you do try it turn the sensitivity as low as you can, i think it will help.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 01, 2015, 08:04:14 AM
G'day Chris,

The flight footage will be recorded by the ground station for the mini quad.

My computer room is chaos at the moment. The spare bed is covered with all things quadcopter, but should be back to some semblance of normality by the time I go back to work.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49617-1/Quadcopter+central.JPG)

I'm working on my X-mode Alien at the moment while I wait for parts for the mini quad, so I haven't done anything really with the miniAPM as yet.

The Canon Ixus 115 HS is a great little camera, it's what I take all of the pictures with that I post on myswag. Including these.

You obviously caught that Flite Test video about the CorrosionX. Pretty good stuff.

I got a few time consuming bits and pieces done yesterday. I did the Mavlink-OSD 5v conversion that I put a link to earlier from rcgroups. The soldering is very tricky, not something I would have contemplated a couple of weeks ago before I got my jewellers head mounted magnifying glasses. It made this job easier, but it's still a tricky soldering job. I used enamelled wire that I salvaged out of the burnt out Emax motor. There is another wire that is not clear in this photo that runs from ground on the right hand side to ground on the video input side on the left. It's pretty thin wire, but should be up to the task. I also trimmed a heat sink from one of my earlier ESC failures and made a heat sink for the video and atmel chips on the Mavlink-OSD.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49611-1/Mavlink-OSD+5v+conversion.JPG)

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49613-1/Mavlink-OSD+Heatsink.JPG)

I also mounted the LV-EZ4 sonar onto the X-mode Alien. It has silicon isolation mounts that I scavanged from a hard disk drive. Plus the filters recommended by Maxbotics. I'm keen to see how well this one goes. I have had it for a while but not put it to use. Interesting that a lot of these cheap frames from China have provision in the frame for the SR04 sonar. No good for the Maxbotics sonars, but at least they provide an area where you can mount them with a bit of modification.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49615-1/LV-EZ4+Mounting.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 01, 2015, 08:10:10 AM
Hey guys - I got the 8mm lenses today - here's a compare pic for 3.6 mm and 8mm ...
Quality is crap but its only for FPV ...
I'll post up some photos of the difference between 2.1, 2.5, 2.8 and 3.6 for comparison today. The 2.1 lens that I bought separately is terrible. I am going to compare it to the 2.1 lens that came with the camera that I ordered at the same time, which is quite different in appearance.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 01, 2015, 09:29:01 AM
Been following along the journey reading you guys post and yes hooked another person. I used to fly fixed wing for about 10 years a long time ago. Been looking at buying a bit of stuff from hobby king. Do you guys buy mainly from the Australian warehouse or international. Thinking freight might kill you buy from the international one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 01, 2015, 09:36:52 AM
Hi PluckA
Welcome to the madness. I have used both local and international from HK depenfing where stock is. The freight id not too bad on smaller items but for bigger stuff it hits. Just shop around for what you want. Some of the aussie suppliers charge top dollar for delivery.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 01, 2015, 09:40:22 AM
Howdy PluckA,

The international warehouse is in Hong Kong, so you aren't paying the biohazard tax that is added to international freight out of the US which is a killer for us here in Aus who want some of the cool stuff they sell that the shipping makes unaffordable.

You order from the warehouse where stock is mostly as Crispy has already said. You cannot order from other warehouses other than Aus and International, batteries only from Aus and you cannot mix warehouses on one order. If you order from the Aus warehouse, the express shipping will usually arrive in about 3-4 days and is surprisingly reasonably priced (for a bloody change). CouriersPlease is their Australian warehouse express carrier and I haven't had an issue with nearly 40 orders from either of the Hobbyking warehouses.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 01, 2015, 11:56:48 AM
I think I have found the problem with the el-cheapo APM power modules that came with the two flight controllers I purchased. I don't think there was a problem with the power modules at all, but the power module cables were the culprits.

The first one had heat shrink hiding a cut wire. Given I didn't put the heat shrink on there and all the other power module cables I have don't have any heat shrink on them, I can only assume this is how I received it.

The second is showing signs of overheating, whether by me being over exuberant with the heat gun or the wiring being inadequate, I don't know. Some of the wires are exposed, but I don't think they shorted out at any stage. The wiring is noticeably thinner than the Hobbyking power module cable.

One or the other of these cables is about to be used on the mini quad, but I will be replacing the wire with 24 AWG silicon wire and cut to length. This should take care of any overheating problem.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 01, 2015, 03:21:28 PM
I think I have found the problem with the el-cheapo APM power modules that came with the two flight controllers I purchased. I don't think there was a problem with the power modules at all, but the power module cables were the culprits.

The first one had heat shrink hiding a cut wire. Given I didn't put the heat shrink on there and all the other power module cables I have don't have any heat shrink on them, I can only assume this is how I received it.

The second is showing signs of overheating, whether by me being over exuberant with the heat gun or the wiring being inadequate, I don't know. Some of the wires are exposed, but I don't think they shorted out at any stage. The wiring is noticeably thinner than the Hobbyking power module cable.

One or the other of these cables is about to be used on the mini quad, but I will be replacing the wire with 24 AWG silicon wire and cut to length. This should take care of any overheating problem.

Thats great news, I was wondering as I've got 2 non HK PM and both of those seem to give the same figures that the HK one does.  I was thinking that either I had good luck or you had bad luck.  Seems you had the bad luck  ;D

So you have some spare PM incase you break one now... Can never have to many spares.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 01, 2015, 11:29:58 PM
I had a play with the Mini APM today, I have it taking in the PPM signal, the GPS seems to be working, the power module seems to be working too but I have an issue with the motor output.  Wondering if you have gotten to this stage with the miniAPM?

The one test ESC I have doesn't sing when I hook it up, it does if I bypass the ESC and go direct to the receive (in PWM mode).  I am definitely getting a PPM signal for the throttle....  I've checked the ESC is getting power (reading same as battery).  I thought I only needed to wire in the signal wire of the ESC as the ESC has ground return path via it's powered line.  I've checked that the +5V line on the miniAPM (motor output) is showing 5.27V so all good there.  I've double checked output signal line to make sure I've got the right one plugged in.  I've checked it with wiring in the GND line too just in case.  I only have the 1 ESC plugged in as it's my spare, I thought it worked if you only had one plugged in?

If I don't suss it out by tomorrow night I'll post up a pic to see if anyone can work out what I've done wrong.....

Eureka!  Odd I thought I had done an RC calibration on the miniAPM earlier, seems it lost it or I'm remembering stuff that hasnt happened....  When I went into Mission Planner it was saying RC not calibrated.  Got me thinking that the ESC wasn't getting low signal via the APM.  Did a calibration and bingo on the next start off the battery it was singing to me.

Can confirm no need to wire up anything besides signal wire on the motor outputs.

On the motor output I will replace the required single connectors with 3 pin female servo connectors so it accepts the servo connectors from the ESC's.  Should be straight forward.  I'll then pop the non required cables to reduce the clutter.

Swapped in a small GPS (Max-7Q) on to the mini Quad today, so my Tricopter can have it's GPS back and return to flying it.  I plan to take the mini quad for a spin in the morning, but I have to say the Max-7Q is not that great, hard to get sat's (the Neo-7 was getting 7 where the Max-07Q was getting 4) with it, but I guess that is due to it's small antenna.

I'm thinking the crash that broke the previous GPS might just be the antenna, I'll try a replacement antenna and see how it's goes.  It was much better than the Max-7Q.

Played with the 2 axis Tarot Gimbal today, holy hell they are great.  Cant wait to get that onto the Tricopter, I'm gonna love it :-)  I feel like a kid in a candy shop right now  ;D ;D ;D  Worst part is that I have to build a frame to hold it or put extremely long landing gear onto the tri (like 25-30cm sticks.....)  Bugger it I'll just extend the landing gear so I can have some fun!!

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 01, 2015, 11:35:24 PM
Been following along the journey reading you guys post and yes hooked another person. I used to fly fixed wing for about 10 years a long time ago. Been looking at buying a bit of stuff from hobby king. Do you guys buy mainly from the Australian warehouse or international. Thinking freight might kill you buy from the international one.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Hi PluckA,

I buy mainly from the AUS warehouse, but as others have said it is down to the stock being available.  I've found that if you use a parcel locker you can use the AusPost and I get parcels within 3 business days (in Syd).  Thats order by midday on and have it in my hands on the way home from work on 3 days later, somethings it's even been there on day 2......

The freight costs from HK arent too bad - if you keep it light and not bulky, I use Aus Air Express and they deliver to Aus Post parcel lockers.  If you have them in your area check them out, as I usually work and I had having to organise for redeliveries.

I avoid Couriers Please with a passion, can elaborate but not happy with them.

What are you thinking of getting?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 02, 2015, 07:01:39 AM
Eureka!  Odd I thought I had done an RC calibration on the miniAPM earlier, seems it lost it or I'm remembering stuff that hasnt happened....  When I went into Mission Planner it was saying RC not calibrated.  Got me thinking that the ESC wasn't getting low signal via the APM.  Did a calibration and bingo on the next start off the battery it was singing to me.

Can confirm no need to wire up anything besides signal wire on the motor outputs.

On the motor output I will replace the required single connectors with 3 pin female servo connectors so it accepts the servo connectors from the ESC's.  Should be straight forward.  I'll then pop the non required cables to reduce the clutter.

Swapped in a small GPS (Max-7Q) on to the mini Quad today, so my Tricopter can have it's GPS back and return to flying it.  I plan to take the mini quad for a spin in the morning, but I have to say the Max-7Q is not that great, hard to get sat's (the Neo-7 was getting 7 where the Max-07Q was getting 4) with it, but I guess that is due to it's small antenna.

I'm thinking the crash that broke the previous GPS might just be the antenna, I'll try a replacement antenna and see how it's goes.  It was much better than the Max-7Q.

Played with the 2 axis Tarot Gimbal today, holy hell they are great.  Cant wait to get that onto the Tricopter, I'm gonna love it :-)  I feel like a kid in a candy shop right now  ;D ;D ;D  Worst part is that I have to build a frame to hold it or put extremely long landing gear onto the tri (like 25-30cm sticks.....)  Bugger it I'll just extend the landing gear so I can have some fun!!

Chris
Gotta love it when something that has been frustrating you starts working. I'll be picking your brain once I get back to the mini quad for sure.

Did you contact Steve about that GPS antenna he had on offer?

I had a win yesterday, the 6026A SMD voltage regulators arrived in the mail earlier in the week, and I soldered one into my fried OrangeRX R910 receiver and the bloody thing worked  ;D

Tarot gimbal is great. Did you get the T-2D or the one for the Mobius. I eventually gave up trying to configure the Tarot ZYZ22 gimbal controller from scratch with the Goodluckbuy motors (LD Power) and ended up finding a null version of the Alexmos firmware that I reflashed the GLB gimbal controller with. Works really well, but as others have reported causes the motors to produce a constant tone. I now have a spare gimbal controller for the Tarot which may come in handy.

After having high crab landing gear, I am looking forward to trying out the new X-mode Alien frame with the in-line gimbal. I want to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible. I should be close to finishing it today. The only problem with the in-line gimbals is the lack of vibration dampening. Even though that is the case, people report good results as long as props and motors are balanced correctly. This mod can also be done to the Tarot gimbal, but I wouldn't do that when you can buy $50US GLB gimbals that work really well with their stock firmware.

 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 02, 2015, 07:25:01 AM
Hey Marchey
What frame is that gimbal on? Can you control pitch and roll with your Tx?
And what is the outside dimensions of the frame.
Where did you get it from.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 02, 2015, 07:40:07 AM
G'day Crispy,

This is the frame. Cheap as chips ($17.09 US), but the arms are good quality nylon/glass fibre. Unlike the Reptile-Aphid frame I bought that had acrylic arms. You just leave a message with the seller telling him what colour arms you want. It doesn't show it in the listing but the frame also has a small GoPro isolation mount for the front.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MWC-X-Mode-Alien-Multicopter-Quadcopter-Frame-Kit-Random-Color-as-DJI-HJ-APM-GPS/1766737798.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MWC-X-Mode-Alien-Multicopter-Quadcopter-Frame-Kit-Random-Color-as-DJI-HJ-APM-GPS/1766737798.html)

Wheel base is 50x50cm. Box dimensions are 355x355. It is in fact an X-quad, not a deadcat configuration. The geometry is changed to give the gimbal a clear view with (hopefully) no view of the propellers. The front arms are much closer together at the frame mount points than the rear arms.

Goodluck buy also sell them as a Locust (http://www.goodluckbuy.com/locust-quadcopter-frame-and-2-axis-gopro-3-aluminum-gimbal-bgc-3-0-mos-controller-for-fpv.html) bundled with an in-line gimbal which I just noticed has come down in price by nearly $50US, which is a bloody bargain, they used to be $120US. I opted to DIY as I already had the gimbal, but if you can get one for that sort of price with a gimbal I would grab one.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 02, 2015, 10:55:33 AM
Gotta love it when something that has been frustrating you starts working. I'll be picking your brain once I get back to the mini quad for sure.

Did you contact Steve about that GPS antenna he had on offer?

I had a win yesterday, the 6026A SMD voltage regulators arrived in the mail earlier in the week, and I soldered one into my fried OrangeRX R910 receiver and the bloody thing worked  ;D

Tarot gimbal is great. Did you get the T-2D or the one for the Mobius. I eventually gave up trying to configure the Tarot ZYZ22 gimbal controller from scratch with the Goodluckbuy motors (LD Power) and ended up finding a null version of the Alexmos firmware that I reflashed the GLB gimbal controller with. Works really well, but as others have reported causes the motors to produce a constant tone. I now have a spare gimbal controller for the Tarot which may come in handy.

After having high crab landing gear, I am looking forward to trying out the new X-mode Alien frame with the in-line gimbal. I want to keep the centre of gravity as low as possible. I should be close to finishing it today. The only problem with the in-line gimbals is the lack of vibration dampening. Even though that is the case, people report good results as long as props and motors are balanced correctly. This mod can also be done to the Tarot gimbal, but I wouldn't do that when you can buy $50US GLB gimbals that work really well with their stock firmware.

I know, I was so happy last night.  I was starting to think I was going insane, again a stop and start from beginning helped... Why dont I learn....

Hmmm, asking Steve about the antenna, now that would have been the smart thing to do, instead I did the male thing and ordered 10 pcs of patch antennas for $10......

When I say tarot I mean clone :-)  It's a 2D gimbal and it has a controller that runs alexmos v2.4.  It is the gopro style and it fits both my gopro and cheap action cam.  Damn it works well on the bench - barely needed tweaking - I'm sure I will tweak it some more.  Will be next week before it gets mounted on the tri....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: allan.kidd on January 02, 2015, 01:46:03 PM
As a retired software engineer (and complete novice with this technology) I have to admit defeat when understanding the programming of the Devo 7 transmitter for my Walkera QR X350Pro – I can physically follow the instructions but do not understand what is the affect of the following:

(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/Inst1_zps9d653592.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/Inst1_zps9d653592.jpg.html)
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/Inst2_zpsc23e8d00.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/Inst2_zpsc23e8d00.jpg.html)
 
Is anybody able to translate into words what these settings achieve?

The controller looks like:
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/DevoMCont_zps113642a4.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/DevoMCont_zps113642a4.jpg.html)

And the receiver:
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/ReceiveRX703_zps767e571d.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/ReceiveRX703_zps767e571d.jpg.html)

 

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 02, 2015, 01:46:30 PM
So the small Max-7Q's arent too bad in clear skys, I dont think I'd trust them too much in poor coverage areas (such as under trees).  The 15mmx15mm antenna is just too small.  I think they'd be ok with a 25mmx25mm.  I was getting 6 or 7 sats in clear skys, the bigger Neo-7M's get 9 at the same spot.

I do have an interesting occurrence, in alt hold mode again it shot up again.  I did some testing, I noticed that my alt relative to home was staying the same despite me going up, so this leads me to believe my barometer is getting confused by either wind or light.  This was even more evident when the wind blew.  This is odd as I have foam covering the barometer to try to prevent this.  In QLD I used a closed cell foam and I swapped it out for open cell today - the same method that I used in my tricopter....  Only difference between the Tri and the APM I've got on the quad is that the Tri has a 2.7 APM and the quad is using a 2.5 board.

I'll have to do some further testing to eliminate the issue - hoping it wont be an issue for the miniAPM board (have to find the barometer on it)..

On a plus the quad flew really well in the light to moderate winds.  I plan to upload a whole bunch of vids over the weekend.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 02, 2015, 01:54:24 PM
As a retired software engineer (and complete novice with this technology) I have to admit defeat when understanding the programming of the Devo 7 transmitter for my Walkera QR X350Pro – I can physically follow the instructions but do not understand what is the affect of the following:

(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/Inst1_zps9d653592.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/Inst1_zps9d653592.jpg.html)
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/Inst2_zpsc23e8d00.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/Inst2_zpsc23e8d00.jpg.html)
 
Is anybody able to translate into words what these settings achieve?

The controller looks like:
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/DevoMCont_zps113642a4.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/DevoMCont_zps113642a4.jpg.html)

And the receiver:
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/ReceiveRX703_zps767e571d.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/ReceiveRX703_zps767e571d.jpg.html)


Hi Allan,

The main things you need to worry about are the connection between the receiver  and the Devo-M.  You can see the data bus connection from the reveiver (at the top) goes into the Devo-M's data bus.  This will basically allow a whole bunch of inputs from the receiver over one cable.

If it's for the quad copter you mentioed earlier then you'll connect the ESC's to the motor outputs on the left side of the Devo-M.  If it's a plan or tri then you'll need to plug in servo connections for the other controls surfaces.  Plug in the GPS connection to the GPS link (at the bottom of the Devo-M) and the compass into the compass link at the top of the Devo-M.  YOu shouldnt need anything else plugged in yet.  On the transmitter, start with the defaults and go from there.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 02, 2015, 01:57:41 PM
As a retired software engineer (and complete novice with this technology) I have to admit defeat when understanding the programming of the Devo 7 transmitter for my Walkera QR X350Pro – I can physically follow the instructions but do not understand what is the affect of the following:

(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/Inst1_zps9d653592.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/Inst1_zps9d653592.jpg.html)
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/Inst2_zpsc23e8d00.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/Inst2_zpsc23e8d00.jpg.html)
 
Is anybody able to translate into words what these settings achieve?

The controller looks like:
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/DevoMCont_zps113642a4.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/DevoMCont_zps113642a4.jpg.html)

And the receiver:
(http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d47/Allan66/ReceiveRX703_zps767e571d.jpg) (http://s32.photobucket.com/user/Allan66/media/ReceiveRX703_zps767e571d.jpg.html)

So Alan,
What are you trying to do with this. Connection or programing? Your post was a little unclear to me.
and have you tried to find youtube videos or asked Yahoo (google) how and what?
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 02, 2015, 01:59:15 PM
Hi Allan,

The main things you need to worry about are the connection between the receiver  and the Devo-M.  You can see the data bus connection from the reveiver (at the top) goes into the Devo-M's data bus.  This will basically allow a whole bunch of inputs from the receiver over one cable.

If it's for the quad copter you mentioed earlier then you'll connect the ESC's to the motor outputs on the left side of the Devo-M.  If it's a plan or tri then you'll need to plug in servo connections for the other controls surfaces.  Plug in the GPS connection to the GPS link (at the bottom of the Devo-M) and the compass into the compass link at the top of the Devo-M.  YOu shouldnt need anything else plugged in yet.  On the transmitter, start with the defaults and go from there.

Regards,

Chris

Hi Allan,

I thought the quad was a ready to fly model you bought?  If so then it should already be plugged in and it should be a matter of taking a pic and seeing what's plugged in where.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 02, 2015, 02:08:54 PM
Sorry I Can't help Allan, the only thing I know about Devo is these crazy hats they used to wear.

(http://www.swag-inc.com/shop/media/catalog/product/cache/9/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/d/e/devo_hat_1.png)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 02, 2015, 04:48:26 PM
Sorry I Can't help Allan, the only thing I know about Devo is these crazy hats they used to wear.

(http://www.swag-inc.com/shop/media/catalog/product/cache/9/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/d/e/devo_hat_1.png)

Hi Marschy,

Thanks for that, now i know about devo hats..... Weird (not you the hats and people that wore them).

It uses a custom ardupilot set, so once he's got stuff connected we can help with mission planner, etc...

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 02, 2015, 11:52:11 PM
I have managed to wire up the miniAPM board with the following:

1 x ESC and Motor
1 x Power Module
1 x GPS and Compass module
1 x Receiver in CPPM mode
1 x Telemetry Radio (and MinimOSD ready with connector)

I have removed non required wires from the plugs, for the CPPM I bridged pin 2 and 3 with a blob of solder on the board itself (saved having to put a loop cable in, just another thing that could go wrong later on).  Had to solder a few cables up, all nicely done with heat shrink, etc.....  Had to replace a few of the connectors, like the ones going to the ESC's with male servo connectors and the receiver instead of using 3 single connectors I popped the metal connector out and put into a 3P servo connector.

Besides alot of stuffing around with plugs, the only issue I have is the internal compass is still giving readings, so I have to cut the bridge for that.  Oh and the case needs some additional trimming to keep all the connectors securely in place.

I have bench tested and connected using the telemetry radio to my PC.  Looks good, I think I will be able to mount it into the mini Quad early next week and it will take up considerably less room than the full size APM board.  I still have to lookup where the barometer is located so I can put a piece of foam in.

So overall I'm pretty happy with the board so far, definitely not a plug and play board that is for sure.  This one has required far more work than the full size.  What is crazy is that for only a little bit more effort it could be a plug and play board.....

Chris

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/02/be989914b1d70c0c81c589ef227eeb68.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/02/60598f2ea198f1c4d8c3ce8a18e05ab9.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 03, 2015, 01:29:43 AM
This is the barometer chip.
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 03, 2015, 07:04:57 AM
Are you guys going to use 2.4 for rc and 5.8 for video or are some of you planning uhf rc and 2.4 video. Been looking at the ezeuhf transmitters.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 03, 2015, 07:21:22 AM
My Alien is 2.4 RC and 5.8 Video - My Phantom is the reverse 5.8 RC and 2.4 Video however this is going to get flipped around to keep considtent with the Alien .. I'm told 5.8 Video is better and more reliable - I haven't been able to verify that statement yet as I can't get the Alien off the deck !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 03, 2015, 08:17:10 AM
My Alien is 2.4 RC and 5.8 Video - My Phantom is the reverse 5.8 RC and 2.4 Video however this is going to get flipped around to keep considtent with the Alien .. I'm told 5.8 Video is better and more reliable - I haven't been able to verify that statement yet as I can't get the Alien off the deck !!
Lower frequencies have the ability to 'punch' through objects better. So in fact 2.4 would be better for video. But the 2.4Ghz frequency is used more often for the radio transmitter, presumably because control of the aircraft takes priority over maintaining the video link. I don't know why DJI flipped it around. I can only presume to lock people into their products.

Steve, I know how frustrating it can be with a DIY build. I bought $60+ worth of 11x4.7 carbon fibre props, only to find that my weight is now 2264 which coupled with the ability of the motors means I am now less than 2:1 power to weight ratio. I may now have to get 12 inch props.
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 03, 2015, 02:20:04 PM
Was thinking of going down the ezeuhf route for rc and 2.4 for video. In saying that the price my scare me off. Especially the cost of good antennas.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 03, 2015, 04:12:39 PM
Was thinking of going down the ezeuhf route for rc and 2.4 for video. In saying that the price my scare me off. Especially the cost of good antennas.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Hi PluckA,

If you are planning on doing UHF for the RC control you'll need your Radio Amateur (HAM) certificate, I think a basic foundation class will give you what you need to run it, best to check with a place that does training in that area.

To be honest unless you are doing BVLOS you wont need to use UHF for control, and unless you have a Controllers Cert and Operators Cert from CASA you shouldn't be doing BVLOS flying.  I personally don't count ducking behind some trees as BVLOS, which we all do, you'll find 2.4 for the rc control will still work fine.  I've found that the 5.8 link for video still works as long as I don't park myself behind a bunch of trees - this is is with CP antennas.

I think you'll find the 2.4 Video gear more expensive than 5.8 and the 433 RC stuff is either more expensive or for the cheaper stuff you'll find you need to stuff around more with it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 03, 2015, 04:44:44 PM
This is the barometer chip.

Hi Mark,

Thanks for that, saved me looking it up :-)

Chip is now covered with some foam and JP1 cut, case is now done up.  miniAPM is configured to use external compass.  Note that it since I have it in learn mode, the compass still moves a little bit when I turn the case of the miniAPM (and not the compass - it comes back to the right place after a second or so).  I will be turning this off once I've calibrated it. 

This confused me as I thought I'd stuffed up on the JP1 cut.  It wasnt until I tried the calibrate with no external compass that it confirmed I'd cut JP1 correctly.  Took me half an hour on this one....

I've had to set the orientation of the compass to roll 180 degrees, not sure if I need to yaw it any yet (no direction arrow on the GPS....)

Did a GPS test, I think I was being mean to the Ublox Max7Q gps, I put the NEO 6M (25x25mm antenna) that came with the miniAPM, in the same spot  and I was getting similar results.  I'm also thinking about using the I2C breakout board I've got and seeing if I can get two GPS's running on the Tricopter for better precision.

FYI, I was getting a bad gyro warning when running off USB, it's fine when running off the power module.  I looked at the regulator, appears fine, but I'll do a test in the future if I see the warning pop up again.

I plan to mount up the mini APM onto the mini Quad on Monday and take it for a test spin.  I want to take the quad for a spin on the full size board once more so that will be Sunday's fun plus editing the last x flights worth of videos.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 03, 2015, 06:34:30 PM
Thanks for the info Chris, it did think you might have needed some sort of certification to fly uhf.   I've been reading up a fair bit on the fpv stuff and frames etc to see what's around and would best fit my needs. It's changed a fair bit since I used to fly fixed wings using crystals int the tx and rx. Everytime I've decided on a quad I read someone's else's setup and change my mind haha


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 03, 2015, 06:39:51 PM
Thanks for the info Chris, it did think you might have needed some sort of certification to fly uhf.   I've been reading up a fair bit on the fpv stuff and frames etc to see what's around and would best fit my needs. It's changed a fair bit since I used to fly fixed wings using crystals int the tx and rx. Everytime I've decided on a quad I read someone's else's setup and change my mind haha


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I still had my 36Mhz radios at the beginning of last year. I gave them and 3 planes to a friend of mine with a young son who hasn't and probably wont use them. I may see him about getting the transmitters and receivers back. They were all certified radios with MASA.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 04, 2015, 09:02:06 AM
Guys . Saw a thrust measurer on YouTube so I decided to build my own.. My motor / prop combination is underpowered for the Alien . 450 GMs of lift per motor flat chat...
Pics in a minute...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/03/f8f234a89666d0cfcfcb88f973e00ebe.jpg)
I will tidy this up with a wattmeter added.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/03/6e2c3f4b8df1f1ce11c453cee4c70691.jpg)
Underpowered.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 04, 2015, 03:39:52 PM
Guys . Saw a thrust measurer on YouTube so I decided to build my own.. My motor / prop combination is underpowered for the Alien . 450 GMs of lift per motor flat chat...
Pics in a minute...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/03/f8f234a89666d0cfcfcb88f973e00ebe.jpg)
I will tidy this up with a wattmeter added.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/03/6e2c3f4b8df1f1ce11c453cee4c70691.jpg)
Underpowered.

Hi Steve,

Hows it work? Most ive seen use a triangle frame, looks like a single pole, hows it stay up right?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 04, 2015, 04:15:52 PM
I've shortened it now to make it more stable - Its screwed to the pan of the scales which is fixed to the load sensor ( I guess ? ) anyway it sits straight up and when you fire up the motor with prop it exerts a positive or negative force on the scales - In my case above it showed a thrust of -446 gms ... (Lift)
So 4 motors could lift at maximum a bit under 1800 gms - My Alien is around 1650 gms so there is not enough room for moving around - I need to get the thrust up to about 800-900 gms per motor I reckon and then I will defy gravity !! LOL . I'll try this with 10" props and see how that goes otherwise I'll need to upsize the motors ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 04, 2015, 05:20:35 PM
I've shortened it now to make it more stable - Its screwed to the pan of the scales which is fixed to the load sensor ( I guess ? ) anyway it sits straight up and when you fire up the motor with prop it exerts a positive or negative force on the scales - In my case above it showed a thrust of -446 gms ... (Lift)
So 4 motors could lift at maximum a bit under 1800 gms - My Alien is around 1650 gms so there is not enough room for moving around - I need to get the thrust up to about 800-900 gms per motor I reckon and then I will defy gravity !! LOL . I'll try this with 10" props and see how that goes otherwise I'll need to upsize the motors ...

Hi Steve,

You'll need far more lift than what you currently have.  If you can get to the 800g x 4 giving you 3.2 Kg it should give you enough to get off the ground and allow for reasonable maneuvers.  I agree try different prop combos to see if you can get enough lift but it seems low for those motors.

Are you sure about that figure you've got?  Just that on a 3s for a 10x4.7 you should be getting 800g of thrust or +/- 50 grams.  For 9x4.7's you should be get around 750g of thrust.  This is assuming you are still using the multistar 2212's.

I've got some 11" props to test out for the tricopter to see if I get better lift results.

I currently think I've got just under 3kg of lift on it and it's AUW is around 1.2kg (with the big battery).  Once I add the gimbal mount and camera I expect that to go up another 300g, so I figure I'll need the 11" props to give me enough lift to get me out of the oh bugger moments.

The mini quad has in theory 350g per motor, so that gives me 1.4kg with an AUW of 650 (with action camera - should go down another 30 g with the mobius instead of the action cam).

Will be great to actually confirm all my lift figures.  Guess it's another trip to bunnings to get some bits and bobs :-)

Grrr, no flying today due to being out till 4am on an SES job, so my perfect flying weather was gone before I even got up.... sigh.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 04, 2015, 05:30:30 PM
I've shortened it now to make it more stable - Its screwed to the pan of the scales which is fixed to the load sensor ( I guess ? ) anyway it sits straight up and when you fire up the motor with prop it exerts a positive or negative force on the scales - In my case above it showed a thrust of -446 gms ... (Lift)
So 4 motors could lift at maximum a bit under 1800 gms - My Alien is around 1650 gms so there is not enough room for moving around - I need to get the thrust up to about 800-900 gms per motor I reckon and then I will defy gravity !! LOL . I'll try this with 10" props and see how that goes otherwise I'll need to upsize the motors ...
Have you considered buying a 4 cell battery and compatible ESC (HK Blueseries which can take 4S) and giving that a go. You may get all the thrust you need without changing motors. Those motors are rated for 4S.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 04, 2015, 06:41:55 PM
I should get the 10" 1045 props next week so I'll test them ... I'm using the Chinese MX2212s for the tests and there seems to be some inherent faults in the setup -- Motors get to max revs and then surge and drop out and surge again - If I run them at about 25% they motor along as normal - I'm also using a servo tester for the throttle dunno if that makes a difference or not  -- I didn't want to remove one of the multistars from the Alien as I have finally got it all in place neat and tidy ... I'm also using the Emax 4in1 as the ESC - will probably buy 5 ESCs soon and have one permanently mounted on the motor test bed instead of the Emax 4in1 and have 4 over for the next quad ...
( Bought 200 black cable ties today !! $2 Bargain )
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 04, 2015, 10:12:48 PM
I should get the 10" 1045 props next week so I'll test them ... I'm using the Chinese MX2212s for the tests and there seems to be some inherent faults in the setup -- Motors get to max revs and then surge and drop out and surge again - If I run them at about 25% they motor along as normal - I'm also using a servo tester for the throttle dunno if that makes a difference or not  -- I didn't want to remove one of the multistars from the Alien as I have finally got it all in place neat and tidy ... I'm also using the Emax 4in1 as the ESC - will probably buy 5 ESCs soon and have one permanently mounted on the motor test bed instead of the Emax 4in1 and have 4 over for the next quad ...
( Bought 200 black cable ties today !! $2 Bargain )

Hi,

When you say 100% what PWM sig is the servo tester putting out for that?  Only thing I'd recommend is that you do an ESC calibrate on it to ensure the ESC knows what the max and min level is.  Its possible that at 100% on the servo tester you are getting 110% and that is causing issues for the motor.

If the surging kicks in before 75% I'd say you have some defective motors otherwise the calibrate should fix it.

I had a quick look at MX2212's and they all seem to say that they put out much higher levels of thrust, for just about any prop config (seems they'll spin 14" props which is impressive).  See how the 10" goes but I suspect there is another issue at hand.

I'd double check that MX2212 can do 4S from what I see they are rated to 3S only.  This is based upon the MX2212's that I could find out there, so I could be wrong on the MX2212's you have.

I've switched to buying cable ties in bags of 500.... Very sad.  Good price for 200.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2015, 06:29:07 AM
Don't calibrate the ESC's using a servo tester. You have to do a factory reset of the ESC's using a programming card to get the lower and upper limits of your transmitter throttle to be recognised again because the PWM limits are different. I found this out the hard way. The PWM limits on the servo tester are typically higher and lower than your transmitter throttle limits, so when you try to calibrate with your transmitter, the ESC doesn't recognise that you have gone into calibrate mode.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 05, 2015, 07:01:55 AM
Getting into calibrate mode seems to be quite difficult for the Emax 4in1 . I did the QBrain in no time at all . So unless I  can successfully work out the Chinglish how to then this ESC will stay on the testing tower . Once my new Tx battery gets here I will try a calibration with the Radiolink. I think its about time I took the Phantom out for a fly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 05, 2015, 11:35:12 AM
My APM arrived today! Will have to do some reading tonight.
Chris, you said something about a wiring diagram for the minim OSD to ensure magic smoke does not escape.
When setting the apm up can it get power from the USB port or do I need to power through the power module?
If I don't work tomorrow I think it might be time to have a play.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2015, 03:22:36 PM
My APM arrived today! Will have to do some reading tonight.
Chris, you said something about a wiring diagram for the minim OSD to ensure magic smoke does not escape.
When setting the apm up can it get power from the USB port or do I need to power through the power module?
If I don't work tomorrow I think it might be time to have a play.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

APM can be powered by the USB and GPS as well. If you run the motor test, you must connect the flight battery. Only applicable for firmware 3.1.5 as 3.2 firmware you can't do motor test anymore.

minimOSD wiring instructions can be found here.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/common-minim-osd-quick-installation-guide/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/common-minim-osd-quick-installation-guide/)

but there are other ways of doing this as well. I only run the video cable only to and from the minimOSD and power the whole board using 5 volts and the video transmitter and camera share a common filtered power supply.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on January 05, 2015, 03:37:12 PM
What TX's are people using ? I finished off my Taranis Plus build a month ago and now an learning to programme it all up ;D Will have to post a pic up as it's very sexy 8)

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 05:47:10 PM
My APM arrived today! Will have to do some reading tonight.
Chris, you said something about a wiring diagram for the minim OSD to ensure magic smoke does not escape.
When setting the apm up can it get power from the USB port or do I need to power through the power module?
If I don't work tomorrow I think it might be time to have a play.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy


Hi Crispy,

I have converted the minimOSD to 5V so you solder the pads on both sides.

Here is the diagram I use:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/04/49a573f6ecd9af950aa3aa22d3cb93e6.jpg)
Diagrams voltage tolerance for the camera should be 7V to 15V.  I also use a 5V camera on my Tri and have a UBEC mounted between the camera and the power supply.

This is the wiring harness I use, JR servo female connect to the battery (3s) and to the camera, the normal JR servo connectors connect to the minim.  Note that no + wires are connected on the analogue side of the minimOSD:

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/04/aa0c2af4c5a132cc5b0e5707048c4753.jpg)

If you have any questions feel free to ask.

You can connect the APM from either of them, avoid doing both at the same time though.  I think the older versions had an issue where it took out the voltage regulator havent been game enough to try it on a newer board :-)  I rarely connect via the USB port, only really for logs, otherwise I plug a battery in and use the telemetry link.

I also recommend taking your time with the APM, it is straight forward just make sure you follow all the steps and dont skip any even it seems like it will get you in the air sooner.  Highly recommend that you dont disable any of the PreArm checks, if there is an issue then work through it, they are there for a good reason.

Only one I monkey with is the GPS HDOP check, I've changed it to 350 on the Mini Quad as it's GPS seems to be less sensitive than my others.  I will likely change it back once I've remounted everything (and switched to a slightly bigger GPS unit).  My Tricopter I have done the reverse I have it's HDOP set to 160 (so 1.6) so I have to have a bloody good position lock to arm.  I think the default is 250 (so HDOP of 2.5) which is pretty good.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 05:53:18 PM
Getting into calibrate mode seems to be quite difficult for the Emax 4in1 . I did the QBrain in no time at all . So unless I  can successfully work out the Chinglish how to then this ESC will stay on the testing tower . Once my new Tx battery gets here I will try a calibration with the Radiolink. I think its about time I took the Phantom out for a fly.

Hi,

Given what Mark said, I'd suggest you run the thrust tester via a receiver to be sure you aren't sending a really high PWM.  If your servo tester has a way of displaying what the output is then just keep within 900-2100 and you should be fine if you can get it into calibrate mode.

Hope you had fun flying today, I did 30 mins before pulling apart the MiniQuad to fit the MiniAPM (still working on it).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 05:55:22 PM
What TX's are people using ? I finished off my Taranis Plus build a month ago and now an learning to programme it all up ;D Will have to post a pic up as it's very sexy 8)

yogi

Hi Yogi,

I'm using the Turnigy 9XR, I also have a 9X.

I have a 36Mhz Futaba but I havent used it in 15+ years.....

I'm sure it is very sexy.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2015, 06:36:09 PM
This method works as well. Pity you didn't post your question before lunch. I have just finished wiring up the X-mode alien telemetry/FPV camera. I could have got a photo of my wiring harness. I use shielded cable on the video in/out links. The shielding is joined between the two video cables and connected to the negative side of the power supply after the capacitor.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 06:55:29 PM
This method works as well. Pity you didn't post your question before lunch. I have just finished wiring up the X-mode alien telemetry/FPV camera. I could have got a photo of my wiring harness. I use shielded cable on the video in/out links. The shielding is joined between the two video cables and connected to the negative side of the power supply after the capacitor.

Agree it will work, but I like to tie in the GND wires to be sure.  If you remember earlier I killed a board because the GND's from two different battery's were slightly different. This was before I did the 5V conversion though....  What you dont have a spare of your harness :-) That pic is of my spare harness.

Benefit of what I had earlier is that you can use two different batteries and the GND's will be bonded together.  I may do this again on the tricopter.

I'm also yet to face any major interference on the video line from any of the other electronics and I use unshielded wire.  Only time I get the fuzzies, is when I dont have LOS of the model, so it's more a radio link issue than a video quality issue.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2015, 07:09:34 PM
Spare harness, you've got too much bloody time on your hands. LOL.

I tend to over engineer, which has a tendency to cause things like building quadcopters to take forever.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 05, 2015, 07:14:18 PM
Hi,

Given what Mark said, I'd suggest you run the thrust tester via a receiver to be sure you aren't sending a really high PWM.  If your servo tester has a way of displaying what the output is then just keep within 900-2100 and you should be fine if you can get it into calibrate mode.

Hope you had fun flying today, I did 30 mins before pulling apart the MiniQuad to fit the MiniAPM (still working on it).

Chris

No fly day AGAIN !!!!! Grrrr --- MIL is here and I am the designated driver to take them to the shops ....

Managed to smash my shed window today - door got pushed by some wind and I had left the keys in the lock and the key went through the glass !!! Went to Bunnings and got Acrylic sheet - fitted that - looks good $52 ... O'Brien wanted $261 to supply and fit a 57 x 84 cm glass pane !!! 
At least my Quad hangar / shed is secure again ... LOL ..
Did manage to get the Alien off the deck under restraint but its still not going up straight - leans to Port a bit - so I am still not balanced in the ESC department .. 1045 props got me off the ground which is an achievement ... Now i have to learn how to calibrate / balance the ESC and motors ... Then I can have a go untethered ....

One little concern is the LED seems to go into rapid red blink fairly quickly which in Naza speak is low voltage warning -- I think I might have a bad solder joint in the main power cables - Do you think that could be why ?? Battery voltage at 11.9 and low voltage warning is set for 10.8 volts ... So I'm losing a volt between battery and Naza - dodgy solder joint ??
Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 07:47:58 PM
No fly day AGAIN !!!!! Grrrr --- MIL is here and I am the designated driver to take them to the shops ....

Managed to smash my shed window today - door got pushed by some wind and I had left the keys in the lock and the key went through the glass !!! Went to Bunnings and got Acrylic sheet - fitted that - looks good $52 ... O'Brien wanted $261 to supply and fit a 57 x 84 cm glass pane !!! 
At least my Quad hangar / shed is secure again ... LOL ..
Did manage to get the Alien off the deck under restraint but its still not going up straight - leans to Port a bit - so I am still not balanced in the ESC department .. 1045 props got me off the ground which is an achievement ... Now i have to learn how to calibrate / balance the ESC and motors ... Then I can have a go untethered ....

One little concern is the LED seems to go into rapid red blink fairly quickly which in Naza speak is low voltage warning -- I think I might have a bad solder joint in the main power cables - Do you think that could be why ?? Battery voltage at 11.9 and low voltage warning is set for 10.8 volts ... So I'm losing a volt between battery and Naza - dodgy solder joint ??
Cheers
Steve

Hi Steve,

That sounds like a crap day.....  Glass is crazy expensive these days.  Good solution to the problem, hopefully the week gets better.

I'd be looking at all the solder joints on your main harness.  I don't know much about the DJI products but I take it you are using the VU? And it is reporting the low voltage?  I assume that reading is powered up and at rest?  If that is the case a 1V drop over such a small distance is not good, it will only get worse as the current increases.

If it's while under power (while pulling lots of amps) then I wouldn't be so concerned, as I draw 30 amps on the Mini Quad I drop around .6 to 1V.  I land when the battery is down to 10.5 but it bounces back to 11.3 within a few seconds.

I'd check all solder joints before the VU.  If possible can you wack a multimeter on the input to the VU?

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2015, 08:11:11 PM
What battery are you using Steve? People on rcgroups are reporting serious voltage sag when under load on the zippy compact batteries and losing volts very quickly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 05, 2015, 08:22:09 PM
It seems to happen on them all - Original DJI 2200 , 2500 , 2700 and the 4500 ... I'd say its probably one of my crappy solder joins ... I'll rewire the main power and use bullet connectors if and where necessary ...
Can't really explain the red blinky LED otherwise - I have a battery voltage display/alarm on the leg and it shows 11.9 and the Naza is blinking red which means the Naza is seeing 10.8 or less ..
MIL goes home tomorrow so I can get stuck into all sorts of things from Wednesday on ... happy happy happy dance ...
Got my FPV camera tilt/pan doohicky today as well so I'll want to play with it - which means I'll have to get the Radiolink 10 channel job up and running ...
So much to do ... LOL.

I think this is starting out to be a year of potential ripoffs --
1 - Wife's watch new battery was quoted $39.90 !!
2 - Went to Isuzu to check swapover price for a Mux .. $47900 was price quoted - They would accept my Dmax and $20000 as a swap ..
3 - The shed glass $261 to supply and fit $10 worth of chinese float glass ...

That's 3 so maybe its over now ??? LOL

Back to Quadcoptering now sorry bitch over ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 05, 2015, 08:48:44 PM
Well I have had some time to play.
So far I can't calibrate my ESC I have managed to get into ESC cal mode, to the TX calibration but every time I plug in the ESCs just emit a constant short tone. I need to connect my telemetry set so I can do settings as the GPS and compass needs to be calibrated and I cant do that with the usb plugged in as it is on the lid of my container. With the lid on I cant get to the usb port.
The GPS did show where I am on MP so something is working.
I had to put it all away as I was getting frustrated with it (and so was my wife with the beeping)
I also wanted to set up my Turgigy X9 and get the f mode switch to operate on ch 5 but cant seem to do that.
More reading for me! More internet, youtube and forum pages.
At least there has been no magic smoke (yet)
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 05, 2015, 09:45:02 PM
every time I plug in the ESCs just emit a constant short tone
That suggests the ESC is not connected to the receiver correctly. Is the receiver powered on correctly?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 09:50:56 PM
That suggests the ESC is not connected to the receiver correctly. Is the receiver powered on correctly?

Hi Crispy,

Are the ESC's plugged into the receiver or into the APM?

If they are in the APM try doing the calibration through it but not all ESC's like it, if they dont seem to switch to a direct connection via the receiver.

I was lucky with my tricopter they seemed to like it.  There are benefits to doing it through the APM in that all will receive the same reading, as where through the receiver there must be some minor differences.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 05, 2015, 10:40:28 PM
Mini Quad V2 is now complete, ready for flight testing!!!

Key changes from V1:

- Removed full sized APM and replaced with Mini APM (hopefully it wont have the same issues with the baro - looks like I need to erase the EEPROM on the fullsize to fix that issue).
- Removed Action Cam and replaced with Mobius Camera (will loose a bit of video quality but will gain in much less wind resistance)
- Moved the Vtx to inside the frame


It now only has the battery below, the GPS receiver, the Mobius and the Vtx antenna outside of the frame.  So it should be resilient in the event of a crash.  Having said that V1 was pretty good I had a number of high speed low alt roll overs and it was pretty good.

It should also be about 50g lighter.

Can't test it till tomorrow afternoon as I'm off to be assessed for 4WDing and that is if I get back in time.

One minor fix / change is the GPS receiver isnt covered in heatshrink for protection.  I didnt have any that fitted, I will be investing in some soon.

Pics:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/05/060d86f9bdde433458f70bc0d9f69b25.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/05/797c7723d4b7531043efafecc77d009b.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/05/d09694221ae38dbef9d46e76f8418729.jpg)
Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 06, 2015, 05:10:07 AM
Back to work today after the Christmas break.

I have just finished a marathon quad copter build fortnight. I didn't get as much done as I wanted, but I completed the Alien560 and the X-mode Alien.

I finished the X-mode Alien last night, minus a few screws and cable ties. I just have to calibrate and tune, then fly. This is the second of the two Hobbyking pan-tilt servo gimbals that I have pinched the parts from to make a tilt gimbal. I have replaced the fibreglass frame with an aluminium one for tilt only and hooked the servo up to the APM so it tilts automatically.

Those Elites look sweet Chris.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 06, 2015, 06:44:12 AM
I'm also yet to face any major interference on the video line from any of the other electronics and I use unshielded wire.
I have a drawer full of surplus cables, including single channel shielded RCA cables. So, my philosophy is, if you've got 'em, use 'em.

I never throw wire out, it's too expensive to throw in the bin and always comes in handy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 06, 2015, 11:20:43 AM
I am trying to calibrate using the apm. I wondered if i had the rx not connected correctly but all the slides moved the way they should in Mission planner. I may have to fry an individual setup.  The end points were in excess of 1000 so should be good.
But working today and tomorrow so i will have to wait till later in the week.  Storms are coming in the weekend so might be busy with the SES.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 06, 2015, 11:43:43 AM
I am trying to calibrate using the apm. I wondered if i had the rx not connected correctly but all the slides moved the way they should in Mission planner. I may have to fry an individual setup.  The end points were in excess of 1000 so should be good.
But working today and tomorrow so i will have to wait till later in the week.  Storms are coming in the weekend so might be busy with the SES.
Regards
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

If your bottom end point is above 1000 or is your upper above 1000?  Either way that is not good.  A low PWM signal will be around 990 and below, an uppper PWM signal is around 2000.

The ESC's will need to see a signal closer to the 2000 to enter into the calibrate mode.

Best to try them individually first then but you'll need to get the PWM signal more towards that 2000.  I hope you meant try and not fry :-)

Your another one of us orange people :-)  I hear good things about VIC SES.  Its been constant up here was out on a crane job till 4am the other night, almost got pulled into a job at another unit today after my 4WD assessment.  I passed my the assessment this morning (been doing it for years just never got around to the assessment till today...)  Way different doing it in a service vehicle to mine, so much more ground clearance on mine, mine stops so much more easily, mine has a lower CG, etc.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 06, 2015, 11:48:37 AM
I have a drawer full of surplus cables, including single channel shielded RCA cables. So, my philosophy is, if you've got 'em, use 'em.

I never throw wire out, it's too expensive to throw in the bin and always comes in handy.

Hi Mark,

If you've got it then it sounds good.  Looks like my wires bit box, I have a bunch of the stuff too :-).  I did have to throw some out as my wife was looking at me like I'm crazy when I started a 3rd box, so I decided best to keep her happy  >:(.  She doesn't know about the 2nd box, it's the one that magically has whatever cable she needs......    :angel:  She doesn't know about the draw with all the nice silicon stuff I've now acquired.....  8)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 06, 2015, 11:57:46 AM
Back to work today after the Christmas break.

I have just finished a marathon quad copter build fortnight. I didn't get as much done as I wanted, but I completed the Alien560 and the X-mode Alien.

I finished the X-mode Alien last night, minus a few screws and cable ties. I just have to calibrate and tune, then fly. This is the second of the two Hobbyking pan-tilt servo gimbals that I have pinched the parts from to make a tilt gimbal. I have replaced the fibreglass frame with an aluminium one for tilt only and hooked the servo up to the APM so it tilts automatically.

Those Elites look sweet Chris.

Hi,

Yep those elites do look nice on the frame  ;D

The tilt gimbal looks good.  You'll get to see more sky from now on.  Thinking of doing the same on my Tri, the mini Quad will keep it fixed.

You used the sides of the kit but changed the board it mounts to?  I bought some standoffs so that I can mount the camera to the board.

Funny thing is I have two of those tilt kits too.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 06, 2015, 12:03:21 PM
Hi,

Yep those elites do look nice on the frame  ;D

The tilt gimbal looks good.  You'll get to see more sky from now on.  Thinking of doing the same on my Tri, the mini Quad will keep it fixed.

You used the sides of the kit but changed the board it mounts to?  I bought some standoffs so that I can mount the camera to the board.

Funny thing is I have two of those tilt kits too.

Chris
I didn't use the board that came with the pan-tilt kit, I made my own out of PCB board and removed the copper. Yep, just the fibreglass has been swapped over for aluminium and haven't bothered with pan.

Because I had no choice with this frame but to set the tilt gimbal back so far, I've adjusted the limits of the servo in Mission planner so the servo goes no lower than 1500 which is pretty well level. Otherwise I just get a really good view of the top plate. Gotta love Mission Planner, so well thought out.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2015, 07:31:51 AM
Well an update.
Got the ESC cal done but not with the apm.
Checked the end points and they are 1050 to 1850 about.
Cant arm the fc. Cant figure out the compass cal and to top it all off the cables that came with the telemetry is a 6 pin to 6 pin so cant plug it in to the fc. Will contact hk later today and see if they will send me a cable that is correct.
Does anyone have Skype for a phone s friend if needed?
Does anyne have a spare telemetry cable incase i cant get one from hk?
Still no magic smoke!
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 07:58:17 AM
Cant figure out the compass cal
Hold the quad level, roll it in a complete circle through 360 degrees, then pitch it through a complete circle 360 degrees.
Hold the quad nose up, roll it through 360 degrees, then pitch it through 360 degrees.

Takes about 20 seconds.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 08:03:02 AM
Does anyne have a spare telemetry cable incase i cant get one from hk?
Yep, I have an APM to minimOSD cable. Plus an APM to telemetry radio cable. In fact I have two of each of the little buggers.

If you need a set, pm me your address and I'll send a set in the post.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 08:19:23 AM
The reason the motors wont arm is by default, the configuration parameters indicate that there is a compass. If the compass is not calibrated, or the GPS does not have lock, the failsafe settings will not allow the quad to arm.

If you want to bypass the failsafe, connect the quad via USB to your PC, open mission planner, connect, then go to the CONFIG/TUNING page. Click on the 'Full Parameter List', then change the value in 'ARMING_CHECK' to '0' (zero), then click on the 'Write Params' button on the right hand side of the screen. This will allow you to at least check that you can arm your quad by moving the throttle stick to bottom right, bottom left to disarm.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 08:36:47 AM
I made a simple jig for getting the centre of gravity sorted out. The quad just teeter totters on two blocks of MDF. I move the battery backward and forward until I am happy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 01:37:40 PM
Well an update.
Got the ESC cal done but not with the apm.
Checked the end points and they are 1050 to 1850 about.
Cant arm the fc. Cant figure out the compass cal and to top it all off the cables that came with the telemetry is a 6 pin to 6 pin so cant plug it in to the fc. Will contact hk later today and see if they will send me a cable that is correct.
Does anyone have Skype for a phone s friend if needed?
Does anyne have a spare telemetry cable incase i cant get one from hk?
Still no magic smoke!
Regards
Crispy

Hi,

You can modify the cable, on one of my cables was for the pixhawk (which is what yours is likely to be).  Check your box it might have both sets of cables.  I popped one cable and then put it in the right spot and trimmed off the end.  It will fit in the spot, or you can wait for the cable from HK or Marschy.

If you need help just PM me and I'll dig out my skype id for you.

Just be careful if you do the disable arming checks, I'd recommend only do that if you have the props off.  Also be aware that when you switch it back on it will require a power cycle to reread the value.  Odd that it takes effect immediately when I turn arm check off but to turn it back on it takes a power cycle.  I have on rare occasions turned the arming checks off with props on but that is for indoor tests with it tethered for the power module current calibration.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 01:40:42 PM
The reason the motors wont arm is by default, the configuration parameters indicate that there is a compass. If the compass is not calibrated, or the GPS does not have lock, the failsafe settings will not allow the quad to arm.

If you want to bypass the failsafe, connect the quad via USB to your PC, open mission planner, connect, then go to the CONFIG/TUNING page. Click on the 'Full Parameter List', then change the value in 'ARMING_CHECK' to '0' (zero), then click on the 'Write Params' button on the right hand side of the screen. This will allow you to at least check that you can arm your quad by moving the throttle stick to bottom right, bottom left to disarm.

Hi Crispy,

It shouldn't take long to sort out the issues (on AC3.2 the compass cal takes next to no time and can be done connected to via the USB), I recommend that you try to fix the issues, just that if you miss any of these when you go to fly you'll have a bad day.  I know it's tough but best to work through them, cant recommend that enough.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 01:42:23 PM
I think it was the telemetry kit that came with all the extra cables. Needless to say, but I'm keeping one set myself as a spare.

Strange that you didn't have to do all the calibrations when you loaded the firmware Crispy!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2015, 07:08:49 PM
I had to do the calibrations when I loaded the firmware but could skip the compass one.
The cables I have are 6 pin with the white plugs on each end. One needs to be a 6 pin and the other end a 5 pin.
If I knew the configuration of the pins I could modify the plug to get it connected.
They can with the HK AMP master kit so I thought it should have fitted.
Not doing anything tonight on them and working again tomorrow.
There are lots of wires to make tidy. I am using my scratch built quad at this stage and plan to get a new frame at some stage.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 07:13:12 PM
I had to do the calibrations when I loaded the firmware but could skip the compass one.
The cables I have are 6 pin with the white plugs on each end. One needs to be a 6 pin and the other end a 5 pin.
If I knew the configuration of the pins I could modify the plug to get it connected.
They can with the HK AMP master kit so I thought it should have fitted.
Not doing anything tonight on them and working again tomorrow.
There are lots of wires to make tidy. I am using my scratch built quad at this stage and plan to get a new frame at some stage.
Regards
Crispy
Hello Crispy,

Please confirm that you have a 6 pin and a 5 pin. The cables for my APM are 5 pin into the APM and 4 pin into the telemetry radio. It's not a problem though, I can make up a suitable cable for you.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 07:28:10 PM
I've had a Eureka moment with the sonar.

1) When it is enabled (RNGFND_PIN = 0) sit it on the ground. Go into 'Initial Setup', 'Optional Hardware', 'Sonar' and record the average voltage that gets displayed while it is sitting on the ground. With my Maxbotics LV-EZ04 it is consistently around 0.04-0.05 volts.

2) Go into 'Config/Tuning', 'Full Parameter Tree', 'RNGFND', and change the 'RNGFND_OFFSET' value to the opposite of the voltage recorded above. i.e. if you recorded 0.05, then set the value to -0.05.

3) Tether the quad a metre or so above the ground and get a reasonably accurate measurement of the height.

4) Go back into 'Initial Setup', 'Optional Hardware', 'Sonar' and record the voltage that displays when the altitude displays close to your measured altitude (flickers around a bit).

5) Calculate the scaling using this formula

(measured voltage from step 4 - RNGFND_OFFSET) / measured height

6) Record the value in the RNGFND_SCALING value and compare the measured altitude with the calculated altitude displayed in the 'Initial Setup', 'Optional Hardware', 'Sonar' screen

My altitude is within 20mm at all heights, how good is that?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 07:36:35 PM
I had to do the calibrations when I loaded the firmware but could skip the compass one.
The cables I have are 6 pin with the white plugs on each end. One needs to be a 6 pin and the other end a 5 pin.
If I knew the configuration of the pins I could modify the plug to get it connected.
They can with the HK AMP master kit so I thought it should have fitted.
Not doing anything tonight on them and working again tomorrow.
There are lots of wires to make tidy. I am using my scratch built quad at this stage and plan to get a new frame at some stage.
Regards
Crispy
Hello Crispy, I'm pretty sure the APM 2.7 Telemetry socket is 5 pin, but only 4 cables get connected, same as the APM 2.6, but I need you to confirm that and the telemetry radio number of pins in each socket.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2015, 07:37:03 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/7e223fe11bbd1c4ff583a797b8627f43.jpg)(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/27cc605b6ae6cf2f3b7401be4e4da354.jpg)(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/7879a2a8845f98c028606f994e051969.jpg)
The apm is 5 pin and the radio is 6pin as you can see in the photos
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 07:39:06 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/7e223fe11bbd1c4ff583a797b8627f43.jpg)(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/27cc605b6ae6cf2f3b7401be4e4da354.jpg)(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/7879a2a8845f98c028606f994e051969.jpg)
The apm is 5 pin and the radio is 6pin as you can see in the photos
Regards
Crispy

Crikey, I just noticed your telemetry radio is 433 MHz, you need a license to operate that radio in Oz. You need to get a 915MHz telemetry radio.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2015, 07:50:39 PM
Bugger.
Is this the cable i should be using between telemerty port and radio and mimun osd? It has a 5 p 6 p and mimnu connection.(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/74bfe40a8ba7c9be0b12bcece32a3e8d.jpg)

Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 07:52:17 PM
Bugger.
Is this the cable i should be using between telemerty port and radio and mimun osd? It has a 5 p 6 p and mimnu connection.(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/74bfe40a8ba7c9be0b12bcece32a3e8d.jpg)

Crispy

Hey Hey, that's the little bugger you're after. Phew, no cable making tonight.

You only need to confirm that 5V, GND and TX are common between the servo type plug and where it connects into the minimOSD and the Telemetry radio. 5V, GND, TX and RX should be easy to work out on the telemetry radio because it's marked on the case.

The 5 pin plug should have 4 wires going to it which will be 5V, GND, TX and RX, but I don't know without pulling my top plate off my quad which is RX or TX. GND is the closest connection to the edge of the APM board, 5V is the connection on the opposite end of the APM plug from GND. There should be a blank pin between GND and the RX or TX pin. If this is how the APM plug is configured, I reckon you'll be right to go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 07, 2015, 08:01:47 PM
Sorry to interrupt .. Banggood just emailed this little unit ... Any comments ??
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Tarot-Mini-250-QAV-Carbon-Fiber-Multcopter-TL250A-for-FPV-Photography/32248366154.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Tarot-Mini-250-QAV-Carbon-Fiber-Multcopter-TL250A-for-FPV-Photography/32248366154.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 07, 2015, 08:10:41 PM
Just emailed ACMA regarding frequency allocations.
Should find out in a couple of days.
Thanks for your help guys.
Regards
Crispy
PS Chris. Yes an orange person with 25 years service and considering I am 46 now it is over half my life. I do everything from Road Rescue, Storm, Boats, Alpine Search even a little vertical work in the past. A team I was in competed in the international road rescue comp and ended up with a 3rd place. Not bad for a bunch of volunteers up against professionals.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 08:12:05 PM
Sorry to interrupt .. Banggood just emailed this little unit ... Any comments ??
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Tarot-Mini-250-QAV-Carbon-Fiber-Multcopter-TL250A-for-FPV-Photography/32248366154.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Tarot-Mini-250-QAV-Carbon-Fiber-Multcopter-TL250A-for-FPV-Photography/32248366154.html)

The only issue I see is that some of the hardware will need to be mounted on the top plate. Given the propensity for crashing these mini-quads, that's not a good thing.

Check out the ZMR250 on Aliexpress, and also look at how popular they are on RCGroups. The thread gets close to 20-50 posts per day, it's nuts.

Here is a link to the one I bought, which is a ZMR250 in all but name.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 08:44:28 PM
If you have to buy new telemetry Crispy, and your not in a hurry, then consider one of these.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/3DRobotics-3DR-Radio-Telemetry-Kit-915Mhz-433Mhz-868Mhz-for-APM-2-5-2-52-2-6/1966908411.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/3DRobotics-3DR-Radio-Telemetry-Kit-915Mhz-433Mhz-868Mhz-for-APM-2-5-2-52-2-6/1966908411.html)

I use the same one and they work fine. Nearly half the price of the Hobbyking variety with free shipping, so if you take into account shipping from Hobbyking, probably is half the cost.

I tend to punish myself when I stuff up and when I buy a replacement it is always the cheapest I can find with free shipping. Now that Christmas is over, it should only take 2-3 weeks to deliver.

Telemetry is usually the last thing you sort out when building anyway, so by the time you get the flight controller and ESC's and motors sorted, it'll be in your mailbox.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 08:55:00 PM
Just a heads up. I don't know if it happens with the hobbyking telemetry radio, but the ones I have cause servos that are controlled by the APM to flutter and twitch.

I took preventative measures with my Reptile-Aphid and promptly forgot to do it with my X-mode Alien, so that's what I've been up to today.

Its a simple problem to fix. You wrap the telemetry cables (like in your picture, the 3 way cable) with aluminium alfoil, then wrap the cable and foil with spiral wrap to hold the foil in place, effectively making a shielded cable. You also wrap the actual air module in glad wrap, then wrap it as well in alfoil before putting the case on. The glad wrap is so the alfoil doesn't short out on anything on the 3DR telemetry radio. The problem then goes away almost completely.

Without this modification, my tilt gimbal servo twitches more than I do when I haven't taken my Parkinson's Disease medication.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 09:02:54 PM
Just emailed ACMA regarding frequency allocations.
Should find out in a couple of days.
Thanks for your help guys.
Regards
Crispy
PS Chris. Yes an orange person with 25 years service and considering I am 46 now it is over half my life. I do everything from Road Rescue, Storm, Boats, Alpine Search even a little vertical work in the past. A team I was in competed in the international road rescue comp and ended up with a 3rd place. Not bad for a bunch of volunteers up against professionals.

Hi Crispy,

I can confirm you'll need a foundation class license at a minimum to run on the 433Mhz range and you will need to wind down the output to a certain output as well.  Be aware my HK harness was incorrect, I had to swap over several pins, just use a small screwdriver and pop them out and put them in the right spot (+5 to +5, GND to GND, Tx to Rx and Rx to Tx).  If I recall I had to do this on the 5p connector and the 6p connector for the telemetry radio (I think the +5 line was in the wrong spot from memory).

Only 11 years in myself, mainly storm, flood rescue tech (L3), floodboat, made it to state rescue comp, currently a TL at a unit and my regions Deputy RLDO (vol).  Definitely keeps me active, I think I'll be tackling tree felling this year, at this stage I'm pacing myself otherwise I'll run out of new things to do :-)  Definitely keeps me active and busy.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 09:09:40 PM
Just a heads up. I don't know if it happens with the hobbyking telemetry radio, but the ones I have cause servos that are controlled by the APM to flutter and twitch.

I took preventative measures with my Reptile-Aphid and promptly forgot to do it with my X-mode Alien, so that's what I've been up to today.

Its a simple problem to fix. You wrap the telemetry cables (like in your picture, the 3 way cable) with aluminium alfoil, then wrap the cable and foil with spiral wrap to hold the foil in place, effectively making a shielded cable. You also wrap the actual air module in glad wrap, then wrap it as well in alfoil before putting the case on. The glad wrap is so the alfoil doesn't short out on anything on the 3DR telemetry radio. The problem then goes away almost completely.

Without this modification, my tilt gimbal servo twitches more than I do when I haven't taken my Parkinson's Disease medication.

Ummm, nope I dont get this issue on mine.  I have 2 sets of the HK telemetry 915Mhz radios.  I would notice it on the tricopter as it's yaw is controlled by a servo.  Sounds like it's not very well shielded at all, I wonder if the input wires are carrying some rf noise?  That's not good.

I'm thinking if you had an RF scanner it wouldn't look pretty.

I do have some jitter but this only started after I did an auto tune as I stopped it before it finished and it is a consistent sway and over correct.  I'll be retuning this week if the weather plays ball.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 09:12:59 PM
Ummm, nope I dont get this issue on mine.  I have 2 sets of the HK telemetry 915Mhz radios.  I would notice it on the tricopter as it's yaw is controlled by a servo.  Sounds like it's not very well shielded at all, I wonder if the input wires are carrying some rf noise?  That's not good.

I'm thinking if you had an RF scanner it wouldn't look pretty.

I do have some jitter but this only started after I did an auto tune as I stopped it before it finished and it is a consistent sway and over correct.  I'll be retuning this week if the weather plays ball.

Chris
The problem is well documented with the old version of the telemetry radios. So they must have addressed the problem with the new interchangeable air/ground modules.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 09:19:40 PM
The only issue I see is that some of the hardware will need to be mounted on the top plate. Given the propensity for crashing these mini-quads, that's not a good thing.

Check out the ZMR250 on Aliexpress, and also look at how popular they are on RCGroups. The thread gets close to 20-50 posts per day, it's nuts.

Here is a link to the one I bought, which is a ZMR250 in all but name.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Blackout-QAV250-Carbon-Fiber-Mini-250-FPV-Quadcopter-Frame-Unassembled/2004383973.html)


Hi,

I agree with Marschy on this one, with having to mount so much stuff to the top plate I think you'll break something.  My mini quad has had several tumbles where it has ended on it's top.  The big one on to the road took out a GPS receiver, the others on grass have resulted in nothing more than my FPV antenna being bend slightly.

I've got two of the QAV kits (so I had some spares) - note that one standoff was badly milled so I had to pull from the spares straight away.  Note that it will be tight, I'm still using my HK frame because it's roughly 15% bigger (although the QAV250 has larger spaced motor mounts).

I'd recommend going for the QAV kit to give yourself some protection from tumbles.  Also ensure that you invest in a L connector for your FPV Tx or get a flexible cable.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 10:05:38 PM
Well today I didn't get to fly as hoped. I did however get to calibrate both my HK and one of my non HK Power Modules.  Both only needed minor updating for voltage, the current however was a different story.  I used a Watt Meter I had laying around (was going to be my output meter on my trailer but I now only have a low draw since the fridge is in the Prado it was surplus to my needs).  Note all this was done with a tether to avoid any fly offs indoors.

The Tricopter using the HK PM was almost spot on, only needed minor changes.  It was about 5% to high, I almost left it as a safety factor but thought I should have it correct.

The non HK Power Module on the quad was useless.  The current was way out, I was drawing 8 amps the PM was reporting 15 amps.  No wonder my quad was reporting 1800mah used in 7-8 mins.  It looks much better now, reports the right values at load (above 3+ amps), at rest it is reporting 0.3 amps when it's drawing 0.6 amps.  I will retest tomorrow that its calibrated correctly, should now get around 11-12 mins which is around what I was planning.  Means that I can finally test out the smaller 1300mah battery to see if the lighter load will give me something decent.

Note that when testing the current you need to induce around a 10 amp load.  For the mini quad this was very hard to do when 10 amps will get me bouncing around on the ground - had to settle for 8 amps with some minor movement.

Also found my IXUS 115HS and I've loaded CHDK onto it.  I've not found my battery charger yet, I ordered a replacement on ebay, so should be here in less than a week.  Hopefully my 3 partially charged batteries will keep me going till it arrives or I find my old charger.  Will now need to wire up a harness to control it via the APM, then I can try my hand at aerial mapping as well.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 10:09:33 PM
Note that when testing the current you need to induce around a 10 amp load.  For the mini quad this was very hard to do when 10 amps will get me bouncing around on the ground - had to settle for 8 amps with some minor movement.
Good to know, so you are setting the module to 'Other' and recording the voltage under load as well I presume?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 07, 2015, 10:15:18 PM
Aw Chris, who is gunna buy one first.

(http://cdn.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/68596.jpg)(http://cdn.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/68596s9(1).jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__68596__Quanum_Trifecta_Mini_Foldable_Tricopter_Frame_KIT_.html)

Edit: Me, just ordered one.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 11:07:52 PM
Good to know, so you are setting the module to 'Other' and recording the voltage under load as well I presume?

That is right I set it to other, I did the voltage under running levels (0.6A) and the current under heavier load (8A for the mini and 10A for the tri).

I think if you do the voltage under heavy load you'll get some odd figures.  Only thing I found to running it under heavy load was for the current calibration.  Will look a bit harder, hope I dont have to do the V under load otherwise I'll have to set up the tether again....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 07, 2015, 11:09:40 PM
Aw Chris, who is gunna buy one first.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__68596__Quanum_Trifecta_Mini_Foldable_Tricopter_Frame_KIT_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__68596__Quanum_Trifecta_Mini_Foldable_Tricopter_Frame_KIT_.html)

Edit: Me, just ordered one.


LOL, I think I've got to focus on learning to fly the mini quad and all the mods for the tricopter.  Have you tried the drift mode in AC3.2?

You could try some of the elites on that thing :-)  Keep us posted on how it flys.

Edit: Bloody hell that is cool, just fold it up and it's only 15cm long, holy crap that is small!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 05:23:56 AM
LOL, I think I've got to focus on learning to fly the mini quad and all the mods for the tricopter.  Have you tried the drift mode in AC3.2?

You could try some of the elites on that thing :-)  Keep us posted on how it flys.

Edit: Bloody hell that is cool, just fold it up and it's only 15cm long, holy crap that is small!

Chris
I'm going to switch my focus from the ZMR250 to this mini-tri then come back to the ZMR250 after that. So I'll use all the kit I have accumulated so far for the mini quad, which means Emax 2280kv motors, Blueseries 12A ESC's, Mini APM etc.

I'm heading up to my brother's this weekend, he has a large block, so I'll give drift mode a try then on the X-mode Alien frame.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 07:59:09 AM
All the remaining items arrived yesterday..FPV cam , OSD , 12mm lenses and replacement motor . Battery for Radiolink Tx...
Will finish off the Alien today ..Test it all tethered .. Then wait for a day at the park ...

Found an H250 frame and all needed bits for around USD 170 ( less motors and props which I have already ) - That will be my after Summer project ..

Now to go and fix the Alien !!

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 10:42:33 AM
Bloody Hell !! OSD don't work !!

Anyone know the difference between N-OSD and S-OSD ?? This thing is N-OSD and has a TTL / GPS switch set to GPS so I figure thats OK .. Just a black monitor when I hook it up no video feed at all ...

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 10:49:25 AM
Bloody Hell !! OSD don't work !!

Anyone know the difference between N-OSD and S-OSD ?? This thing is N-OSD and has a TTL / GPS switch set to GPS so I figure thats OK .. Just a black monitor when I hook it up no video feed at all ...

Cheers

Steve
Black monitor may indicate that a signal is being received from the video transmitter, but nothing is coming through from the camera itself. It may not be the OSD per say. I have just finished installing all the telemetry on the X-mode Alien and when this was happening to me, it was typically because the video cable from the camera had come loose from the connection on the minimOSD, and sometimes that my power supply cable where it plugs in, the connector for 12 volts or ground had popped out of the connector. When the camera wasn't hooked up correctly, the OSD information was not processed at all and passed through the minimOSD. You may want to get a multimeter out and check that you have continuity between the camera cabling to the OSD and from the video output from the OSD to the video input in to the video transmitter.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 10:53:03 AM
If I hook up the Video ins and outs together camera works fine .. plug into the OSD and black screen..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 11:00:17 AM
If I hook up the Video ins and outs together camera works fine .. plug into the OSD and black screen..
If you remove the video out cable from the OSD do you  get snow on your monitor?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 11:01:54 AM
Nup - just black screen..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 11:04:52 AM
Nup - just black screen..
Are you getting around 1 volt or less coming out of the OSD video out and ground connection?

Edit: I should add with the FPV camera connected and powered up.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 11:09:48 AM
Now you're getting technical .. LOL ... how do I measure that just multimeter across the pins ? ( WARNING - SMOKE HAZARD !! )
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 11:16:20 AM
Is this the Remzibi you are using
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 11:28:59 AM
Nup that's the last one I had . Smoked it !!! That S-OSD..
I'm buying another one of them this time as it worked really well until I crossed the wires.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 11:40:18 AM
So it's this one.

(http://www.goodluckbuy.com/images/detailed_images2/image/106503(1).jpg)

I reckon you should try eliminating other hardware. Unplug the GPS and EXP connectors, make sure the slider is in the GPS position. Make sure you have a good 12 volt supply to the bottom pins on the right hand side and GND to the top pin when the board is facing upwards and see if your video is working then.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 11:43:24 AM
Hmmmm !! I need 12 volt power do I ??? I thought it ran off the fc supply .. That explains why I don't have a signal eh !!!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 11:46:15 AM
Hmmmm !! I need 12 volt power do I ??? I thought it ran off the fc supply .. That explains why I don't have a signal eh !!!!

Lemme double check

The back of the board on Thanksbuyer seems to indicate 12V, but my eyesight is not the best. Is there an indication of voltage on the power connector like you can see here on the bottom left of this picture?

Edit: The picture above also indicates 'Power Supply 3S', so I think you need 12 volts.

(http://www.thanksbuyer.com/image/cache/data/sku-32498-4-600x600.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 08, 2015, 12:56:17 PM
Thanks mate !!!! Wouldn't have worked that out..Now to work out how to get English on the screen...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/a0ff27ecc2045339e8a31c63391b29a1.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 12:58:35 PM
Thanks mate !!!! Wouldn't have worked that out..Now to work out how to get English on the screen...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/07/a0ff27ecc2045339e8a31c63391b29a1.jpg)

Post # 10
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2257352 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2257352)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 08, 2015, 01:58:27 PM
Well my mini quad's diet has worked, its now a whole 574g without the battery.  Missed my chance to go flying this morning, now it's too hot so I'll leave it till tomorrow morning.

Another plus is in my clean up looking for the IXUS 115HS I also found an old canon A550, which also can run the CHDK.  Well that took about 15 mins and it's done, so now I have two cameras to play with for aerial mapping.  Good news is that this one takes AA so I can play with the CHDK without draining the other batteries in the IXUS 115.  Got confirmation my charger has shipped so should be here on Monday or Tuesday  ;D

I plan to work out a mount point on the Tricopter for the stabilised gimbal.  Damn it does a good job of holding position, cant wait to get it mounted and try it out.  Unlikely to be this week at this rate but next week I think I'll be ready to take some stabilised footage  8).

Thanks Steve, I now also plan to build a thrust meter next week......

I'm thinking of building a home made prop balancer?  Has anyone built one, got some good plans to point me at?

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on January 08, 2015, 02:08:28 PM
Here you go https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=td5p2cmO-Yo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=td5p2cmO-Yo) Grandpa google to the rescue
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 08, 2015, 06:40:54 PM
Here is what I got from ACMA today


Thanks for your enquiry.

Please refer to the attached document LIPD.

If the frequency and the transmitting power of your device meets the specifications mentioned in the LIPD document, you can use it under class license category. Equipment using Class license frequencies doesn’t require to get a license from ACMA. They work under ‘No interference no protection” basis.

Please check with your equipment seller whether the device can operate on one of the listed frequencies within the limitations (power, type of transmitter, maximum EIRP) explained in LIPD.

Hope this information assists your query.

I have attached the PDF that they sent me.
Can anyone make out this? I think if the Tx is 25mW the frequency is OK.
Regards
Crispy

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 08, 2015, 08:29:48 PM
Here is what I got from ACMA today


Thanks for your enquiry.

Please refer to the attached document LIPD.

If the frequency and the transmitting power of your device meets the specifications mentioned in the LIPD document, you can use it under class license category. Equipment using Class license frequencies doesn’t require to get a license from ACMA. They work under ‘No interference no protection” basis.

Please check with your equipment seller whether the device can operate on one of the listed frequencies within the limitations (power, type of transmitter, maximum EIRP) explained in LIPD.

Hope this information assists your query.

I have attached the PDF that they sent me.
Can anyone make out this? I think if the Tx is 25mW the frequency is OK.
Regards
Crispy

I can see where the ISM 915Mhz frequency hoping 1 W provision is.  I can see there is a 25mW provision for 433 Mhz, I've looked at this exact document before and never noticed that......  I've always been looking for 915Mhz, and 2.4 Ghz.

Good new is that I think you are ok for 25mW (I'm not a lawyer though....), you'll need to turn it down to that level, you'll need to find out what Tx level that corresponds to in Mission Planner.

I get annoyed with government depts that cant answer a simple question, they don't want to be on the hook if they get it wrong.  Just like when I was looking at doing some renovations to the outside, they said here is the document and it's up to you to decide if they meet those provisions......  Sigh.  I even asked, since it's a retaining wall and if I measure this as x and that as y is it legal, "Sir you'll need to make that assessment, I'm not allowed to", what has the world come to.....  It was clear cut.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 08, 2015, 08:46:39 PM
I can see where the ISM 915Mhz frequency hoping 1 W provision is.  I can see there is a 25mW provision for 433 Mhz, I've looked at this exact document before and never noticed that......  I've always been looking for 915Mhz, and 2.4 Ghz.

Good new is that I think you are ok for 25mW (I'm not a lawyer though....), you'll need to turn it down to that level, you'll need to find out what Tx level that corresponds to in Mission Planner.

I get annoyed with government depts that cant answer a simple question, they don't want to be on the hook if they get it wrong.  Just like when I was looking at doing some renovations to the outside, they said here is the document and it's up to you to decide if they meet those provisions......  Sigh.  I even asked, since it's a retaining wall and if I measure this as x and that as y is it legal, "Sir you'll need to make that assessment, I'm not allowed to", what has the world come to.....  It was clear cut.....

Chris
I set the telemetry radios up (14 in mission planner) so all should be good. They communicate ok.
I have got another issue at the moment. My radio has stopped working with the APM. I have been playing with settings and stuff. I reound and made no difference. So I reset the radio to default settings and rebound it and it still is not working as it did in the past.
I am packing up now for the night as it is getting to me.
Time for a rest.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 08, 2015, 09:06:08 PM
I thought these transmitters were typically 100mW, I could be wrong though.

I made a thrust tester tonight. I just have to cut a piece of MDF out to screw it down onto.

I gave it a quick test though by just holding the rig down with one hand while I used the servo tester and camera with the other (risky, you bet).

It initially read 374 grams, but this quickly starts to drop at 100% throttle. This is the stand and the reading I got and the thrust chart. Maximum I should get with a 5030 carbon fibre prop is 380 grams, so I am extemely happy with the results so far using the plastic Gemfan prop.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 08, 2015, 10:17:12 PM
I thought these transmitters were typically 100mW, I could be wrong though.

I made a thrust tester tonight. I just have to cut a piece of MDF out to screw it down onto.

I gave it a quick test though by just holding the rig down with one hand while I used the servo tester and camera with the other (risky, you bet).

It initially read 374 grams, but this quickly starts to drop at 100% throttle. This is the stand and the reading I got and the thrust chart. Maximum I should get with a 5030 carbon fibre prop is 380 grams, so I am extemely happy with the results so far using the plastic Gemfan prop.

Hi,

They are 100 mW by default, that's at 100% tx power.  In APM on the 3DR radio section you can reduce the Tx power down as required to keep them legal.  He's set it to 14 which should be 25mW on the output.

Nice thrust meter, thats the type I'm planning on building too.  I will start on mine tomorrow or the weekend since everyone seems to be going gang busters.....

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 06:01:04 AM
Hi,

They are 100 mW by default, that's at 100% tx power.  In APM on the 3DR radio section you can reduce the Tx power down as required to keep them legal.  He's set it to 14 which should be 25mW on the output.

Nice thrust meter, thats the type I'm planning on building too.  I will start on mine tomorrow or the weekend since everyone seems to be going gang busters.....

Chris
Did not know that, a good day is when you learn something new.

I should be able to swing upto a 16 inch prop on this rig. Gotta buy me some more flange bearings. I pinched the ones off the ZMR tilt gimbal.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 12:40:44 PM
So here it is. It is a bit agricultural but it flys. I figured out the compass calibration. I had removed the external compass jumper when I should have left it there.
Got the Tx talking to the Rx again. Had to reverse one channel. I still need to get the 3 pos switch to do flight modes so some more research is needed.
It is easier to fly than the KK so now I am considering another frame to mount the apm. The folding 560 looks good but that means new motors, props and ..........oh we'll is is only money.
Will work on osd now to see if I can get the magic smoke (hope not)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/a7809ef9ed5dacb08d3335704cbad62b.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/2c35a6d7694edca09e1d8fcc38d5d028.jpg)

Oh and here is the disapproving look from SWMBO (http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/38c9fe89caf3c4c5f57badece0882280.jpg)

Happy days
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 12:50:34 PM
I think we all need to be grateful how patient our wives are.

As the first of us to get a Naza and an APM in the air Crispy, how do you rate the flying characteristics of each flight controller?

What the wheel base on this beast?

There are a few ways to setup the flight modes. The way I do it on my 9XR is by setting up a 3 point curve and adding the curve to the 3POS switch and multiplying the 3POS switch with the Ail D/R switch which gives you 6 flight modes.

The instructions I used for this came from youtube, but from memory were for the 9X radio. I will see if I can find it when I get home from work.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 01:01:31 PM
Mark it is about 33cm wheelbase.
They fly a bit differently.
The Naza is easy to configure and easy to fly.
The apm is not as stable but it still needs tuning and will most likely perform better on a real frame.
The current frame is the one I had the KK mounted on and was made out of the original DJI motors when I replaced them with the t motors.
I think when getting new motors I will look at sunny sky or t motors again. They are really good quality.
OSD is now connected and waiting for the battery to charge before connection. Everything seems to be correct but before I connect the power I will check that I am getting the correct readings from apm for +ve  and -ve.
As an auto sparky in a very past life I have had my share of smoke moments.
I let you know how I get on.
Regards
Crispy



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 01:39:39 PM
We'll I guessed that worked!
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/9e7f83fba6dd42803f3a424576e2436b.jpg)


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 01:48:42 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/3401e0174b0d329526323a1d50475100.jpg)
We'll I guessed that worked!



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

It's can be a bit of a challenge getting the minimOSD to work. Very pleasing when you do, thumbs up.

You're using the stock minimOSD firmware I see (heart beat is not on minimOSD Extra). Extra gives you a 'fuel tank' for your battery as a percentage of what it thinks is left in the tank. As previously indicated by Chris, this is very helpful.

Hint, keep all of your fields in the config screen 1 square away from the edges. It's not too bad on 7 inch screens, but it is bloody hard to read on googles if you have the text right up against the edge of the screen. Check your goggles, I'm pretty sure you will see even less of the GPS coordinates than what you see on your monitor.

I reckon the APM/minimOSD is far better than the DJI iOSD mini as far as what you can put on the screen.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 02:42:18 PM
Ok thanks for the advice. How can I configure the osd? Do I need to flash the firmware? I have a usbasp programmer but it does not match the pin configuration.
I have also got the 6 flight modes on the Tx sorted out. YouTube was the friend here.
Very happy everything works at the moment,




Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 03:06:44 PM
Ok thanks for the advice. How can I configure the osd? Do I need to flash the firmware? I have a usbasp programmer but it does not match the pin configuration.
I have also got the 6 flight modes on the Tx sorted out. YouTube was the friend here.
Very happy everything works at the moment,




Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

OSD Config software and firmware is here https://code.google.com/p/arducam-osd/wiki/OSD_Config_Tool (https://code.google.com/p/arducam-osd/wiki/OSD_Config_Tool)
OSD Extra config software and firmware is here https://code.google.com/p/minimosd-extra/wiki/Firmware (https://code.google.com/p/minimosd-extra/wiki/Firmware)

I'll get the pin-outs for you when I get home for the usbasp programmer, you may need to dodgy up a connector, or get a hold of a FTDI interface. http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24779__FTDI_Adapter_USB_Controller_5V.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24779__FTDI_Adapter_USB_Controller_5V.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 09, 2015, 05:05:44 PM
OSD Config software and firmware is here https://code.google.com/p/arducam-osd/wiki/OSD_Config_Tool (https://code.google.com/p/arducam-osd/wiki/OSD_Config_Tool)
OSD Extra config software and firmware is here https://code.google.com/p/minimosd-extra/wiki/Firmware (https://code.google.com/p/minimosd-extra/wiki/Firmware)

I'll get the pin-outs for you when I get home for the usbasp programmer, you may need to dodgy up a connector, or get a hold of a FTDI interface. http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24779__FTDI_Adapter_USB_Controller_5V.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__24779__FTDI_Adapter_USB_Controller_5V.html)


Hi,

I'd highly recommend the Extra version, it gives you a few extra items.  The one I like is that instead of giving you a percentage of your battery used it will give you the actual mah consumed, which is so much better to manage youf battery.

I agree with Marschy try to keep the items 1 square away if you can.

You've done well to get it up without any issues :-)

If you look at my earlier pics of my tricopter you will see it's wooden too.  12mmx12mm pine and some 3mm and 7mm plywood.  Wood is great at absorbing some of the vibrations.  Question, if you have the APM in a case, why the need for the plastic container over the rest?  I take you don't plan to fly during the rain?  If your not using an APM case then it makes sense.

Most of the components can take a bit of a knock.

I'd stick to the one frame for a few months, I did that and it helps to work out what you want on the next one.

Regards,

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 05:14:57 PM
Hi,

I'd highly recommend the Extra version, it gives you a few extra items.  The one I like is that instead of giving you a percentage of your battery used it will give you the actual mah consumed, which is so much better to manage youf battery.

I agree with Marschy try to keep the items 1 square away if you can.

You've done well to get it up without any issues :-)

If you look at my earlier pics of my tricopter you will see it's wooden too.  12mmx12mm pine and some 3mm and 7mm plywood.  Wood is great at absorbing some of the vibrations.  Question, if you have the APM in a case, why the need for the plastic container over the rest?  I take you don't plan to fly during the rain?  If your not using an APM case then it makes sense.

Most of the components can take a bit of a knock.

I'd stick to the one frame for a few months, I did that and it helps to work out what you want on the next one.

Regards,

Chris


Chris
The container was used for the KK and so it stayed. I have made it an anti-vibration mount now with the use of ear plugs.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/c5f6780ec16b20fe44e1224f24996d9c.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/6730e5424c13a69dcf9501ff60296150.jpg)
I was also going to mount the GPS on op of the container but ended not doing that.

Thing I have noticed is I cant shut down as fast as I can with the naza, and the throttle response is a bit strange. One time it is really responsive and can get it off the ground quickly others it takes time to wind up and even at full throttle it does actually slows down.
I am not sure what is happening with that. I will have to see if I can capture telemetry logs to see why.
some more googling will be in order for more info. SWMBO has goon off to Melbourne for the W/E and so it is just the boys home.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 05:51:17 PM
Just realised you can only use the usbasp programmer for loading firmware, not for configuring which requires the FTDI programmer.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 09, 2015, 05:53:22 PM
Chris
The container was used for the KK and so it stayed. I have made it an anti-vibration mount now with the use of ear plugs.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/c5f6780ec16b20fe44e1224f24996d9c.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/08/6730e5424c13a69dcf9501ff60296150.jpg)
I was also going to mount the GPS on op of the container but ended not doing that.

Thing I have noticed is I cant shut down as fast as I can with the naza, and the throttle response is a bit strange. One time it is really responsive and can get it off the ground quickly others it takes time to wind up and even at full throttle it does actually slows down.
I am not sure what is happening with that. I will have to see if I can capture telemetry logs to see why.
some more googling will be in order for more info. SWMBO has goon off to Melbourne for the W/E and so it is just the boys home.
Crispy


Are you positive you are in stabilize mode?  It's sounding like ALTHOLD or LOITER mode, it has a habit of doing that.  It's a very delayed reaction.

If you are in stabilize mode it should respond straight away.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 05:57:26 PM
Just realised you can only use the usbasp programmer for loading firmware, not for configuring which requires the FTDI programmer.
This is what I have been reading. Need to find a FTDI

Chris I was in alt hold and loiter. I will have to try stabilize.
Thanks
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 05:59:24 PM
This is what I have been reading. Need to find a FTDI

Chris I was in alt hold and loiter. I will have to try stabilize.
Thanks

Jaycar have them for $25. With the missus out of town, now is your opportunity. Just search for FTDI. It's the same one I have.

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4241 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4241)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 09, 2015, 06:05:16 PM
This is what I have been reading. Need to find a FTDI

Chris I was in alt hold and loiter. I will have to try stabilize.
Thanks

I'd avoid taking off in ALT HOLD or LOITER, the AUTO take off mode seems to work well.  You can flick back to ALT HOLD or LOITER once your in the air.  That's what I do, also it's good to be confident to fly in stabilize mode, as it's your go to mode if it goes wrong.

Regards,

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 06:23:09 PM
How small is this tri when it's folded. Can't wait to receive it. My first tricopter.

http://youtu.be/XfEO3-JPL0w (http://youtu.be/XfEO3-JPL0w)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 06:39:45 PM

Jaycar have them for $25. With the missus out of town, now is your opportunity. Just search for FTDI. It's the same one I have.

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4241 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=XC4241)

I'll see if my local stockist has one tomorrow. Not going to hold my breath but it is worth a try.
If not then the bay of all evil has them in aus for about $8 and get it by the time I finish night shift next week.


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 09, 2015, 06:48:23 PM
I'll see if my local stockist has one tomorrow. Not going to hold my breath but it is worth a try.
If not then the bay of all evil has them in aus for about $8 and get it by the time I finish night shift next week.


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

To help you find them in the store they'll be with the auduino stuff....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 06:52:00 PM
To help you find them in the store they'll be with the auduino stuff....
The arduino stuff at Jaycar is overpriced. It doesn't seem to fly out the door. Should be in stock, it's behind the counter from memory
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 09, 2015, 07:03:16 PM
Well ebay never ceases to amaze me, I've got my charger for the IXUS 115HS.  Arrived this afternoon, works really well.  So I'll work out a mount and get it hooked up to the tricopter.

I've been playing with the UAV script and it works really well.  I get well focused images, I put together an mission in Mission Planner that will send the 'start taking pics' messages and the 'stop taking pics' messages.

It looks like I can do either a fully controlled by APM but it chews through the waypoints.  I think there are 150 max waypoints from memory.  The other method is using a script that takes pics every x seconds, the Mission Planner interface will work out what the x should be based upon your height and speed.

Oh, always remember to keep a bind plug in your kit.  I went to fly today and forgot that I rebound my Tx to the tricopter.  Odd as I thought the Tx had an id and it can be bound to multiple receivers.... Hmmmm, I'm wondering since one is DSM2 and the other is DSMX.  Anyway I normally have a bind plug but i pulled it out the other day, so remember always have one or do a full check before leaving.

It was to be my first flight of the mini APM, now it will be either on Saturday or Monday.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 09, 2015, 07:05:25 PM
The arduino stuff at Jaycar is overpriced. It doesn't seem to fly out the door. Should be in stock, it's behind the counter from memory

I agree but if you need it in a hurry.  Crispy if you can wait, just order the ebay job it will be much cheaper.

Sometimes behind the counter, the one next to QVB has the arduino stuff behind the counter, but my local store at Greenwich has it on the shelves.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 07:15:47 PM
If you set up each of the toys on a different model you should be able to bind each Rx to the Tx and then when you fly each of the toys you select the correct one on start up of the Tx.
I could be wrong but I think it is the way.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on January 09, 2015, 07:40:04 PM
This is gonna be a bit weird, my first post is a vid on this very topic. Ill drop in and say Hello in the appropriate place shortly.... but Flying Things and Campers goes hand in hand (in my world....:) )

We do an annual trip to Menindee and as a group have done so for over 25 years.... I take my Quad along and take a bit of footage, heres a bit from November 14...... it was really bloody windy, way too much for the machine .... but .....



[youtube]Menindee Greens (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W17pcqlk8Fc#)[/youtube]

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 09, 2015, 08:09:52 PM
This is gonna be a bit weird, my first post is a vid on this very topic. Ill drop in and say Hello in the appropriate place shortly.... but Flying Things and Campers goes hand in hand (in my world....:) )

We do an annual trip to Menindee and as a group have done so for over 25 years.... I take my Quad along and take a bit of footage, heres a bit from November 14...... it was really bloody windy, way too much for the machine .... but .....



[youtube]Menindee Greens (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W17pcqlk8Fc#)[/youtube]
video? Can't see one here
EDIT: Cant see the video on the Ipad tapatalk. can seeit on PC

Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 08:15:15 PM
This is gonna be a bit weird, my first post is a vid on this very topic. Ill drop in and say Hello in the appropriate place shortly.... but Flying Things and Campers goes hand in hand (in my world....:) )

We do an annual trip to Menindee and as a group have done so for over 25 years.... I take my Quad along and take a bit of footage, heres a bit from November 14...... it was really bloody windy, way too much for the machine .... but .....



[youtube]Menindee Greens (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W17pcqlk8Fc#)[/youtube]

Welcome to myswag.

Tell us a bit about your flying machine and video setup.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 08:39:47 PM
Well ebay never ceases to amaze me, I've got my charger for the IXUS 115HS.  Arrived this afternoon, works really well.  So I'll work out a mount and get it hooked up to the tricopter.
I misplaced my IXUS 115HS charger for the better part of a year. Ended up buying a 240/12 volt version that I could take camping. The day it arrived on my doorstep, I found the original charger in the camper trailer, of course, doh.

I'm curious about why you have reflashed the camera Chris, what is the purpose for that? I have heard of the CHDK software before, but what is it for?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 09, 2015, 08:45:18 PM
I had to get one of these - http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/291266591423?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/291266591423?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

So I can configure the Remzibi OSD
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 09, 2015, 08:52:56 PM
This is gonna be a bit weird, my first post is a vid on this very topic. Ill drop in and say Hello in the appropriate place shortly.... but Flying Things and Campers goes hand in hand (in my world....:) )

We do an annual trip to Menindee and as a group have done so for over 25 years.... I take my Quad along and take a bit of footage, heres a bit from November 14...... it was really bloody windy, way too much for the machine .... but .....



[youtube]Menindee Greens (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W17pcqlk8Fc#)[/youtube]


Hey  Artie -- That looks horribly like me in the video !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 08:54:40 PM
You can get them from any number of sources. The FTDI that I have is a 'funtronics' made USB/serial convertor. But like all things sold in Australia, is marked up well beyond just making a small profit.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 08:56:28 PM
Hey  Artie -- That looks horribly like me in the video !!
Hey Steve, what software are you using to grab snapshots from video. I've noticed you have done this a couple of times now.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 09, 2015, 09:39:21 PM
Hey Steve, what software are you using to grab snapshots from video. I've noticed you have done this a couple of times now.

Program is called Printscreen from Gadwin - Its free - works off the Print Screen button on your keyboard and is resizable to any part of the screen or all of it ...

I can email you the zip file if you PM me your email addy .. Its too big to attach here 4 Mb ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 09, 2015, 09:41:04 PM
Thanks that would be great. I already have my email address linked to my username, just click on the envelope.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 10, 2015, 07:31:19 AM
I misplaced my IXUS 115HS charger for the better part of a year. Ended up buying a 240/12 volt version that I could take camping. The day it arrived on my doorstep, I found the original charger in the camper trailer, of course, doh.

I'm curious about why you have reflashed the camera Chris, what is the purpose for that? I have heard of the CHDK software before, but what is it for?

Hi,

It allows you to run scripts on the camera, such as setting the focus to infinity, setting no flash, setting an iso level or even better getting it to monitor the shutter rate and vary as required.  Best part is that with a cable I can output a PWM signal from the APM and have the camera read it and then do one of 6 things.  Such as take a picture, change the focus point, zoom in, zoom out, etc....

I'll do a post on it once I've got it all working for you :-)

My plan is to use this to do the inspection of my roof with this and the action cam pointed downwards on the tricopter.

Later on I'll most likely build a flying wing to hold the point and shoot cameras.  That is a later in the year task, not something I'm ready to start yet.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on January 10, 2015, 08:21:20 AM
Welcome to myswag.

Tell us a bit about your flying machine and video setup.

Cheers, Marschy


Gday Marschy, its a cob up of bits but based on a set of Scarab chassis plates and boom mounts. Here is Quintons website, Aussie made/sold gear http://www.multiwiicopter.com/ (http://www.multiwiicopter.com/) look for a Scarab in his product range, as I said, I only buy some base components and then make it up as I need it. I also use carbon 12mm booms which are cheap enough to get a hold of.

Over the years I've used heaps of options but this is the cheapest and toughest gear I've ever used, so now I have several setups on the go, some aimed at play and some as camera ships.

Ive also played with plenty of flight control boards, from making my own  with wii components and arduino boards to units from the website above but now exclusively use the Naze32 boards. These guys offer the best control and area so simple to use not to mention being around $37 to buy.

As far as cams go, Ive stopped using the GoPro as a recent hard landing made me think twice about that much money floating around and now use a Mobious cam which (imo) does just as good a job at around $90 for the unit and it only weighs a few grams. Problem I'm having is all my cam mounts are designed for a heavier cam (gopro) and now I've got the dreaded wobbles/jello again, I'm playing with different rubber mounts now.

Heres a Mobious vid.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XASv55Zv0Lg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XASv55Zv0Lg#ws)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on January 10, 2015, 08:24:31 AM
Hey  Artie -- That looks horribly like me in the video !!

No way mate.... Im much better looking than that....  ;D Ill look back and see if I can find what gear you are using... always on the look out....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 10, 2015, 08:28:59 AM
Local jaycar did not have one so eBay will send me one by the 13 the or so for 1/3 of the price. Jaycar could do it in about 3 working days. Waiting again!
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 10, 2015, 11:23:26 AM
As far as cams go, Ive stopped using the GoPro as a recent hard landing made me think twice about that much money floating around and now use a Mobious cam which (imo) does just as good a job at around $90 for the unit and it only weighs a few grams. Problem I'm having is all my cam mounts are designed for a heavier cam (gopro) and now I've got the dreaded wobbles/jello again, I'm playing with different rubber mounts now.


Hi, welcome to the forums.

Footage looks good.  Never tried the Naze32 - I jumped from KK2 to APM's.

I've also got a mobius and an action cam which has the same form as a gopro.  I was surprised how light the mobius is but the quality is a little worse from what I can tell, and streets behind my Go Pro - but there is a huge difference in costs.  Do you have normal or the wide angle lens on it. 

My action cam took a heavy hit from a quad copter crash onto the road.  For reducing the jello what have you tried already?  I've been using this stuff and it works well so far: http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__44849__Anti_Vibration_Foam_White_Latex_Foam_AUS_Warehouse_.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__44849__Anti_Vibration_Foam_White_Latex_Foam_AUS_Warehouse_.html)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 10, 2015, 12:16:30 PM
Todays fruit of labour.
Or should that be i flew too close to a fruit tree.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/09/8652d901ffaec1c42969418ea000ecd1.jpg)
Had a few crashes so have recalabrated the quad.
Trying to set up v monitoring aswell
I have flown 4 bateries today as it is perfect flying weather with no wind at all and overcast so it is not to hard to look at the sky.
My frame is a bit all over the place but much better since the recal.
Looking really closely it seems my motors dont sit exactly square.
It is a challenge to keep it on a straight and narrow. Even hovering is a challenge. Starting to look at frames more seriously but not sure what size to get.
A folding 560 looks good but i am worried about the landing gear breaking on the first hard landing.
If i could get a front mounted gimbal  ane remove the need for landing gear that would be great.
Also want no props in view.
Am i asking too much?
Better start looking.
Regards

Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on January 10, 2015, 06:12:13 PM
Hi Crispy, my learning curve was long and drawn out, mainly because when I started, flight control boards made flying basically like trying to balance an egg on the end of a broom stick!!!

The coming of age for me was the KK2 board and then the Naze 32. The KK was a great step up, allowing good control, but still a bit touchy, but I got some hours up and started to really enjoy flying, then along came the Naze and now flying is a snap (compared to the past units) and now I go through all my battery's in a session (sometimes :(). The basic Naze is around $37 and the top end unit which offers many features of the expensive babys is around $90. These include return to launch GPS etc.

As far as the chassis goes, vibration minimisation is important but less so with the Naze than others. I bolt my board down but other people mount it on the isolation damper double sided foam without bolts/screws. A bad frame will need the foam, a good frame wont...

Some people like to angle the motors in a fraction towards the center and others like to have them tilted a fraction to counter the torque, all mine are set up square, no tilting in any direction and they fly fine that way.

My chassis sizes are a small 250 for play and then all the rest are 450 carbon boom units.

Landing gear is a problem, and Ive been through a few styles. Sadly, not every landing is the best and cheap skids from a 700 sized heli seem to work best, soft enough to be compliant but still tough enough to take the abuse. Im not sure they would give you clearance for a gimbal though, I use a fixed rubber isolation mount for my cams. Im fiddling with a few rubbers sizes now to get rid of the jello.

These days I spend more time flying than I do repairing and its taken a long time to get to that point .... ya just gotta hang in there.... :)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 11, 2015, 11:56:48 AM
Thanks Artie for your advice.
I have a DJI 450 flamewheel and NAZA which is easy to fly and has a gimbal on it for the gopro so gets nice video.
I am playing with an APM at ATM which is much different to the NAZA. All good fun.
So todays fun had been stopped by the wind so no flying today. I have spent the best part of the morning on the www using ecalc (even paid for it) and have come up with some motors worth considering for the folding Alien 560 from HK.
So here is what I have found. All prices are in USD. all thrust levels with 12inch prop
Sunnysky 3508 700kv 1680g $39
Sunnysky 2814 700kv 1980g $37
FoxtechFPV 3508 700kv 1680 $45
T-motors 3508 700kv 1360 $70
T-motors 2814 700kv 1460 $66
T-motors 2814 770kv 1600 $66

Now when using Ecalc I am aiming for about 50% throttle for hover. Does that sound the right thing to do?
I need to start a shopping list.

Anyway what motors are you using on your alien560 and has any one actually flown it yet?

Head sore now from research. Must rest
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 11, 2015, 12:04:25 PM
G'day Crispy,

With all the bells and whistles, my all up weight for my Alien 560 is 2264 grams with a 4000MAh 4S battery.I'll be getting some 12 inch props for my Emax motors, but haven't flown it yet on the 11 inch props.

With thrust figures like you have quoted, your Alien will be balistic.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 11, 2015, 12:20:08 PM
G'day Crispy,

With all the bells and whistles, my all up weight for my Alien 560 is 2264 grams with a 4000MAh 4S battery.I'll be getting some 12 inch props for my Emax motors, but haven't flown it yet on the 11 inch props.

With thrust figures like you have quoted, your Alien will be balistic.

Cheers, Marschy
Which EMAX motors did you end up with?
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 11, 2015, 12:26:38 PM
MT3506 650kv. They are a clone on the tiger motor. Didn't get to go flying this weekend. Too windy yesterday, and it is my wedding anniversary today.

50% throttle for hover is what is recommended by arducopter
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 11, 2015, 12:48:12 PM
Finally finished all calibrations , added the Radiolink R10D and all switches and sticks are working as they should ... I have to put it all back together and then maybe when the wind drops below howling I'll nip up the park and send her up .... the sensor for the OSD in the Radiolink only shows the two voltages at receiver and main battery - GPS , and Altitude need another sensor apparently .
 I do have them on the FPV so not a total loss --
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 11, 2015, 04:49:05 PM
You guys are making me feel better, I'm not the only one getting no flying in this weekend :-)

When not being my areas duty officer I have had time to knock together a thrust measuring device too :-)

Due to where I drilled the hole for rotation I think I'll be within a few percent of the real figures so overall pretty happy with it.  All for under $4 I have to say I'm happy (of course this is using my wife's kitchen scales  ;D)

My pics:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/10/506d3cc6c8f71fc2e77fe1b5b741f873.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/10/af8f7533c9d096b25a5273b2baac8bbf.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/10/723dcc0d87783061dab594f0edbec3fe.jpg)


Note that I'm still working on a motor mount so I cable tied on a spare frame I had to hold the motors (in hindsight I should have used the spare arm I have off a QAV250 instead of the pinwheel thing I've put on....)  I think I just worked out my motor mount :-)

I was getting around 335g of thrust out of these little multistar elites.  Stupidly I forgot to put the current meter in the equation, only thought of it after I packed up......  I will do the test again on Monday as my daughter hates the noise of the little motors spun up.  But if my current meter on the APM is to be believed then it should be around 30A / 4 so around 7.5A.  Not too with 5x3 props.

Will test my DT750's (with 10x4.5) on Monday.

Hoping that this weeks rain is more afternoon rain rather than this set in rain.....  Making me wish I had ordered the CorrosionX so I could fly in light rain.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 11, 2015, 05:08:12 PM
Thanks Artie for your advice.
I have a DJI 450 flamewheel and NAZA which is easy to fly and has a gimbal on it for the gopro so gets nice video.
I am playing with an APM at ATM which is much different to the NAZA. All good fun.
So todays fun had been stopped by the wind so no flying today. I have spent the best part of the morning on the www using ecalc (even paid for it) and have come up with some motors worth considering for the folding Alien 560 from HK.
So here is what I have found. All prices are in USD. all thrust levels with 12inch prop
Sunnysky 3508 700kv 1680g $39
Sunnysky 2814 700kv 1980g $37
FoxtechFPV 3508 700kv 1680 $45
T-motors 3508 700kv 1360 $70
T-motors 2814 700kv 1460 $66
T-motors 2814 770kv 1600 $66

Now when using Ecalc I am aiming for about 50% throttle for hover. Does that sound the right thing to do?
I need to start a shopping list.

Anyway what motors are you using on your alien560 and has any one actually flown it yet?

Head sore now from research. Must rest
Regards
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

The 50% figure is what most aim for, it depends on what your trying to build.  If it's a slow AP platform or a fun thing to flick around?, or is it an endurance machine which carries little payload.

50% is a good happy middle, if you want something that will rocket about then having a higher power to weight ration will give you the ability to arrest falls quicker and will generally be a more nimble beast.  My tricopter is around 40% with no payload and it rockets along, in fact I rarely take it above 75% throttle with no payload, now I will load it up with a camera and it quickly moves to 50-55% and it is a bit more sedate and I use the full range if I have a quick drop.

I wouldn't take it anything higher than 60% otherwise you will find it hard to arrest a fast decent.  All of that is on the basis that the CoG is right in the middle of the frame, if not then it changes again.

I don't own a Alien 560 the others can advise what they have found.

I'll assume you are after a more sedate machine as you are using the 12 inch props and going for lifting power.  Out of what you have there I'd go for the Sunnysky 2814's they look like they provide a descent amount of thrust for a reasonable cost, but I'd consider something a little less gutsy to be honest and it will keep the costs reasonable too.  If you have spare cash put it into a good gimbal mount they make a huge difference oh and have spares.

With the sunnysky motor you'll have 1.9kg x 4 = 7.6kg of thrust, even if you have a 3kg bird with payload you are still way ahead.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 11, 2015, 07:56:02 PM
Well I did have a little fly this afternoon and crashed (like normal) it is lucky I have very spongy couch grass.
But when I crashed I broke a boom. So I thought I should make a new frame.
So off to the shed I went in search of suitable materials.
I had a look around and found what I was after. Now for the design. I kept it a X quad but made it a little differently.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/11/370b77bc5ee02b45ca78e312819a8d06.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/11/a28afcb6b9a95cedbcb306eb140444b1.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/11/76a34507ad39f6e47b05f8a51a0bc699.jpg)

So after some time out in the shed and then time in the cool of the evening I managed to do this.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/11/61dd496d107c83349b555bb2f472a6d1.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/11/2aa8f89237d71d98e64f0a7e4a6624cd.jpg)

Recalibrated the compass and checked all the motors and then put it up for a short fly to see how it goes.
I really need to get to the field as I am a bit nervous flying there. It still drifts a bit in stabilize but not to bad.
I need to get some new props for the DJI motors on it as the are a bit battle scared.
Anyway happy days again. Night shift tomorrow night so if the weather is kind tomorrow I will have a fly at the soccer fields near by.
BTW AUW is 1360 but is 50cm between motors diagonally so is quite big. 7mm ply for the top plate and 4mm for the bottom and arm supports are 10x19m pine.

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 12, 2015, 01:58:25 AM
Your building skills put mine to shame Crispy. I can't put a bought frame together as quickly as you can knocking up one from scratch. It took me the better part of a full day to just install 4 ESC's and motors on the ZMR250 frame.

There is actually a lot of work involved getting to this stage. Including trimming nylon spacers to 7mm and 10mm to fit the ESC's between the bottom plates, unsoldering the capacitors on two of the ESC's and moving them 90 degrees so they can fit within the space available. The motors are soldered directly to the ESC's so if I got the motor rotation wrong, it's not as simple as unplugging the bullet connector and swapping over 2 wires. Trial fitting the plate that covers the ESC's shows where you need to reroute wiring, so there is a lot of trial and error with how everything is routed.

That's the hard part done, now I can move onto mounting the flight controller.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 12, 2015, 02:23:41 AM
Note that I'm still working on a motor mount so I cable tied on a spare frame I had to hold the motors (in hindsight I should have used the spare arm I have off a QAV250 instead of the pinwheel thing I've put on....)  I think I just worked out my motor mount :-)
Hey Chris,

Here is my motor mount for my thrust tester. I'm using the aluminium motor mounts that come with most 1000kv class motors. The hole drilled right through the thrust meter frame allows the centre of the motor motor to be aligned within a millimetre or two to get reasonably consistent results. It just slides off once the nuts are loosened, then I poke the drill bit through to align the mount.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 12, 2015, 09:02:30 AM
Its amazing what you find out in a real time flight test ...
1 - Throttle up and FPV and OSD stopped working - small battery for FPV / OSD circuit ??
2 - Motors are not balanced front 2 are more powerful and Alien lifted up and flew straight backwards at me ...
3 - Tried to adjust that with trim buttons -- got it sort of sorted but still not happy - I can't fly manual so unable to balance it with sticks ..
BUT and this is a HUGE BUT .. by altering trim you cannot disarm or arm the motors !! The throttle has to be zero or negative , any change from -100% on the other 3 A E and R creates
this arm and disarm problem.. Is this specific to Naza FCs ??

Anyway not a total disaster and nothing broken ( just my pride ) as I only got about a foot off the deck ...

Back to the tether board to try and balance these motors -- Any suggestions guys ??? without using Trim ? The ESC seems to have done the throttle max and min OK ..
Could it be because the rear motors are on longer cables ? Maybe I need to centre the ESC 4in1 ??

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 12, 2015, 11:51:49 AM
Sounds like a cog problem. In the Naza assistant are all the stick values entered when your sticks are? If not the sub in the radio might be the go. You may have to recheck the stick calibration in the assistant before committing to flight.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 12, 2015, 12:06:34 PM
Didnt think about COG ... Battery is at the back and haven't put the video camera and gimbal on yet ( which will balance the battery .) - Thanks I'll give that a try ...

What do you think about the FPV disconnecting ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 12, 2015, 12:12:26 PM
What do you think about the FPV disconnecting ?
Not sure there. Where does the power come from? direct from the battery connection? BEC? or what. Sounds like a massive voltage drop. Maybe you could use some 6 B&S to stop that >:D
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 12, 2015, 01:34:16 PM
Didnt think about COG ... Battery is at the back and haven't put the video camera and gimbal on yet ( which will balance the battery .) - Thanks I'll give that a try ...

What do you think about the FPV disconnecting ?

Hi Mandrake,

I'd agree about it being CoG, have you done any CoG testing?.  Dont forget that you need to look at forward and backwards as well as left to right, balance and weight is very important.

On the FPV disconnecting can you reproduce on a bench test at home?  Don't suppose you can see the voltage as you power up.  If I remember correctly your using 4s?  If so can you do the same check but on the output of the BEC.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 12, 2015, 08:11:47 PM
I didnt get to fly today due to high winds, I just wasn't willing to put the mini Quad up for it's maiden flight with the mini APM since it was quite gusty.  So I had some spare time on my hands, I now have both my IXUS 115HS and A550 able to be controlled by the Tricopter's APM board.

Basically had to do up a custom mini USB cable, it has a USB Mini B connector at one end and a servo connection at the other end.  I connected the + and - wires up to Signal and GND.  I then configured it through Mission Planner to use A9 (RC9) as a camera shutter trigger, I also assigned ch7 as my shutter button, I also set the trigger type as a parameter to relay (not sure why servo option doesnt work), on the cameras I set them to allow for remote operations.

I can set a script that either takes a single shot as I pull CH 7 high or I can get it to initiate a script that takes a photo every X seconds and then stop when I pull it low again.

Now to build a mount to hold the camera so it can point to the ground.  The idea is to take detailed images with it pointing straight to the ground, these can then be stitched together and overlay them on the ground contours to give you a aerial map of an area.

I'll mount these in the long term on a flying wing but till then I'll have fun with them on the tricopter.  Tomorrow I plan to maiden the mini Quad with mini APM, then work on my mount for the 2D gimbal I have.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 12, 2015, 09:51:20 PM
Worked out my issue when changing models / receivers and having to rebind each time, it turns out one of my receivers is dsmx and the other is using dsm2.  So when i power up it is still sending out as the type I last did a bind on.  I just need to hit the bind button three times quickly on start up and it switches from one mode to the other.

This indicates my R615X is using DSM2 mode for some reason, it should be using DSMX....

Marschy you might encounter this issue with the mini quad, if you are using the R615X and the R800X like I am.  I'm planning on switching over to lemonrx's as they have some better CPPM options and are pretty well priced, even for shipping to Aus.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 12, 2015, 09:57:24 PM
Playing around with the mini APM as we speak. I've got CPPM working. Just cant calibrate the ESC's, but I'll work it out
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 12, 2015, 10:33:10 PM
Worked out ESC calibration. It just takes a lot longer time with this release of the firmware.

Here is the way I do it.

Power everything off.
Reset all switches on radio.
Power on radio and wait for beep and tx module to start flashing.
Move throttle to full up position.
Connect battery to quad.
Wait for calibration tone from ESC's (taking upto 20 seconds after connecting the power)
Move throttle to full down position.
Wait for tone from ESC to indicate calibration is complete.
Test throttle response.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 12, 2015, 10:42:12 PM
Watch this video. This guy has just converted his Alien 560 into an Octoquad. It's ballistic.

http://youtu.be/6oBhGEmpR2o (http://youtu.be/6oBhGEmpR2o)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 12, 2015, 11:17:50 PM
Worked out ESC calibration. It just takes a lot longer time with this release of the firmware.

Here is the way I do it.

Power everything off.
Reset all switches on radio.
Power on radio and wait for beep and tx module to start flashing.
Move throttle to full up position.
Connect battery to quad.
Wait for calibration tone from ESC's (taking upto 20 seconds after connecting the power)
Move throttle to full down position.
Wait for tone from ESC to indicate calibration is complete.
Test throttle response.

Mine took some additional time too (you are using the blue esc's on it too?), wish I'd seen the post earlier I would have mentioned it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 12, 2015, 11:20:17 PM
Watch this video. This guy has just converted his Alien 560 into an Octoquad. It's ballistic.

http://youtu.be/6oBhGEmpR2o (http://youtu.be/6oBhGEmpR2o)


Very nice, a bonus of doing the X8 thing is the redundancy if you loose a motor your still good to fly, as long as the AUW isnt too much.

You need to use bigger batteries though with all the additional drain and weight.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 13, 2015, 06:18:28 AM
I've got the miniAPM working and calibrated. I have to get another Hobbyking pan-tilt servo gimbal as I used the bearings for my thrust meter. I'm waiting for a minimOSD to arrive and I have to order a telemetry air module, I don't need yet another ground module. I want to get one of these dual antenna mounts, but they have been on back order for a couple of months now. I might make something myself.

(http://cdn.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/67379.jpg)

Haven't worked out the final position for the GPS yet. I need to purchase my flight batteries so I can work out where to put it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 13, 2015, 07:41:55 AM
Love the Octo-Alien ... Hmmmm thinking --- Nah just kidding ...

Contrary to what I said yesterday the FPV / OSD cam did function correctly - Stupid me was looking at the wrong video ... Also the GPS co-ords were spot on - I checked the position on Google Earth and it zoomed in to within about 5 metres of where I reckon I was standing - So pretty happy with that ....

I have moved the battery holder to a more central spot and seems to balance COG-wise - So off to the playground when the wind stops ... maybe after the rain too .. next week maybe ...

I just got word of a new parcel - This is some 5mm Tycab copper cable ( automotive use ) 10m of black and 10m of red for $30 -
http://www.rapidcables.com.au/auto-cable/ (http://www.rapidcables.com.au/auto-cable/)
Thought I would check out the local product and see if its usable in quads ...
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 13, 2015, 09:57:24 AM
I have moved the battery holder to a more central spot and seems to balance COG-wise
Did you see the scraps of MDF I use for working out the CG for my X-mode Alien Steve? I'm going to make something similar to use with the Alien560. It should take a bit of the guess work out of the equation by using a jig of some sort. I'm going to align the jig with the centre of the flight control board location which is on the CoG point on the frame anyway.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 13, 2015, 11:49:33 AM
I've got the miniAPM working and calibrated. I have to get another Hobbyking pan-tilt servo gimbal as I used the bearings for my thrust meter. I'm waiting for a minimOSD to arrive and I have to order a telemetry air module, I don't need yet another ground module. I want to get one of these dual antenna mounts, but they have been on back order for a couple of months now. I might make something myself.

(http://cdn.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/67379.jpg)

Haven't worked out the final position for the GPS yet. I need to purchase my flight batteries so I can work out where to put it.


Looking good there Marschy, the building is almost as much fun as the flying  :laugh:.  I'm using the stock short antennas on my R615X, no need for the fancy V antenna mount :-)  I've done a range test and at 40m it was still working so I figure my CF plates (which are most likely GF largely) dont seem to be interfering much.

I got my maiden flight in for the mini Quad with the mini APM, after returning from SES.  There was very little wind and had a good 25-30 mins of flying today went through 4 batteries, so I'm pretty happy.  Seems I get around 9 mins of flight time with the calibrated power module.  Batteries were all at 10.9V at time of landing, so I'm happy :-)

I did one battery almost entirely on ALT HOLD mode, i think the issues I had with the other APM board was to do with Z vibrations, this mini APM didnt drift at all on the alt, so I'm happy with it.  It uses approx 14 amps to hover at approx 40-45% throttle.

Banking turns went well, I have it dialed right down on the sensitivity so it's a calm and placid thing.  I'm happy I did but I think I'll increase the yaw response rate a bit.  It prefers turns to be nice and consistent, I did a couple of snap turns and it did wavier a bit and drop a bit of alt during those.

Still yet to review the video footage or telemetry data.  I will spend some time today or tomorrow to do up some vids and post on my channel.  I have so much video to go through.......  I kind of keep putting it off, but I'll need some disk space soon at this rate :-)

Will be ordering my lemon rx's later today, will see how good they are.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 13, 2015, 11:52:00 AM
Have you got any photos of your new carbon frame mini quad Chris?

I found a supplier on Aliexpress for the flange bearings used in the tilt-pan servo gimbal. They are 3x6x2.5 size and available from Hobbyking for $6.14 for 4, but I can them from Aliexpress in greater quantities and for less (10 for $4.00 US). They don't have to be top quality for the job they will be doing because they won't be spinning at 10000 rpm or anything stupid like that.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 13, 2015, 12:05:17 PM
I did one battery almost entirely on ALT HOLD mode, i think the issues I had with the other APM board was to do with Z vibrations, this mini APM didnt drift at all on the alt, so I'm happy with it.  It uses approx 14 amps to hover at approx 40-45% throttle.
Release 3.2 did a lot of work on Loiter mode, you would think that this probably had an impact on Alt Hold and Drift as well.

Keep forgetting I have the blue tooth module at home. Trying not to spend more money than I need to, so I don't need to get the telemetry air module.

Only need another 2.1mm board camera, servo for the tilt gimbal and flange bearings to finish off the ZMR frame. I'm really looking forward to flying the mini quad.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 13, 2015, 03:00:39 PM
Have you got any photos of your new carbon frame mini quad Chris?

I found a supplier on Aliexpress for the flange bearings used in the tilt-pan servo gimbal. They are 3x6x2.5 size and available from Hobbyking for $6.14 for 4, but I can them from Aliexpress in greater quantities and for less (10 for $4.00 US). They don't have to be top quality for the job they will be doing because they won't be spinning at 10000 rpm or anything stupid like that.

Hi,

No pics of the CF frame yet, currently still using the HK frame, which I as I suspected it is not CF but GF.  I have put it mainly together without any motors,etc (only added a receiver and APM to do a range test).  I'll take some pics tonight of the frame.

I'm not sure when I'll mount it on CF frame, the challenge will be to fit it all.  It was a struggle with the current frame, to fit it all on the CF frame will be even harder as it's narrower and not as long.  The 2200mah battery just fits with the current landing gear.

Man the mobius does a great job in daylight, wow all my tests before had been at night or indoors.  With good light I'd have to say it gives my gopro a good run for its money.  Just working on a vid at present, should have one from today's flight up tonight.  Will send through a link when it's uploaded.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 13, 2015, 03:15:22 PM
Release 3.2 did a lot of work on Loiter mode, you would think that this probably had an impact on Alt Hold and Drift as well.

Keep forgetting I have the blue tooth module at home. Trying not to spend more money than I need to, so I don't need to get the telemetry air module.

Only need another 2.1mm board camera, servo for the tilt gimbal and flange bearings to finish off the ZMR frame. I'm really looking forward to flying the mini quad.

You'll have a lot of fun once it's done, I know that my flight time is roughly 25% tri and 75% quad at present.  That will change once I get the gimbal mount done tonight - hopefully more to a 50/50.

I have 2 sets of telemetry radios, it's handy having the 4 radios, I dont have to swap stuff and I have 2 in flight box so I definitely have one with me every time I fly.  Since you have the blue tooth link you may as well use it.

The mini holds on alt hold as well as the tri does, loiter though is a different matter.  I have to monkey with the PID's as it over corrects badly and just doesnt sit as nicely as the tri.  I'm thinking of trying the POSHOLD mode, as it gives you the throttle control back, not sure yet as it does a better job of hovering than I do......

During my speed run today it recorded a speed of 60km/h which was by no means as fast as it can go, just as fast as I was willing to push it today.  On review of the telemetry logs I noticed that my GPS was good except for about 30 secs it went off the reservation in a big way.  Said I was about 100m away and over houses, so I know it's wrong (recorded a speed of 130km/h when it jump to this spot).

Will take it out for a spin again tomorrow if the wind stays nice and low like this morning.  Might get to fly both of them :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 13, 2015, 03:22:20 PM
Has anyone seen this in their APM logs?
I have been analizing my logs and have found this line in it that worries me a bit


 "Test: Compass = FAIL - Large compass off params (X:259.00, Y:-11.00, Z:35.00)
 No MAG data, unable to test mag_field"

 I have calabrated my compass in mission planner and hit all the points using mission planner so why is it this test fails?
 

 Regards
 Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 13, 2015, 05:01:23 PM
Has anyone seen this in their APM logs?
I have been analizing my logs and have found this line in it that worries me a bit


 "Test: Compass = FAIL - Large compass off params (X:259.00, Y:-11.00, Z:35.00)
 No MAG data, unable to test mag_field"

 I have calabrated my compass in mission planner and hit all the points using mission planner so why is it this test fails?
 

 Regards
 Crispy

Hi Crispy,

That X value is way too high.

Couple of things to check, the first is did you do a Compass / Mot calibration too?  Are any of the wires from the compass near the motor wires?  Also some have reported that lots of vibrations have caused some funny readings.

I did have this error a long time ago, I redid the calibration (3.1.5 took alot longer to do than 3.2 does) and it worked for me.  I'd suggest retrying it and see how it goes.  Also do the compass / mot calibration too in case it's impacting on it.  Move any wires from the compass away from stuff that causes interference and also you can try putting in twists in the compass cable if it doesn't have one already.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 13, 2015, 05:22:15 PM
Hi Crispy,

That X value is way too high.

Couple of things to check, the first is did you do a Compass / Mot calibration too?  Are any of the wires from the compass near the motor wires?  Also some have reported that lots of vibrations have caused some funny readings.

I did have this error a long time ago, I redid the calibration (3.1.5 took alot longer to do than 3.2 does) and it worked for me.  I'd suggest retrying it and see how it goes.  Also do the compass / mot calibration too in case it's impacting on it.  Move any wires from the compass away from stuff that causes interference and also you can try putting in twists in the compass cable if it doesn't have one already.

Chris

Just noticed in your original message, you have already redone the calibration with no success.  I'd still try the compass/motor calibration just in case.  Have you tried the calibration with the APM just connected via USB not on the frame at all?  Does it give lower numbers?

Do you have another compass you can try?  If so I'd plug it in and redo the calibration.

If not then I'd suggest buying a spare anyway :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 13, 2015, 05:33:24 PM
Those values .. Are they like in Naza the distance of the GPS compass from COG ?? or is that something else ... Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 13, 2015, 05:37:52 PM
Has anyone seen this in their APM logs?
I have been analizing my logs and have found this line in it that worries me a bit


 "Test: Compass = FAIL - Large compass off params (X:259.00, Y:-11.00, Z:35.00)
 No MAG data, unable to test mag_field"

 I have calabrated my compass in mission planner and hit all the points using mission planner so why is it this test fails?

 

 Regards
 Crispy
Chris will be able to answer this, but doesn't the APM 2.7 from Hobbyking have a jumper to disable the onboard compass?

If it is interference from the motors, try hot gluing a piece of alfoil under the puck and see if that makes a difference.

The APM doesn't care where you put the puck Steve, as long as the compass is orientated correctly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 13, 2015, 05:49:57 PM
Chris will be able to answer this, but doesn't the APM 2.7 from Hobbyking have a jumper to disable the onboard compass?

If it is interference from the motors, try hot gluing a piece of alfoil under the puck and see if that makes a difference.

The APM doesn't care where you put the puck Steve, as long as the compass is orientated correctly.


Thats right it does :-) I forgot about that - forgot he was on a 2.7 board, you move the jumper pin to the external compass location.  If it's already set to external move it to the internal and try it (if that works then you have a dicky external compass - send it back as you want the external to work), if it's on the internal move it to the external (means the internal is getting to much interference or is dicky - if the internal is dicky I'd live with it as you'll be using the external).

Picture of jumper settings:
http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uploads/294567573X637474X49.jpg (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uploads/294567573X637474X49.jpg)

One extra bit of info, do not bypass this check and try to fly without it working.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 14, 2015, 11:57:08 AM
Oops.
Crashed and smashed!
GPS does not look good.(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/13/3679058257ed5fdc7aed4d979dc61124.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/13/7a53100569f026dc4fe711e8ab3cb5dd.jpg)
So why does a neo6 cost $30 more than a neo7?
Oh well nust get arround to getting another.
I will have to hold off on the Alien frame for a while until I get this FC flying correctly on my scratch built.
I also did another compass cal using the internal compass and the results were the same. I even remembered to change the value in mission planner to 0 for an internal compass. that first value is still in the 250 range.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 14, 2015, 12:15:02 PM
You can ublox Neo 6M GPS + compass for about $30 on Aliexpress

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Customized-Version-Ublox-NEO-6M-High-Accuracy-GPS-Module-PPZ-MWC-APM2-5-2-6-2/2030932097.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Customized-Version-Ublox-NEO-6M-High-Accuracy-GPS-Module-PPZ-MWC-APM2-5-2-6-2/2030932097.html)

or this one for $24

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Ublox-6M-High-Precision-RC-Quadcopter-GPS-Module-With-Compass-GPS-Antenna-S/32231679477.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Ublox-6M-High-Precision-RC-Quadcopter-GPS-Module-With-Compass-GPS-Antenna-S/32231679477.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 14, 2015, 12:26:16 PM
You can ublox Neo 6M GPS + compass for about $30 on Aliexpress

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Customized-Version-Ublox-NEO-6M-High-Accuracy-GPS-Module-PPZ-MWC-APM2-5-2-6-2/2030932097.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Customized-Version-Ublox-NEO-6M-High-Accuracy-GPS-Module-PPZ-MWC-APM2-5-2-6-2/2030932097.html)

Thanks Done!
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 14, 2015, 12:32:04 PM
What web address do you go to for hk I want to track an international air express orders.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 14, 2015, 01:31:45 PM
You just have to log in to your hk account and they give you tracking numbers that link to the shipment.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 14, 2015, 01:36:36 PM
Yep.....not listed yet by the looks of it


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 14, 2015, 02:17:41 PM
If it's a ......SG (Singapore Speed Post) consignment, the link will take you to the Speed Post website. If it says there is no information about the shipment, there is another link on the result page that says something like 'click here' that will take you to the Singapore Air Mail site where you can also try the shipment number.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 14, 2015, 02:56:15 PM
RP403307533SG yep SG


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 14, 2015, 04:07:01 PM
Oops.
Crashed and smashed!
GPS does not look good.(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/13/3679058257ed5fdc7aed4d979dc61124.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/13/7a53100569f026dc4fe711e8ab3cb5dd.jpg)
So why does a neo6 cost $30 more than a neo7?
Oh well nust get arround to getting another.
I will have to hold off on the Alien frame for a while until I get this FC flying correctly on my scratch built.
I also did another compass cal using the internal compass and the results were the same. I even remembered to change the value in mission planner to 0 for an internal compass. that first value is still in the 250 range.
Regards
Crispy


Golden rule with APM is if it's not all 100% good, dont fly :-(

There have been reports of some Pixhawks that were getting faulty readings and the only fix was to replace the board.  I heard of people on APM's also having the same issue.

If you have an android phone you can download a magnetic field detector, just to make sure it's not the environment you are in.  If it is then I'd find somewhere else to fly :-)  There are most likely apps for the iphone but I dont have one of those so not sure.

Ouch that GPS antenna is toast, if the chips look okay (apart from the antenna which is that ceramic bit with a flat bit of metal on it) then you can order replacement antennas from aliexpress for under $10 for 10.  I'm waiting for mine to arrive as I killed a GPS in a crash a few weeks back.

Get the 4mm version if you do it.  The more ceramic the better isolation it has from the electronics on the other side.

Are you sure it was using the external before, just that its odd that both are reporting similar results.  The compass should still work on the GPS/Compass combo.  So you can still test while waiting for the replacement.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 14, 2015, 04:13:00 PM
Ouch that GPS antenna is toast, if the chips look okay (apart from the antenna which is that ceramic bit with a flat bit of metal on it) then you can order replacement antennas from aliexpress for under $10 for 10.  I'm waiting for mine to arrive as I killed a GPS in a crash a few weeks back.

Get the 4mm version if you do it.  The more ceramic the better isolation it has from the electronics on the other side.

Are you sure it was using the external before, just that its odd that both are reporting similar results.  The compass should still work on the GPS/Compass combo.  So you can still test while waiting for the replacement.

Chris
When you get the replacement antennas if you have a spare chuck on this way. I don't know how you remove it.[EDIT] Figured out how to remove it the problem might be reinstalling is as it was soldered in. The only I will be able to do that is to heat the pin up and hope the solder on the other end holds and does not cook the GPS chip.
When I removed the external gps/compass I had to change the setting in mission planner to tell it to use the internal compass. So I am sure that the compass readings are external and then internal.
What are your readings?
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 14, 2015, 04:13:40 PM
RP403307533SG yep SG


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

After you go into the Track and Trace web page on Singapore Speedpost, option 3 has a 'Click here to check' link which takes you to this page.

http://www.singpost.com/track-items (http://www.singpost.com/track-items)

Feed your consignment number into the box on the left hand side, then click on 'Track Item' which will display the status of your order which is...

ta da

Status is 'Despatch to overseas country (Country code : AU) Status date 10/01/2015
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on January 14, 2015, 04:21:36 PM
Thanks mate, took me abit but got there


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Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 14, 2015, 04:21:50 PM
Chris ,

I've got this sitting here doing nothing - It came with something I bought ??? I don't use it ...

Pics to follow soon .
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/13/601f2f00b050e3fbbb86afaf5088f873.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/13/241db92516ad7854b716fbea172cf420.jpg)
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 14, 2015, 04:23:04 PM
Thanks mate, took me abit but got there


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
That is unfortunately about the only status you will get until the postie knocks on your door.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 14, 2015, 06:22:52 PM
When you get the replacement antennas if you have a spare chuck on this way. I don't know how you remove it.[EDIT] Figured out how to remove it the problem might be reinstalling is as it was soldered in. The only I will be able to do that is to heat the pin up and hope the solder on the other end holds and does not cook the GPS chip.
When I removed the external gps/compass I had to change the setting in mission planner to tell it to use the internal compass. So I am sure that the compass readings are external and then internal.
What are your readings?
Regards
Crispy

I'll see how I go, I can send you one if I'm successful.

To change it over you need to turn up your solder iron right on up so you normally desolder antenna post on the side with the chip and then you slide a very thin knife under the antenna (to break the glue).  Should be able to pull the antenna off.  With it turned up high you should have it touching for minimal time, so it shouldn't heat up the GPS chip to much.

Then it's peel off the backing sheet on the GPS antenna and attach to the board.  Then solder it with a hot iron on the side with the GPS chip.  Again have it touching for very minimal time.  I'll try to record the one I do and post it up.

Got called out last night so couldnt do the clip.  I'm on standby for another job tonight so may not get to it tonight either.  This wind and rain is getting annoying.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 14, 2015, 10:59:03 PM
When you get the replacement antennas if you have a spare chuck on this way. I don't know how you remove it.[EDIT] Figured out how to remove it the problem might be reinstalling is as it was soldered in. The only I will be able to do that is to heat the pin up and hope the solder on the other end holds and does not cook the GPS chip.
When I removed the external gps/compass I had to change the setting in mission planner to tell it to use the internal compass. So I am sure that the compass readings are external and then internal.
What are your readings?
Regards
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

mini quad:
COMPASS_OFS_X,-28
COMPASS_OFS_Y,-1
COMPASS_OFS_Z,-28

COMPASS_MOT_X,-0.04588571
COMPASS_MOT_Y,-0.002530452
COMPASS_MOT_Z,0.07735726

Tricopter:
COMPASS_OFS_X,-51.29225
COMPASS_OFS_Y,-29.91646
COMPASS_OFS_Z,-0.3222408

Havent done the motor calibration with the tri, but will be doing it before it takes flight again.

Here is an extract from the arducopter site:

Compass failures:

Compass not healthy : the compass sensor is reporting that it is unhealthy which is a sign of a hardware failure.

Compass not calibrated : the compass(es) has not been calibrated.  the COMPASS_OFS_X, Y, Z parameters are zero or the number or type of compasses connected has been changed since the last compass calibration was performed.

Compass offsets too high : the primary compass’s offsets length (i.e. sqrt(x^2+y^2+z^2)) are larger than 500.  This can be caused by metal objects being placed too close to the compass.  If only an internal compass is being used (not recommended), it may simply be the metal in the board that is causing the large offsets and this may not actually be a problem in which case you may wish to disable the compass check.

Check mag field : the sensed magnetic field in the area is 35% higher or  lower than the expected value.  The expected length is 530 so it’s > 874 or < 185.  Magnetic field strength varies around the world but these wide limits mean it’s more likely the compass calibration has not calculated good offsets and should be repeated.

Compasses inconsistent : the internal and external compasses are pointing in different directions (off by >45 degrees).  This is normally caused by the external compasses orientation (i.e. COMPASS_ORIENT parameter) being set incorrectly.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 15, 2015, 09:31:33 AM
Ok, finally got to some videos, I've upload 2 videos of the mini Quad with miniAPM board.

https://www.youtube.com/user/tubepapy/videos (https://www.youtube.com/user/tubepapy/videos)

Just basic flight testing videos so nothing too scenic.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 15, 2015, 09:38:51 AM
Very nice Chris. Is that the Mobius camera you are using there?

How are you finding the mini quad compared to your tri-copter?

Loiter looked nice and steady. Have you given drift mode a go yet Chris?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 15, 2015, 11:26:24 AM
Very nice Chris. Is that the Mobius camera you are using there?

How are you finding the mini quad compared to your tri-copter?

Loiter looked nice and steady. Have you given drift mode a go yet Chris?

Hi,

Yep it's the mobius recording that, I have to say both the Mobius (approx $80) and my action cam (also around $80) seem to give my GoPro 3+ Black some good competition.  Youtube has downgraded the quality as well, when I compare them on my screen here there is very little difference.  I think that on the edges the GoPro does a better job, but on the center of the image they are hard to distinguish.

Of course that is comparing 1080p with 1080p.  When I change the gopro to 2.7K or 4.3K well then it's a different kettle of fish :-)

I find the mini quad to be quite a lot less stable, it bounces around a lot more.  I find it hard to trust the loiter mode, I had it move horizontally on it's own nearly 15m today, I left it for a while to see if it would recover but once it got that far I had to put it back into stablise to bring it back under control as I had limited loiter to 2m/s max speed.  I think this was due to the wind that blowing a bit, had I left it on 5m/s I think it might have recovered......  You might notice in loiter it tends to see-saw alot, I will have to get autotune to work or do some manual tuning I think.

I'm happy with ALTHOLD mode it is rock solid.  I can lock it to that mode and fly around with only a few m of drop or height gain before it corrects itself.   Since it's ALTHOLD is rock solid I will try drift mode shortly (most likely early next week), I've been playing with ACRO mode today, want to get comfortable using it.  Brings back memories of the tricopter on the KK2 board (when not using auto level).

Was a bit too windy, had the miniQuad on a 10 degree lean to keep it steady in the wind, so I backed up at that stage.

Now if I don't get any call outs today or tonight I'll work on the tricopter a bit later today.  I really want to get the gimbal mounted and calibrated so that I can give it a go.  I'd like to take my Tricopter on a trip to Abercrombie River NP over the Aus Day long weekend.  Would be so much better with the gimbal on it, so next week will be more about the Tri than the quad.  Toying with the idea of bringing both but my wife might not be impressed when I say no more clothes but sure I have room for the mini Quad......

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 15, 2015, 11:29:48 AM
I reckon that is as good a reason to get a mini tri-copter than any other reason Chris  >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 15, 2015, 11:41:33 AM
I've just ordered the motors, ESC's and two sets each of 6x4 and 7x5 propellers for my Quanum Trifector mini tri-copter. I'm going to put a miniAPM in this frame as well, but I'll wait for Chinese New Year as I reckon there will be sales on Aliexpress around that time.

The motors are Emax MT2206 1500kv, thrust is 400g with 9x4.7 props and 630g with 8x4.5. The frame is good for 6-8 inch props so should be well matched to these motors. 6 and 7 inch props are recommended, so I'll do a bit of testing with the props I've purchased to see which is the better size.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 15, 2015, 03:23:54 PM
To change it over you need to turn up your solder iron right on up so you normally desolder antenna post on the side with the chip and then you slide a very thin knife under the antenna (to break the glue).  Should be able to pull the antenna off.  With it turned up high you should have it touching for minimal time, so it shouldn't heat up the GPS chip to much.

I got the old one off but the solder for the pin is under the chip so have to apply the heat to the top (antenna side) so I will just have to try. Got nothing to loose as it is busted now and I have another on its way and have taken up Steve's offer of the spare GPS he has. I'll give it a try.
The compass calibration still throws me. I got a magnetic field checker and it goes sky high when I put my phone on my laptop as expected but everywhere else in the house it is acceptable levels of about 70uT even outside in the middle of the yard.
More research to do.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 15, 2015, 03:56:39 PM
I find the mini quad to be quite a lot less stable, it bounces around a lot more.  I find it hard to trust the loiter mode, I had it move horizontally on it's own nearly 15m today, I left it for a while to see if it would recover but once it got that far I had to put it back into stablise to bring it back under control as I had limited loiter to 2m/s max speed.  I think this was due to the wind that blowing a bit, had I left it on 5m/s I think it might have recovered......  You might notice in loiter it tends to see-saw alot, I will have to get autotune to work or do some manual tuning I think.

I have reviewed the telemtry radio logs and the OSD and I can confirm that right when it did it's fast move horizontally it was due to the GPS sat count going down sharply....  It was at 7 sats for most of the time and right before it did the fast move it dropped to 4 sats, so the HDOP would have risen, meaning that it wasnt good for a loiter.  Funny thing is that almost to the second after I switched back to Stabilise it jumped back to 7 sats and then to 8 shortly afterwards.  So had I left it going it would have recovered on it's own.

I dont like that I have to give it a 15m area to play in though - this has a fullsize 25mmx25mm GPS antenna and a 6m GPS chip.  I'm wondering if a pixhawk with the more advanced EKF stuff would handle that situation better.  I think it uses the IMU more to determine the GPS's glitches that can occur.  I'm thinking of laying down some cash on a clone Pixhawk but I have to watch my pennies till I get some work, I have a small RC budget of $150 a month for the next 2 months (assuming I get some work again in March).  A pixhawk plus goodies will blow 2/3's of that and that assumes I don't break anything else I've got till then :-)

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 15, 2015, 04:08:37 PM
I got the old one off but the solder for the pin is under the chip so have to apply the heat to the top (antenna side) so I will just have to try. Got nothing to loose as it is busted now and I have another on its way and have taken up Steve's offer of the spare GPS he has. I'll give it a try.
The compass calibration still throws me. I got a magnetic field checker and it goes sky high when I put my phone on my laptop as expected but everywhere else in the house it is acceptable levels of about 70uT even outside in the middle of the yard.
More research to do.
Regards
Crispy

Ummm, the pin should go from the antenna side though the board to other side (side with the GPS chip - not the antenna) - it could be to one of it's pins.  Always desolder from the GPS chip side.  No major prop you should be able to see where that post goes a bit easier now that your pulled it off the GPS antenna  >:D

If you are getting around 70uT's then that is good, sounds like it could be the board.  There were some pixhawks (geniune and clones) which were faulty that people had to send back as they kept getting abnormal readings from a variety of compasses.  Does Steve's GPS has a compass on it?  Just that in the photos I saw I cant recall seeing one but hard to tell from the pics?

Have you tried the compass calibration powered by Lipo (well away from the PC - like 3+m - connect via telemtry), then no Lipo but via USB?  Does it result in vastly different readings?  For example is it always the Z axis that is out or does this change from calibration to calibration?

Even though your house is getting great readings, since your using a laptop then try calibrating elsewhere just to see what happens.  It's sounding like the board might have an issue since it doesn't appear to be your environment and you have tried multiple different compasses (internal and external) and they get similar results.  Just remember that AC3.2 compass calibration is much easier than the AC3.1.X calibration.

Regards,

Chris

Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 15, 2015, 05:23:51 PM
Chris,
I have done the compass thing with the internal and external compass. The broken one is the only one I have so will wait to see what happens when I get the new replacement one. As far as the chip and solder point goes I will add some photos to this post soon showing the GPS and where the pin goes through the board. I lands smack bang in the middle of the GPS ship.
The waiting game is going to be painful but I just have to wait.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/14/dd08834c9e7b1c1f346a7a14a142eaf8.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/14/be9089d85ed893ff48f2d7b5de604e62.jpg)

X marks the spot

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 15, 2015, 07:25:03 PM
Chris,
I have done the compass thing with the internal and external compass. The broken one is the only one I have so will wait to see what happens when I get the new replacement one. As far as the chip and solder point goes I will add some photos to this post soon showing the GPS and where the pin goes through the board. I lands smack bang in the middle of the GPS ship.
The waiting game is going to be painful but I just have to wait.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/14/dd08834c9e7b1c1f346a7a14a142eaf8.jpg)
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/14/be9089d85ed893ff48f2d7b5de604e62.jpg)

X marks the spot

Regards
Crispy


Hmmmm, that is annoying, most have it just outside the chip.  I notice there isnt alot of spare space on this board.  That is why they likely did it.  The replacement GPS antenna should have the post already attached.  Challenge will be to solder the new antenna in.  I'm hoping you wont have to remove the GPS chip to do that but it's looking like you might.  I've got a couple of MinimOSD boards that I plan to resurrect as I've got my replacement chips.  I'll do a video on how to do it, you can use the same principal for the GPS chip.

It involves using a heat gun or butane solder iron with heat gun attachment.  A set of tweezers and some luck :-)  To put new chip in involves some tweezers, soldering iron and solder.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 16, 2015, 10:06:34 AM
I have a small RC budget of $150 a month
That's what I try to limit myself to, but I think I'm suffering from obsessive compulsive quad parts buying syndrome.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 16, 2015, 11:03:50 AM
On that basis I can't buy anything for 12 months !!!  Bwaaaaa Haaaa
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on January 16, 2015, 11:11:00 AM
$150 per month??????

Lordy thats akin to the Aus Guberments spending on health and education....woefully inadequate!!!!  ;D

I make sure I check the mail box.... otherwise I gotta 'explain stuff'.... like today the new pump arrived for the current trailer build..... was walking towards the carpark from the post office...."ahem! ..... and just what is that???" WTF? we don't even live in town! Is she stalking me????? (which doesn't make sense, shes already married to me.....)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 16, 2015, 05:46:03 PM
Hey Chris and Crispy,

Now these look good for APM platforms. A PDB with the APM power module in all one.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__74645__Micro_HKPilot_Mega_PDB_BEC_and_Volt_AMP_Sensor_30_5mm_Mounting.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__74645__Micro_HKPilot_Mega_PDB_BEC_and_Volt_AMP_Sensor_30_5mm_Mounting.html)

On the new product page on HK.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 16, 2015, 05:52:03 PM
They also have a new 'micro' APM, which looks pretty much like the ones available on Aliexpress flogged as a mini.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 16, 2015, 06:08:23 PM
$150 per month??????

Lordy thats akin to the Aus Guberments spending on health and education....woefully inadequate!!!!  ;D

I make sure I check the mail box.... otherwise I gotta 'explain stuff'.... like today the new pump arrived for the current trailer build..... was walking towards the carpark from the post office...."ahem! ..... and just what is that???" WTF? we don't even live in town! Is she stalking me????? (which doesn't make sense, shes already married to me.....)

Ah thats why I have a Parcel locker, that way if the wife beats me home I don't have to answer any questions.  I do have to smuggle them past her later on though from the car to the study.....  I've been caught a few time.

I know I've been spending up big before Christmas - it's a major budget cut while I've got no confirmed contract I'm keeping it to a realistic level.  I'm thinking I will expand it a bit and take the plunge and get a pixhawk but I'll wait till I'm back from the Aus Day long weekend.  I have some leeway in my budget, it just depends on what else life throws at me over the next month or two.  I've got a trip to Abercrombie River NP and most likely a few other shorter 4WD trips over the next few weeks.  Need to make sure that I don't break anything on that trip.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 16, 2015, 06:22:03 PM
Hey Chris and Crispy,

Now these look good for APM platforms. A PDB with the APM power module in all one.

http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__74645__Micro_HKPilot_Mega_PDB_BEC_and_Volt_AMP_Sensor_30_5mm_Mounting.html (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__74645__Micro_HKPilot_Mega_PDB_BEC_and_Volt_AMP_Sensor_30_5mm_Mounting.html)

On the new product page on HK.

Cheers, Mark


At $160 for the whole package that is not too bad.  Nice and small and all the leg work is done on the connectors too I noticed, this is exactly what I was saying that is done right it will be brilliant.  I'm a bit disappointed that they are charging $63 for the base board though, paid less than that and got the GPS and power module for that price.  I think they could do better on both.

You know your new mini tri would love one of these Mark.

Everything is getting smaller these days.

You know as soon as I buy a Pixhawk they release a new miniature version.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 16, 2015, 06:26:17 PM
Warning for anyone getting into APM programming (changing the firmware).

Well I have temporarily killed an APM board, I have to reflash the bootloader on to it.  Turns out the real limit for the APM board is 242k, not the 250k that all the software says is the limit.....

I tried to load a custom bit change to allow RCMAP to work on channels 5 to 8.  It was about 2k to big and this will cause the APM to become unresponsive so, now I have to solder on some headers to then plug in one of the programmers I've got to load the APM bootloader back on.  Sigh.....  Why not have the limit set to 242k if that is the real limit.....

I think the code is good and will work just unfortunately didnt disable enough of the non needed items.  Just as well I have spare time at present.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 16, 2015, 06:38:37 PM
Everything is getting smaller these days.

You know as soon as I buy a Pixhawk they release a new miniature version.....
What has happened in just the last 12 months with multicopters is mind blowing.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on January 16, 2015, 08:31:46 PM
What has happened in just the last 12 months with multicopters is mind blowing.

It certainly is that!!!! Cameras as well....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 16, 2015, 09:28:21 PM
Speaking of getting extra stuff and smaller --- Banggood just sent me this on email ... Love the transmitter !!! ]


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 17, 2015, 12:59:31 AM
Well I decided that I plan on not breaking much over the next month or two :-)  I just ordered my pixhawk clone package, it should arrive shortly after I get back from the Aus Day long weekend.  Plan is to mount it onto the tricopter, I'll mount the two GPS's, it looks like it has two telemetry ports that can both have the TX hooked up, so no having to start the telemetry feed on the radio to get the OSD to work.  It will also have the sonar on it.  In a few months time I will look at adding the optical flow and LIDAR module.

I'll order the lemon receiver 8 ch ppm over the weekend.  I'll just get the one for now.  I'll have the PPM encoder as a backup if required.

I have almost restored the APM i buggered earlier today, I just need to compile a bootloader and load it (currently installing the avr compiling tools on to my linux VM), I have added the additional header row pins to the board, I've confirmed the tools can read the chip from the installed header row pins, I can see that it's locked as it's supposed to (damned if I know how it got buggered...)  So it should be restored tomorrow, fingers crossed.

Oh, I also got in about 15 mins of flying earlier today before the wind suddenly kicked up and I brought the miniQuad down for it's own safety. My local grounds keeper approached me today while I was flying.  He's seen me over the last week or so and thought it was pretty cool.  He's interested in some aerial images of the grounds, so I said once I'm back on the tricopter I'll be doing some aerial mapping as a test run over it, so he's welcome to the images.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 17, 2015, 05:51:49 PM
Well after loosing about 3 hours on this I've discovered that many of the flashing tools wont work on the atmega range, which is what the APM2 is based on..... It will appear to have worked and it's successfully read the firmware again to verify it, but it hasnt really worked.  I have plenty of tools they can do all the smaller stuff such as MinimOSD's, KK2's, etc.  So now I've ordered another tool to reprogram the damn thing.....

Not happy about this, I really think that the tools that upload the firmware should check for this sort of thing, and if you have a locked boot loader I'd expect it to not be overwritten....  Guess thats too much to expect. 

At least I wont have this trouble with the Pixhawk, it has buckets of spare room and it's firmware upload process is cleaner, ie this problem shouldn't happen in theory with it or it will be easier to recover from.  I will wait to see if I can recover it with the new tool before I'll be brave enough to try it on the APM2.7 or the MiniAPM.
 
Also starting to look at the linux clones to see how they are coming along, considering buying a little linux board to do inflight image processing.

I think the APM has finally hit the wall - there wont be too many new features coming it's way, but I'm pretty happy with what it can do so far.  Good news is that with some minor connector changes I can move some of my stuff over to Pixhawks.  Will do one for the Tricopter and one for fixed wing later on.  I'll continue to use APM's for the miniQuad and other test aircraft.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 17, 2015, 07:54:29 PM
It seems this hobby is a money pit. Programmers for this and that new parts. But good fun.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 18, 2015, 09:23:25 PM
Does anyone else have the hk 2.7? I have found a photo on the hk site that shows 2 jumper settings for the compass. One for the internal and one for the external one. Is this correct?(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/18/4c7e6b8a88fc6a799827afd644d1970a.jpg)
Might be forced to purchase a cheep apm 2.6 kit from the evil bay for about $95 inc postage from aus.
Comments?
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 18, 2015, 09:33:56 PM
Does anyone else have the hk 2.7? I have found a photo on the hk site that shows 2 jumper settings for the compass. One for the internal and one for the external one. Is this correct?(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/18/4c7e6b8a88fc6a799827afd644d1970a.jpg)
Might be forced to purchase a cheep apm 2.6 kit from the evil bay for about $95 inc postage from aus.
Comments?
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy


Hi,

Yes I have a HK APM 2.7 board, you have it correct that should be using the internal compass.  I have to say I have mine set to use the external and havent tried using the internal compass on mine....

Are you still having the same problem?

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 18, 2015, 09:47:45 PM
Well I've decided that I'll stay a one pixhawk owner for the time been.  I'll keep using the APM boards in the miniQuad and fix wing plane/s until the Pixhawk Fire Cape is a bit more widely available.  It runs on a Beagle Bone Black (BBB) embedded linux board.  I'll look at using the buggered APM board as an antenna tracker.

I've got an Odroid C1 board on the way but it will be more a companion board (take pics, do inflight video processing, telemetry handling and a variety of other tasks), I'm hoping by middle of the year the PXF will be more widely available (at present only a handful of people are making them) and they are a bit pricey at present (200 pounds in some cases...).

It amazing, these little embedded linux boards are so small and have so much processing power.  Even more impressive is that they can run real time software to fly a model ac / RPA and do other tasks (optical flow, etc).

I've worked on my mount for the camera gimbal, I should have that finished tomorrow morning as I'd like to take the tricopter out for a flight tomorrow with the gimbal on it.  I've had to create a 2nd battery tray that moves weight rearwards to counter the camera weight.  I expect most of Monday afternoon will be tuning the gimbal and doing tests for some more flight testing on Tuesday.  I need it ready to go on the next camping trip (leave on Friday).

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 19, 2015, 07:47:57 AM
Hi,

Are you still having the same problem?

Chris
Chris,
The short answer is no.
As I have not got a working GPS at the moment I have put the quad in the hanger until I get the required parts.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 19, 2015, 08:03:07 AM
You should get that Nublox 6 today ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 19, 2015, 08:54:15 AM
You should get that Nublox 6 today ...
Yes just waiting for the postie to come.
Then I have to figure out the connection pins to make sure they are correct.
I might even try and change the mimumosd today.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 19, 2015, 12:09:24 PM
Yes just waiting for the postie to come.
Then I have to figure out the connection pins to make sure they are correct.
I might even try and change the mimumosd today.
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

I recommend that you just get the basics first, get it up and running with the GPS.  Leave all the cameras and other stuff for once you have a stable platform.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 19, 2015, 12:14:58 PM
Well I've got the gimbal mounted with the camera and I've done a basic tune on it (calibrated level, lowered the motor outputs and checked the PID settings).  I've checked my CoG and I'm happy it back to the middle of the APM.

I went for a bolt on mount to my electronics tray, just some pine bits.  I had to do up a new battery tray to move the weight further back as initially it was way to front heavy.  I haven't weighed it yet, I know I've added some weight with the gimbal and the mount.  I'm thinking about 150-200g?  I will only know once I weigh it properly.

There is one bolt that I wish I had put in a nylon bolt, just that if it comes loose it could contact the circuit board of the gimbal control.  It's too much work though to pull it apart, next time I've got it apart I'll fix that up.  Also the USB socket it damn hard to reach, I have to tilt the mount a bit to plug it in, once it's in it fits in the space, so next time I pull it apart I'll mount the horizontal beams underneath the mounts that jut out the front, this will move the load more to the bolts, but I dont have many options.

If it stops spitting for long enough I might even get to flight test it today, if not then tomorrow will have to do :-)

Here are the pics:

1. Pic of it level
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/18/6c52625d47cd4455207858c0004fade5.jpg)

2. Pic of it at a lean
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/18/6d116c594a59c5aa4e7a01466a0ce061.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/18/01be74f9a38558fae3dce9410cf14253.jpg)

3. SimpleBCG tool

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/18/e9659662d04f6f66dba6e7f83a7173a3.jpg)

Tomorrow I'm hoping to add RC pitch control from the APM so that I can manually tilt it downwards as required.  I think I'll leave the roll unconnected as I think I'll always want a roll stabilised image.

I may have to increase the motor values again depending on how much vibrations come through.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 19, 2015, 12:40:46 PM
G'day Chris,

Setting up the tilt is easy as with a servo, but I understand it is a little different with a brushless gimbal. I think it is just a matter of using the digital output channels rather than A10-A11 for pan and tilt servo gimbals.

How did you get on with the configuration tool? I found it a PITA to work out. I just loaded defaults, and then increased motor power until I was happy when I moved the camera that there was enough resistance to fight wind when flying.

Please let us know how you get on with the tilt setup on your gimbal. I would like to give this a go as well, but just haven't had the time to muck around with it yet on my X-mode Alien.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 19, 2015, 12:50:32 PM
Hi Crispy,

I recommend that you just get the basics first, get it up and running with the GPS.  Leave all the cameras and other stuff for once you have a stable platform.

Chris
Chris,
The camera and all the other stuff is easy. Getting a stable platform is the hard part. Everything else works just fine.
Got the GPS from Mandrake today so might have a play.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 19, 2015, 07:39:57 PM
I'm still waiting for the telemetry radio and minimOSD to arrive for the mini quad, so I've added some orientation lights while I'm waiting.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 20, 2015, 01:09:02 PM
Hi Marschy,

Very nice lights there

I realised I haven't sent those pics of the CF frame yet, I I will get to taking those pics today.

Hi all,

Well I did something stupid today.....  I decided to test out the gimbal mount, by the way thats not the stupid bit, that was the smart bit, I had to wait for a break in the rain :-)

The stupid bit was that my action cam wasn't fully charged so I got a some total of 1 min of aerial footage!!   Worse part of I only noticed it on the 2nd battery change. I've got nearly 4 mins of ground footage though, not that it helps me.  The one minute of aerial footage I've got is very nicely stabilised on the roll and pitch axis, it's smooth as, handled all the movements I put it through very nicely (or at least the first minute of maneuvers).

So my action cam is charging up as we speak, so I can repeat again tomorrow.

Only issue is since the auto tune my stabilise and loiter now have a noticeable rocking motion.  So now I have to retune again, hoping this will remove it (will try again tomorrow).  Otherwise since I've remounted everything it might be the dreaded servo jitter from the telemetry radio which I didnt have before, grrrrr.

So once I've baked a cake for my wifes birthday I'll get back onto fixing that and also the FPV cam is terribly focused, so I'll work on that today too.

I also think that I stuffed up the Power Module settings as I was getting 11.3V as soon as I connected the battery with only base load, I had it on a battery tester just before at a good strong 12.6.  So I have to recalibrate it too.

Long list of stuff to do, luckily I'm off work at present or this would take forever!

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 20, 2015, 02:31:25 PM
Hello Chris,

The lights are el-cheapo RGB LED's that you get from China on a metre roll.

I'm going to give the tethered Rate Roll and Pitch P Tuning (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/ac_rollpitchtuning/) a go shortly as per the video on the arducopter web site.

I can tether my quad between my pergola posts which should be a more than suitable location. The only thing I have to work out is how I can attach the tether to the quad in a reasonably central position in both the roll and pitch axis. By the look of the video, the tether is drawn very tightly, so I need to be able to tighten the tether without causing damage to the frames.

The battery calibration is finally working for me since buying the new Hobbyking PM's. The 2 dodgy PM's I have will be go in the spare parts drawer because I am going to get a micro version for the mini quad which is the new integrated power distribution board and PM version from Hobbyking. That should save me a few grams of weight.

It looks as though the mini quad fully loaded with a tilt gimbal FPV camera, miniAPM, GPS, telemetry and all other mandatory hardware is going to be a little bit on the heavy side. I am already up to 470 grams and still haven't added the minimOSD, telemetry radio (couldn't get the bluetooth module working, bugger) and 5 volt BEC for the tilt gimbal servo. I have my new nano-tech 1500mAh battery, which is only 45 grams in weight less than the Zippy flightmax 2200mAh battery. I reckon by the time everything is loaded the mini quad will be just over 600 grams. I should still get a better than 2:1 power to weight ratio, but not as good as I would have liked.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 20, 2015, 03:04:51 PM
Hello Chris,

The lights are el-cheapo RGB LED's that you get from China on a metre roll.

I'm going to give the tethered Rate Roll and Pitch P Tuning (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/ac_rollpitchtuning/) a go shortly as per the video on the arducopter web site.

I can tether my quad between my pergola posts which should be a more than suitable location. The only thing I have to work out is how I can attach the tether to the quad in a reasonably central position in both the roll and pitch axis. By the look of the video, the tether is drawn very tightly, so I need to be able to tighten the tether without causing damage to the frames.

The battery calibration is finally working for me since buying the new Hobbyking PM's. The 2 dodgy PM's I have will be go in the spare parts drawer because I am going to get a micro version for the mini quad which is the new integrated power distribution board and PM version from Hobbyking. That should save me a few grams of weight.

It looks as though the mini quad fully loaded with a tilt gimbal FPV camera, miniAPM, GPS, telemetry and all other mandatory hardware is going to be a little bit on the heavy side. I am already up to 470 grams and still haven't added the minimOSD, telemetry radio (couldn't get the bluetooth module working, bugger) and 5 volt BEC for the tilt gimbal servo. I have my new nano-tech 1500mAh battery, which is only 45 grams in weight less than the Zippy flightmax 2200mAh battery. I reckon by the time everything is loaded the mini quad will be just over 600 grams. I should still get a better than 2:1 power to weight ratio, but not as good as I would have liked.

Cheers, Mark


Ah, I have a roll of that stuff laying from my camping lights I made.  I have been thinking of doing the same but thought I dont need anymore power drain on my little batteries :-)  They draw bugger all though, let us know how helpful they are during daylight, if I was night flying then I'd definitely see the point.

I think I'll have to do the tethered method to for the tricopter, it just hasnt got it right yet.  I'll give it one more go and then I will do the tricopter tethering method https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhJsXTu46y8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhJsXTu46y8).  I love how Google and YouTube makes problem solving so much easier :-)

I was surprised how well the tricopter handled the strong winds compared to the quad, it either just tilted a little bit and held it's position much better.  I would say that it stayed within 2mx2m box when loitering.  Cant wait to switch this over to the pixhawk and run two GPS's.  I'd also like to invest in the Ublox M8N GPS which is even better, they say that instead of the 1.6m resolution you can get it down to 0.9m, I'd say the tri will hold position in a 1m x 1m box then :-)

I also noticed a slight drift when a very stong gust hit it, one that would have had the mini quad almost tumbling.  I was hesitant to put the tri up in the strong winds.

Another thing I noticed is that the tri is fast, I barely had to tilt the tri forwards and I was jumping to 20-30km/h in about half the time the quad takes.  It made doing banking turns so hard because I'd push forwards like I do on the quad and it would accelerate so fast.  I try to keep the tri under 40km/h as I had it fall out of the sky at around 50km/h and I'm worried it will happen again (before that getting up to 60km/h was normal, with my fastest speed ever recorded at 85km/h).

It also holds the speed, so if you build up a 20km/h speed and then level off it will take twice as long to slow down as the mini quad.  Odd that my tri is so much more nimble.

Bad news is that my hover % is now 55%, so the extra weight is noticeable.  Its around what I was expecting so not surprised, it was able to climb fast when I needed it.  I only put it up 15m today as I could see low level cloud hauling ass and I didn't want to have a fly away.  I will have to look up what the wind speed was here today.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 20, 2015, 03:12:08 PM
Ah, I have a roll of that stuff laying from my camping lights I made.  I have been thinking of doing the same but thought I dont need anymore power drain on my little batteries :-)  They draw bugger all though, let us know how helpful they are during daylight, if I was night flying then I'd definitely see the point.

I think I'll have to do the tethered method to for the tricopter, it just hasnt got it right yet.  I'll give it one more go and then I will do the tricopter tethering method (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhJsXTu46y8).  I love how Google and YouTube makes problem solving so much easier :-)

I was surprised how well the tricopter handled the strong winds compared to the quad, it either just tilted a little bit and held it's position much better.  I would say that it stayed within 2mx2m box when loitering.  Cant wait to switch this over to the pixhawk and run two GPS's.  I'd also like to invest in the Ublox M8N GPS which is even better, they say that instead of the 1.6m resolution you can get it down to 0.9m, I'd say the tri will hold position in a 1m x 1m box then :-)

I also noticed a slight drift when a very stong gust hit it, one that would have had the mini quad almost tumbling.  I was hesitant to put the tri up in the strong winds.

Another thing I noticed is that the tri is fast, I barely had to tilt the tri forwards and I was jumping to 20-30km/h in about half the time the quad takes.  It made doing banking turns so hard because I'd push forwards like I do on the quad and it would accelerate so fast.  I try to keep the tri under 40km/h as I had it fall out of the sky at around 50km/h and I'm worried it will happen again (before that getting up to 60km/h was normal, with my fastest speed ever recorded at 85km/h).

It also holds the speed, so if you build up a 20km/h speed and then level off it will take twice as long to slow down as the mini quad.  Odd that my tri is so much more nimble.

Bad news is that my hover % is now 55%, so the extra weight is noticeable.  Its around what I was expecting so not surprised, it was able to climb fast when I needed it.  I only put it up 15m today as I could see low level cloud hauling ass and I didn't want to have a fly away.  I will have to look up what the wind speed was here today.

Chris
The photo's don't do the LED's justice as the flash triggered on the Ixus camera. I'll post a photo tonight with the Ixus flash turned off, these LED's are bright little suckers. The Blue LED is the brightest out of the three colours, the red is the least brightest. As long as they help with orientation I'll be happy. I'm thinking of following your example though and getting a lemonRX 8 channel PPM receiver so I can use super simple mode as I'm starting to form the opinion that orientation is going to be a big issue with this little quad.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 20, 2015, 05:50:24 PM
The photo's don't do the LED's justice as the flash triggered on the Ixus camera. I'll post a photo tonight with the Ixus flash turned off, these LED's are bright little suckers. The Blue LED is the brightest out of the three colours, the red is the least brightest. As long as they help with orientation I'll be happy. I'm thinking of following your example though and getting a lemonRX 8 channel PPM receiver so I can use super simple mode as I'm starting to form the opinion that orientation is going to be a big issue with this little quad.

I'll think about mounting some, orientation is critical on the mini Quad, I find myself checking the monitor to confirm where it's going.  To be honest I've only flown it about 80m away from myself when I've decided that it's far enough.  With the GPS performance I've been getting on the mini quad I'm not sure that simple mode will work as well as you'd like.  GPS performance on the Tri is brilliant.

I'm waiting to receive the lemon, I guess it will be after I get back from the trip.  I'll let you know how it goes.  I plan to leave the R615X on the mini quad until I get some more money coming in.  The Lemon will go on the Tricopter to make it simpler (and I can remove the PPM board for the Pixhawk then).

I've got my 10 GPS antenna's today, I'll do a swap and see how it goes.  I'll let you guys know how successful I am with it.

I fixed the focus issue this afternoon and charged the camera up, and now it stays on for much longer :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 20, 2015, 10:15:39 PM
Here is a piccy of the blue LED with my camera flash turned off. Gives a better idea of how well they light up.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 20, 2015, 10:23:09 PM
The Trifecta frame arrived today. I'm now waiting on motors, ESC's and yaw servo, but the flight control board will have to wait till next pay day. I'm going to go with the micro APM this time around with the new Hobbyking mega kit.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 20, 2015, 11:08:33 PM
The Trifecta frame arrived today. I'm now waiting on motors, ESC's and yaw servo, but the flight control board will have to wait till next pay day. I'm going to go with the micro APM this time around with the new Hobbyking mega kit.

Looks good, kind of wish it came out before I ordered the CF frames, don't forget to extend the tail as that looks a bit short.

FYI, I've been researching my yaw issue, and it appears that because autotune doesn't touch the yaw as part of it's process.  On further reading it seems that Rate Yaw D needs to be higher than 0 - which is the default for tricopters for some unknown reason.  I plan to do some testing tomorrow on this, I'm currently setting up CH6 to modify the tune parameter.

I've put in a start value of 0.003 as others have reported that it stops the tail oscillations.  I'm going with a 0 to 0.005 on ch6 to see if I need more or less to remove it.  Be very careful when adjusting D parameters as they have the highest tendency to make the aircraft unstable.

I'm happy with the Pitch and Roll settings at present, so no need to autotune it any further.

The HK mini certainly requires less work to get it going (connectors already done correctly) but seriously 1 hour of solid work and your mini APM (v3.1) should be good to go?  Or is that staying on the mini quad?  I dont think I could wait that long to get the mini up and running :-)

Your going to have to hide stuff at this rate or your wife will cotton onto how much your spending  :laugh:  :'(

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 12:05:06 AM
I'll think about mounting some, orientation is critical on the mini Quad, I find myself checking the monitor to confirm where it's going.  To be honest I've only flown it about 80m away from myself when I've decided that it's far enough.  With the GPS performance I've been getting on the mini quad I'm not sure that simple mode will work as well as you'd like.  GPS performance on the Tri is brilliant.

I'm waiting to receive the lemon, I guess it will be after I get back from the trip.  I'll let you know how it goes.  I plan to leave the R615X on the mini quad until I get some more money coming in.  The Lemon will go on the Tricopter to make it simpler (and I can remove the PPM board for the Pixhawk then).

I've got my 10 GPS antenna's today, I'll do a swap and see how it goes.  I'll let you guys know how successful I am with it.

I fixed the focus issue this afternoon and charged the camera up, and now it stays on for much longer :-)

Chris

Ah, simple mode only uses the compass, I was thinking of the super simple mode.  Simple mode might not be a bad start but you'll be turning it off pretty quickly.
Title: Re: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 06:10:50 AM
Er, umm that is extended. LOL its freakin' tiny
Title: Re: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 10:11:27 AM
Er, umm that is extended. LOL its freakin' tiny

Wow that is tiny, maybe it's an optical distortion but the centre point seems to be weighted to the front, is that right?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on January 21, 2015, 10:12:45 AM
Time for and update from me - between work and holidays I've only had 3 or 4 days at home since Christmas so not much time for sorting out the tri.

I got the replacement lh gimbal for the 9xr along with a case for it and some 9" props.

The good news is the props are generally well balanced and the new gimbal fixed the issue I had with the transmitter doing weird things with the yaw.

The bad news is when I went to test fly it last Friday I noticed straight away that there was a vibration somewhere and the tri was wobbling all over the place and a bit under powered. Not only that but a mate of mine test flew it to compare it to his own tri and mine decided to fly away on him!

The low voltage alarm came on so he was coming in to land when it accelerated off in a straight line at I guess about 2/3 throttle. He managed to bring it back and land it under intermittent control with no damage which I was super impressed with.

I think I narrowed down the vibration to a motor with dodgy bearings, so I 've replaced that and done some range testing on my front lawn. Standing 1m away if I put the transmitter behind my back it's enough to cause it to lose signal!

I pulled the receiver apart and checked the antennas were still soldered on etc and I can't see anything wrong, so I think I've narrowed it down to 2 things.

Either I've done something wrong when I had the transmitter apart to replace the gimbal which I think is unlikely as it was a pretty simple job and I only had to unplug 2 connectors. OR I've fried something by turning on the transmitter while not having the antenna screwed into the module which is what I think has happened as I know I've done it a few times now.

I take the antenna off because I'm worried about it getting broken off because of it's location (stupid design!) but now I think that's back fired on me. So I've ordered a new Tx module and also a new and different model orange Rx from HK China on express post so I'm crossing my fingers they will be here in a week or so when I'm home again from work.

Just to rub salt into the wounds, my BIL has a $50 quad from k-mart that flies perfectly every time!

Sorry every time I post on here it's a bit of a whinge but I've only flown 2 full batteries through this thing that have been trouble free and the frustration is building!
Title: Re: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 11:05:52 AM
Wow that is tiny, maybe it's an optical distortion but the centre point seems to be weighted to the front, is that right?
Geometry is the same as the Mercedes Benz symbol.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 11:45:59 AM
Time for and update from me - between work and holidays I've only had 3 or 4 days at home since Christmas so not much time for sorting out the tri.

I got the replacement lh gimbal for the 9xr along with a case for it and some 9" props.

The good news is the props are generally well balanced and the new gimbal fixed the issue I had with the transmitter doing weird things with the yaw.

The bad news is when I went to test fly it last Friday I noticed straight away that there was a vibration somewhere and the tri was wobbling all over the place and a bit under powered. Not only that but a mate of mine test flew it to compare it to his own tri and mine decided to fly away on him!

The low voltage alarm came on so he was coming in to land when it accelerated off in a straight line at I guess about 2/3 throttle. He managed to bring it back and land it under intermittent control with no damage which I was super impressed with.

I think I narrowed down the vibration to a motor with dodgy bearings, so I 've replaced that and done some range testing on my front lawn. Standing 1m away if I put the transmitter behind my back it's enough to cause it to lose signal!

I pulled the receiver apart and checked the antennas were still soldered on etc and I can't see anything wrong, so I think I've narrowed it down to 2 things.

Either I've done something wrong when I had the transmitter apart to replace the gimbal which I think is unlikely as it was a pretty simple job and I only had to unplug 2 connectors. OR I've fried something by turning on the transmitter while not having the antenna screwed into the module which is what I think has happened as I know I've done it a few times now.

I take the antenna off because I'm worried about it getting broken off because of it's location (stupid design!) but now I think that's back fired on me. So I've ordered a new Tx module and also a new and different model orange Rx from HK China on express post so I'm crossing my fingers they will be here in a week or so when I'm home again from work.

Just to rub salt into the wounds, my BIL has a $50 quad from k-mart that flies perfectly every time!

Sorry every time I post on here it's a bit of a whinge but I've only flown 2 full batteries through this thing that have been trouble free and the frustration is building!

Hi Spartan,

Hang in there mate, just on the Tx and the antenna I would suggest you have fried the TX Module, if there is no antenna on it then that power is reflected back into the TX and it cant handle it as another X amounts of milli watts are being pumped into it.  So it cooks itself.  It would explain why you get really bad transmission range.  But they normally fry so bad they output nothing.

I would suggest you leave the antenna attached in future, they may not look it but they are pretty robust.

On the vibrations I cant remember what frame you were using, I think you were doing a new version of David's Tricopter?  If so is it the one with the CF arms?  Also what have you used to isolate the KK2 from the frame (do you have foam between it and the board?).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 12:21:10 PM
Well I got to go flying today and this time the action cam worked, amazing what happens when you have a charged battery  ;D

I also tried the some Yaw D tuning, when I had Yaw D at 0.003 at start up I would get a wicked side to side motion on the yaw, so I dialed it back to 0 and it stabilised, once stable again I turned it back on it seemed to remain stable.  I took off and the Yaw D set at 0.003 did wonders.  I dont like fact I need to have 0 at start but then 0.003 once I'm ready for take off.  At 0.003 it did seem to reduce the slow wiggle I get.  I will keep trying with some changes, I will dial it back to 0.001 and see if that helps.  I'll also try 0.005 and see what that does on start up :-)

I took her up to 30m today and got a good view of Chatswood from my local oval.  Here is the video of that part:
http://youtu.be/iXRTzZkQQHE (http://youtu.be/iXRTzZkQQHE)

I did a bit of loiter mode flying and on occasions it would want to veer off so I'll need to review the flight logs to find out what it thought was going on.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 12:44:47 PM
Hello Chris, Great video.

I was just reading on rcgroups about yaw wobble, then I see that you have some in your video. Apparently if the motor is wobbling while it is sitting on the ground, this indicate that the yaw P gain is too high.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on January 21, 2015, 12:53:49 PM
Hi Spartan,

Hang in there mate, just on the Tx and the antenna I would suggest you have fried the TX Module, if there is no antenna on it then that power is reflected back into the TX and it cant handle it as another X amounts of milli watts are being pumped into it.  So it cooks itself.  It would explain why you get really bad transmission range.  But they normally fry so bad they output nothing.

I would suggest you leave the antenna attached in future, they may not look it but they are pretty robust.

On the vibrations I cant remember what frame you were using, I think you were doing a new version of David's Tricopter?  If so is it the one with the CF arms?  Also what have you used to isolate the KK2 from the frame (do you have foam between it and the board?).

Chris

Thanks mate.

Yeah I'm hoping it's the Tx module - if it's not then I'm not sure what to look at next but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it. Half the reason I bought the case is so I can leave the Tx sitting somewhere with the antenna on and not worry about it falling over or damaging the antenna.

Yep using Davids V3 with the carbon fibre booms. I've mounted the KK board using some double sided sticky foam from HK - it's about 5-6mm thick.

I bought a different model Orange Rx too because I've always been a little bit nervous about the length of the 2 short antennae on the 615 rx I'm using now. I don't think the Rx is the problem because it flew perfectly to the limits of sight when I had it running well, so I'm definitely trying the Tx Module first.

A mate of mine has an Orange T-six Tx that I was going to try out to eliminate the Rx as being a problem but he's away at work for a couple of weeks so I'll have the new module before I'll catch up with him again.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 02:04:58 PM
Well I got to go flying today and this time the action cam worked, amazing what happens when you have a charged battery  ;D

I also tried the some Yaw D tuning, when I had Yaw D at 0.003 at start up I would get a wicked side to side motion on the yaw, so I dialed it back to 0 and it stabilised, once stable again I turned it back on it seemed to remain stable.  I took off and the Yaw D set at 0.003 did wonders.  I dont like fact I need to have 0 at start but then 0.003 once I'm ready for take off.  At 0.003 it did seem to reduce the slow wiggle I get.  I will keep trying with some changes, I will dial it back to 0.001 and see if that helps.  I'll also try 0.005 and see what that does on start up :-)

I took her up to 30m today and got a good view of Chatswood from my local oval.  Here is the video of that part:
http://youtu.be/iXRTzZkQQHE (http://youtu.be/iXRTzZkQQHE)

I did a bit of loiter mode flying and on occasions it would want to veer off so I'll need to review the flight logs to find out what it thought was going on.

Chris


I think I need to recalibrate the gimbal, seems to have a slight lean on it.....  It now weighs AUW 1.7kg and I now only get around 13-14 mins flight time on the 3s 5000mah battery.  Now that I've got around an hour of flight with the gimbal mount I'm pretty confident it works I'm happy to try even higher, it would be better if I could trust loiter mode fully.

I have received my new programmer and I've partially restored the APM2.5 board.  I can load on a firmware (ac 3.2) via the programmer but I cant seem to get the 2nd chip which handles the PPM signal and shares the USB port to work properly.  I cant load firmware via Mission Planner yet but I can connect with MP when I load it via the programmer.  I've tried programming the 2nd chip with the bootloader from the ardupilot site but it hasn't worked. 

I'll need to do some more work with it, I'll try it when I return from my trip.  There is a regulator issue that I'll check, just in case it has happened at the same time.  I want this board to be my test board that I can load custom versions of firmware to try new things but it mainly stay on the ground or go in test machines.

Tonight I will be hooking in Ch 7 to do a manual tilt on the gimbal.  And I'll try to fit the sonar onto the Tricopter,

I should get in one more set of flights tomorrow.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 02:06:44 PM
Hello Chris, Great video.

I was just reading on rcgroups about yaw wobble, then I see that you have some in your video. Apparently if the motor is wobbling while it is sitting on the ground, this indicate that the yaw P gain is too high.

Cheers, Marschy

I missed this post until now, I'll turn Yaw P down a little and see what happens, it would be good to avoid having to change Yaw D on the fly all the time.

Was this Stab Yaw P or Rate Yaw P?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 02:22:40 PM
And I'll try to fit the sonar onto the Tricopter,
I haven't tried the method successfully that I described earlier that I had great success with my LV-EZ4 sonar on the HC-SR04 sonar yet. Getting a reference voltage reading from the SR04 sonar proved to be problematic as it was jumping around quite a bit. Unless you can get a reasonably stable voltage reading when the copter is sitting on the ground as your reference zero altitude reading, setting up the scaling will prove difficult.

I'm going to try setting up the SR04 sonar again before I do the pitch and roll tuning.

I also thought of a way I can do the pitch and roll tuning. I am going to use some 3mm ply which I will elongate at the pitch and roll points where I will be tethering it and double up that area with some scrap ply to strengthen it at the point where it will be tied off. Then I just have to have a means of mounting my quads/tri onto the ply so that it sits level and can be tied down onto the ply without doing any damage to the frame. This way I am not trying to stretch the quad frame between the posts on my pergola where I will be tethering it, and the ply will be what is under tension. I'll get some photos once I get it sorted out.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 06:13:56 PM
I also had a good crack at acro without the trainer mode, it was brilliant.  No flips or tricks with the tri - too heavy and not the platform for it but I sure was able to to set it for the wind and let it hover there.  I can see myself using this mode more and more in the future.

I think I'll turn the trainer mode off on the mini Quad too (after I master flips, etc with trainer mode on  >:D).

I've reviewed the logs quickly and nothing jumps out why I had a sudden 20 deg bank in loiter after a minute of sitting in loiter.  I thought it might be a sudden loss of HDOP due to the sat count dropping, but it doesnt appear to be it.  I can see where I put input in that is ROLLIN, but that is after the waypoint distance has moved - note that prior to the waypoint distance changing there was no ROLLIN, but then suddenly the waypoint distance goes up and my roll occurs which then see's a ROLLIN shortly after as I try to move the waypoint location (you see it dropping down).

What is interesting is I gave it an extra second before trying to reset the position, i should have waited a bit longer.....  It appears that the waypoint distance is only 2 to 3 m so I should just learn to let it do it's thing.  I'll try that again tomorrow as 2m is well within 1.8 HDOP scope.  I was impressed that 85% of my flight was done with 12 sat's locked on, I love this GPS (Neo-7N).  I have another one coming with the Pixhawk, I cant wait for the Ublox-M8N to drop in price.

Oh and here are the pics of the CF frame:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/21/bda868253a2b979ef0381182b68c9bed.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/21/267a3f625aecd859fcf7dc9b96c24016.jpg)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 06:30:36 PM
Looking good Chris, are you still planning on swapping over the FPV250 hardware?

Here is what I was talking about with regard the tethered jig for setting the roll and pitch gains.

I have cut out a length of 3mm plywood and laminated triangles onto the points, where eventually a hole will be drilled to pass a light rope through.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49656-1/APM+Jig.JPG)

The base board should give me enough room and options to secure any of my quads running with the APM to the board.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49658-1/APM+Jig+II.JPG)

Then I can put a rope through the hole that will be drilled through the centre of the triangles and tie it off nice and tight between the poles on my pergola. Once the quad is secured to the base board, I can tune the roll and pitch gains as per this video.

http://youtu.be/aq1jXHMiJgg (http://youtu.be/aq1jXHMiJgg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 21, 2015, 10:57:05 PM
Looking good Chris, are you still planning on swapping over the FPV250 hardware?

Here is what I was talking about with regard the tethered jig for setting the roll and pitch gains.

I have cut out a length of 3mm plywood and laminated triangles onto the points, where eventually a hole will be drilled to pass a light rope through.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49656-1/APM+Jig.JPG)

The base board should give me enough room and options to secure any of my quads running with the APM to the board.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49658-1/APM+Jig+II.JPG)

Then I can put a rope through the hole that will be drilled through the centre of the triangles and tie it off nice and tight between the poles on my pergola. Once the quad is secured to the base board, I can tune the roll and pitch gains as per this video.

http://youtu.be/aq1jXHMiJgg (http://youtu.be/aq1jXHMiJgg)


Hi Mark,

I'm not sure yet, I have the HK frame plus a spare as well as two of the FPV250 kits.  I think the biggest challenge with switching over will be getting everything to fit.  It's a tight fit already but I think I can do it, if I swtich to using the mobius as the FPV camera too (I have the cable harness for it) I think I can make it all fit.  The only concern I have is that I sling the battery underneath the miniQuad at present, on the FPV250 frame it will have about 3-5mm clearance so it will be resting on it on some terrain.  It currently has around 1 - 1.5 cm clearance.

Ummm, how is the quad secured to the frame?  Unless it's by cord I would have thought it will impact the behavior of the frame?  I like the idea of it though make it easier to test different frames.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 11:15:04 PM
Ummm, how is the quad secured to the frame?  Unless it's by cord I would have thought it will impact the behavior of the frame?  I like the idea of it though make it easier to test different frames.
I'm thinking on my feet as I make this, but it's coming along. I've CA'd some pool noodle foam onto the board and it is being held in place while the glue sets with velcro tape. The velcro tape will also hold the frame onto the board.

I'm trying to keep it as light as possible as I think the weight of the board will influence the gains settings. It weighs 88 grams, so if it does affect the gains, once this weight is taken away the gains could possibly be too high. Time will tell, I'll test it this weekend and get some more photos.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 21, 2015, 11:45:46 PM
Crikey, this might work.

This picture shows my X-mode Alien attached to the board with velcro and the pitch attachment point which I will line up with the CoG.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49680-1/Pitch+Attachment+Point.JPG)

This one shows both the pitch and roll attachment points. Only pitch or roll is adjusted at one time. I just have to centre the quad on the board and tie it off between the posts of the pergola and I should be right to go. The pool noodles have worked a treat, I can tighten the quad down onto the board very securely without damaging anything on the underside of the quad.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49682-1/Roll+and+Pitch+Attachment+Points.JPG)

The mini quad fits as well.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49684-1/APM+Tuning+Jig+and+ZMR250.JPG)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 22, 2015, 12:34:55 AM
Crikey, this might work.

This picture shows my X-mode Alien attached to the board with velcro and the pitch attachment point which I will line up with the CoG.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49680-1/Pitch+Attachment+Point.JPG)

This one shows both the pitch and roll attachment points. Only pitch or roll is adjusted at one time. I just have to centre the quad on the board and tie it off between the posts of the pergola and I should be right to go. The pool noodles have worked a treat, I can tighten the quad down onto the board very securely without damaging anything on the underside of the quad.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49682-1/Roll+and+Pitch+Attachment+Points.JPG)

The mini quad fits as well.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49684-1/APM+Tuning+Jig+and+ZMR250.JPG)


Looks good, I'll be very interested in the results as it is definitely different to other designs.

Well good news on my gimbal front, just plugged in signal and gnd from A11 into the pitch connector.  Configured my transmitter to output on CH8 as the pitch control, set it to -90 and +90 in APM.  Had to manually set the PWM min and max values, I can't have calibrated that channel before.  In simpleBCG configured the same + and - values as APM and removed the trim setting that was there.  I also set the pitch control to listen to the PWM signal.

It then just worked, it pitches up and down on request, it's great.  I played with the speed element and went for 4 as a good compromise, 5 was ok but felt 4 was better and 2 was way too slow.  1 was so slow it wasn't funny, took seconds after I had selected a value for it to tilt up to it.

I wanted a 90 degree down I decided to have +90, I had it originally set to 90 down and 45 up but the center was then about 20 degrees down.  I think I could have fixed it with a trim value but I don't mind have a +/- 90 degree control.

I'll be testing it out tomorrow morning, so hopefully it all goes well.  I'll also be testing a much reduced Stab Yaw P - down to 1.2 and a slightly increased Rate Yaw P and I.  I also have left the 0 to 0.003 on the CH 6 tuning, so I can work out if I can remove it.  I think the reduced Stab Yaw P will reduce my Yaw authority by a reasonable amount so I might have to use some expo on the channel to make it a bit stronger.

This will be my last flight before I take it out to Abercrombie River NP for the Aus Day long weekend.  Feeling pretty happy about it all.  Not sure how I'll go with flying in the NP.  I felt confident taking it up to 30m, so I'll see if the conditions are alright for a bit higher in the morning.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 22, 2015, 07:52:49 AM
Hello Chris,

Would you mind sharing your PID's for the gimbal. Ever since I reflashed my gimbal controller with 2.1 null firmware the motors emit a constant tone. If I can sort that out I'd be more than happy. Please share the motor gains as well.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 22, 2015, 11:43:38 AM
Hello Chris,

Would you mind sharing your PID's for the gimbal. Ever since I reflashed my gimbal controller with 2.1 null firmware the motors emit a constant tone. If I can sort that out I'd be more than happy. Please share the motor gains as well.

Cheers, Mark

Hi Mark,

Below are the screen shots.

I took it up to 40m today, got some great shots.  I thought I would test the descent rate on it as I've had troubles in the past with the frame.  So up i went, tilted the camera around as I was going up, anyway I get to 40m in loiter and then I start my descent.  I brought it down to 30% and it was still staying up there, so I brought it down some more.  Seems my expo was so high (combined with how loiter works) that I didnt get any descent happening until it was barely 15% on my throttle.  And it dropped like a brick (12m in 4 secs), luckily I put it into stab mode which has much better control and I guided it down the remaining 20m nice and smoothly.  I've since changed it from 60% expo down to 10%, handles good in Stab mode still but now I have some control in ALTHOLD and LOITER.....

When it was coming down the frame tilted nearly 90 deg to the left (had my going for a split second) the camera gimbal footage barely notices it.  On review of the footage I thought, maybe I was seeing stuff.  I'm shocked now I've reviewed the FPV cam's footage.  LOL that gimbal is good! I was being buffeted around up there I'd say a good 20 to 30 deg correction was being applied by the APM to hold me in position, damn it was windy up there.

Since it does such a good job once I'm back to work I'll pick up the YAW module and a brushless motor to go with it :-)

The Yaw PID changes barely affected my Yaw authority, it's slowed by maybe 10% at most.  It is alot more stable, less sway but there is still some when I remove Rate Yaw D, so I'll leave it on for the time being.  I worked out that if I keep Rate Yaw D on and I actually slide the power up close to take off speed my rapid oscillations disappear!  It just takes a few seconds.  I think the oscillations are caused by the new battery tray, the rear is unsupported so if it gets moving it can pull the frame a bit so I will put some twine around it to support the rear of it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 23, 2015, 11:33:07 AM
This is not going to help the FPV cause in the US at all.

http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/drugladen-drone-crashes-near-usmexico-border-20150122-12wekr.html (http://www.smh.com.au/technology/technology-news/drugladen-drone-crashes-near-usmexico-border-20150122-12wekr.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 06:31:19 AM
Thanks for those screen dumps Chris, I'll give them a go this weekend.

I sorted the Bluetooth adapter out on the mini quad. I had to change the baud rate using the FTDI programmer which meant I had to make a cable connector for it and I downloaded a terminal emulator so I could send AT commands directly to the com port. Droidplanner is now working happily on my Nexus tablet. The good thing is no external antenna which is a win in my opinion on the mini quad.

I use the minimOSD for telemetry, not the Bluetooth adapter. I only plan on using Bluetooth for changing settings so range is not an issue. The other thing that I think is a win is now I don't have to worry about the OTG adapter or ground module for my tablet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 06:54:14 AM
I am on the Phantom Australia Facebook forum and some guy in Townsville just got fined by CASA $850 for flying within 30 m of people .. His YouTube video was used as evidence..
They are watching us ,
http://eftm.com.au/2015/01/850-drone-fine-casa-using-youtube-to-identify-illegal-drone-use-19067 (http://eftm.com.au/2015/01/850-drone-fine-casa-using-youtube-to-identify-illegal-drone-use-19067)

I think that's it .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 08:58:40 AM
A guy on the ZMR250 thread on rcgroups posted a video of his mini quad chasing a freight train in the US. He was flying within a metre of the top of the train, and buzzed in front of the driver.

People were patting him on the back saying 'awesome dude' and all sorts of accolades.

I pointed out that what he did would be illegal in Australia because we cannot fly within 30 metres of a moving vehicle, someone else piped up about 'what was a mini quad going to do that could hurt a freight train, it would be like an insect splatting the windscreen'. I responded by saying if the driver was distracted and he missed a signal, how cool would it be then. Another member piped up and said he was pretty sure it was illegal in the US as well. The video was up for a total of about 10 minutes before he pulled it off youtube.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:09:39 AM
OK guys I need some pointers / ideas ...

The Alien has plenty of ZOOOOM on Aileron , Elev and Roll BUT Thrust has very limited range -- I've done the ESC config thing a few times and all dings and pings say that I've done it correctly .. Settings in the TX are all 100% to 100% for A E T and R all same ... On the bench the motors throttle up nicely from idle to max but as soon as props are on and it starts up I have limited thrust range ???

So I'm thinking that I don't have enough power to run all 4 motors at the same time ....  A E and R only run 2 motors ?? 

So bigger battery ?
Extra battery ?
or change the ESC 4in1 to 4 seperate ones ??? Might this help ?

Confusion here I can tell ya ...

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 10:11:37 AM
Is your rig 3S or 4S Steve?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:12:34 AM
Still 3S - 4500 mah 35C battery
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 10:14:23 AM
Direct from the product list on Hobbyking:

Required:
Motor: 2820-3110 (recommendation)
ESC: 30A (recommendation)
Prop: 11~12in (recommendation)
Battery: 3000~5000mah 4s 14.4V (recommendation)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:15:58 AM
I'll get a 4S and see what it can do .... Budget freeze at the moment ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 10:18:16 AM
I don't know if it's the ESC's, but I would have thought that at the very least the motors should spin up fine, maybe not lift off if underpowered, but definitely spin up to full power. What motors did you end up getting after the Multistar 935kv's?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 10:19:11 AM
Sounds to me like wrong size propellers.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:20:37 AM
1045 props , Multistar 2212 980 kv , 4 x 25A ESC 4in1 ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 10:22:44 AM
That all looks good. How did they go on your thrust tester? Any indication of drawing too many amps from the ESC's? Are the ESC's getting hot when you try spinning up to full throttle?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:22:51 AM
I can flip it on its side in the blink of an eye HUGE amount of grunt sideways and back and forward and turning BUT main thrust straight up with all 4 motors is really really slow to lift
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 24, 2015, 10:23:56 AM
I can flip it on its side in the blink of an eye HUGE amount of grunt sideways and back and forward and turning BUT main thrust straight up with all 4 motors is really really slow to lift
GPS mode maybe? Try another mode.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:25:06 AM
Yeah I haven't tried manual or atti yet ... Gotta go out now so I'll probably give it a go tomorrow - Thanks mate ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 24, 2015, 10:37:42 AM

Yeah I haven't tried manual or atti yet ... Gotta go out now so I'll probably give it a go tomorrow - Thanks mate ...
Which FC are you using on this one?
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 24, 2015, 10:39:01 AM
Naza Lite with DJI LED and GPS units .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 24, 2015, 11:53:35 AM
Naza Lite with DJI LED and GPS units .
NAZA will take off in GPS, ATTI or Man modes. you will have to raise the throttle above 50% (closer to 75%) for the auto take off to work. This is a feature of the NAZA. I am not sure if you can disable it in the assistant.

Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Sawed-Off on January 25, 2015, 11:55:42 PM
I know you blokes are mad keen on your video platforms, but I just ordered a couple of these (http://"http://www.banggood.com/Cheerson-CX-10A-CX10A-Headless-Mode-2_4G-4CH-6-Axis-RC-Quadcopter-RTF-p-956936.html) for a bit of campsite fun. For ~$25 delivered, by all accounts, these are a lot of fun for the money.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: banksy69 on January 26, 2015, 10:39:39 AM
Have a read of this people, fined for flying drone.

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-man-first-in-australia-to-be-fined-for-flying-a-drone/story-fnihsrf2-1227196782216 (http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-man-first-in-australia-to-be-fined-for-flying-a-drone/story-fnihsrf2-1227196782216)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 26, 2015, 10:42:01 AM
Have a read of this people, fined for flying drone.

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-man-first-in-australia-to-be-fined-for-flying-a-drone/story-fnihsrf2-1227196782216 (http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/queensland-man-first-in-australia-to-be-fined-for-flying-a-drone/story-fnihsrf2-1227196782216)

There's a bit more to it than 'fined for flying drone', he was fined because he was a d!ck who thought he was above the law and regulations.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: banksy69 on January 26, 2015, 04:56:32 PM
There's a bit more to it than 'fined for flying drone', he was fined because he was a d!ck who thought he was above the law and regulations.

And that’s why i gave you the link for it so you could have a read.
My apologies if the 5 minute read wore you out. 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 26, 2015, 04:58:41 PM
And that’s why i gave you the link for it so you could have a read.
My apologies if the 5 minute read wore you out.


I am on the Phantom Australia Facebook forum and some guy in Townsville just got fined by CASA $850 for flying within 30 m of people .. His YouTube video was used as evidence..
They are watching us ,
http://eftm.com.au/2015/01/850-drone-fine-casa-using-youtube-to-identify-illegal-drone-use-19067 (http://eftm.com.au/2015/01/850-drone-fine-casa-using-youtube-to-identify-illegal-drone-use-19067)

I think that's it .

My attention span goes for longer than 5 minutes
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 26, 2015, 07:17:26 PM
Thanks for those screen dumps Chris, I'll give them a go this weekend.

I sorted the Bluetooth adapter out on the mini quad. I had to change the baud rate using the FTDI programmer which meant I had to make a cable connector for it and I downloaded a terminal emulator so I could send AT commands directly to the com port. Droidplanner is now working happily on my Nexus tablet. The good thing is no external antenna which is a win in my opinion on the mini quad.

I use the minimOSD for telemetry, not the Bluetooth adapter. I only plan on using Bluetooth for changing settings so range is not an issue. The other thing that I think is a win is now I don't have to worry about the OTG adapter or ground module for my tablet.

Hi Marschy,

No probs on the screenshots, hope it helped.  Sounds like it was fun configuring the bluetooth adapter, didn't you already have a cable done up for the MinimOSD?  If so shouldn't it follow the same pin out?

I do have a question though, if the MinimOSD is the primary (that is has the TX wire connected) then does the bluetooth also have it's TX wire connected?  If the MinimOSD doesn't have it's TX wire connected then you'll need to connect via bluetooth every time you go change the battery.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 26, 2015, 07:28:45 PM
G'day Chris,

Hope you got some video for us to watch.  ;D

I've been breaking props and GPS stands this weekend trying to PID tune the X-mode Alien, fun and games.

The bluetooth adapter cable was the tricky part, the pinout diagram on the mini APM was completely wrong, so I had to use the multimeter to determine the power supply. TX and RX I just worked out through trial and error.

I've made the "Y" cable, but I'm waiting for a minimOSD to arrive in the post, so I haven't got as far as testing as you have indicated, but the intention was that the minimOSD would not have the TX cable connected. I was not aware that the telemetry radio or bluetooth needed the TX cable connected for the minimOSD to work at all, so I will have to test that.

Not sure what you mean when you say I need to connect via bluetooth when the battery is changed. Is this some sort of handshake between the FC and the telemetry module/bluetooth adapter that wakes up the minimOSD?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 26, 2015, 07:33:50 PM
Well I've returned from a weekend of fun at Abercrombie River NP.  Was mostly great with the exception of a decent size storm rolling in on Saturday afternoon / night and the fact that the wind was strong almost the whole weekend.

On the first point, always remember to zip up your windows on the camper trailer when heading off for a day of fun.  All I can say is it was fun (not) drying the bedding in a 2 hour break in the rain.  My little one had dry bedding but me and my wife didnt get a dry bed until the next day  :'(  First time I've gone camping and done that - it's something I wont do again that is for sure.

On the 2nd point, I only got about 20-25 mins of flying in on the weekend the wind was blowing a gale most of the time.  I did get some good shots of the campsite as it was in a valley, so I'll post those on my youtube channel soon.  I forgot to record some telemetry on my highest flight but I think I went up to 70m at one stage so nice and high - was hard to keep it fixed in place in the strong wind - my gimbal was working overtime I think.  I was still was below the surrounding terrain from what I can see on the quick review I've done.

Great place for 4WDing, conquered little bald hill (took a lot to convince the wife that we can do it - particularly with our 11 month in the back seat).  It's so steep you can't walk up the hill.......  Lucky I found some others at our campsite to come along with us and I asked one of them to go first to that my wife was happier.  I wanted to get one of the others going up with the tricopter but it was so busy at the hill there wasn't a chance to do it - not to mention it was still blowing strong.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 26, 2015, 07:46:34 PM
I've made the "Y" cable, but I'm waiting for a minimOSD to arrive in the post, so I haven't got as far as testing as you have indicated, but the intention was that the minimOSD would not have the TX cable connected. I was not aware that the telemetry radio or bluetooth needed the TX cable connected for the minimOSD to work at all, so I will have to test that.

Not sure what you mean when you say I need to connect via bluetooth when the battery is changed. Is this some sort of handshake between the FC and the telemetry module/bluetooth adapter that wakes up the minimOSD?

Cheers, Mark

Hi Mark,

So for the MinimOSD to work it needs the MAVLINK packets, they only get sent out on the telemetry line when something requests it from the FC (usually it requests it with a rate - x packets per sec I think).  So either the MinimOSD has a TX line attached to initiate the request or as you have it with the Y cable the other device (bluetooth or Telemetry Radio) initiates the request.  Otherwise the data on the MinimOSD wont update properly, you'll get mode changes displaying but not much else (no power levels or attitude indications). 

That process should happen every battery change as the FC looses power and doesnt know it has to send out regular MAVLINK packets.  I think it throws them out automatically for key events.

Unfortunately due to the way the system works you cant have both TX lines connected to both devices - just doesnt work apparently and as I've released enough of the magic smoke from Minim's I'm not exactly jumping to try it out :-)

This is one of the reasons for switching the tricopter to the Pixhawk (should arrive any day now) as it has two independent telemetry ports, both can have the TX line connected!  So MinimOSD will just work without the telemetry radio starting the datafeed.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 28, 2015, 06:51:20 AM
Got the new gps last night and attached it. Did the compass cal and got similar results with my offsets the first one being 247. Doing some reading values under 250 are ok.
I still have the jumper in place but have the settings for the external compass. Without the jumper in place I can't get the compass to calibrate. Can someone con firm this is the correct thing to do?
Not working today so I might be able to get in a flight if the wind stays away.
I am working tonight so only have this morning to have a play.   
I might take an extra pair of eyes with me to keep an eye on the laptop or my phone.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 28, 2015, 07:25:36 AM
Got the new gps last night and attached it. Did the compass cal and got similar results with my offsets the first one being 247. Doing some reading values under 250 are ok.
I still have the jumper in place but have the settings for the external compass. Without the jumper in place I can't get the compass to calibrate. Can someone con firm this is the correct thing to do?
Not working today so I might be able to get in a flight if the wind stays away.
I am working tonight so only have this morning to have a play.   
I might take an extra pair of eyes with me to keep an eye on the laptop or my phone.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Hi,

You need a jumper on either int or ext. If no jumper it cant see the compass. If its now just under 250 anx reporting the correct heading you should be good.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 28, 2015, 07:34:38 AM
Hi,

You need a jumper on either int or ext. If no jumper it cant see the compass. If its now just under 250 anx reporting the correct heading you should be good.

Chris
Thanks Chris.
Looking outside it is calm so might have to go to the oval and play.
[EDIT] Wind as arrived no flying today.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 28, 2015, 01:24:21 PM
Thanks Chris.
Looking outside it is calm so might have to go to the oval and play.
[EDIT] Wind as arrived no flying today.

Hi Crispy,

Thats a bugger, you'll get it in the air soon.  I've got rain that is really set in so no flying for me either :-(

On a plus the ODROID-C1 has arrived which I'll be experimenting with in flight processing of images for a variety of tasks so I'm busy playing with it.  I've also ordered my my 3rd axis board and brushless motor and and mounts.  For around $35 for those I thought why not, plus since my tricopter still occasionally has a slow yaw oscillation I thought it would help to get rid of it.

I also worked out that some of the oscillations are coming from the battery tray as it's not rigid (they reduced when I secured the rear end with some twine), since the battery tray no longer has cameras on it, I can remake it more rigid and improve the visible area the camera can use on the gimbal.  So I'll be working on that soon.  My pixhawk should arrive in the next couple of days too!

Chris



 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 28, 2015, 01:31:43 PM
Howdy Chris,

I just googled ODRIOD-C1 to get an idea of what new gizmo you are talking about. What sort of inflight processing are you contemplating? Is this in line with the firmware you loaded onto the Ixus?

I'm looking forward to seeing what it is you are trying to do.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 28, 2015, 03:17:04 PM
Dunno if you blokes are still looking for FPV cams but Banggood have this deal on at the moment ...

http://www.banggood.com/Eachine-700TVL-13-Cmos-FPV-110-Degree-Camera-w32CH-Transmission-p-965760.html (http://www.banggood.com/Eachine-700TVL-13-Cmos-FPV-110-Degree-Camera-w32CH-Transmission-p-965760.html)

Seems pretty good for $30 and all wire up for the balance plug to power it !!! Bonus ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 28, 2015, 03:51:11 PM
Howdy Chris,

I just googled ODRIOD-C1 to get an idea of what new gizmo you are talking about. What sort of inflight processing are you contemplating? Is this in line with the firmware you loaded onto the Ixus?

I'm looking forward to seeing what it is you are trying to do.

Cheers, Mark

Hi Mark,

I'm looking at replicating some of the stuff that Canberra UAV have done.  Basically the ODROID C1 will be what I link to, so it will be a communications bridge between the ground station and the pixhawk.  I am looking at trying some of the image recognition, so analysing the look down pictures and looking for stuff that is abnormal.

I also want to try some tracking with the gimbal mount, so that if I enter a set of GPS coords I can tell the camera to always track to that location.  Also I'd like to do the reverse and get it to tell me the location of where I have the gimbal pointed to, so that if I control it manually it can tell me where on a map it's pointing to.   At some stage I'd like to try object tracking, so that it recognises an object and will follow it (so a person walking for example).

There is a great script out there for targeting red ballons, so that the ODROID will update the APM on where to fly based upon what it sees in it's camera (such as a red ballon, it will hunt them down).

These are things that the Pixhawk and APM cant do by themselves as they dont have enough spare processing power to do it (well some of the gimbal stuff it can but the tracking stuff there isnt enough cpu power).  There are plenty more ideas coming to me on what I can do with this, once some of them pan out I'll put a bit more out there on it.

These are all longer term projects, so if I get even one done in the next 6 weeks that is great otherwise it'll be several months down the track.

I forgot to say that someone is also building a cape to put on top of the ODROID C1 to enable ArduPilot to run on it and have the PWM outputs and PPM inputs, etc.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 28, 2015, 04:25:39 PM
With no flying today I tackled the OSD program.
Tried once and something is not right so had another crack at it and mostly good.
It is reporting low RSSI. I think I might have to set it up differently as I have it set to Mavlink. I think someone changed it to ch6 and had to change the settings on the APM to match.
But all is good for now.
Off to work tonight so need to get ready.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 28, 2015, 10:55:07 PM
With no flying today I tackled the OSD program.
Tried once and something is not right so had another crack at it and mostly good.
It is reporting low RSSI. I think I might have to set it up differently as I have it set to Mavlink. I think someone changed it to ch6 and had to change the settings on the APM to match.
But all is good for now.
Off to work tonight so need to get ready.
Regards
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

If you want to remove the warning, all you should need to do is take the minimum to 0 and set the warning level to 0%.  This will essentially ignore the warning on the OSD.  If you have RSSI output on your receiver then wire it up to the APM and choose the channel you are inputting it on, I think typically people use CH8 but it's up to you as to which one you want to use.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 29, 2015, 09:33:25 AM
Thanks Chris.
 I have now set that and got rid of the warning and RSSI indictor onscreen.
I managed to have a flight today that lasted for 8 min.
First of all I did not crash! That is a bonus. As far as flying this FC and the KK this one is so much better in stab mode than the KK in Self level.
I tried out Alt Hold and it worked quite well. The slight breeze pushed it around a little but that is to be expected. The rest of it went well with the quad holding Alt while being flown around.
Next on the list was Loiter. Well when I switched it to Loiter I expected it to stay where it was. It took off first to the right and pitched forward after about 4 seconds of this (seemed like a long time) and remembering that Chris had had something like this happen to him I could not let it go any longer so switched back to Stab and regained control.
reviewing the logs I had 8-10 sats at all times and started off with HDop of 1.73 and got down to 1.61 so that is fine.
I tried RTL and it took off like Loiter which suggests there is something to do with the GPS.
I managed to recover the quad every time and landed safely.
I was using Droid planner with the telemetry radio which was quite good and also the OSD on the FPV Ground station.
The OSD dropped out for some reason and I have noticed it do that on the odd occasion. A push of the rest button usually gets it back but I cant do that when flying.
The FPV camera lens came loose so the image was out of focus. Bluetac fixed that.
So my only real problem ATM is the loiter and RTL (anything that uses the GPS) doesn't seem to be working the way it should.
Just as I picked the quad up it started spitting rain and now the breeze is getting stronger.
Any suggestions?

Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 29, 2015, 11:39:14 AM
Got this today so should be able to set up the OSD screen in English tonight...Still too windy down here to fly...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/28/7833344342af1421762062ed113d7f46.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 29, 2015, 03:44:22 PM
Well I've managed to resurrect a dead GPS!!!!

It had two repairs that needed to be done, grrrr.

The first was the GPS antenna needed to be replaced.  Crispy if you PM your address I'll send you a new antenna so you can fix yours.  Note there is no solder holding the Antenna in place to the chip, it's just a tight fit (so just slide a knife between the board and the antenna and it should come out).  I did have to trim the length of the new pin to fit into the antenna port on the board.  I took some video of this part so I'll try to post it up soon.

The second fix was to do with the connector, something happened to it in the crash as not all the seemed to be hooked up on a resistance test.  So off it came and I soldered a new DF13 socket in place (damn thats hard work, those are some small pins).

I now have the GPS connected to an APM board and it is showing a GPS lock with 7 sats and a HDOP around 3 - it is under cover so I'm hoping when outdoors this will drop a bit lower.

Currently installing all the software I need onto the little ODROID C1.  Having to compile some stuff as it's an ARM based processor so most APM things are compiled for intel based chips.

Tomorrow I'm going to try to resurrect one of my broken minim's and get the gimbal mount ready for the new parts that will turn it into a 3 axis gimbal.

I'm thinking of using a CNC cutting place to do some carbon fibre plates for the tricopter, it might help to lighten it's weight.  Does anyone know any places in Aus which are reasonably priced and good quality?  I' thinking of using http://www.cutfromcad.com/ (http://www.cutfromcad.com/)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 29, 2015, 03:55:43 PM
I have had some success this afternoon!
Compass offsets are
COMPASS_OFS_X   -94
COMPASS_OFS_Y   43
COMPASS_OFS_Z   25
and I am using the external compass as well.
It seems all the pictures I saw with the compass plugged in near where the power goes were incorrect.
Trawling the forums for answers RC groups came up with the goods.
Everything compass and GPS is good now according to MP. Now I need to try in the real world which wont happen for a few days at least cause I am back at work for the next 2 days (12 hr shifts) so Sunday it might be if the wind doesn't come up.
I am not really worried about the wind normally but when trying out new toys it is easier without it.

Chris I'll PM you the address when I have finished here. Would be good to have a spare in case of breakage again.

The moons seem to be coming into line. Lets hope they continue.

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 29, 2015, 03:57:21 PM
Thanks Chris.
 I have now set that and got rid of the warning and RSSI indictor onscreen.
I managed to have a flight today that lasted for 8 min.
First of all I did not crash! That is a bonus. As far as flying this FC and the KK this one is so much better in stab mode than the KK in Self level.
I tried out Alt Hold and it worked quite well. The slight breeze pushed it around a little but that is to be expected. The rest of it went well with the quad holding Alt while being flown around.
Next on the list was Loiter. Well when I switched it to Loiter I expected it to stay where it was. It took off first to the right and pitched forward after about 4 seconds of this (seemed like a long time) and remembering that Chris had had something like this happen to him I could not let it go any longer so switched back to Stab and regained control.
reviewing the logs I had 8-10 sats at all times and started off with HDop of 1.73 and got down to 1.61 so that is fine.
I tried RTL and it took off like Loiter which suggests there is something to do with the GPS.
I managed to recover the quad every time and landed safely.
I was using Droid planner with the telemetry radio which was quite good and also the OSD on the FPV Ground station.
The OSD dropped out for some reason and I have noticed it do that on the odd occasion. A push of the rest button usually gets it back but I cant do that when flying.
The FPV camera lens came loose so the image was out of focus. Bluetac fixed that.
So my only real problem ATM is the loiter and RTL (anything that uses the GPS) doesn't seem to be working the way it should.
Just as I picked the quad up it started spitting rain and now the breeze is getting stronger.
Any suggestions?

Crispy

Hi Crispy,

Thats great news on the flying.

On the loiter and RTH, how have you mounted the APM?  Some have reported vibrations have caused issues, can you turn your logs on to nearly all and post up the dataflash log?  I can then see if its the same as mine was.

For mine I just left it a bit longer and it seemed to settle down, but it was seriously off track at first, it was around 6-8m away from where it should have been.  It stayed in the new home.

Note that when I was in Abercrombie River NP it seemed to work straight off the bat, no issues at all.  It stayed where I asked it to loiter to.  I only used loiter for 2 or 3 mins though.

On the MinimOSD mine has only failed occasionly and it's only the 12V non converted one that has done it.  It has only done it on the ground and it's usually within 20 seconds of it booting.  Reset works for me too.  I suggest checking all the connections, in particular the telemetry line.  The 12V will be converted to 5V shortly and I havent noticed it happening on that one, so it might be heat related?

Oh my GPS fix is now down to a HDOP of 2.4 and dropping so pretty good so far (note its still under a balcony roof)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 29, 2015, 04:27:30 PM
I think my problems stemmed from the compass telling the FC to do one thing and the GPS saying do another so I hope to have that sorted now.
When I fly next I will be able to test it.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 03:22:38 PM
Well my Pixhawk has arrived, so I plan to play a bit with that tonight.  I opened the package and the first surprise is that instead of the Neo-7N they decided to give me a M8N GPS instead, so very impressed by that.  Thank you goodluckbuy, extremely impressed.  So now I will hook up both a Neo-7N and a M8N GPS to the pixhawk, so should have very good GPS capabilities!

I also ordered a bunch of FR4 sheets and some carbon fibre square tubes.  I've decided my Tricopter needs a diet to fit all the extra goodies on it, but I would like to make it look more professional (and hide some cabling) and I figured that since all my photography on it will be on the stabilised gimbal I wont need to worry so much about vibration elimination (will still need to vib proof the pixhawk) which is why I was using wood.

I've put my plans on hold to modify the wooden frame to take the 3rd axis, I'll wait until I have the FR4 and carbon tubes (should be next week).

So to cut the FR4 fibreglass I've picked up a tungsten carbide jigsaw blade and plan to do it outside with a P2 and safety glasses.  Same with the CF tubes I've ordered.  I'll use my drill press to do the drilling.  I've still got to check what sand paper I have, I may need to get some 120 and 240 grit wet and dry to finish the edges off (I think i have some of that in a pile downstairs....)

I've been working on the ODROID C1 and I've got MAVProxy installed and working.  I'm trying to get APM Planner 2 built and running on it too.  Having less luck with it so far.  I have to be careful it appears if I do a kernel update it stuffs the image up.... Sigh.....  Tonight I'll do the connecting cable between it and the APM / Pixhawk and see how it goes.  If all goes well I'll be able to issue commands to it, I should also be able to connect my PC to the ODROID via wifi and be able to connect Mission Planner.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 03:33:59 PM
Fun and games Chris,

I'd love to get a pixhawk.

I am having trouble at the moment with my X-mode Alien, while setting the gains in Acro mode, the throttle would go full bore all by itself when the throttle got to about 75%. I suspect it may be the cheapo HK ESC's that I flashed with Simonk going out of sync. I'm going to order some new Emax 30A BLHeli ESC's and see how they go.

I received the Emax 2206 1500kv motors in the post today from the emaxmodel web site. They stuffed up the order by sending the wrong ESC's. I ordered 20A, they sent 12A. They have given me a $2US credit on my next order which is more than the difference in cost, so I'm happy with that.

I am going to throw the 12A ESC's on the thrust tester and see what current they pull with 7 inch props on the 1500 kv motors. They are rated for 8-9 inch props, so I suspect the 7 inch prop may overload the ESC. I'm about to find out as soon as I solder on some bullet connectors.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 30, 2015, 03:43:12 PM
Think I know what's wrong with my throttle problem --- I switched back to the Devo 7 Tx / Rx today and no problems --

So I've obviously done something stupid in the switch settings in the Radiolink Tx ...

I've also switched off the low voltage alarms as they were coming on WAY before the set voltages .. Just have to keep an eye on the OSD now ...

So here I are in Windyvale waiting for the calm air so I can test my theories ......

If this doesn't work I might have to kill the Alien and stick with the Phantom for my videos ... Just need to put FPV and OSD under the hood ..

Might have to go back to building wooden boats ... 2 dimension travel is much safer  ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 30, 2015, 08:09:41 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/fe6480f4f8854504b12615b8a3fb2359.jpg)
Here you can see my connection with the compass on the side under the GPS port.
The jumper has been removed to enable the use of the external compass.
I have now the offsets that I posted before and the compass direction shows accurately on mission planner.
It seems the photo on HK is not correct with having the jumper on the other pins for external compass.
I had to trim the case a little to get the compass connection in but now it is all good.
Like I said before I got the answers from RCG and have had a couple of private messages from one member in particular.
So if anyone had the jumper on the other pins you can remove it as it does nothing at all.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 30, 2015, 08:12:42 PM


If this doesn't work I might have to kill the Alien and stick with the Phantom for my videos ... Just need to put FPV and OSD under the hood ..

Might have to go back to building wooden boats ... 2 dimension travel is much safer  ...
First of all if you ditch the alien I might be interested in it.
Boats might be safer but maybe not as much fun!

Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 08:14:02 PM
I received the Emax 2206 1500kv motors in the mail today for my Trifecta tri-copter. I ordered 20A BLHeli ESC's, but received 12A BLHeli ESC's. emaxmodel have offered me a store credit for the difference in cost, so I'm happy with the outcome.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49716-1/Thrust+Test+Emax+2206+1500kv+Emax+12A+BLHeli.JPG)

I threw a 6x4 APC prop on and the ESC's weren't overworked, but the thrust was not ideal either. 372 grams @ 6.9A.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49712-1/6x4+2206+1500kv+Thrust+Test.JPG)

Next I threw a 7x5 APC prop on, much better result, but the ESC is now pushed to its constant current limit of 12A, 535 grams @11.9A.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49714-1/7x5+2206+1500kv+Thrust+Test.JPG)

This will be more than enough for my purposes. If need be I'll look at the funcolor 15A BLHeli ESC's with some Gemfan 8x3.8 props which will supposedly give me around 630 grams @ 15.2A.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 09:06:19 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/fe6480f4f8854504b12615b8a3fb2359.jpg)
Here you can see my connection with the compass on the side under the GPS port.
The jumper has been removed to enable the use of the external compass.
I have now the offsets that I posted before and the compass direction shows accurately on mission planner.
It seems the photo on HK is not correct with having the jumper on the other pins for external compass.
I had to trim the case a little to get the compass connection in but now it is all good.
Like I said before I got the answers from RCG and have had a couple of private messages from one member in particular.
So if anyone had the jumper on the other pins you can remove it as it does nothing at all.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy


Apologies I thought you had done that already?  There are notes on the HK site that say that they moved the compass port to be next to the GPS port for the 2.7.

I agree the pics they have arent good as they are for a 2.5/2.6 board.  I may have lead you astray in an earlier post, I think it was before I realised you were using a 2.7 and I completely forgot about it.

I just did a look back over the pics you posted, i can see where you have it plugged in on a post way back.  Great news that you've got it working well :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 09:24:18 PM
I received the Emax 2206 1500kv motors in the mail today for my Trifecta tri-copter. I ordered 20A BLHeli ESC's, but received 12A BLHeli ESC's. emaxmodel have offered me a store credit for the difference in cost, so I'm happy with the outcome.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49716-1/Thrust+Test+Emax+2206+1500kv+Emax+12A+BLHeli.JPG)

I threw a 6x4 APC prop on and the ESC's weren't overworked, but the thrust was not ideal either. 372 grams @ 6.9A.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49712-1/6x4+2206+1500kv+Thrust+Test.JPG)

Next I threw a 7x5 APC prop on, much better result, but the ESC is now pushed to its constant current limit of 12A, 535 grams @11.9A.

(http://gallery.myswag.org/gallery/d/49714-1/7x5+2206+1500kv+Thrust+Test.JPG)

This will be more than enough for my purposes. If need be I'll look at the funcolor 15A BLHeli ESC's with some Gemfan 8x3.8 props which will supposedly give me around 630 grams @ 15.2A.


Since the mini tri is so small you won't be carrying much weight on it, do you need the addition 100g x 3 of thrust?  I'd stick with the combo you have, the AUW should be less than 600-700g giving you plenty of wriggle room.

I'd give it a go with the combo you have now and work out if you need the 15A ESC's.  Otherwise where are your 12A ESC's going to go?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 09:41:33 PM
Yeah, I agree, it should be ample. I may still get the 15A ESC's, the 12's get very warm just on the thrust tester.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 09:50:13 PM
Well I've done a quick stock take and I'm happy that I wont have to take the Tricopter out of commission until the new frame is built.  I have enough spare ESC's to build up the new frame, I can make a new tilt mechanism, I have the pixhawk, spare GPS's, spare GPS mounts, and some spare motors.  Only bit I don't have enough spares of are the motors, I only have 2 spares so once I'm happy i've got it well built I'll move the motors across.  I would have had enough if I hadn't broken one of the before.....

I was bad and ordered some CF sheets, I'm trying to work out if I build the new plates using CF or FR4.  CF will mean potential RF interference but will be lighter.  The FR4 should be more flexible so less prone to breaking.  Decisions, decisions, I have till next weeks arrivals to decide.  Both the FR4 and CF (Woven Pattern) are 1.5mm thickness (I also picked up a CF 1mm sheet too but not for the main plates - they are for various items).  Both are difficult to work with and have similar safety issues.  I will have to paint the FR4 black if I use it as I want a more professional looking tricopter.

So questions I have are:
1. Who has primarily CF frames and have they found any RF issues?
2. Has anyone had to cut CF or FR4 themselves, what did they use - I'm planning on using a tungsten carbide jigsaw blade and sand it back if required with a dremel and sanding block.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 09:52:44 PM
Yeah, I agree, it should be ample. I may still get the 15A ESC's, the 12's get very warm just on the thrust tester.

Hi Mark,

You'll spend the majority of the time at 50-70% throttle and they should get good airflow from the props.  If they are getting hot hot at 70% throttle and in the air flow of the prop then yeah I'd go up a size too.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 10:00:44 PM
Where did you get the carbon fibre sheets from Chris. I use fibre glass power circuit board quite often for making mounting plates, like I have here with the mini quad, but either plain fibre glass or carbon fibre would be better. I give them a lick of black spray paint, they come out quite well.

I cut mine out by printing an outline on the printer, paste to the fibre glass sheet, remove the bulk of the excess on my disk sander, then use a saw sharpening file (triangle shaped) for getting into fiddly spots.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 10:01:13 PM
Just uploaded two videos to my YT channel from the recent trip to Abercrombie River NP.  Just working on the third video, should be up in the next few hours.

All three are of the Silent Creek Campground, the first two are more of the actual campground, the third is a view of the surrounding terrain.  Unfortunately I couldn't get the tricopter up for more than 10 seconds on the hill I wanted to go up from and the footage isn't good enough to put up.

Channel is: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 10:03:20 PM
Hi Mark,

You'll spend the majority of the time at 50-70% throttle and they should get good airflow from the props.  If they are getting hot hot at 70% throttle and in the air flow of the prop then yeah I'd go up a size too.

Chris
You are absolutely right. I'm gunna wait and see how the 12's go. People report the Emax being good for bursts up to 18A. They are a great little ESC.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 10:05:16 PM
Just uploaded two videos to my YT channel from the recent trip to Abercrombie River NP.  Just working on the third video, should be up in the next few hours.

All three are of the Silent Creek Campground, the first two are more of the actual campground, the third is a view of the surrounding terrain.  Unfortunately I couldn't get the tricopter up for more than 10 seconds on the hill I wanted to go up from and the footage isn't good enough to put up.

Channel is: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYFUqy_lwTRdQLjS0ZBkHNw)
Watching now, very jealous.

Love it when you can see the shadow of the tri on the ground. You are getting very accomplished at this flying gig Chris.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 10:09:07 PM
Where did you get the carbon fibre sheets from Chris. I use fibre glass power circuit board quite often for making mounting plates, like I have here with the mini quad, but either plain fibre glass or carbon fibre would be better. I give them a lick of black spray paint, they come out quite well.

I cut mine out by printing an outline on the printer, paste to the fibre glass sheet, remove the bulk of the excess on my disk sander, then use a saw sharpening file (triangle shaped) for getting into fiddly spots.

I noticed that HK Aus had some CF sheets in so I thought why not.  Seems they are actual CF and not FR4 laminated in CF.  Seems to be getting reasonable reviews from it too.  Good thing is these are the woven style so good strength in all directions.

I was thinking of doing the print and stick onto the CF, what do you stick it down with?.  Do you do the score and snap method first to get it roughly the right shape?  Then disk sand it down?  I was thinking of picking up a fine small square file and round file, I have both already but they are bastard cut for wood working so I doubt they will agree with the CF.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 10:11:48 PM
Watching now, very jealous.

One of us had to get out and about and do some AP  ;D

The third video according to YT will be up in about 30 mins time.  Damn it takes a long time to upload videos.

There is still a slight yaw wobble that the 3rd axis gimbal will remove.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 10:17:18 PM
I noticed that HK Aus had some CF sheets in so I thought why not.  Seems they are actual CF and not FR4 laminated in CF.  Seems to be getting reasonable reviews from it too.  Good thing is these are the woven style so good strength in all directions.

I was thinking of doing the print and stick onto the CF, what do you stick it down with?.  Do you do the score and snap method first to get it roughly the right shape?  Then disk sand it down?  I was thinking of picking up a fine small square file and round file, I have both already but they are bastard cut for wood working so I doubt they will agree with the CF.

Chris
I use fine tooth metal files, like the saw sharpening file I mentioned earlier, they take the fibre glass away reasonably easily and do a nice job on the edge. They should be suitable for carbon fibre as well, but the carbon fibre will blunt files and drills pretty quickly.

I just cut out what I need with a hacksaw. I was thinking of getting a set of needle files, but what I have does 95% of what I need to do, and needle files are bloody expensive.  I have a fine flat file and rectangular saw sharpener. If you can, get a flat file with one of the narrow edges with a flat surface.

Here are some leg extensions I made for the Trifecta tri-copter from a printout of a dxf file from a guy who designed them on rcgroups.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 30, 2015, 10:22:21 PM
what do you stick it down with?
I've been glueing it down with thick CA on the copper, then I sand it off before etching it. But I have also used a glue stick as well. You can use your heat gun to speed up the drying. The glue stick also works well.

I also use the same method for making brackets. Print, paste, cutout, drill, file. The results aren't 100%, but with a lick of spray paint, they pass muster.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 30, 2015, 11:37:36 PM
Brilliant, I'll use office type glue stick, it will give me a chance to get the paper off afterwards :-)  CA I fear will mean I'll never get it off and it will wreck the sexy look of the CF :-)

I have another nice surprise, I thought my R800X's where going to not be used once I switched to the Pixhawk (I have two R800X's) but I just discovered that it appears it can do SBUS.  I knew that the pixhawk can take an SBUS signal in and low and behold it worked!!!  So now less of a need for the lemon CPPM receiver but oh well.....  Seems channel 1 to 4 are not what it's expecting, I'll have to tinker with the TX or use RCMAP to fix the channel assignment.

So now I don't know where the Lemon RX will go.....  I guess it can go in the Bixler or another fixed wing when I get around to it.....  Or maybe I'll use it on the Tricopter, just not sure yet, so many choices.....

Beauty of SBUS is that it opens up even more channels, I think I can do 12 or 14.....  Cant see more than 8 in Mission Planner so I will be investigating how to access those additional channels if it's possible.

Turns out even though the GPS packet said it was a M8N, it turns out it is actually a Neo-7N as I had purchased, sigh thought I had a big win on that one.  Lucky I opened it up to check as one of the wires wasnt soldered real well (compass wire).  Was confused as packet said M8N and the plastic case had 7N on it so I just wasnt sure, only way to be sure was to open it up.  Seems it's lacking a rubber shroud on it so that it gets twisting motion from the cable.  I think I'll hot glue it in place to protect it in the future, it could have shorted any number of other wires which would have been very bad....

Guess next months budget will go to a M8N then....  Just noticed I could have chosen the M8N option for a few dollars extra, grrr, why do I see these things afterwards.

Hi, my name is Chris and I'm a RC hobby addict......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 31, 2015, 05:46:53 AM
Lol
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 31, 2015, 09:24:42 AM
Critical review of videos follows.
Get rid of the noise. Either drop it off altogeter or replace it with some music. Also they are too long. If a video goes for longer than a few minuets and it is the same stuff people get board with it (that is me).
Your videos are good for you to analize what is going on but to thr general population they are not.
This is my opinion and please dont be offended by my comments. The quality of the image is good it is the editing that lets things down.
While watching tv take notice how long the segments are. You will be suprised how short they are.
The longer the video the longer it takes to upload. Show us the best bits and the crashes then ditch the other stuff. Your hard drive will also thank you for it too.
At least you are flying and not just taking about it!
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 31, 2015, 09:58:18 AM
Critical review of videos follows.
Get rid of the noise. Either drop it off altogeter or replace it with some music. Also they are too long. If a video goes for longer than a few minuets and it is the same stuff people get board with it (that is me).
Your videos are good for you to analize what is going on but to thr general population they are not.
This is my opinion and please dont be offended by my comments. The quality of the image is good it is the editing that lets things down.
While watching tv take notice how long the segments are. You will be suprised how short they are.
The longer the video the longer it takes to upload. Show us the best bits and the crashes then ditch the other stuff. Your hard drive will also thank you for it too.
At least you are flying and not just taking about it!
Regards
Crispy

Hi,

None taken, I do exactly that for my 4WDing videos (not uploaded) but I generally get about max of 5mins of good usable footage out of an hour from those.  My HDD would be full otherwise :-)  I have significantly less with this (about 15mins in total).  I'll see what I can do when I get a chance, these were more of a quick trim and upload quickly.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on January 31, 2015, 10:23:25 AM

At least you are flying and not just taking about it!

Hey, I resemble that remark  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 31, 2015, 02:45:11 PM
Hi,

None taken, I do exactly that for my 4WDing videos (not uploaded) but I generally get about max of 5mins of good usable footage out of an hour from those.  My HDD would be full otherwise :-)  I have significantly less with this (about 15mins in total).  I'll see what I can do when I get a chance, these were more of a quick trim and upload quickly.

Chris


Ok, I had some spare time and I whipped up a quick video more line with my 4WD endeavors.  The key being that nothing was really framed for anything specific.  I'd also normally spend more time finding some music that I can fit to the frames.

Abercrombie River NP - Silent Creek (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzSFDN0wH2g#ws)

Next time I plan to think about my shots, this was more of a put it up and and see what I can grab.  Hopefully before the parts arrive for me to rip apart the tricopter for the new version, I'l get some time on Monday or Tuesday to do some local shooting.  Plan to try some closer in tree work and circular hovering around an object.  I really need to fix the slight low speed yaw oscillation that is present.  Will be better once I get the 3rd axis parts next week or so, will help to remove that all together, I'm really impressed with the brushless motor gimbal mount so far.

I think I've worked out my new design, I plan to make it so that in my normal flying mode the camera wont be able to see the props.  You'll notice on occasions they just sneak into view.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 01, 2015, 08:11:26 AM
SUCCESS! The time is 8:50 Sunday and I have been out to the field, had a test flight, came home and modified the quad and am now sitting here logging my flight.
Yes I did fly. I charged my one and only battery (need to do something about that) last night in anticipation for a flight before the wind gets up.
The breeze is a little stronger that I would have liked but not so strong that I could not fly.
Tested today was stabilise, alt.hold, loiter and ......... Are you ready for it? We'll are you? Oh here goes RTL!
I can tell by your gasps that this activity is fraught with danger but danger is my middle name (actually it is Ian but that is not so impressive)!
Even though the quad was dive bombed by a magpie a couple of times and a flock of cockies flew through stabilise, alt.hold and loiter worked a treat. I flew away from myself and then took the chance and engaged RTL. The quad stopped in its tracks and headed for home. When it got close enough I noticed something hanging from the quad. It was the GPS! It still came back and landed. So my modification was to refix the gps down so it does not fall off again.
I am waiting to get to the computer to check my logs and see if there was any problems but Mrs Crisp image is currently researching our holiday activities.
In summary today's flight was a success.
I still need to tune but I need a day without any wind (and more batteries) and then I want to try a mission flight. This should be interesting.
There is no video or photos of the flight today as I don't have a way to capture this on this quad and the rest of my house was sleeping when I went out.
So happy with how it is going. The only thing is the OSD dropped out at some stage while in flight but droid planner continued working.
I need to update some software on my eeepc so I can take it to the field and have ultimate control and logging facilities.

Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 01, 2015, 08:30:44 AM
Excellent Crispy,

How do you rate the flight controller compared to the Naza now you have a successful flight under your belt?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 01, 2015, 09:08:33 AM
The NAZA is easy to fly and really a totally different experience. The apm tests your skills so much more.
Both are good but in their own way.
Once i get the tuning done it will be different again.
When i get some more flights under my belt and become more comfortable i will look at a new frame and set up.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 01, 2015, 09:23:07 AM
I think tuning is the key to getting the best out of the APM.

My Reptile Aphid is quite a nice quad to fly. In comparison the X-mode Alien is a pig, I just can't tune the bloody thing properly. I'm putting this down to inadequate ESC's on the X-mode Alien. Both are running APM 2.6 boards, the Reptile has Multistar ESC's, the X-mode Alien has HK SS30A that I flashed with SimonK, but the HK ESC itself I think is just not up to the task of the firmware.

I've downloaded BLHeli Suite and I am going to reflash the Multistar's on the Reptile to BLHeli, and I'm getting some new ESC's to replace the HK SS30A's.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 01, 2015, 09:53:42 AM
SUCCESS! The time is 8:50 Sunday and I have been out to the field, had a test flight, came home and modified the quad and am now sitting here logging my flight.
Yes I did fly. I charged my one and only battery (need to do something about that) last night in anticipation for a flight before the wind gets up.
The breeze is a little stronger that I would have liked but not so strong that I could not fly.
Tested today was stabilise, alt.hold, loiter and ......... Are you ready for it? We'll are you? Oh here goes RTL!
I can tell by your gasps that this activity is fraught with danger but danger is my middle name (actually it is Ian but that is not so impressive)!
Even though the quad was dive bombed by a magpie a couple of times and a flock of cockies flew through stabilise, alt.hold and loiter worked a treat. I flew away from myself and then took the chance and engaged RTL. The quad stopped in its tracks and headed for home. When it got close enough I noticed something hanging from the quad. It was the GPS! It still came back and landed. So my modification was to refix the gps down so it does not fall off again.
I am waiting to get to the computer to check my logs and see if there was any problems but Mrs Crisp image is currently researching our holiday activities.
In summary today's flight was a success.
I still need to tune but I need a day without any wind (and more batteries) and then I want to try a mission flight. This should be interesting.
There is no video or photos of the flight today as I don't have a way to capture this on this quad and the rest of my house was sleeping when I went out.
So happy with how it is going. The only thing is the OSD dropped out at some stage while in flight but droid planner continued working.
I need to update some software on my eeepc so I can take it to the field and have ultimate control and logging facilities.

Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Hi,

Well done, yep trusting the RTL can be a big leap, but once you have a good GPS lock and the compass is dialed in then it's pretty straight forward.    I've used it a couple of times and it was pretty good, I'm surprised it didn't climb up initially as the default RTL alt is 15m.

I've done a couple of dozen missions, all with manual takeoff's most with auto landings.  It's pretty accurate.  You'll start to tinker with some of the variables.

My advice is keep the missions simple at first - such as a small square pattern, a basic circle, etc.... 

Oh, I'd stay avoid the Follow Me until you really trust it, and I would slow it's speed down before trying that one :-)  I had to quickly turn off the auto mission on one such attempt.

Its a fun extension to the hobby.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 01, 2015, 10:01:23 AM
I think tuning is the key to getting the best out of the APM.

I'd agree make sure you try the autotune feature, it's pretty good.  I have tuned mine but be aware it only tunes the pitch and roll at this stage.  Just hook up CH7 to a switch and follow the websites instructions.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 01, 2015, 12:18:37 PM
Just put the battery on charge again for another flight this afternoon hopefully before I go off to work.
I will keep the mission short and sweet to begin with. but that will be later this afternoon. After the battery is charged I will have a snooze before work.
Might even set up a mission for this afternoon.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 01, 2015, 03:53:22 PM
Just put the battery on charge again for another flight this afternoon hopefully before I go off to work.
I will keep the mission short and sweet to begin with. but that will be later this afternoon. After the battery is charged I will have a snooze before work.
Might even set up a mission for this afternoon.
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

Good luck with it, I'll be doing some more flying tomorrow morning, I'll be running the APM through it's paces doing some automated flights around a local oval.  I'm yet to try Region of Interest to get the camera to point to a particular spot I think I'll give it a go :-)

I'll send the little package tomorrow so you should get it in a few days time.

I'll check out the video I did and see if there is anything useful on it and if there is I'll post it up.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 02, 2015, 01:18:08 AM
Didnt end up flying before work. Will have to wait for another day.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 02, 2015, 10:25:19 AM
Well just to make everyone else jealous, i've just returned from a nice morning of flying.  Wind was starting to pick up as I arrived so it got progressively worse.

I tried to do some AP shots today, or aerial videoing.   Not just random whatever I capture but specifically to try stuff out.  Wow, I learnt a good lesson today, with all these wide angle lens you need to get close to objects.....

I'll be posting a very short video later today as I might just have 1 min of okish footage out of nearly 25 mins of aerial footage.

I missed my best shot which was a random dog trying to jump up to the tricopter, would have looked magic looking down but I forgot to turn the camera down - was busy keeping the tri high enough so the dog couldnt reach it but not too high (6-10m) as it was around the time the wind picked up even more.....  I was in stabilise mode as the owner approached to within 5m of it, I had to say "hold on let me move it well away from you".  I'm sure if the tricopter had been at 3-4m the dog would have reached it and taken me down, and ate it for breakfast (he was a decent size)  >:D

Also did some more automated missions, I had a very happy grid pattern thing going on, I've done those before so nothing major there.  I also did a circle around a location facing it, it did reasonably well considering the wind, although I was surprised the turns where less smooth than I thought it would do.  The ROI test didn't work at all, what I've read was you fly to a waypoint and then plug in an ROI, then fly to the next waypoint it should remain pointing at the ROI, it should point at that location but mine flew to the location instead, so somethings not right there..  I'l have to look at the logs to work out why.

Oh another thing is I'm used to the mission showing at AUTO on the OSD, for some reason it was only showing AUTO when I had it set to a standard waypoint, if it was a circle (LoiterT) then it displayed at LOITER, had me confused for a minute.  Guided still displayed as GUIDED.

My lemon receiver arrived while I was flying, holy crap they are tiny.  I'll post a pic later on with a ruler next to it.  I'm rethinking my sbus solution as it's is so small it isnt funny.  The satellite is even smaller, hmmmm, I may put it on the quad to open up the extra channels, oh damn this is making the decision so much harder.  Sigh.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 02, 2015, 10:36:35 AM
Check out the new look and feel arducopter website.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 02, 2015, 10:56:20 AM
Check out the new look and feel arducopter website.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/)


I can live with it :-)  Only noticed the change once I hit the table of contents page (which is where I go to most of the time).
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 02, 2015, 10:57:26 AM
Hopefully the pages have been brought up to date. I haven't checked yet.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 02, 2015, 11:00:31 AM
Hopefully the pages have been brought up to date. I haven't checked yet.

I think we just broke it :-(  Getting 503 service unavailable messages.  Must be in the middle of updating it as we are trying to use it :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 02, 2015, 05:00:22 PM
I think we just broke it :-(  Getting 503 service unavailable messages.  Must be in the middle of updating it as we are trying to use it :-)

Chris

It's back!!

I've decided if the weather is ok tomorrow I'll try some more mission stuff, I'll plan some out tonight and put them on my phone so that I can upload them when I'm up there.

Hoping my CF sheets arrives tomorrow, sadly I think my CF square tubes are a few more days away.  At least I can get all the CF plates done up over the next day or so.  I'm going to take my time on these, I wan to get them right.  My 7mm Plywood plates have done me well but there was a slight build imperfection, I had some of the tail boom drill holes out by a couple of mm's and there was a slightly non square cut so it looks odd and the tail boom is not square to the frame (maybe part of my oscillation issues).

I've decided to modify David's template, I'm again going the coffin shape but I want to add 2cm to the length so mount all the electronics and it means one less cut of the CF, which is a good thing.  I originally added the 2cm to the front but I'm thinking since I'll have the gimbal projected off the front I might add the cm's to the rear instead, that way I will balance it out a bit more.  At present I have to mount the battery such that over 1/2 of it is out past the rear of the center point to help balance out CoG.  It would also free up room for the gimbal mount to spin around fully once I get the 3rd axis board and motor.  It would allow for shots pointing down and backwards (and not getting the battery mount in the view).  Also I'm making the battery tray closer to the frame, it should make it more rigid and keep it out of view of the camera when it's pointing backwards.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 02, 2015, 08:56:26 PM
Which version of Droidplanner are you using?i have the origional one and cant load missions from it that i  can see.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 02, 2015, 08:59:28 PM
Which version of Droidplanner are you using?i have the origional one and cant load missions from it that i  can see.
1.2.0
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 02, 2015, 10:16:22 PM
The HKPilot micro power distribution module arrived today, so I've pulled everything apart on the ZMR250 (again) and I've rearranged the ESC's (again).

This module really saves a lot of space and weight compared to the normal APM power module. I've not bothered with heat shrink over the ESC's this time. The heat sink is on the other side of the ESC and is what is in contact with the carbon fibre frame. I've put hot glue around the heatsink to keep it in place, hopefully it wont get too hot that the glue will melt.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 02, 2015, 10:36:43 PM
Which version of Droidplanner are you using?i have the origional one and cant load missions from it that i  can see.

I'm using 1.2.0, works for me.  I have even drawn up several missions in it but it's a pain in the backside on a phone (Samsung S4), I have also loaded missions using my Tab too, a Samsung Tab 3 10.1.

Can load missions and can retrieve them too.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on February 02, 2015, 11:02:17 PM
Well finally some good news from me!

I found a motor with bad bearings on my tri so I replaced that the other day. Plus I was able to borrow a mates transmitter today and managed to fly 4 batteries through it without a single issue!

It still needs more tuning as it has a bit of a wobble here and there where my mates tricopter was so smooth, but I was so happy just to have it in the air and actually flyable. I even had a tail first crash that was pretty hard and only broke one ziptie (that I have found so far).

So that has narrowed the fly away problem down to the transmitter. I'm hoping it's just the module and not the transmitter itself - I'm waiting eagerly at the door every day for the postie to bring the replacement module I ordered.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 03, 2015, 04:12:18 AM
Waiting is the worst part.
Like the last 2 hours of night shift before i get to go home to bed. Looking forward to that and then maybe a flight this afternoon.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on February 03, 2015, 10:15:24 AM
Waiting is the worst part.
Like the last 2 hours of night shift before i get to go home to bed. Looking forward to that and then maybe a flight this afternoon.

I know - the waiting kills me! I'm cheap so I by stuff from HobbyKing but then I pay the price by having to wait.

On a side note, I'd work night shift any time over day shift! I go back for night shift this Thursday.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 03, 2015, 11:20:48 AM
Back from another flight and I tried the auto feature. Well something is not right as all that happened was the quad went up quite a way and then stopped there. I waited for it to go somewhere but it did not. I guess my mission was not set up correct so I decided to bring it back with RTL. When it got close I changed to Stab and had a bit of fun flying at high speed. All went well and even the ODS kept going too. I flew for about 7 min on the battery which is about the time I go for but never use a timer. (The OSD told me I was 7:40 powered up time.)
The battery is now on charge and I will see how much power was used. I need to get a power meter so I can calibrate the PM.
Anyway it was a good flight and the wind was stronger than I wanted which threw the quad around a bit but it was still controllable.
Lost a screw on the camera bracket so now I need to find one to replace it. Tiny little one it is too.
That is it for today. Off to watch some youtube videos about droid planer and mission planner again to see where I went wrong.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 03, 2015, 02:38:50 PM
Hi,

I too got in around 30 mins of flying today.  I didnt do as much mission stuff as planned as the wind was way higher than I was hoping for.  I tried for some slow stabilised shots, I'll see how they came out.

I switched it up and flew at another oval near my local headquarters and gee did I draw a crowd, I had about 10+ people from various parts of the ovals stop and watched me.  I had to make sure I looked the part so no major stuffing around.

Crispy, it sounds like your mission wasnt uploaded correctly.  If using droidplanner I firstly save the mission, then I upload it to the APM / Pixhawk, then I download the mission from it to verify it got it correctly.  It is also a good way to check that home is where you think it is :-)  That should show you straight off if it uploaded correctly, if not load the saved file and try again :-)  Also when you say fast speed, what sort of speeds are you talking.

I now take my Tri upto 65km/h, I had an issue earlier on where I would try to keep below 40km/h but it's handles the fast speeds well (it does a better job than the mini quad does) - it was due to a dodgy motor so I lost trust - it's now regained.  I'm thinking since I've had 3.5 hours of crash free running on the Tri since the motor change, I'm thinking of putting my gopro on the gimbal :-)  But I'll most likely wait till I've got the CF frame completed and have a few hours of running on it.  I really want to get some 2.7K - 25fps footage, 1080p is good but, nothing like some real HD footage.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 03, 2015, 02:41:58 PM
I know - the waiting kills me! I'm cheap so I by stuff from HobbyKing but then I pay the price by having to wait.

On a side note, I'd work night shift any time over day shift! I go back for night shift this Thursday.

Hi Spartan,

I get my HK Aus stuff usually within 48 hours of ordering (if i order before midday), sometimes 72 hours (I was hoping to get some of my CF today, but looks like it will be tomorrow - see I'm also waiting :-( ).  How fast you after or expecting?

If it's international it's typically less than 7 days.

I think that's pretty damn good considering it's coming from the south coast for the Aus Warehouse.  I've had stuff arrive 30 hours after ordering, that was pretty damn excellent.

Chris
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 03, 2015, 02:54:23 PM
Chris,
I loaded the mission to the apm from the PC at home. I could not get the points to upload to the phone. So what I think is it had no wp loaded so went to the default height and then sat there waiting for something to do.
I am also going to make a bt module so I can use the Samsung tab for droid planner.
I have ordered one from the evil bay. Once I get it I need to set it up and make a wiring harness. The tab does not have a micro USB port so bt is my only option for that.
Like others have said it is almost as much fun building as flying.

Not sure on the top speed. I will try and get from the log. [edit] top speed was about 45kph. Via the log

Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 03, 2015, 03:51:31 PM
Chris,
I loaded the mission to the apm from the PC at home. I could not get the points to upload to the phone. So what I think is it had no wp loaded so went to the default height and then sat there waiting for something to do.
I am also going to make a bt module so I can use the Samsung tab for droid planner.
I have ordered one from the evil bay. Once I get it I need to set it up and make a wiring harness. The tab does not have a micro USB port so bt is my only option for that.
Like others have said it is almost as much fun building as flying.

Not sure on the top speed. I will try and get from the log. [edit] top speed was about 45kph. Via the log

Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Hi,

I thought you had the telemetry radios?  If so you can connect the radio to your phone via an OTG cable (the HK radio's come with one) - if not there are plenty of them floating around for a few dollars on ebay.  A BT module would be nice, so that you dont have to cart an extra item along when you go flying.  I tuck mine in my pocket and have the voice warnings turned on so I can hear it.

The 915Mhz antenna is pretty compact so it all fits in the pocket.  I think you said you have the 433Mhz radios which have an antenna that is a fair bit longer so it might look odd with it tucked out of your pocket :-)

Edit:  Yes it sounds very much like the mission wasnt loaded.  Use the same system but with MP, read from the APM just to be sure :-)  Dont forget to save the mission to disk though, I lost one to that once, wasnt happy....  Also reading it back means that you are 100% sure that you have the right mission loaded, now you are doing them the last thing you want is for it to do the previous mission when you are at a new location....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 03, 2015, 05:20:39 PM
I have the cable from HK. but the cable connection on the Samsung tab2 is the 30 pin connector. The radio connects to my phone no problems I want something bigger for my blindness. I have found an otg cable that gives me a standard usb connection so I might be able to use the standard cable connected to that. Should have the bt module and the new otg cable on Friday or early next week.


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 03, 2015, 05:38:21 PM
I have the cable from HK. but the cable connection on the Samsung tab2 is the 30 pin connector. The radio connects to my phone no problems I want something bigger for my blindness. I have found an otg cable that gives me a standard usb connection so I might be able to use the standard cable connected to that. Should have the bt module and the new otg cable on Friday or early next week.


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
You wont need the OTG cable with the BT module
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 03, 2015, 06:08:52 PM

You wont need the OTG cable with the BT module
Yes I know that but giving myself options!


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on February 03, 2015, 06:12:01 PM
Hi Spartan,

I get my HK Aus stuff usually within 48 hours of ordering (if i order before midday), sometimes 72 hours (I was hoping to get some of my CF today, but looks like it will be tomorrow - see I'm also waiting :-( ).  How fast you after or expecting?

If it's international it's typically less than 7 days.

I think that's pretty damn good considering it's coming from the south coast for the Aus Warehouse.  I've had stuff arrive 30 hours after ordering, that was pretty damn excellent.

Chris

It's been a little while since I ordered something from the Oz warehouse but I think it took 5 or 6 working days - I live 1 hour out of Perth in WA (Wait Awhile). It's not HK - it's Australia Post that are slow. Everything we get from over east takes a minimum of 5 working days with Australia Post.

My order arrived today from China which makes it 13 days. I paid for express shipping which made it about 1 week quicker than it normally is - it's normally close to 3 full weeks from China to me.

I have no complaints with HK - they're emails suggest that they send stuff out quick - it's just Aus Post and also me not living in the metro area (although I'm literally 1 hour from Perth airport so I'm not that far out in the sticks).

I just replaced the Tx module and did a range check in the front yard and so far so good - just need to wait for the storms to bugger off so I can fly now! I've got a spare receiver for the next one now!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 03, 2015, 07:38:57 PM
It's been a little while since I ordered something from the Oz warehouse but I think it took 5 or 6 working days - I live 1 hour out of Perth in WA (Wait Awhile). It's not HK - it's Australia Post that are slow. Everything we get from over east takes a minimum of 5 working days with Australia Post.

My order arrived today from China which makes it 13 days. I paid for express shipping which made it about 1 week quicker than it normally is - it's normally close to 3 full weeks from China to me.

I have no complaints with HK - they're emails suggest that they send stuff out quick - it's just Aus Post and also me not living in the metro area (although I'm literally 1 hour from Perth airport so I'm not that far out in the sticks).

I just replaced the Tx module and did a range check in the front yard and so far so good - just need to wait for the storms to bugger off so I can fly now! I've got a spare receiver for the next one now!

Ah, yes WA is known for slow deliveries.  At least you have it now :-)

Yep from China things do seem to take a while but for usually free delivery, got to love these reciprocal agreements.  Its not any better on this side either.  It could be worse I remember when I was a teenager and we used to order our books from a shop in a Hawaii and we had to wait for it to come via sea mail, now that took time, it was in the order of 3 months from memory.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 03, 2015, 11:22:26 PM
Here is a pic of the tiny lemonRX, I cant believe a full range RX is so small, the satellite is even smaller..  I've included my R800X in the picture for reference.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/03/efe31658a2b399cd562c1d13eae21bc1.jpg)

I haven't tried using in any airframe yet, will let you know how good it is on that front when I get to it.  It was originally for the Tricopter, but now that I've got sbus working I'm not sure I will use it in that.  It might find it's way into the mini quad for testing (and to autotune it) but it will be wasted on that frame, as the 6 channels is heaps.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on February 04, 2015, 01:05:48 AM
Ah, yes WA is known for slow deliveries.  At least you have it now :-)

Yep from China things do seem to take a while but for usually free delivery, got to love these reciprocal agreements.  Its not any better on this side either.  It could be worse I remember when I was a teenager and we used to order our books from a shop in a Hawaii and we had to wait for it to come via sea mail, now that took time, it was in the order of 3 months from memory.

Yeah I'm spoilt really. My Dad was saying the other day that when he was into rc planes in the 80s the only time he could stock up on parts etc was when he went to Perth every few months. Just need to stop being an impatient prick really  >:(.

I probably should look around at some other suppliers too rather than just sticking with HK.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 06:02:16 AM
Here is a pic of the tiny lemonRX, I cant believe a full range RX is so small, the satellite is even smaller..  I've included my R800X in the picture for reference.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/03/efe31658a2b399cd562c1d13eae21bc1.jpg)

I haven't tried using in any airframe yet, will let you know how good it is on that front when I get to it.  It was originally for the Tricopter, but now that I've got sbus working I'm not sure I will use it in that.  It might find it's way into the mini quad for testing (and to autotune it) but it will be wasted on that frame, as the 6 channels is heaps.....

Chris

I hate it when someone post a reply on this thread about cool stuff that I could do with when I have already spent my monthly allowance. Curse you Chris. LOL

Looks bloody excellent for mini's
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 04, 2015, 07:44:40 AM
I have to curtail my spending for a few months so no new frames or motors. We have 2 big expensive trips this year so any spare cash is being put into that. It would be nice if the exchange rates were not going down.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 03:58:16 PM
Interesting, someone has just reported the same problem with their HKPilot mini throttle going to 100% all by itself. Same problem I had while tuning my X-mode Alien. They recovered by changing flight mode, same as I did. But unfortunately they had already set their throttle to zero with the tri-copter still throttling itself at 100%. So when they changed flight mode and the throttle issue went away, their tri-copter dropped like a brick.

Trying to find out the common denominator. I've asked the guy on rcgroups what flight mode he was using when this happened. It happened to me in acro mode.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 04, 2015, 04:15:42 PM
Well I received my CF flat sheets today, unfortunately I spent all day building a frame at SES to hold some cribbing in the truck, so got nothing done nor any flying :-(

On a plus the package also included a prop balancer so I'll give it a crack tonight.

Going for a 4WD day trip tomorrow so wont get to play with the CF sheets till Friday as long as SES doesn't eat my entire day on Friday (have several chainsaws to service and move the cribbing onto the new frame).  Hoping that two parcels arrive before too long, the other HK parcel with the CF square rods (now at 5 days - should get here on Friday) and the 3rd axis gimbal package from Goodluckbuy (15 days and counting - should get here within a week).  Really wishing that HK Aus had the square tubes....

Hang in there Crispy, just think about the fun you'll have on those trips.  You can have lots of fun with what you've got.  I know that diving Aus dollar is why I decided to spend a bit more now.....  It's looking like it will only go down for now.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 04, 2015, 05:21:11 PM
Interesting, someone has just reported the same problem with their HKPilot mini throttle going to 100% all by itself. Same problem I had while tuning my X-mode Alien. They recovered by changing flight mode, same as I did. But unfortunately they had already set their throttle to zero with the tri-copter still throttling itself at 100%. So when they changed flight mode and the throttle issue went away, their tri-copter dropped like a brick.

Trying to find out the common denominator. I've asked the guy on rcgroups what flight mode he was using when this happened. It happened to me in acro mode.

Hi Marschy,

Can you send me your DF log, I'll have a look for you.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 04, 2015, 05:57:25 PM
I hate it when someone post a reply on this thread about cool stuff that I could do with when I have already spent my monthly allowance. Curse you Chris. LOL

Looks bloody excellent for mini's

Hi Marschy,

LOL, it was my turn for once :-)  Wow the months barely started and you've done the monthly allowance  :'(

I know it's making me rethink what the plans are.  So hard a choice, I guess it will come down to if the CF caused RF interference, if it does I'll use the lemon rx as I can mount the satellite on a piece of FR4 as it's pretty tiny.  Otherwise I'll use the large R800X as SBUS to the Pixhawk.

Seems I really need the 3rd axis gimbal as I'm convinced my tricopter wiggle is because the tail boom is out by a few degrees.  Doesnt matter what I do on the tuning front, it's a lot less but still present.  Can't wait to do the CF frame as I'll use my drill press to be a tad more accurate than I was on the plywood (was too eager to build it - dodgy hand drilling let me down).  Will be nice to remove the wiggle (by removing build fault in tail boom) and also stabilise the image with the 3rd axis gimbal.

I've been working on the ODROID, I now have power supplied via UBEC (it draws about 500ma which is not bad - 650ma with a webcam going).  I plan to design the Tricopter to add this on as an option over the top of the pixhawk.  I've got some image processing software for objects that look different kinda working - uses the images from a webcam, I've spun up MavProxy now to get the APM/Pixhawk to ODROID working.  I'll do up the cable on Friday evening and see if I can get mavlink packets, then it should be a case of setting up the telemetry radio off the ODROID and getting an SSH link up and running.  I now have 6 telemetry radios (4 V2, 2V1) - all 915Mhz, so I'll move the V1 pair I'll use on the ODROID to Ground station on a different ID.  Once the SSH link is up and running I'll be able to do lots over this link.  If all goes well I may look at some of the RFDesign 915Mhz radios.  Not that I'm planning on going 10Km out but nice to know the link is likely to be more reliable at 1km or slightly further.  Lastly I need to get my nicer cameras to somehow save it's data onto the ODROID's disk, instead of the SD card or at least access it while pictures are being taken.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 06:40:23 PM
Hi Marschy,

Can you send me your DF log, I'll have a look for you.

Chris
I sure can, I must start looking at my log data too.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 06:44:43 PM
Chris, how do I retrieve the dataflash log?

Never mind, my logs were disabled. I will reenable them and try again this weekend. The problem was happening consistently so I'm confident it will happen again.

What should I set the Log bitmask to?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 04, 2015, 07:10:50 PM
Hi Spartan,

I get my HK Aus stuff usually within 48 hours of ordering (if i order before midday), sometimes 72 hours (I was hoping to get some of my CF today, but looks like it will be tomorrow - see I'm also waiting :-( ).  How fast you after or expecting?

If it's international it's typically less than 7 days.

I think that's pretty damn good considering it's coming from the south coast for the Aus Warehouse.  I've had stuff arrive 30 hours after ordering, that was pretty damn excellent.

Chris

lol...I get my Aus HK stuff within hours of ordering...of course I live about 12k's from the warehouse who do self collection ...  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 07:14:52 PM
lol...I get my Aus HK stuff within hours of ordering...of course I live about 12k's from the warehouse who do self collection ...  ;D
I'm a tight arse. I nearly always go for the cheapest delivery option.

I ordered some Blueseries 30A ESC's to replace the HK SS30A's from the international warehouse using international registered mail. It doesn't get more tight than that I reckon.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 04, 2015, 07:16:43 PM
Chris, how do I retrieve the dataflash log?

Never mind, my logs were disabled. I will reenable them and try again this weekend. The problem was happening consistently so I'm confident it will happen again.

What should I set the Log bitmask to?

Hi,

You'll need to retrieve them using the USB port, cant do them over the Telemetry link.

To make it comprehensive go for nearlyall or +RCIN:

45054 - Nearlyall
or
894 - Default + RCIN

The nearlyall is preferred but it will be large as it will save everything including the IMU values (which would helpful).

I'm starting to really understand these logs now, it took a while but they are bloody excellent for post flight analysis.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 07:19:13 PM
Done, I'll get some log data this weekend.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 04, 2015, 07:20:03 PM
lol...I get my Aus HK stuff within hours of ordering...of course I live about 12k's from the warehouse who do self collection ...  ;D

Grrr, very jealous.  Lovely area.  12Km's, man that is close.  I think it's a good thing being a bit further away, I'd be broke if I lived that close  ;D

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 07:28:18 PM
Grrr, very jealous.  Lovely area.  12Km's, man that is close.  I think it's a good thing being a bit further away, I'd be broke if I lived that close  ;D

Chris
But think of all the money you'd save on shipping  >:D You'd be able to spend more on actual stuff from HK rather than shipping
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 04, 2015, 07:33:48 PM
But think of all the money you'd save on shipping  >:D You'd be able to spend more on actual stuff from HK rather than shipping

yep, thats my rationale, although I think items from the Aus warehouse in Moruya are actually dearer than the same item in the home warehouse. It stakes a few hours from the actual order before its available for pick up, works for me!!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 04, 2015, 07:38:34 PM
yep, thats my rationale, although I think items from the Aus warehouse in Moruya are actually dearer than the same item in the home warehouse. It stakes a few hours from the actual order before its available for pick up, works for me!!!
They are definitely more expensive from the Aus warehouse, I paid 0.23c for 2mm heatshrink from international warehouse, Aus warehouse is 1.38.

One way or another they get you though. Although shipping in Australia can be cheaper, and International warehouse stock is cheaper, the shipping costs seem out of all proportion for express shipping from the International warehouse when you compare it to EMS shipping offered on Aliexpress.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 05, 2015, 06:04:53 AM
G'day Chris,

Is that LemonRX an 8 channel with CPPM? Can you post a link to where you bought it from please?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on February 05, 2015, 08:28:44 AM
A little different

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpvIU8i0khs#t=84 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpvIU8i0khs#t=84)

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 05, 2015, 04:55:44 PM
G'day Chris,

Is that LemonRX an 8 channel with CPPM? Can you post a link to where you bought it from please?

Cheers, Mark


Hi Mark,

It's 8 Channel CPPM.

http://www.lemon-rx.com/shop/index.php?route=product/product&path=59_70&product_id=118 (http://www.lemon-rx.com/shop/index.php?route=product/product&path=59_70&product_id=118)

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 05, 2015, 06:26:24 PM
Thanks for the info Chris, I've put the lemonrx on my wish list.

Just curious what you guys use for a hobby knife. I was given 50 Olfa 9mm snap-off knife blades, well over 10 years ago, by a guy I knew who is a printer. The original 50 blades has been whittled down to the last 3 blades, so I have started looking for a packet of replacements. Nearly fell over when I saw how much original Olfa snap-off blades cost. Some sellers ask $50, plus outrageous postage, sometimes up to $30. But 50 blades for 10 years of use has also been very economical as well, so if they cost a little more, then maybe they are money well spent.

The best price I have found is $14US  and free postage from Japan for 50 blades.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/OLFA-9mm-Standard-Duty-Spare-Black-Blade-BB50K-ABB-50-50-Blades-per-Pack-/301503644625?&_trksid=p2056016.l4276 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/OLFA-9mm-Standard-Duty-Spare-Black-Blade-BB50K-ABB-50-50-Blades-per-Pack-/301503644625?&_trksid=p2056016.l4276)

If I can find cheaper blades in comparable quantities I'd be more than interested in hearing what people are using. Just bear in mind though that the Olfa blades actually give you far more than 50 blades in comparison to the good old hobby knife blades. They snap off 12 times, so effectively give you a potential of 600 blades.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 05, 2015, 07:42:53 PM
Thanks for the info Chris, I've put the lemonrx on my wish list.

Just curious what you guys use for a hobby knife. I was given 50 Olfa 9mm snap-off knife blades, well over 10 years ago, by a guy I knew who is a printer. The original 50 blades has been whittled down to the last 3 blades, so I have started looking for a packet of replacements. Nearly fell over when I saw how much original Olfa snap-off blades cost. Some sellers ask $50, plus outrageous postage, sometimes up to $30. But 50 blades for 10 years of use has also been very economical as well, so if they cost a little more, then maybe they are money well spent.

The best price I have found is $14US  and free postage from Japan for 50 blades.

http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/OLFA-9mm-Standard-Duty-Spare-Black-Blade-BB50K-ABB-50-50-Blades-per-Pack-/301503644625?&_trksid=p2056016.l4276 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/OLFA-9mm-Standard-Duty-Spare-Black-Blade-BB50K-ABB-50-50-Blades-per-Pack-/301503644625?&_trksid=p2056016.l4276)

If I can find cheaper blades in comparable quantities I'd be more than interested in hearing what people are using. Just bear in mind though that the Olfa blades actually give you far more than 50 blades in comparison to the good old hobby knife blades. They snap off 12 times, so effectively give you a potential of 600 blades.

Hi Mark,

No probs on the lemonrx, note I'm yet to use it yet so maybe hold off till I've put it in something first.  It looks promising though.  Thinking I might just do a quick test next week, point the Tricopters camera at a servo and the receiver and do a range test from one side of the oval to the other.

Funny you should mention the blades issue, I use three knives....

1. An old hobby knife which I've also just run out of blades (and was looking for replacement blades too - last blade went in on Monday)
2. Cheap plastic body sliding knife (the blades that snap off several times)
3. A metal bodied Stanley knife (with normal replacement blades)

I use one of the three depending on the task, for fine work I use the hobby knife and then for the other stuff it depends on the size of the material and the firmness of it.  My field box just has the cheap plastic job in it.

My challenge is I've had the hobby knife for donkeys years (since I was 14 I think) and I have no idea what type of blades it takes, I'll do a google tomorrow and find out what it's called and their prices.  The spare blades where just in a plastic tube and no markings on it, I think it's just a standard hobby knife blade type.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 05, 2015, 08:32:30 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/05/5c3cce55ae1971a7298c1bf3f7013200.jpg)
This is what we use in our house. Wife for craft son for modles and me for anything.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 05, 2015, 08:53:04 PM
I have several of the sliding snap-off blade knives. But none of them are as good as my Olfa Type A. This one is well over 10 years old and still going strong. Funny how you get attached to inanimate objects.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 05, 2015, 10:07:51 PM
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/05/5c3cce55ae1971a7298c1bf3f7013200.jpg)
This is what we use in our house. Wife for craft son for modles and me for anything.
Crispy


Thats what mine looks like, I think the blade number is the same too....  I presume that is a size or style?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 05, 2015, 10:13:48 PM
Thats what mine looks like, I think the blade number is the same too....  I presume that is a size or style?

Chris

Looks like bunnings sells them in small quantities.  I think I'll pick up a 5pk and then organise a cheaper bulk pack.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 06, 2015, 10:38:01 AM
Mot much wind today so far so I went down the local park and attempted the Alien flight ...

Pretty much sick of this thing now - It flips on takeoff to the left .. its never been up in the air ...

So I'm stuffed if I know how to fix it ... Everything is working and calibrated - GPS , OSD , IMU etc etc .. but there's
just not the same amount of power going to the left motors on thrust up...

Going back to the Phantom and put OSD on it with FPV camera and leave the Alien for another time ...

Any offers for $1400 worth of Alien with Multistar 2212 , QBrain 4in1,bandy legs ,gimbal , Naza Lite ,Remzibi , 5.8Mhz tx, Many props , Radiolink 10ch and Devo 7 Ch
will be considered at this time ....
Cheers
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 06, 2015, 11:49:11 AM
That is not good Steve. If you want to box it up and send it to  me for a look that would be good. Having a NAZA v2 the naza light should be similar.
Let me know. Cant buy it from you because of my trips in April ang July.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 06, 2015, 11:49:35 AM
Mandrake, Im hearing you mate, when I first started this journey, we had to make our own flight controller using parts from  WII nunchucka system etc.... it didn't work very well until dedicated components started hitting the market. To build a really REALLY stable simple system right now costs bugger all.

If anyone's interested, I'm about to assemble one from individual components, id do a write up from unpacking the bits and where I bought them, to flying the thing?

Google the Australian made Scarab, but ignore the cost, I buy some parts from the manufacturer and some generic bits and assemble a complete chassis for around $200, add a flight controller (I use the Naze32) and a battery and go.

Cheers Rob
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 06, 2015, 03:05:15 PM
Mot much wind today so far so I went down the local park and attempted the Alien flight ...

Pretty much sick of this thing now - It flips on takeoff to the left .. its never been up in the air ...

So I'm stuffed if I know how to fix it ... Everything is working and calibrated - GPS , OSD , IMU etc etc .. but there's
just not the same amount of power going to the left motors on thrust up...

Going back to the Phantom and put OSD on it with FPV camera and leave the Alien for another time ...

Any offers for $1400 worth of Alien with Multistar 2212 , QBrain 4in1,bandy legs ,gimbal , Naza Lite ,Remzibi , 5.8Mhz tx, Many props , Radiolink 10ch and Devo 7 Ch
will be considered at this time ....
Cheers
Steve

Hi Steve,

Have you tried swapping components around?  It would help to determine which thing is having trouble.  So if it's always the left side underpowered, if you move the motors to the other side and it still the left having trouble then it is either ESC's or the FC.  If you can swap out the 4 in 1 for 4 individual ESC's then you can rule out the ESC's, then it must be a FC issue.

I had a faulty motor and it wasn't until I was able to determine 3 or 4 flights where the left side would suddenly drop that I was able to work out the issue (that and the FPV footage from it).  I knew it wasn't the FC from the logs, it tried to respond correctly, so it was either motor or ESC that was faulty.  I changed the motor first because it was the easiest to do (couple of cable ties).  ESC was next, lucky I didnt need to do that as it would have required some desoldering, and soldering etc.....

When buying parts, if I need 4 motors, I buy 5 or 6.  For the tri i bought twice the number of motors and lucky I did because I stuffed up a full set of 3 with some dodgy epoxying - I then bought 3 more spares for on the shelf.  I'm down to two now.  FC's I dont buy spares of, but I seem to have spares now :-)  One day I'll break one and it will be nice to get on the bike quickly.

You'll need to pick up a tricopter, how about a home built one based upon David's design (rcexplorer.se).  Its done me well.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 06, 2015, 03:26:06 PM
Thank you HK, both my orders are in!!!!

Now just waiting for the 3rd axis gimbal parts.  I thought I was up to day 16 but I missed counted, I'm only at day 11, so about a week or so to go.....  Sometimes buying from elsewhere because it's cheaper kills me......

So I have a dilemma, since my CF and FR4 has arrived, do I:

a) build the new frame and mount everything and start flying without the gimbal mount or;
b) build the new frame, mount as much as I can and wait (so no tricopter flying for a week or more)
c) build the new frame, mount only what I have spares of and continue flying the old tricopter and only switch the critical stuff over when the 3rd axis components arrive.
d) build the new frame, mount the existing two axis gimbal on another custom mount (so only stabilised on 2 axis) and fly, then when third gimbal arrives change it over.

I'm leaning towards option D at present.  I'll make a mount out of the FR4 instead of the CF, the CF mount would wait until I have the new gimbal and controller board.

What would you do?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 06, 2015, 03:26:42 PM
I am going to strip the Alien down and swap the motors around --

At the moment I am going to fix up the Phantom and get it flying with OSD and FPV - I've decided to use the GPS module from the Alien so I can fit the OSD board under the top shell
where the GPS board normally sits - It flies OK like that so now all I have to do is mount camera , tx , osd board and remove the old compass ...

The Alien will have to wait now for a little bit - I may bite the bullet and get the APM FC and GPS stuff for it and see how that goes ... But motor swap is first on the agenda on a cooler day --
Need a beer now ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 06, 2015, 07:34:54 PM
The OTG cable and bluetooth module turned up today while I was at work.
Now I am at home I have tried the OTG cable with out samsung tab for droid planner and it works. So now need to find time to do some real word testing. That is not going to happen as I am working again. Might have to see what Sunday brings.

Steve,
I have a kk2.1 fc here which is very basic that you could replace the naza with for some trials if you wish.
Let me know and I'll send it to you.
Regards
Crispy

Sent from my GT-P5110 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 06, 2015, 07:51:09 PM
There is a guy on rcgroups who has hacked the Naza V2 firmware, enabling it to run on the Naza Lite. Apparently the results have been outstanding as far as the difference in flight characteristics. I will find out where to get the firmware for you Steve. This may make the world of difference.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 07, 2015, 06:36:55 PM
Thank you HK, both my orders are in!!!!

Now just waiting for the 3rd axis gimbal parts.  I thought I was up to day 16 but I missed counted, I'm only at day 11, so about a week or so to go.....  Sometimes buying from elsewhere because it's cheaper kills me......

So I have a dilemma, since my CF and FR4 has arrived, do I:

a) build the new frame and mount everything and start flying without the gimbal mount or;
b) build the new frame, mount as much as I can and wait (so no tricopter flying for a week or more)
c) build the new frame, mount only what I have spares of and continue flying the old tricopter and only switch the critical stuff over when the 3rd axis components arrive.
d) build the new frame, mount the existing two axis gimbal on another custom mount (so only stabilised on 2 axis) and fly, then when third gimbal arrives change it over.

I'm leaning towards option D at present.  I'll make a mount out of the FR4 instead of the CF, the CF mount would wait until I have the new gimbal and controller board.

What would you do?

Chris

I've decided option D is the right choice, it gets me back in the air quickly on the new frame and able to use the 2 axis gimbal, with minimal effort.

Now if I manage to get a few hours tomorrow I can get the frame largely done, fingers crossed.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 08, 2015, 09:18:43 AM
Well I have now finished all the conversions / addons / upgrades to my Phantom FC40 ... It now has FPV , OSD , 2D Gimbal , HD camera , 2.4Ghz controls and 5.8 Ghz Video and Telemetry ... Only one thing left to do is some shrinktube for the video tx ... I don't have any big enough yet ..
But everything works and its ready to fly .....

This makes up for the disappointment in the Alien build ....

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/07/1b65c32af410f6facdc51d3ccebab344.jpg)

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 08, 2015, 06:25:34 PM
Just keeping the idea on peoples minds of the quadcopter/camping trip you were talking about Steve. I'm ready to go. After Easter is good for me.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 08, 2015, 06:36:14 PM
weekend of 10th or 17th April ( they're fridays ) - Somewhere around Little Desert N P - Maybe Broughtons Waterhole ???

Should be just about empty at that time of year ... Just us and the birds !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 08, 2015, 07:23:15 PM
weekend of 10th or 17th April ( they're fridays ) - Somewhere around Little Desert N P - Maybe Broughtons Waterhole ???

Should be just about empty at that time of year ... Just us and the birds !!
April is a write off for me. I will be in Europe for most of it. :'(
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 08, 2015, 07:42:38 PM
May will be better for me as well. My wife and I will be broke after our S/E Pacific cruise in late March. Both of us celebrate our 50th birthdays this year.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 08, 2015, 09:47:14 PM
Hmmmm - Its getting tricky now as May won't be all that pleasant in the Desert .... LOL ..

OK how about Friday 15th May to Sunday 17th May .... And pray to the god of weather Livinia to have a fine weekend ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 09, 2015, 10:21:24 AM
Hmmmm - Its getting tricky now as May won't be all that pleasant in the Desert .... LOL ..

OK how about Friday 15th May to Sunday 17th May .... And pray to the god of weather Livinia to have a fine weekend ...

May is a bad month for me, I have a Regional Rescue Comp (which I am on the organising committee - its on the 16th May) and I have a cave rescue weekend that I normally attend (normally the last weekend in May).

Dont hold off on my account, I can always catch the next one.  My vote would have been for March or April :-)

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 09, 2015, 12:46:27 PM
If I go by myself, I can probably make it in April
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 09, 2015, 12:50:20 PM
Spring is looking good !!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 09, 2015, 02:39:05 PM
Hi all,

I started on the new frame today.  This is my progress so far:

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/08/dc3cb34da3462676153ccdf5feadd9bc.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/08/4bf241fc73331a322f3068f998834d77.jpg)

I've used 1.5mm carbon fiber weave sheets for the top and bottom plates.  I've used 10mmx10mm square CF tubes for the arms (they are 37.5cm long and have a hollowed section to feed my wires through).  I've cut a battery tray out of 1mm CF, i've also got various bits of 1.5mm and 1mm small bits to fix the tray to the frame.

On a plus the temp was only in the mid 20's so a good day to be donned up in a P2 mask.

I'm a bit annoyed at myself, I have some play in the tail boom due to a maths stuff up.....  I added .5mm to each side, when I should have added half of that to each side......  Oh well I'll put in a CF brace to fix it up tomorrow.

It's feeling much lighter than my plywood frame, overall I'm pretty happy with it.  I've got a hole for the Pixhawk safety switch and holes for the GPS mount.

Tomorrow I will do my last couple of dremel cuts, and do the required bits in FR4 (mount for FPV Tx and Telemetry Radio).  I'm thinking of still using my wooden posts for the landing gear, they just seem to work and they are easy to replace if I break any.  I'll paint them black though.  I'd like to also get all the electronics and motors, etc mounted tomorrow.  That way I can hopefully do a maiden flight on the new frame and pixhawk on Wednesday or Thursday.

Its not that much harder to work with when you use tungsten carbide bits.  Most of the cutting was done with the jigsaw and my drill press did a great job with the drilling.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 09, 2015, 03:16:35 PM
Spring is looking good !!!

Spring works for me too, plenty of time to plan :-)

Eeeks, 12+ hours of a drive.  I've wanted to see the Little Desert NP so I guess I'll be able to tick that off the list too.

Next one after that will have to be somewhere in the middle of all Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 09, 2015, 04:32:00 PM


Eeeks, 12+ hours of a drive.


Where the bloody hell r u ?? I picked a spot halfway between Adel and Mel ... U in Sydney area ??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 09, 2015, 04:58:30 PM
Where the bloody hell r u ?? I picked a spot halfway between Adel and Mel ... U in Sydney area ??

Yep, sure am :-)

I thought my city was on my profile, just noticed it's not showing up....  Will have a look later to fix that.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 10, 2015, 09:21:09 AM
FINALLY SOME SUCCESS !!!!!!

Took both quads out today for a fly and test ---

Got the Alien ( re-balanced version ) off the ground and hovering for a while before it decided to wander a little bit ( NO GPS installed at the moment ) - very happy about getting off the deck -- seems to fly quite well so can't wait for the GPS and prong to arrive ...

Phantom tested F/Safe successfully although I had a problem setting homepoint - the OSD was showing it as 40 metres from me and that's where the Phantom returned to - I did a compass calib and reset the homepoint but it still was 40m away ??? However it flew well and f/s works as it should ...
The only problem was the FPV signal was very scratchy after 50 metres or so which could be aerial position ?? ..

Anyway it was a good mornings fun with no crash and burn ...

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on February 10, 2015, 09:23:41 AM
I may have missed it Steve but did you get your Phantom back which took off to the never never?

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 10, 2015, 09:43:47 AM
No mate had to buy a new one and have just finished fixing a few upgrades to it ... So its ready for filming now ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 10, 2015, 10:24:21 AM
FINALLY SOME SUCCESS !!!!!!

Took both quads out today for a fly and test ---

Got the Alien ( re-balanced version ) off the ground and hovering for a while before it decided to wander a little bit ( NO GPS installed at the moment ) - very happy about getting off the deck -- seems to fly quite well so can't wait for the GPS and prong to arrive ...

Phantom tested F/Safe successfully although I had a problem setting homepoint - the OSD was showing it as 40 metres from me and that's where the Phantom returned to - I did a compass calib and reset the homepoint but it still was 40m away ??? However it flew well and f/s works as it should ...
The only problem was the FPV signal was very scratchy after 50 metres or so which could be aerial position ?? ..

Anyway it was a good mornings fun with no crash and burn ...
Great news Steve, I will find out the site for reflashing the Naza Lite for you because apparently the drifting is an issue with the Naza Lite that DJI have not resolved satisfactorily yet, even after you put the GPS on. You can apparently reflash the FC to Naza V2.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 10, 2015, 10:56:11 AM
Good news steve.
Are you using circular polarized antenna on the vtx and the vrx?
That colud make the difference.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 10, 2015, 12:06:47 PM
Reflashing sounds like a good idea - I'll wait until I've tested with GPS first though...

I'm running the standard aerials at the moment -
I did have a pair of circular polarisers but one is on the missing phantom ... I think they were 2.4Ghz too  - I need a 5.8 pair now ...

I'll see what I can find with a rightangled connector ...

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 10, 2015, 12:08:23 PM
Reflashing sounds like a good idea - I'll wait until I've tested with GPS first though...

I'm running the standard aerials at the moment -
I did have a pair of circular polarisers but one is on the missing phantom ... I think they were 2.4Ghz too  - I need a 5.8 pair now ...

I'll see what I can find with a rightangled connector ...

Cheers

Steve
Steve, the link to the support forum I PM'd you is incorrect, use the link in the naza upgrade web site. That one works.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 10, 2015, 12:15:37 PM
Interesting reading on the naza upgrade support web site. Apparently the hardware for the flight controller is identical, just the firmware is different. So if you do the firmware upgrade, suddenly your Naza Lite supports the new power module, canbus, iOSD mini, datalink, the works.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 10, 2015, 05:32:56 PM
Good news steve.
Are you using circular polarized antenna on the vtx and the vrx?
That colud make the difference.
Regards
Crispy

Hi Steve,

Is the 50m range with both antennas (assuming the standard dipole antennas) on the same plane (both vertical or both horizontal) with no obstructions between the two points?  If so then I think you have an issue, 5.8Ghz should do well in excess of that.  If they are on a different plane - one horizontal and one vertical then yes switching antennas to a CP will help.

If it's on the same plane then start looking for things getting in the way, is it high enough over the model, is the position such that the body of the model gets between you and the Tx, also is there any CF close by.

Are all connections done up?  Did you do any soldering / crimping work on the VTx or between it and the antenna, etc....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 10, 2015, 06:00:50 PM
Its really good and clear for 50-100 m then it gets a lot of breaking up interference ... I'll try it with circ pols and see how that goes as I don't really want to have to move the tx again
I just drilled a hole in the leg to mount it ..... I'm not after huge distances so clear upto say 300m will be good enough for what I will be doing ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 10, 2015, 06:40:13 PM
Well another productive day, I've got more of the frame done today, I now have a battery tray mounted on the new CF frame.

I've noticed a number of items I'm not happy with the new frame, I think I'll chalk that up to my first time cutting CF......  So I logged onto HK last night and discovered they are selling the 1.5mm sheets for $14.55, so I picked up 3 more of them.  So I'll run with this frame and I'll build up an even better one later on.  I think I need to make a jig to hold the dremel and try to use it like a table saw, also need to do the same but mount it upside down like a router table too.  Guess I'll be doing some reading / watching youtube tonight to get some ideas :-)

My main beef is the holes I drilled to hold the tail piece in, the plans have them as a 2.5mm hole and I up sized them to 3mm (as I dont have any 2.5mm nylon bolts), I have added 2mm in the space between them for some stupid reason, there was 1mm of play - plus one hole wasnt as accurate as the others, so now I have a spacer added but then the angle seemed wrong, finally after some filing I've got something straight.....  I don't want the same problem I've got on the plywood frame.

So tonight and tomorrow I'll be working on the electronics.  Once that's done I'll post up some pics.  Looks like a maiden flight will be Thursday at the earliest, looking more like Friday depending on the weather.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 10, 2015, 06:50:15 PM
Its really good and clear for 50-100 m then it gets a lot of breaking up interference ... I'll try it with circ pols and see how that goes as I don't really want to have to move the tx again
I just drilled a hole in the leg to mount it ..... I'm not after huge distances so clear upto say 300m will be good enough for what I will be doing ...

I switched to CP antennas almost right of the bat, it sounds like there is something getting in the way, if it's mounted on the leg it is likely the body getting in the way, it needs clear LOS to work.  On my miniquad I use an extension cable so the VTx is tucked away and the extension cable then puts the antenna in an optimal location.

You can try mounting it upside down to get a clearer line.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 10, 2015, 07:10:17 PM
You can try mounting it upside down to get a clearer line.
That's the way to go. All my Vtx antennas hang upsidedown underneath the body.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on February 10, 2015, 11:45:08 PM
Update to the first  vid https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15uwalmwvGc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15uwalmwvGc)
This would be fun https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsxyV-kgfio (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsxyV-kgfio)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 11, 2015, 09:24:35 AM
Here is a link to the Inaugural Flying Funanza (http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=41744.0). Everyone is welcome to participate. We hope to arrange another event in Spring for those who can't make this one. The Spring venue is yet to be decided, but will hopefully be flying things friendly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 11, 2015, 11:07:49 AM
Took the mini quad for a blast this morning (ZMR250), tuned the board to allow stooopid aerobatics, rolls and flips were extremely fast and great fun.... but that tree jumped out in front of it (a very tall one :().

One broken arm, luckily spares are already on the bench, Ill have it flying again before dinner tonight.... so much fun blasting holes in the sky, these are tough lil buggers.

Ive had this for around a year now and this is the first damage done to the frame after MUCH abuse. I ordered a spare set of arms when I originally bought the frame, had begun to think this was a waste of time.

Currently have 4 machines flying although I rarely use the Tri anymore, Tri, ZMR250, a Scarab camera ship and a Scarab sports frame. All good fun.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 11, 2015, 05:52:47 PM
Well another productive day, I've mounted the motors, the tilt mechanism, the landing gear, wiring harness, the arming switch and the VTx / Telem mount.

Pics to follow soon:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/11/92412bf56b4dba5636adb7ff2ac76a1e.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/11/f15c9a263aba90cf55b9629f7dfc6ee6.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/11/5f1df71df01514c8da2962419896d49d.jpg)

Tonight I plan to mount the electronics for some ground testing tomorrow, with a maiden now looking very good for Friday morning.

Tomorrow I'll cut up the 1.5mm CF for the gimbal mount and mount the 2 axis gimbal, I was kinda hoping that if I hold off on that part the 3rd axis controller and gimbal motor would arrive.....  No such luck.

I also plan to redo the tilt mechanism, and I'll paint it all black.  The other change will be the signal wires from the ESC, they didnt fit inside the booms (really need 12mm x 12mm boom), so I'll wrap them in black mesh but that will happen a bit later.

CG is looking good, its about 2/3rd back of the main plate at present without a battery, with the battery it goes a bit further back, the gimbal and camera should even that out.  I can also slide the battery a bit further forward if required to even it out.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 12, 2015, 08:48:17 PM
Well the Pixhawk is like the APM all over again... Sigh.....  The Pixhawk is made up of two boards the IO (Input / Output) and the FMU (Flight Management Unit) board.  I should clarify, I'm running the ArduCopter fw and not the Pixhawk specific fw.

Firstly it took me an hour to work out that power management is weird, so I had wired it all up and the only IO board would fire up via the power module, yet both would if I powered it via the USB.  Some reading and it seems that this happens if the servo rail gets more than 5.7V, it shuts down the FMU board to protect it.  I checked each of my BEC's from the ESC's and they are putting out pretty much dead on 5V, hmmmmm.  I popped all the + pins and suddenly it worked, the FMU fired up.  Grrrr.  So I've now used a separate BEC which is putting out 5.3V and it works, go figure.....  Can't work out why it doesn't like the BEC from the ESC's.  Good news is that if I pull the Power Module it is powered by the BEC.

I can arm it and have the motors all responding correctly :-)  Pain in the arse is the safety button.....  After you arm it via the transmitter you have to push the safety button.

GPS lock is quick and pretty good indoors.  It's using two compasses so far - both calibrated.  2nd GPS will go on tomorrow.

Telemetry link is working.

I didn't get the camera gimbal mount cut today either.  I'll do that tomorrow morning.

Also need to install the FPV gear once the camera mount is installed.

My big issue is that my tail servo is not responding, grrrr.  I had to clean up so my dog can reclaim his downstairs area (I had hijacked it as my study was too cramped for a build), so tomorrow's maiden flight is looking doubtful.  More likely to be Monday.

Pics of the pretty flashing lights:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/12/df00d1ee8a328d19c793cc35d7828cc3.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/12/fd3e0cbc71bb4b344dd43656b98dafc8.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/12/0225cd3a4ec017bf78b61aa5954304d9.jpg)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 12, 2015, 09:06:22 PM
Oh, since the dog kicked me out, I've also got Mission Planner to display an FPV image on the HUD location.  I have an RC305 receiver and I have this plugged into an EASYCAP video capture card, so now if I have the PC with me I can see the FPV output both on my PC and on my monitor mounted on top of the receiver.

I'll post up a small build post in the next few days.  Pretty happy, it only took me a few minutes to get stuff happening :-)

Only tested it on a NTSC output (my mini quad uses NTSC due to the camera I have mounted).  Will try PAL tomorrow once the Tri FPV gear is mounted on the new Tri frame.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 12, 2015, 10:00:42 PM
Sound like you are having fun with the FC. You might want to try putting one power from one ESC back in and try that.  I have herd of things like more than one ESC providing power can cause problems. 
Keep us informed.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 12, 2015, 10:15:40 PM
Sound like you are having fun with the FC. You might want to try putting one power from one ESC back in and try that.  I have herd of things like more than one ESC providing power can cause problems. 
Keep us informed.
Regards
Crispy

Yep tried that, was one of my first things, I strip it down to just one ESC as I'd heard the same thing (never had any trouble myself - till now).  No dice at the time, but having said that since then I've done some reading and it seems that if the compass cal isn't done then it may not boot up the FMU (it wasn't done when I initially had everything plugged in), so I'll try putting one back on and see what happens, as I'd like to keep the external BEC for the FPV gear.

I'll keep you guys posted on my progress, hoping that my CF tri will get off the ground shortly :-)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2015, 05:34:50 AM
Are they linear or switching BEC's on the ESC's Chris? Switching ESC's can be noisy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 13, 2015, 05:38:30 AM
I think it is the switching ESC that gives the issue if more than one is connected.
Time for bed now. I'll be up at the crack of noon.
Crispy.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2015, 05:43:27 AM
Switching regulators by themself can be noisy, not uncommon to put a linear one after the switching reg so the linear is more efficient because it is dropping less voltage and not heating up as much.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 13, 2015, 08:35:04 AM
Are they linear or switching BEC's on the ESC's Chris? Switching ESC's can be noisy.
ESC BEC is linear, external one im using is switching.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Vk3bq on February 13, 2015, 12:12:44 PM
Wifey gave me permission (i gather she didn't actually appreciate whats shes given me permission for) for a quad copter, as long as it has video capability.

i think ive decided on the Phantom 2 (version 3 the new upgraded one),

but this is the decision?

get the model with the H3-3D gopro gimbal as i have go pros and they provide the best video/pics (only $1099 with the DJI feb sale)

or

get the vision + with the in built camera and FPV mode using smart phone? could be "more interesting" seeing live what im flying over , but less quality? ($1429 with the Feb DJI sale) and the need for a phone and a link booster and and and :D

what would you do?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2015, 12:17:40 PM
Wifey gave me permission (i gather she didn't actually appreciate whats shes given me permission for) for a quad copter, as long as it has video capability.

i think ive decided on the Phantom 2 (version 3 the new upgraded one),

but this is the decision?

get the model with the H3-3D gopro gimbal as i have go pros and they provide the best video/pics (only $1099 with the DJI feb sale)

or

get the vision + with the in built camera and FPV mode using smart phone? could be "more interesting" seeing live what im flying over , but less quality? ($1429 with the Feb DJI sale) and the need for a phone and a link booster and and and :D

what would you do?
Go for the quad with the GoPro gimbal. FPV via smart phone uses a wifi connection which has limited range compared to a 5.8Ghz video transmitter. Plus the wifi connection will probably mean than the remote control transmitter that comes with the quad will be 5.8Ghz and the camera will talk to your phone on 2.4Ghz. This will mean if you want to get a different transmitter you will be limited with what you can get. Just ask Mandrake.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Vk3bq on February 13, 2015, 12:43:09 PM
Go for the quad with the GoPro gimbal. FPV via smart phone uses a wifi connection which has limited range compared to a 5.8Ghz video transmitter. Plus the wifi connection will probably mean than the remote control transmitter that comes with the quad will be 5.8Ghz and the camera will talk to your phone on 2.4Ghz. This will mean if you want to get a different transmitter you will be limited with what you can get. Just ask Mandrake.

which is my thinking, the vision+ is a great all in one, but limits any future stuff, while gopro gimbal day oen doesnt do FPV, it is MUCH more flexiable into the futrue..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 13, 2015, 01:28:03 PM
Wifey gave me permission (i gather she didn't actually appreciate whats shes given me permission for) for a quad copter, as long as it has video capability.

i think ive decided on the Phantom 2 (version 3 the new upgraded one),

but this is the decision?

get the model with the H3-3D gopro gimbal as i have go pros and they provide the best video/pics (only $1099 with the DJI feb sale)

or

get the vision + with the in built camera and FPV mode using smart phone? could be "more interesting" seeing live what im flying over , but less quality? ($1429 with the Feb DJI sale) and the need for a phone and a link booster and and and :D

what would you do?

I'd go with the one with the gopro gimbal.  Not only will it fit a gopro but loads of other action cameras that are close in quality when it comes to 1080p (not so on the higher res shots).

It gives you the greatest flexibility in terms of controller and options for the future.  The vision+ is nice but you'll find you want more after a while.  If you really need to frame the picture (not for FPVing) and it's close by use the gopro's wifi connection to frame the video.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 13, 2015, 01:51:00 PM
Well progress, it seems my extension cable I made for the rear servo has an issue, plugged in a premade one and it just works.  I'll do another one tonight....  Sigh.

On the power issue, seems that if I plug anything with +5V onto the main outputs the FMU shutsdown.  I can plug in a +5V into the Aux out and it powers the rail fine.  I'm digging out a diagram tonight to check what is connected to what on the circuit board.  I was sure the power rail for main out and aux were linked together....

I cut up my carbon fiber board to hold the camera, accidentally did it in 1mm thickness (meant to do it in 1.5mm).  It seems to be strong enough, I'll only know tonight when I drill the holes and mount the gimbal on it....

I got another package of goodies today, a 10A charger, more CF plates (since they were only $14 a hit compared to $20 normally) and two new 5800mah 3S batteries.

Still waiting on my 3rd axis gimbal stuff, coming up to the 3 week mark on Monday.  Grrrr.

FPV gear will go on tonight now that I've worked out the issue with the servo cable and the power rail (somewhat).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 13, 2015, 02:21:09 PM
Or you could have more fun and make your own quad from parts. Being the radio operator that you are you should be able to handle building and a little setting up which is half the fun.
My first build was a f450 flame wheel with a NAZA flight controller and it has a gimbal for the go pro and fpv so I can see what the camera is looking at.
Most of us here are playing with an apm flight controller which is harder to set up but can do automated missions.
Something to think about.
Regards
Crispy



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 13, 2015, 02:24:47 PM
We'll a promised I was up at the crack of noon after nightshift so wanting an easy afternoon I decided to tackle setting up a Bluetooth telemetry system from the telemetry radio to the Samsung galaxy tablet.
We'll after some googling and downloads and some scratching of heads I finally got it all set up and working a treat. I am using droid planner 2 because it seems to work the best for me.
Here are a couple of photos.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/12/80ecede392a710414e77caab28abbb22.jpg)
This first one shows the whole setup with the tab in the back ground.
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/12/f0aaf485bb2c4c4fcd144666d932db7a.jpg)
The second photo shows the BT modular with the telemetry radio and the 5v BEC to power it all.




Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2015, 02:31:37 PM
We'll a promised I was up at the crack of noon after nightshift so wanting an easy afternoon I decided to tackle setting up a Bluetooth telemetry system from the telemetry radio to the Samsung galaxy tablet.
We'll after some googling and downloads and some scratching of heads I finally got it all set up and working a treat. I am using droid planner 2 because it seems to work the best for me.
Here are a couple of photos.




Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Its funny that the Multiwii, which in my option is just the poor cousin of the APM flight controller, has a bluetooth module that is always cheaper than the APM bluetooth module, but the only thing that stops it from working on the APM is a different baud rate. I reckon the bluetooth module is a much better option than the 3DR radio, because it has no external antenna. I'm thinking of swapping all of my APM quads over to bluetooth, but I need to get a bluetooth dongle for my desktop computer so I can still use the bluetooth connection for Mission Planner.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 13, 2015, 02:34:10 PM
Crispy, why do you still have the 3DR radio connected, is it for Mission Planner?

All you need is the 'Y' cable that came with your minimOSD and substitute the 3DR radio with the bluetooth module and your good to go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Vk3bq on February 13, 2015, 02:51:08 PM

Or you could have more fun and make your own quad from parts. Being the radio operator that you are you should be able to handle building and a little setting up which is half the fun.
My first build was a f450 flame wheel with a NAZA flight controller and it has a gimbal for the go pro and fpv so I can see what the camera is looking at.
Most of us here are playing with an apm flight controller which is harder to set up but can do automated missions.
Something to think about.
Regards
Crispy



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

It needs to be simple for the wifey to fly as well. Day 1. 

A FW450 and bits would be no trouble. Just not as simple?  From my reading.

NAZA m mode v's phantom mode. A little more forgiving?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 13, 2015, 03:32:49 PM

Crispy, why do you still have the 3DR radio connected, is it for Mission Planner?

All you need is the 'Y' cable that came with your minimOSD and substitute the 3DR radio with the bluetooth module and your good to go.
The telemetry radio will have a bigger range than the BT. The BT unit is so the telemetry radio can talk to the Samsung tab2 without the need for a physical connection.
The telemetry radio on the quad is tucked away and I even forget it is there.
I have to remember to have the ground station antenna in the correct orientation for best results.
Regards
Crispy



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 13, 2015, 03:38:26 PM

It needs to be simple for the wifey to fly as well. Day 1. 

A FW450 and bits would be no trouble. Just not as simple?  From my reading.

NAZA m mode v's phantom mode. A little more forgiving?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The NAZA is easy to fly. Set it up in GPS mode and when you let the sticks centre it will just stop there and hover. My 13 yo had no problems working it.
If you are down my way in the valley I would be more than happy to demonstrate it to you. The stock DJI motors were not up to the task of my build but with some mods and different construction I am sure they would be. Another thing to consider is how you are going to move it around to flying sites. The bigger they are the harder to fit in. A folding option might suit you better in that case.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 13, 2015, 04:06:33 PM
Crispy, why do you still have the 3DR radio connected, is it for Mission Planner?

All you need is the 'Y' cable that came with your minimOSD and substitute the 3DR radio with the bluetooth module and your good to go.

I think this setup he has is for the ground station, so he can set it somewhere and walk around.  I just stuff the 915Mhz antenna in my pocket connected to my phone and it works so far out to 150m with no issues.  It's a good idea for Ground Stations where you have a static aerial (such as a antenna tracker), then you BT it to the ground station PC.

Is that what you are doing Crispy?

Ummm, some of us will upload missions when it's further than BT can reach, I uploaded a mission when I was about 100m away (and 25m high) from it the other week.  Then just set it to auto and off it went - kept it in LOS but was the furthest I've gone with it - around 200m away (it was tiny).  Using BT I would have had to stand underneath it and then at 25m high it would be pushing what it can do.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 13, 2015, 04:14:02 PM

Is that what you are doing Crispy?

Pretty much. Giving myself options with which device I happen to have with me.



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 13, 2015, 04:19:54 PM
It needs to be simple for the wifey to fly as well. Day 1. 

A FW450 and bits would be no trouble. Just not as simple?  From my reading.

NAZA m mode v's phantom mode. A little more forgiving?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Can always come over to Mandrake land - I've got a modified Phantom FC40 ( which is now really a Phantom P2 ) ...

More than willing to give a demo - Just not this weekend as I'm playing lawn bowls on Sat and off to Mt Gambier on Sunday ...

One night / evening next week if ya like ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 13, 2015, 10:22:35 PM
Another productive day, but not as much as I would like.....

I've manged to get most of the wiring wrapped in mesh guard so it looks nicer.  Have to say mesh is good and bad, I've had to be careful as it can put extra strain on the small df13 connectors (the mesh is less bendy).  Still to do the rear boom in mesh but this is the ESC I'll steal power from once I fix the power issue, so dont want to have to redo stuff later on.

I've fixed the buzzer, it wasn't working, only noticed when I did the ESC Calibration.  Seems that the wiring was dodgy.  Positive broke the other day so I fixed it, what I didnt know was that ground was also broken.  It's now very noisy.

I did cut the CF for the gimbal and FPV camera, just haven't drilled the holes for it.  Once that's done it will be easy to mount the gimbal.

I've mounted the FPV transmitter.  I've posted to DIY drones about my interesting BEC issue.  I've been reading that I'll need to insert a zener diode and capacitor into the servo rail, so I'm kinda hoping it fixes the issue.  If it does I do not know why they don't provide it as part of the kit, seems so simple.

I have discovered with the Telemetry radio and the FPV 5.8Ghz transmitter the 2nd GPS wont fit on the transmitter post.  Looks like I'll have to relocate it to one of the front arms or the CF Gimbal mount.

So this weekend I should get it ready for a Monday flight.

Still to do:
 - Drill holes in CF Gimbal mount
 - Remove noisy 2A UBEC and mount low RF noise 3A UBEC (will power FPV camera and servo rail if zener diode doesn't work)
 - Fit 5V converted Minim and wiring harness
 - Fit 2nd GPS
 - Fit zener diode

Some pics:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/13/8bcbabfe057223f7f6f8aa2281b0d15d.jpg)

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/13/7738ae92f4e15e951491b6eb8f3a7b4b.jpg)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 15, 2015, 01:31:55 PM
I received the Blue Series 30A ESC's yesterday from my friendly Auspost contractor that delivers on Saturday (love that man). I'll be replacing the ESC's on my X-mode Alien very shortly, probably tomorrow, then I'll try to retune and see if the problem with the throttle going to 100% by itself is fixed. If not, I'll capture the telemetry data.

The myswag get together at Goolwa is coming up very soon and I need to do some work on my van. I've got to sort out an E306 (or E036) error on the solar regulator, which I believe is telling me that the panels are disconnected. The regulator is a BP Solar which appears to be a re-badged Stecca.

I've been busy helping get some jobs done on my brothers pop-top caravan and haven't had much time for the quadcopters the last two weekends. We fit a water pump and tap yesterday, and a toolbox, new gas bottle holder and a 20 litre jerry can holder this morning. 41 degrees yesterday and 38 today, lovely. We went hammer and tong from 8 o'clock in the morning until lunch time yesterday and today and now I am ready for a siesta.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 15, 2015, 06:01:10 PM
Lucky Marschy I've had some time to spend on mine :-)  Sounds like you were busy and in a bloody hot environment.

I'm a bit behind schedule but I'll get back into it tonight once my daughter has gone to bed.

My list of tasks was:
 - Drill holes in CF Gimbal mount
 - Remove noisy 2A UBEC and mount low RF noise 3A UBEC (will power FPV camera and servo rail if zener diode doesn't work)
 - Fit 5V converted Minim and wiring harness
 - Fit 2nd GPS
 - Fit zener diode

As can be seen I've managed to completed a number of them done.  I've decided to put a 7V-15V camera on instead of the FS PilotHD, time for my 700TVL camera to be used.  Since that is the case the UBEC now only powers the servo rail, so a 3A is overkill but I had added it before I decided on switching to the other camera.

I've converted the Minim to 5V and added some heatsinks to keep the temps down.

So tonight's task is to mount the camera and wire it up to the minim and complete & fit the wiring harness.

I've got both the GPS's working which is nice, so now I have GPS1, GPS2 and the Pixhawk EKF to ensure it stays put when it goes into loiter (the EKF will mean that if a small GPS glitch occurs, the EKF filter will override it and I stay in place.  If a big glitch happens then it should use the 2nd GPS).

Pic of 2 GPS's (will be uploaded soon):
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/15/7bc1ba8dfb14c4bf1ba9948cffd5a630.jpg)

I've found that my order of servo connectors from china is takings it's time so I've had to put an order in for 20 from a local Aus supplier.  Grrrr, I should have just enough to finish my tasks tonight.

I've also found the 1mm CF camera mount is too flimsy, so I'll have to cut and drill a 1.5mm reinforcement tomorrow, the other alternative is to add some 10mmx10mm CF square tube to brace it.  Not sure which one I'll do.

Oh, the capacitor didnt work, so not happy....  I'll try a bigger capacitor tomorrow, but that will be another trip to jaycar....  I tried putting to 200uf in parallel (so they add - they are the opposite to resisters)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 15, 2015, 11:28:15 PM
So tonight's task is to mount the camera and wire it up to the minim and complete & fit the wiring harness.


So I've got the MinimOSD wiring harness done and tested the camera works with a direct connection on the signal pin - damn this pic is so much better than the PilotHD - much easier to focus too.

So tomorrow morning should see the:
 - Pixhawk to MinimOSD cable (hoping I dont stuff up any connectors, it will be close - I have 7 left and need 4 to do this)
 - cut the reinforcement 1.5mm CF plate
 - plug in the gimbal mount
 - configure the gimbal mount
 - mount the camera (now on a board that can easily be zip tied to the frame - will work out if I like this camera).

With most things attached I've done a quick CG test, I'm now 1cm forward of where I'd like it to be ideally, I think with the 700TVL camera and extra CF plate it might go forwards another 0.5 cm, so I'm very happy with it.  I might try and bring the gimbal mount back another 1cm (I've got about 2.5cm clearance but I want to give some space between the battery tray and the gimbal) when I cut and drill the reinforcement plate.  Will hopefully offset the FPV camera weight.

I'll post up some pics once it's done.

I forgot to post a pic of the MinimOSD with the heatsinks:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/15/2432319fed0fcd9d9c3b26366d2c154a.jpg)

I'm feeling confident tomorrow will be the maiden flight of the CF tricopter.  Fingers crossed.....  Might even be able to do a YT video if it goes well, or maybe a YT video will happen if it doesn't go so well.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 16, 2015, 04:51:50 AM
Chris, If you run out of servo male sockets, these Jaycar PCB pin sockets are identical. They're just at Jaycars stupid prices. $5.50 for 25.

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HP1260 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HP1260)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 16, 2015, 08:07:54 AM
Chris, If you run out of servo male sockets, these Jaycar PCB pin sockets are identical. They're just at Jaycars stupid prices. $5.50 for 25.

http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HP1260 (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=HP1260)

Thanks for that, didn't know they stocked them. Ouch very pricey, like most jaycar prices.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 16, 2015, 03:27:43 PM
Well got my maiden flight in....  Very windy here so it was a short session.

AUW: 1750g
Battery: 3s 5000mah

It started off badly, I had three issues, the first was that despite checking every control surface twice it seems that I got my pitch control the wrong way around, the second was the tail motor was spinning the wrong direction (very distinctive sound) and I had forgotten to reverse on the yaw output.  A few flips as I ironed out each issue and all was good.

Once those were fixed I was able to take flight.  It seems that I need nearly 60% to take off, which is a bit higher than the previous frame.  The other odd bit is that the throttle seemed very sluggish.  I initially got upto about 10m with no issues and then I tried alt hold and loiter, both worked really well (HDOP of 1.4 and 1.2 - so pretty damn good).

After a bit throttle seemed to get worse, I was needing 100% just to get off the ground.  I think I turned down the RC Feel value too low.

I think my issue is that the front two motors are maxing out to balance the frame and so as the battery voltage drops its harder to keep aloft, so I need to loose some weight off the front.  I'll firstly remove the FPV camera I put on an replace with a lighter model (should reduce around 30g of weight), next I will do another battery tray so I can place the battery upto 7cm further back.  Since the battery tray will move back the camera mount can move back a few more cm's.  This should result in a CoG where I planned it.  At present it is nearly 5cm further forwards of where I planned it.

I will also swap out the 1.5 FR4 Mast (holds the Telemetry radio and FPV Tx) for a 1mm CF plate.  Should give me another 10-15g

If I move the mount back then I can drop the 1mm plate that is holding the gimbal and just used the 1.5mm plate.  That should give me a few more grams.

So since I produce approx 3kg of thrust, and I should have a new AUW of just under 1.7kg.  I'll be where i want to be.

I think my postman has a sick sense of humor.  My 3rd axis gimbal stuff arrived as I was heading out to do the maiden flight......  Grrrr, more mods..

Odd my AUW is very similar to the plywood version (1.3kg +350g for battery - 1.65kg).  Goes to show that most of my weight wasn't the frame but the stuff I bolt onto it :-(

Lots of tidy up work to do to manage the cables a bit better.

Video will have to wait, I accidentally bumped the gimbal on one of the flips, it turned the gimbal 360, so it was stuttering to try and fix it.  Will get some more later in the week.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 16, 2015, 05:03:20 PM
I also have a few packets of 11x4.7 props so I might give them a go too to get that little bit extra of thrust, I'll measure them tomorrow to see if it will make much of a difference.  I'm hoping they give me an extra 100 or 200g per motor.  I would like to get back to the 2:1 ratio if I can.

I'll also put in an order for a 4s battery since everything can take 4s (well motors are rated for 3s but there seems to be good evidence that they can 4s).
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Vk3bq on February 16, 2015, 05:11:13 PM
http://www.altronics.com.au/ altronics often have better quality and choice than jaycar. And thanks for test flight options. Local hobby shop has a demo. I'll have a play with that. Thanks.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 16, 2015, 07:20:18 PM
I swapped over the original ESC's that I got with my first quad kit than were on the X-mode Alien with the 30A HK Blue Series today. Wish I had of done this earlier. This is the first time since I've had all this kit that the motors have all spun up evenly when they are armed. I'm hoping this has fixed the throttle issue. I'll test it next weekend.

I stuffed my mini APM by connecting the new HK micro power distribution module without checking how the pins were connected first. The motors still arm, but the GPS doesn't power up. If I disconnect the battery and power the mini APM through the USB, the GPS powers up and works! There is probably a component that has burnt out, but nothing sticks out. Time to get the multimeter out, but I reckon it will end up in the bin.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 16, 2015, 07:48:49 PM
I initially got upto about 10m with no issues and then I tried alt hold and loiter, both worked really well (HDOP of 1.4 and 1.2 - so pretty damn good).
How many sats is the dual GPS setup picking up Chris?

I get 1.66 with 8 sats.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 16, 2015, 11:09:33 PM
How many sats is the dual GPS setup picking up Chris?

I get 1.66 with 8 sats.

Hi Mark,

I had 10 on both at one stage, but it seems 10 on one and 9 on the other is fairly consistent.  I think I saw it jump to 12 at one point but I cant be sure till I review the log.  It was rock solid in it's loiter, it barely moved in the wind.

May have just been an ideal day for the GPS RF signal, will find out tomorrow when I try again.

It will look at the HDOP of each GPS and use the best one, it switches between the two as required, it would be really cool if the two chips could talk to each other, but sadly it doesn't work that way.  If it thinks there is a glitch it will use the EKF filter to work out which one to use.  I have noticed that the odd glitch occurs, but not at the same time, so on the APM that could cause it to start moving to it if the glitch is small enough (big ones are filtered out).

Inside the house the GPS glitch tone goes off every few minutes, the pixhawk is much noisier than the APM.  The arming button I have to read up on some more (doesnt always work, I must be missing something), very frustrating that I have to hit that each time I need to arm the copter.

I'm amazed that the CoG affected the performance as much as it did, hoping it will be a quick fix tomorrow so I can try again in the early afternoon.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 17, 2015, 05:04:17 PM
Hmmmm, something is not quite right.  Seems I need almost full throttle after a minute or two on 10x4.5's and it's okish on 11x4.7's for the duration of the flight.

I'm sure my PM is not calibrated correctly as my batts where giving a warning (10.5V) but when I charged them at home they were only taking in 2000mah and 2500mah (assume a 10% loss on charging so around - 1800mah and 2250mah consumed).

I'll need to recalibrate the PM, I wonder if that is limiting the thrust it's generating.....  As the frame is only slightly heavier than my ply frame (by approx 100g - not sure why yet - trying to trim some weight)  I'll try again tomorrow with a properly calibrated PM (both V's and I's).  If still an issue I'll think about some different motors.

Marschy, how are finding the emax motors?  I'm thinking of trying some.  ALso it appears I was getting 12 sats regularly and 13 on occasions.  The other gps was around 10 sats most of the time.

Regards,

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 17, 2015, 05:37:49 PM
Hmmmm, something is not quite right.  Seems I need almost full throttle after a minute or two on 10x4.5's and it's okish on 11x4.7's for the duration of the flight.

I'm sure my PM is not calibrated correctly as my batts where giving a warning (10.5V) but when I charged them at home they were only taking in 2000mah and 2500mah (assume a 10% loss on charging so around - 1800mah and 2250mah consumed).

I'll need to recalibrate the PM, I wonder if that is limiting the thrust it's generating.....  As the frame is only slightly heavier than my ply frame (by approx 100g - not sure why yet - trying to trim some weight)  I'll try again tomorrow with a properly calibrated PM (both V's and I's).  If still an issue I'll think about some different motors.

Marschy, how are finding the emax motors?  I'm thinking of trying some.  ALso it appears I was getting 12 sats regularly and 13 on occasions.  The other gps was around 10 sats most of the time.

Regards,

Chris
The only thing I can comment on the emax motors so far Chris, is the thrust tests I have done on them. The motors for the mini quad (MT1806 2280kv) already have a well earned reputation and the thrust tests I did were very closely matched to the specs posted on the eMaxmodel.com website. I got 374 from memory out of a 3S with 5030 gemfans. The thrust data on the website suggests 380g with same size carbon fibre props, so I was pretty bloody happy with my results.

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that the MT3506 650kv's are probably going to give similarly accurate results on the Alien 560. I haven't put them on the thrust tester, but just a wet finger test (so to speak) had me thinking, damn, these are gunna be good. I did an ESC calibration followed by running the throttle up to 100% and had to put quite a bit of weight on top of the Alien 560 to keep the one motor from causing me trouble. I was most impressed. If one motor could potentially tip my nearly 2.5 kilo quad over, imagine what 4 motors running are going to do. I've got to bite the bullet and put the Alien in the air. But I can't see that happening for a few weeks yet.

The MT3510 600kv would be a beautiful endurance motor, flight time wise I mean. 1760 grams of thrust on a 4S setup, for a lot less money than t-motors, which are bloody good, but bloody expensive as well.

I've got to admit, I like the emax's.

Edit: Oops, forgot to mention the MT2206 1500kv's, Over 600 grams at 12 amps with 7x3.8 APC. And still room to improve as they are rated up to 8 inch props.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 17, 2015, 06:29:42 PM
Hmmmm, something is not quite right.  Seems I need almost full throttle after a minute or two on 10x4.5's and it's okish on 11x4.7's for the duration of the flight.

I'm sure my PM is not calibrated correctly as my batts where giving a warning (10.5V) but when I charged them at home they were only taking in 2000mah and 2500mah (assume a 10% loss on charging so around - 1800mah and 2250mah consumed).

I'll need to recalibrate the PM, I wonder if that is limiting the thrust it's generating.....  As the frame is only slightly heavier than my ply frame (by approx 100g - not sure why yet - trying to trim some weight)  I'll try again tomorrow with a properly calibrated PM (both V's and I's).  If still an issue I'll think about some different motors.

Marschy, how are finding the emax motors?  I'm thinking of trying some.  ALso it appears I was getting 12 sats regularly and 13 on occasions.  The other gps was around 10 sats most of the time.

Regards,

Chris
Haven't you made that thrust tester yet Chris?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 17, 2015, 10:19:55 PM
Haven't you made that thrust tester yet Chris?

Sure have, even posted results for the MultiStar Elites, I'll be testing my DT750's tomorrow.

I will also be doing the PM calibration because according to my chargers the batteries were at 11.5V and 11.6V.  My pixhawk was singing out that it was down to 10.5V at load and it was reporting around 10.8V at rest, so it was reporting a much lower level, there was still some life in them.  Was getting around 5-6 mins of flight, so if I get another 3-4 mins that would be better.  Still much less than my 15-16 mins I was getting. 

I really need to work out how my frame is 100g heavier than the plywood frame.  The CF plates (compared to the plywood) are all lighter, the arms are the same weight, only additional item is the 2nd GPS.  I've used a lighter UBEC (by a few grams).  I've used nylon bolts instead of metal, there is less wire so all up it should be less.  I've used the same motors, the gimbal hasnt changed (yet) so I'm at a loss as to why it can be heavier.

I'm thinking it could be the ESC's as I've not configured them - only thought of this tonight, so I may need to try that next and also consider flashing them.  It's the only item that I didnt bring over from the old tricopter.

The only other change is that the arms are only 37.5 cms long compared to 42cms for the 12mmx12mm pinewood.

Only other change is the masts, I've got a piece of FR4 (should only be 20g) instead of two small pine square.

I also fail to understand how 100g would make this much difference in flight performance, I'd expect maybe a loss of 2 mins of flight time.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 18, 2015, 06:16:28 AM
Sure have, even posted results for the MultiStar Elites, I'll be testing my DT750's tomorrow.

I will also be doing the PM calibration because according to my chargers the batteries were at 11.5V and 11.6V.  My pixhawk was singing out that it was down to 10.5V at load and it was reporting around 10.8V at rest, so it was reporting a much lower level, there was still some life in them.  Was getting around 5-6 mins of flight, so if I get another 3-4 mins that would be better.  Still much less than my 15-16 mins I was getting. 

I really need to work out how my frame is 100g heavier than the plywood frame.  The CF plates (compared to the plywood) are all lighter, the arms are the same weight, only additional item is the 2nd GPS.  I've used a lighter UBEC (by a few grams).  I've used nylon bolts instead of metal, there is less wire so all up it should be less.  I've used the same motors, the gimbal hasnt changed (yet) so I'm at a loss as to why it can be heavier.

I'm thinking it could be the ESC's as I've not configured them - only thought of this tonight, so I may need to try that next and also consider flashing them.  It's the only item that I didnt bring over from the old tricopter.

The only other change is that the arms are only 37.5 cms long compared to 42cms for the 12mmx12mm pinewood.

Only other change is the masts, I've got a piece of FR4 (should only be 20g) instead of two small pine square.

I also fail to understand how 100g would make this much difference in flight performance, I'd expect maybe a loss of 2 mins of flight time.
It could be a voltage drop issue. What size wire are you using for powering up the ESC's?

When I swapped over the ESC's on the X-mode Alien on Monday, I thought I'd try and save a bit of time by soldering bullet connectors onto the end of 14AWG wire that was about 1 metre long. The 14AWG wire was soldered directly to the ESC's. Plan was to calibrate the ESC's then cut off the length I needed to hook the ESC up to the power distribution board on the quad. I thought this should save me some time having to solder bullet connectors onto the ends of the power supply wires on the ESC each time.

I connected the bullet connectors to an adapter to plug into an XT60 battery connection, the ESC servo connection to a receiver, nothing from the ESC's, no tune, nada.

I checked the voltage at the ESC and it read over 11.7 volts, but I reckon there was simply not enough oomph to fire up the ESC and motors due to voltage drop. I trimmed the wires to the approximate length I needed to hook the ESC's up to the pdb and bingo, they started to sing.

To cut a long story short, I think you will find that the thrust test will most likely give you the answers you are after with the problem you are having with the motors not firing on all cylinders. It could be voltage drop, it could be the ESC's are going over the max burst amperage. They really are a handy piece of kit.

I tested my emax 2206 1500kv's with 5 inch props and got similar results to your 10 inch props, simply no power coming out of the motors.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 18, 2015, 06:24:17 PM
It could be a voltage drop issue. What size wire are you using for powering up the ESC's?

When I swapped over the ESC's on the X-mode Alien on Monday, I thought I'd try and save a bit of time by soldering bullet connectors onto the end of 14AWG wire that was about 1 metre long. The 14AWG wire was soldered directly to the ESC's. Plan was to calibrate the ESC's then cut off the length I needed to hook the ESC up to the power distribution board on the quad. I thought this should save me some time having to solder bullet connectors onto the ends of the power supply wires on the ESC each time.

I connected the bullet connectors to an adapter to plug into an XT60 battery connection, the ESC servo connection to a receiver, nothing from the ESC's, no tune, nada.

I checked the voltage at the ESC and it read over 11.7 volts, but I reckon there was simply not enough oomph to fire up the ESC and motors due to voltage drop. I trimmed the wires to the approximate length I needed to hook the ESC's up to the pdb and bingo, they started to sing.

To cut a long story short, I think you will find that the thrust test will most likely give you the answers you are after with the problem you are having with the motors not firing on all cylinders. It could be voltage drop, it could be the ESC's are going over the max burst amperage. They really are a handy piece of kit.

I tested my emax 2206 1500kv's with 5 inch props and got similar results to your 10 inch props, simply no power coming out of the motors.

Hi Marschy,

Apologies, it's a long post.

I'm using 16 AWG, which is the same as the wires on the old tricopter - about 10-15cm less distance on each connection.  The only difference is I left the smaller pigtails on (approx 10 cm), I'd say they would be 18 AWG sized, I'm thinking I'll remove them and replace them with 16AWG to be sure.  I have a bunch of 14 AWG so I can always try using it instead but it will be harder to fit them inside the arms.  Having said that I checked the resistance compared to the old harness and I was getting 0.3 ohms on both old and new, so there doesn't appear to be a dry joint in the way either.  One difference is that I used to do a short DC line (3s) to the ESC and the long run to the motor, now I do a long run (2 wires - 30cm) to the ESC and do the AC as the short run (3 wires approx 10cm).  I think the AC lines are 18 AWG, I might replace them as I did on the other harness.  Also a quick voltage test, only 0.2v of drop from battery to ESC (no load).

I did some static tethered tests and outdoor flight tests today.  I reconfigured the ESC's, turns out I had a few odd settings which weren't helping.  I recalibrated the current and voltage settings on the PM.  I max out at about 28 amps, so only 9A per motor - for 10x4.5.  For 11x4.5 I max out at around 32A.  These were via the PM and also a separate power meter.

I started doing a thrust test (10x4.5) but just as I get to 50% throttle the scales packed it in.  No not as i was setting up, dead in the middle of my testing - maybe my motors are so good they broke the scales :-).  So I will go and buy a new pair of scales tomorrow.  What I did get was at 9.5A I was generating around 800g of thrust at around 50% throttle which is pretty good.  As I started to spool up to a higher level the scales stopped working.  I was drawing around 14A at full throttle but no idea of how much thrust it was generating, but I would say I hit the 1kg no probs.  It would explain why at 9A (that is close to 100% throttle on the pixhawk), I'm having trouble getting off the ground once the battery is loosing a few volts, as 3*800 is only 2.4 Kg of lift, so it would be less than that - at 1.5kg AUW I can see why it struggles.

Interesting is that via the Pixhawk I am getting 28A as max for the 10x4.5 while flying (so only 9A per motor), this would imply that I have spare capacity as I can get the ESC and motors to 14A on the bench......  The motors do get a bit warm at that level but well below the 200W level.

Static test at of 11x4.5 at 28A gave me a duration of around 9-10 mins, the 10x4.5 at 22A gave me around 13 mins.  On my old frame I was getting around 18A for a hover and was getting 15mins of real flying time if not a bit longer.

On the flight test I took the camera off and it made a huge difference on 10x4.5 - I could take off at 60% or less throttle with a fresh battery and after 8 mins still hover at 80%.  I think my issue is largely a weight issue based upon this.  The camera would only be 40-60g at most, this makes me think my extra 100g is really affecting me.  I was finding I could fly until the battery got to 4200mah but after that it struggled to stay in the air.

Plan is to swap that FR4 out as it is heavy compared to the CF.  Still struggling to understand why it is so heavy, it shouldn't be.  I'll also order some more 1mm CF and I'll loose another 15g if I redo the plates.  On paper the wooden tri should be 50-100g heavier but for some reason its the other way around....

I also tinkered with some of the settings, such as hover throttle, etc.....

I may have to take a few days break as I'm on standby to head up to the NSW north coast.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 18, 2015, 06:41:10 PM
Hi all,

A reminder for everyone, make sure you threadlock all the stuff you get.  My gimbal mount while I was flying today looked odd - it was fine when I took off, when I brought it back to the ground I noticed that one of the factory bolts had undone (lucky the 2nd was still in firmly - 1st one was still sitting there so easy fix).  I've since removed all factory bolts and threadlocked them all.  I normally do it for all items I attach myself but forgot about the factory set bolts.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 07:45:58 AM
Sorry to interrupt you guys having your NAZA fest.... jus wanted wanted to share a vid I took last night from my new camera platform. Playing with board tuning but have it pretty close.

Still having the wobbles when descending into the disturbed air, any thoughts on this one? Im told I have to live with it, sideslip to descend or cut those bits out.... I'll probably cut those bits out  ;D

Ere it is... a look around my place.... HD is obviously best if you have the data speed....

Rockin Rollin n Tree Clipin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0ve3H-IDyA#ws)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 19, 2015, 08:07:06 AM
Sorry to interrupt you guys having your NAZA fest.... jus wanted wanted to share a vid I took last night from my new camera platform. Playing with board tuning but have it pretty close.

Still having the wobbles when descending into the disturbed air, any thoughts on this one? Im told I have to live with it, sideslip to descend or cut those bits out.... I'll probably cut those bits out  ;D

Ere it is... a look around my place.... HD is obviously best if you have the data speed....

Rockin Rollin n Tree Clipin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0ve3H-IDyA#ws)

Lovely place for flying, Is it possible for you to post some pictures of your quad? I'd love to see your setup.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 09:05:04 AM
Howdy Mark, surely.... parts are from Mulitwiicopter.com, eBay and HobbyKing, mostly HobbyKing because their aussie warehouse is only a few minutes up the road from me. I don't like to wait.....

I buy these bits from MultiWii..


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 09:06:07 AM
that was an 'insert pics test'.... that works....I'll take some shots of the frame and put them up in a minute.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 09:19:02 AM
I have 2 of these frames with camera mounts, a similar 'sports' frame without mounts and the lil 250 buzz box, all great fun....

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 19, 2015, 09:24:11 AM
That's a very nice looking frame. Is it the Scarab Quad X Stealth?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 09:27:38 AM
Some more, the second camera frame is sitting in a tree, im waiting for it to come down.... :-[

Also the Tri, its huge my first attempt at this some years ago...


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 09:29:25 AM
That's a very nice looking frame. Is it the Scarab Quad X Stealth?

Its parts of one, good pick!! Its the frame plates, boom holders and motor mounts from a Scarab, as per the first pick.

The rest is stuff Ive made fit over a couple of years.

Now that decent flight control boards are as cheap as chips, I might resurrect the Tri, it has no issues with orientation, its almost 750mm motor to motor.... does have folding arms... ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 19, 2015, 09:47:24 AM
Sorry to interrupt you guys having your NAZA fest.... jus wanted wanted to share a vid I took last night from my new camera platform. Playing with board tuning but have it pretty close.

Still having the wobbles when descending into the disturbed air, any thoughts on this one? Im told I have to live with it, sideslip to descend or cut those bits out.... I'll probably cut those bits out  ;D

Ere it is... a look around my place.... HD is obviously best if you have the data speed....

Rockin Rollin n Tree Clipin (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0ve3H-IDyA#ws)

Need clean air for props. Sideslip or forwards or backwards im afraid. Or slower descents you'll find the sweet spot.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 19, 2015, 09:49:24 AM
Its parts of one, good pick!! Its the frame plates, boom holders and motor mounts from a Scarab, as per the first pick.

The rest is stuff Ive made fit over a couple of years.

Now that decent flight control boards are as cheap as chips, I might resurrect the Tri, it has no issues with orientation, its almost 750mm motor to motor.... does have folding arms... ;D
Good quality motors are getting cheaper too, same with ESC's. However, I have a growing aversion to Hobbyking motors. The bearings in particular, no matter about Hobbykings assurances of quality bearings and balanced motors, their motors leave a lot to be desired.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 19, 2015, 11:05:16 AM
How is this for good value.
Carbon Fiber Mini QAV250 C250 Quadcopter Motor 12A Esc Flight Control Prop (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Carbon-Fiber-Mini-QAV250-C250-Quadcopter-Motor-12A-Esc-Flight-Control-Prop/32254683835.html?biz_type=sitePromo_wto_buyer360_alert&crm_mtn_tracelog_task_id=8fcc3374-81bd-42c1-baf0-e77d8dcd0063&crm_mtn_tracelog_log_id=3936952432&biz_type=sitePromo_wto_buyer360_alert&crm_mtn_tracelog_task_id=8fcc3374-81bd-42c1-baf0-e77d8dcd0063&crm_mtn_tracelog_log_id=3936952432)

Just add a 6 channel radio and receiver for about $60US

FlySky FS-T6/FS T6 2.4G Digital Proportional 6 Channels Transmitter & Receiver (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Freeshipping-FS-FlySky-FS-T6-FS-T6-2-4G-Digital-Proportional-6-Channels-Transmitter-Receiver-w/708227420.html?biz_type=sitePromo_wto_buyer360_alert&crm_mtn_tracelog_task_id=8fcc3374-81bd-42c1-baf0-e77d8dcd0063&crm_mtn_tracelog_log_id=3936952432&biz_type=sitePromo_wto_buyer360_alert&crm_mtn_tracelog_task_id=8fcc3374-81bd-42c1-baf0-e77d8dcd0063&crm_mtn_tracelog_log_id=3936952432)

and you are in the air for just under $200 AUD with a wicked little quad racer.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 19, 2015, 12:33:15 PM
Got a few emails from Aliexpress today with some good deals. This camera could well be worth a look. A $45 AUD 16 megapixel camera, camcorder with A/V out, it is almost cheap enough that you could think of it like a consumable. If it lasted 5 flights without getting written off, you would be very happy with your purchase I reckon. I'm going to put this on my wish list and grab one when I get an opportunity.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/NEW-Red-Stylish-16MP-2-7-LCD-Digital-Camera-Camcorder-w-AV-Out-SD-Slot-US/411898_2035510083.html?spm=5261.7049941.1998087719.5 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/NEW-Red-Stylish-16MP-2-7-LCD-Digital-Camera-Camcorder-w-AV-Out-SD-Slot-US/411898_2035510083.html?spm=5261.7049941.1998087719.5)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 03:35:23 PM
Marshy, I agree completely and Ive found that some of the cheaper motors are not really that cheap once you've changed them a few times.

Way back I used to use the Turnigy cheaper motors but they were horrible, then I switched to some of the rctimer units and they worked ok but when I had a look at these lil Multistar units from hobbyking, I was pleasantly surprised at how smoothly they ran, and as a result how quiet they were. Time will tell as to their bearings etc.

Its time to whack the FPV gear on and go exploring......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 19, 2015, 03:36:46 PM
Need clean air for props. Sideslip or forwards or backwards im afraid. Or slower descents you'll find the sweet spot.

Chris

Thanks Chris, seems to be the case....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 23, 2015, 03:20:14 PM
Received my DJI GPS for the Alien today - fitted and tested - - Check ... Got the folding GPS stand as well - Also got the mushroom circ pol antennae ... All good and working ...

Now to get out and fly test ....

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 23, 2015, 03:36:40 PM
Received my DJI GPS for the Alien today - fitted and tested - - Check ... Got the folding GPS stand as well - Also got the mushroom circ pol antennae ... All good and working ...

Now to get out and fly test ....
I was going to fly today but then the storms arrived and put an end to that.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 23, 2015, 05:48:58 PM
Received my DJI GPS for the Alien today - fitted and tested - - Check ... Got the folding GPS stand as well - Also got the mushroom circ pol antennae ... All good and working ...

Now to get out and fly test ....
Howdy Steve,

I got my folding GPS stands late last week. The mast is a bit sloppy at the bottom, so I cut a bit of electrostatic plastic as a washer. Actually not a washer, I cut a length about 15mm long, layed it over the opening where the mast fits, then jambed the mast into the base so the electrostatic plastic was pushed in at the same time. Then I trimmed and tidied it up. The mast isn't sloppy anymore.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 24, 2015, 08:26:37 AM
Just back from a flight. This is a rare day off of late so I took the opportunity to go to the soccer field and put the quad in the air.
I must say i am getting use to the APM FC and can now fly my quad quite we'll in stab mode. I might have to stretch my limits and try acro mode.
Anyway today I tried the auto mode. Using my wife's Samsung tab pared with my phone for internet access and using an OTG cable for telemetry I put the Quattro in the air then switched the mode on the Tx to auto. The quad did exactly as requested and flew to the 4 wp and RTL. I did loose telemetry for short times but it quickly restored. The OSD did drop out and I an still not sure why that is.
I continued to fly quite aggressively (well as aggressively as stab mode will allow) until the batt was discharged to a point of comfort. It is now on the charger getting ready for the next flight. I will get some more batteries soon. I still need to calibrate the pm so that accurate readings can be taken for the OSD.
For now I am happy with the way things are going. I have started looking at a 250mm craft but will not do anything with that until I return from holidays.
Thanks for the help you have given me to get this thing off the ground. The NAZA is easy compared to this.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 24, 2015, 08:30:11 AM
I'm looking forward to seeing someone give 'follow me' mode a crack.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 24, 2015, 10:29:22 AM
I'm looking forward to seeing someone give 'follow me' mode a crack.

I have, it works - it kept a reasonable distance behind me (or maybe I was walking fast), just make sure you are ready to keep walking or are able to turn it off quickly.

From memory it was about 4-5m behind me.  It does cut corners I've noticed so keep those 180 wide, as it did get closer on those.  I was able to put it into a loiter after I was done and landed manually.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 24, 2015, 10:32:56 AM
Cool, my son has indicated to me that he would like me to give this a go when he is riding his mountain bike.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 24, 2015, 11:30:46 AM
I just tried but failed. Got the quad in the sky and switched to follow me ad it flew into a tree. Had to go home and get a long pole to get it back. Must remember to try this in the middle of an oval not at the side.
Need to make a new arm as one is a little worse for wear. I shall do that after the love of my life has been home for lunch. then I might have another go.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 24, 2015, 11:36:48 AM
I've read that you have to have 'Auto' mode working perfectly to get follow me working correctly.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 24, 2015, 01:09:03 PM
Fixed the arm and went to test and have found a damaged motor! Auto mode worked well. My problem was my phone gps thought I was under the tree so it told the quad to go there.
I think I may have bent the shaft ever so slightly so my motor does not spin as freely as before.
I have ordered 2 more from eBay
They will take a couple of weeks to get to me.
So there will be a rest from flying this quad for now.
Will put the dji450 in the air if I need a fix. Got a trip planned in a couple of weeks so will take it away with me.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 25, 2015, 11:16:12 PM
Hi all,

I got back from my little trip late on Monday and my daughter has given me her cold and out of action the last couple of days, grrr....

Anyway I've had some time today to work on my issue of lift with the CF tricopter.  Below tests are with the same battery at around 11.6V.  The bench tests use my old wiring harness, while the new harness is on the CF tricopter.

Firstly I've weighed everything again....  So it looks like I have a AUW of 1.3 kg (less than 950g without the gimbal and camera) with the new scales.  I've managed to confirm that I'm getting 890g of lift per motor at 13A with the 10x4.5 props - not as much as I thought I'd get but it's acceptable, was hoping for 1kg.  I'll try a fresh battery tomorrow to see if I can get that last 110g.  At full throttle (890g per motor) that should give me a 2.1:1 power ratio, this should be plenty.

However I have noted that I'm only using 24A for a hover and 27A at max throttle when in the air.  At 24 /3 = 8A I get just under 500g of lift, this gives me a lift ratio of 1.16:1, so it explains why it is finding it hard to keep it hovering.  At 27 / 3 = 9A, I'm getting around 600g of lift, so it explains why I can get off the ground but as soon as I loose voltage it struggles and comes down.

So I'm starting to think that my previous 18A figure for a hover must have been incorrect on the old frame - although flight time does match - so I'm not sure.

I'm thinking you are right Mark, my next move is to replace the ESC 18 AWG with 16 AWG to reduce voltage drop when under load.  I'm also thinking that if I move the ESC closer to the frame I'll get less voltage drop on the DC side, AC side will lengthen but AC is less susceptible to voltage drop over distance.  This will mean that I will not get the benefit of using the inside of the tubes unless I put it under the frame or I might run the signal wires through the inside instead.  If I move them to the frame then they wont get the additional cooling from the air from the props.  I could try to use 14 AWG instead to keep the DC side longer but 2 lots of it wont fit inside the square tube with the bolt.  I wish I could find 12mm x 12mm CF square tube.

I'll also redo the ESC calibration to make sure it knows what my min and max input signal is.

Once I've gotten my hobby mini table saw (inverted dremel with minisaw attachment) up and running I'll also replace the frame (currently 1.5mm CF) with 1mm CF to help lighten it some more - I dont want to cut any more stuff until I have the right tools up and running.

To work this out I've had to weigh every component to ensure my figures are right.  I'm pleased that the CF square tube and frame are lighter than the wooden frame - it was doing my head in.  I'll weigh some of the wooden components again on the new scales to make sure I'm comparing apples with apples.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 26, 2015, 07:35:27 AM
Took the Alien for its flight test yesterday.. It swirled around with almost no stick control... Forgot to do a compass calibration so that might be the culprit .. hard landing lost a prop and video tx.
Maybe later today...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on February 26, 2015, 07:46:46 AM
Took the quad for a scoot this morning, zipped through some trees, flipped a few times landed on the deck and put it away.... no issues..... you guys are into way too complex stuff!!!

One note, I left my battery's sitting on a bench on the deck overnight (undercover), wtf would eat battery's??

I'm thinking rats after the seed we use to feed parrots.... wrecked 2 battery covers and marked up the cells, I'll heat shrink em and see how they go... mongrels....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 26, 2015, 09:14:20 PM
you guys are into way too complex stuff!!!

Hi Artie01,

I still have my mini quad and still log a flight or two each week on it.  It is very robust and has hit lots of things now, the worst I've needed so far is a little bit of epoxy and fixed a GPS. I've just been focusing on my Tricopter which I agree is more complex as it is going to be used for Aerial Photography, automated searching, automation testing, aerial mapping, etc.....  Note not all at once, only one tasking at a time :-) Also looking at object tracking in the future.

I've redone most things on my list for the tricopter (wires now bigger, ESC's soldered, items remounted on frame, etc) with some luck I'll be able to run some tests tomorrow afternoon :-)  Hopefully the weather holds and I can take it for a flight if my issues are resolved!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 26, 2015, 09:24:16 PM
I reckon you'll be on a winner with shorter DC cables Chris.

I should get my replacement mini APM any day now for my ZMR250 mini quad. It's all ready to go short of the new flight control board.

I also bought another mini APM for the Trifecta mini tri-copter at the same time. Now this one I am itching to have a play with. I've got everything for it, just have to finish it off. I'm going to use one of the dodgy APM Power modules because I found an article that describes how to get them to work properly using only 3 wires from the module. The article says you can still get voltage and current readings using the method they describe.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 27, 2015, 09:00:21 AM
As far as the Alien is concerned -- I QUIT !!! ...

Busted another set of props today after it left the ground and rotated CCW and I couldn't land it quick enough and switch off the motors ....

SO ....

Its now in a not to be opened until July 2015 box ....

I'll go fly the Phantom and take some movies with it from now on ....

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 27, 2015, 10:47:00 AM
Crispy's offer is looking pretty good Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 27, 2015, 11:10:05 AM
If I head off that way one day I might take him up on it ... But at the moment I need to get out and take some aerial videos... So it can wait for a better time now ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 27, 2015, 02:58:35 PM
Had nothing to do so I took the Alien apart to strip it to the bare essentials of flight - and guess what I found ... Some DH had connected the Aileron to the Elevator and Elevator to the Aileron sockets ....
The Devo receiver has this order EATR everything else has AETR .... So not hard to do ( my excuse anyway. )

So maybe tomorrow I'll try a liftoff again ... LOL .

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 27, 2015, 03:20:47 PM
How far did you strip it down before you found that, not too far I hope?

Mind you, removing the gazillion screws from the top plate is painful just by itself.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 27, 2015, 10:06:12 PM
Had nothing to do so I took the Alien apart to strip it to the bare essentials of flight - and guess what I found ... Some DH had connected the Aileron to the Elevator and Elevator to the Aileron sockets ....
The Devo receiver has this order EATR everything else has AETR .... So not hard to do ( my excuse anyway. )

So maybe tomorrow I'll try a liftoff again ... LOL .

It's all good we all have those moments.....  Like when I tried the new CF tricopter, I thought I'd checked everything but I had 3 things still not right....  So the alien might take flight then!!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 27, 2015, 10:27:57 PM
Not been well this cold / flu is doing my head in, one moment plenty of energy next minute, none....

Well it looks like I've fixed my issue, still haven't taken it for a flight outside yet....  I did an inside tethered test - the tether prevents it from actually taking off as I have limited room downstairs (I doubt my wife would let me do it upstairs while she is home and if I extend it I might hit a glass coffee table). 

It was skipping along the floor at 8A with everything bar the gimbal mount (but did have the Watt meter attached), at 12A (just under 4A per motor) it was really pulling at the tether, so I reckon I'm back to where I was on the wooden frame (if not better).  I've confirmed that I'm 1.25kg with the battery but no gimbal mount, so that will go up another 200-250g, so I think I'll be spot on 1.5kg.

Still makes me 200g heavier than planned but I can live with it.

Thank you Mark for getting me to rethink the wiring.  It appears it was indeed voltage drop.

Now battling the gimbal mount, I was about to do the 3rd axis when I discovered I didn't have any 90 degree header pins, grrrrr....  So now I have to wait until tomorrow morning to visit Jaycar for the header row's (I have plenty of straight ones - hate paying the jaycar tax).  Then there will be some soldering and drilling the holes to hold the yaw motor.  Then some configuring and I might be able to do a flight tomorrow if I feel better otherwise it will be Monday.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on February 28, 2015, 12:01:40 AM
Good quality motors are getting cheaper too, same with ESC's. However, I have a growing aversion to Hobbyking motors. The bearings in particular, no matter about Hobbykings assurances of quality bearings and balanced motors, their motors leave a lot to be desired.

Tell me about it!

I now have 2 out of 5 NTM motors with bad bearings - bad enough to cause the tri to wobble all over the place. The first bad motor made it pretty much unflyable. The second I could put up with but I have a growing suspicion that it was the cause of a decent crash the other week - broken carbon fibre boom, tilt mechanism, camera/battery tray mounts, props etc plus also a battery short which cause one of the other booms to catch fire!

It was flying fine and I was trying to fly back towards myself about 50m high when I noticed that it would barley stay level even at full forward stick and was slowly drifting away from me. I pulled back on the stick and it stood on it's tail so I definitely had control but by this time it was getting about 400m away and over a tree line so I cut the throttle and went searching for it.

In hind site I should have either just lowered the throttle for a few seconds before cutting it so that had a shorter fall to the ground or I could have yawed 180 degrees so that it just drifted back towards me. But of course I didn't think of those things when I only had a few seconds before it was completely out of sight!

I thought maybe the battery had moved and changed the CoG but even after the crash it was still exactly where I put it so I'm pretty sure that the tail motor started to fail and just couldn't supply enough lift for forward flight.

I got all the replacement parts this week so I've taken the opportunity to completely strip it down and rewire it to make it much neater and also safer. I really was pretty close to starting a bush fire so I'm doing whatever I can to sort it out while I have the chance!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 28, 2015, 12:38:11 AM
Now battling the gimbal mount, I was about to do the 3rd axis when I discovered I didn't have any 90 degree header pins, grrrrr....  So now I have to wait until tomorrow morning to visit Jaycar for the header row's (I have plenty of straight ones - hate paying the jaycar tax).  Then there will be some soldering and drilling the holes to hold the yaw motor.  Then some configuring and I might be able to do a flight tomorrow if I feel better otherwise it will be Monday.

After some reading it seems I dont need the 90 degree header pins, I can wire it up tomorrow!!

Looks like i will have manual control of only two axis, i think I'll be choosing yaw and pitch.  I'll let it work out the roll.  I'll have to work out if that will work how I expect it to.

So only need to drill some mounting holes.  Will need to be precise, I have 4 x 2mm holes.  Should be interesting.

Oh well of to sleep now to try to get rid of this cold / flu.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 28, 2015, 03:34:47 AM
Thank you Mark for getting me to rethink the wiring.  It appears it was indeed voltage drop.
It was good timing I think insomuch that it had only happened to me a couple of days before you reported a similar problem. I must admit to being surprised at the relatively short cable length having such an effect on voltage drop. It happened to me with only one metre of 14 AWG wire. Lesson learned for both of us.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on February 28, 2015, 03:42:26 AM
I now have 2 out of 5 NTM motors with bad bearings - bad enough to cause the tri to wobble all over the place. The first bad motor made it pretty much unflyable. The second I could put up with but I have a growing suspicion that it was the cause of a decent crash the other week - broken carbon fibre boom, tilt mechanism, camera/battery tray mounts, props etc plus also a battery short which cause one of the other booms to catch fire!
I'm not bothering with the NTM motors anymore. There are better options for only a few dollars more.

All you fellas with the tri-copters aught to try low kv pancake motors. You'll get better endurance and as aerial photography is your aim, they are better for this task.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on February 28, 2015, 06:25:29 AM
Some footage from a recent FPV flight I did when away :-)

http://youtu.be/vP_pK0lspvQ




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on February 28, 2015, 07:07:53 AM
Very nice and smooth...nice place too... Did you slow it down ?
The outlet flow from the dam looks slow ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on February 28, 2015, 08:59:05 AM
I'm not bothering with the NTM motors anymore. There are better options for only a few dollars more.

All you fellas with the tri-copters aught to try low kv pancake motors. You'll get better endurance and as aerial photography is your aim, they are better for this task.

I won't use them again either.

The only problem for me with pancake motors is clearance with the tail servo.

I'm hoping that the 5th motor I just received will be ok and then I will have a nice smooth tri. I also bought some bearings from Avidrc so I'll see if I can resurrect the bad motors. They are only cheap bearings so not sure if I will gain anything anyway.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on February 28, 2015, 09:32:09 AM

Very nice and smooth...nice place too... Did you slow it down ?
The outlet flow from the dam looks slow ...

Yeah messed with the speed a little in the gopro software was only filmed at 30fps (better lighting) however would have been better at 60fps to do slow mo.

Very peaceful spot
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 28, 2015, 09:53:58 AM
Yeah messed with the speed a little in the gopro software was only filmed at 30fps (better lighting) however would have been better at 60fps to do slow mo.

Very peaceful spot
Remind me what you fly please
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 28, 2015, 10:21:57 AM
I'm not bothering with the NTM motors anymore. There are better options for only a few dollars more.

All you fellas with the tri-copters aught to try low kv pancake motors. You'll get better endurance and as aerial photography is your aim, they are better for this task.

Funny you should mention that I've been eyeing off the Emax MT3110 motors (4s-6s).  I was thinking I would only need to replace the ESC's with them and I could use two of my 3s batts to bring it up to 6s.

If I still have troubles after the rewiring I'll reconsider it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on February 28, 2015, 11:07:52 AM

Remind me what you fly please

Tbs disco pro with go pro 3 +


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 28, 2015, 11:42:05 AM
Tbs disco pro with go pro 3 +


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
and the FC? Radio gear? Gimbal?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 28, 2015, 12:56:02 PM
and the FC? Radio gear? Gimbal?

I thought the TBS Disco Pro came with the Naza FC, has it's own brushless gimbal (I think it's two axis) but hogbert can confirm.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 28, 2015, 01:18:56 PM
It was good timing I think insomuch that it had only happened to me a couple of days before you reported a similar problem. I must admit to being surprised at the relatively short cable length having such an effect on voltage drop. It happened to me with only one metre of 14 AWG wire. Lesson learned for both of us.

Definitely a lesson for us both, lucky timing.  My 16 AWG was only 35cm in length, I think it had 18 AWG for another 10cm's and I think that is what was killing it.  I used 14 AWG just to rule out the voltage drop (and 16 AWG on the AC side - it was 18 AWG before).  I hate how the components are coming out with lead free solder.....  Makes it hard to remove those pesky under rated cables.

Very impressed with the 14 AWG, still not ready to do a flight today (I'm still feeling very average), so since I've got daughter duties tomorrow (wife is doing a weekend session for her masters) I'll have to wait until Monday morning to do some flying.

Oh I also picked up a 4s battery to test it out on my rig (will need to use a voltage reg for the gimbal and FPV gear but everything else should be good).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 28, 2015, 11:33:46 PM
Finally got the gimbal all sorted tonight.  Man that took some mucking around with, all my previous settings were no good once you add the 3rd axis.

Something I've noticed is that if I put it at extreme angles it's possible to confuse the yaw axis, so it doesn't return to it's home position (it doesn't know where it is - doesnt have the same issue with the pitch or roll, hmmmm)), this is a big issue, sure I can reset it by using the RC input but I don't always have a good visual on the camera. 

I've noticed that in the newer 32 bit version (very expensive) they have added an additional IMU (Frame IMU) for the yaw axis to prevent this.  The other way it seems to resolve it with the older 8 bit version is to use a 2nd 8 bit gimbal controller, which I'm considering.  Hmmm, $140 for the new 32bit version or $35 for a 2nd controller, hmmmmm.  If I was designing this stuff I would have made the expansion board have a sensor set on it and then have it mounted on the frame but this might be due to the limits of the 8 bit processor.

I'll wait and see how much drift I get while it's flying and if I need a short term fix I'll consider buying a 2nd 8 bit mini controller (unable to update firmware on them though) or find space for a 2nd full sized board (so I can update firmware).....  Don't want to outlay $140 until I'm back to work but it would be a better fix for the long term.  It may not be an issue at all.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 01, 2015, 03:54:59 PM
I was looking at all my spare bits the other day and decided all I needed was a frame and a GPS module to make another quad -- So I bought a F450 frame , 4 ESCs and a GPS module
from Banggood ...
I'll build it using 4 ESCs and a Naza M and see if I can get it to work - If successful then I might have to put the 4 ESCs in the Alien and see if that works better ...

So now I wait and use the Phantom as soon as the gale force 9 wind abates ...

Yeah I know - Glutten for punishment that's me
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 02, 2015, 01:34:29 PM
I was looking at all my spare bits the other day and decided all I needed was a frame and a GPS module to make another quad -- So I bought a F450 frame , 4 ESCs and a GPS module

Ummmm, I'm sure you said you only needed two items there, but picked an additional 4 ESC's?  I do that to.....  They were on sale right, two good to refuse  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 02, 2015, 02:11:59 PM
Ok, so I took the tri fo a spin today.

I ran it through 1.5 batts.  It is still hungry for power at 22A for a hover, I've had to tune the pixhawk so that 70% throttle is the mid point.  This is a bit of an issue as it means I've not got much reserve power.  I think I need to redo the ESC calibration, I forgot to do that before I went up to fly, only remembered as I landed on the last go.  Reason for this is that I'm still only using 28A at max throttle, if my bench tests are right I should get up to 39A at full throttle.....  At 28A I'm only generating 600gx3=1.8kg, so lots of spare capacity - I want to access that as I had a fast descent and only just had the power to arrest it (got to only 20cms off the ground before climbing again).  Flight time was around 10mins on the first battery, the 2nd one was around 6 mins but I only used 50% of the battery, the park was getting busier so I left.

Good news is the thicker wire means no floating to the ground at 50% battery capacity, I didn't reach that point but it was getting sluggish at about 80%.

I also think it would sing without the weight of the gimbal and camera, it's nearly 300g.  My AUW with the gimbal is a shy under 1.5kg.  I'm looking for weight savings at present.

Still to replace the FR4 radio mast with CF.  I will try out the 4s 3000mah battery when it arrives, it could be tomorrow but more likely Wednesday.  I do hope I don't have to change over to 4s batteries.....  I have so many 3s batteries.....  I dont think I could sling a 5000mah 3s under the mini quad.....

3 axis gimbal works ok, I think that's it's own level of tuning as I noticed in video that I've got some jello I didnt before, I think it was the gimbal motors introducing small oscillations.  It's weird the settings I had for 2 axis were good but once you add the third in they are no good.  I think I'll be playing with those settings for a while.

Main issues with the 3 axis gimbal was:
- Now have some jello due to incorrectly tuned controller
- As suspected you can confuse the yaw controller with fast yawing on the model
- If the yaw is not 100% straight with the model it is easily seen in the playback

I was able to correct the yaw issue by manually correcting in flight with a knob assigned to the yaw control.  However you could get yourself into a position where you cannot fix it until you reach the ground.  From reading I can resolve it by either upgrading to the 32bit version, using a 2nd 8 bit board or using a bigger yaw motor.  Not sure what I'll do yet on that front.  On a plus it did remove my tail wag that is common in tri's, particularly in gusty wind.  I think some tuning will soften that out.

It was nice to fly forwards and have the camera pointed to the side, although this is easy to do in a multicopter without the yaw gimbal, just easier to do with the gimbal from a brain concept point of view.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 03, 2015, 07:26:42 PM
I tried to do the ESC calibration and it didn't work for some reason through the pixhawk, I was so keen to go for a fly I decided to fly as it......  I'll try the individual ESC calibration tonight.

I reviewed my old logs and I was surprised to see that I wasn't hovering at 18A at all but 21A, so I'm only just off what i had before.  So only need a small diet :-).  At present I dont go over 28A, in the logs for the old tricopter I had regular spikes to 35A, so I know I was getting full lift when I needed it.  ESC calibration definitely appears to be the issue, so I'm feeling a bit happier about it.

Has anyone else played with 3 axis extension board for an 8 bit alexmos controller?  Just that mine seems to now be working now, I've read that they are inconsistent in quality.  If you do have one how did you find it, did you have to do anything to get it working?  As soon as I plug it in I'm unable to get a reliable connection to the main board, about one in every 10 attempts works.  As soon as I then connect the battery power (3s) it then freezes the output from the main board.  So I'm back to a 2 axis gimbal at present.  I think I'll put an order in for the another 2 axis gimbal (8 bit) and a bigger yaw motor, the one I have (2208 80KV) struggled with the weight of the action cam.  I'll see what GLB says when I report it as faulty - to only get a few days of use is a bit unfair.

I switched to the mini quad after 2 batts worth of flying on the tri.   Hmmm, lesson learnt today.  You have to commit, do not back off at all.  During my first flip of the day I had a thought part way that I had acro trainer turned on so I tried to abort it.  Well that results in a powered fall from 25m up into the ground at speed, I'm yet to review the mobius or FPV footage but I think it was safe to say it was above 50km/h when it hit the ground.  I lost a prop spinner, I challenge people to try to find a small green spinner on a cricket oval, I gave up after a few minutes (it could have been flung 10's of metre's).  I did leave a small dent in the ground, I was able to fix it up before leaving.  Only damage to mini quad - lost a prop spinner, 2 broken props.  I'm still to do a flight check after the crash but so far looking like I came of lightly, god knows this mini has hit trees and it's just shrugged it off other than killing props.  I like the mini quad for that reason.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 03, 2015, 07:49:03 PM
Howdy Chris,

Really looking forward to getting my mini quad in the air.

I purchased the replacement mini APM from Aliexpress/91Hobby about 4 days before Chinese New Year, on the same day I purchased switches, ciggy sockets and usb chargers for my brothers van. The ciggy sockets, usb chargers and switches were sent in 3 different consignments, the last of which arrived today. I am still waiting for the bloody APM boards to arrive and getting mighty impatient in the meantime. I checked the consignment tonight, and it has only just left China today, so still possible 2 weeks before delivery. Arrrrrgh.

I've read that if you use plumbers tape this helps stop the spinner nut from unscrewing due to inertia when the prop stops spinning. The prop still loosens, but at least the nut doesn't do a runner.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 03, 2015, 08:02:42 PM
Howdy Chris,

Really looking forward to getting my mini quad in the air.

I purchased the replacement mini APM from Aliexpress/91Hobby about 4 days before Chinese New Year, on the same day I purchased switches, ciggy sockets and usb chargers for my brothers van. The ciggy sockets, usb chargers and switches were sent in 3 different consignments, the last of which arrived today. I am still waiting for the bloody APM boards to arrive and getting mighty impatient in the meantime. I checked the consignment tonight, and it has only just left China today, so still possible 2 weeks before delivery. Arrrrrgh.

I've read that if you use plumbers tape this helps stop the spinner nut from unscrewing due to inertia when the prop stops spinning. The prop still loosens, but at least the nut doesn't do a runner.

Cheers, Marschy

Ouch, that is a fair wait still, hang in there.  That seems to be the big issue with some of the supply chains, they can take a week or two to just ship your goods.  Its so frustrating.

Man you will love it once you get the mini in the air.  I take her for a spin every now and then (try for once a week), this was only my 3rd attempt at doing a flip, the other two went well.  Thanks for that, teflon tape on the threads it is, I guess it will loosen which is what you want but stop them flying off in some random direction......  According to the OSD replay I hit the ground with a horizontal speed of 30km/h and had a vertical drop of 700m/m (so 11m/s) - I also didnt realise how close it was to me as it came down.  I'm surprised I didn't do any major damage (hoping as I haven't done a full check yet), this wasn't just a low speed drop it was a hard impact , I took a chunk out of the ground.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 04, 2015, 02:58:25 PM
I've redone the ESC calibration and it still wont go above 28A with one spike to 30A but it never goes above it - I can see in my logs I was regularly going above 30A on my old setup.  So my 4s has just arrive at my parcel locker so I'll try the system on 4s to see if it's any better.

Failing that I'm thinking so that I don't loose my 3s batts i'll jump to 6s.  That way I can use those batts in parallel.  I'm thinking of finding some ESC's and motors that are 4s to 6s capable so that I can use the 4s batts or the 6s (2 x 3s in series).

I'm thinking of resurrecting my plywood frame with the APM as it just works......

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 04, 2015, 03:21:25 PM
Here are some 6S motors Chris.

Emax MT3515 640kv 2870 grams thrust max, rated for 13-15 inch props (http://www.emaxmodel.com/views.asp?hw_id=1643)

Emax MT3110 480kv 1620 grams thrust max, rated for 11-14 inch props (http://www.emaxmodel.com/views.asp?hw_id=1640)

Emax MT4008 380kv 1750 grams thrust max, rated for 12-15 inch props (http://www.emaxmodel.com/views.asp?hw_id=1644)

My 3506's are only 3-5S, but these motors are smooooooth.

If you do choose to go with Emax, get them from the Bingo Model store on Aliexpress. The emaxmodel web site charge like wounded bulls for China Post shipping, even though they are the same mob.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/group/Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_253579101.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/group/Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_253579101.html)

And some 6S ESC's with BLHeli at good prices as well

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-30A-OPTO-ESC/216344_32268874871.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-30A-OPTO-ESC/216344_32268874871.html)

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-40A-UBEC/216344_32268665461.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-40A-UBEC/216344_32268665461.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 04, 2015, 05:06:17 PM
Here are some 6S motors Chris.

Emax MT3515 640kv 2870 grams thrust max, rated for 13-15 inch props (http://www.emaxmodel.com/views.asp?hw_id=1643)

Emax MT3110 480kv 1620 grams thrust max, rated for 11-14 inch props (http://www.emaxmodel.com/views.asp?hw_id=1640)

Emax MT4008 380kv 1750 grams thrust max, rated for 12-15 inch props (http://www.emaxmodel.com/views.asp?hw_id=1644)

My 3506's are only 3-5S, but these motors are smooooooth.

If you do choose to go with Emax, get them from the Bingo Model store on Aliexpress. The emaxmodel web site charge like wounded bulls for China Post shipping, even though they are the same mob.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/group/Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_253579101.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/group/Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_253579101.html)

And some 6S ESC's with BLHeli at good prices as well

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-30A-OPTO-ESC/216344_32268874871.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-30A-OPTO-ESC/216344_32268874871.html)

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-40A-UBEC/216344_32268665461.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/BLHeli-Series-40A-UBEC/216344_32268665461.html)


Thanks Marschy,

I've been eyeing off the top motor and that 30A BLHeli ESC, the last few days.  I'll run some thrust tests tomorrow on 4s and that will decide if I invest in the 6s motors.  If 4s works then I guess I'll be investing in a bunch of 4s batteries, either way is going to be expensive.  I'll have to buy another 3 or 4 4s batteries or if I go the 6s then I'll need 4 motors and esc's (I always get at least one spare) and of course a bunch of spare props.

Good tip about the aliexpress option.  I'll be checking them out.

I have some thinking to do some testing to do.  Testing I'll try for tomorrow:

3s 11x4.7 - do a tethered test like I did today to verify my results
4s 10x4.5 - bench test to get thrust and then a tethered test

Those above tests will be without the gimbal mount initially, I may put it back on to see what the impact is.  Camera plus gimbal has worked out to be 320g, so it's not light.

Once I've done that I'll make my decision of where to go from here.

Marschy, are you running your motors as 4s or 5s?

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 04, 2015, 07:09:01 PM
Ridiculous isn't it. 2.8 kg thrust, that'd be enough to put a smile on your dial. And just so you know in case you haven't signed up on emaxmodels web site, the prices are the same as the prices on Aliexpress and appear to be the cheapest.

The other reason why I recommend buying from Aliexpress rather than directly from emaxmodels is the buyer protection. My one and only order from emaxmotors directly and they sent the wrong ESC. I ordered 20A they sent me 12A, but gave me a store credit for the difference. If that had of been Aliexpress, I may have got the 20A ESC's sent out for nothing and kept the 12A ESC's. Plus they charged me $24 for China Post, which is usually free on Aliexpress.

I'm running the 3506 on 4S, but only have 11 inch props at the moment, so the power to weight is under 2:1. I need to get some 12 inch props.

I have 3 4S 4000mAh Zippy flightmax batteries. I bought these quite a while ago when I started building the Alien 560, but following the Alien 560 thread on rcgroups, I should have gone for 6000mAh or bigger. With these pancake style motors people are reporting flight times of over 20 minutes using nanotech high discharge batteries. But the price is the killer, over $60 delivered for one battery, ouch.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 04, 2015, 08:25:26 PM
A small letter sized parcel arrived in my letter box.
Well it was the remains of a parcel. It did not make it through the system without damage. When I inspected it the packaging was sort of inside the badly torn envelope but the product was missing.
So now I cant Fix my broken GPS antenna.
Thanks Chris for sending it but it did not make it.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 04, 2015, 11:13:39 PM
A small letter sized parcel arrived in my letter box.
Well it was the remains of a parcel. It did not make it through the system without damage. When I inspected it the packaging was sort of inside the badly torn envelope but the product was missing.
So now I cant Fix my broken GPS antenna.
Thanks Chris for sending it but it did not make it.
Crispy

Hi Crispy,

Argh, that bites.  I measured the package to make sure it was just inside the letter requirements.  I hate it when that happens.  I should have wrapped sticky tape around it to reinforce it.  I've noticed that some of the places I buy from do that.  I've got 8 others and unlikely to use them so we'll try again with a bigger envelope and with sticky tape to reinforce it.  I'll try to get that out tomorrow.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 05, 2015, 12:46:46 AM
Ridiculous isn't it. 2.8 kg thrust, that'd be enough to put a smile on your dial. And just so you know in case you haven't signed up on emaxmodels web site, the prices are the same as the prices on Aliexpress and appear to be the cheapest.

The other reason why I recommend buying from Aliexpress rather than directly from emaxmodels is the buyer protection. My one and only order from emaxmotors directly and they sent the wrong ESC. I ordered 20A they sent me 12A, but gave me a store credit for the difference. If that had of been Aliexpress, I may have got the 20A ESC's sent out for nothing and kept the 12A ESC's. Plus they charged me $24 for China Post, which is usually free on Aliexpress.

I'm running the 3506 on 4S, but only have 11 inch props at the moment, so the power to weight is under 2:1. I need to get some 12 inch props.

I have 3 4S 4000mAh Zippy flightmax batteries. I bought these quite a while ago when I started building the Alien 560, but following the Alien 560 thread on rcgroups, I should have gone for 6000mAh or bigger. With these pancake style motors people are reporting flight times of over 20 minutes using nanotech high discharge batteries. But the price is the killer, over $60 delivered for one battery, ouch.

I know its insane, 2.8kg per motor, that's why I've been eyeing it off, more importantly is how little current it uses at the low end.  At around 3 to 4A per motor I'd be hovering even with the additional weight of the battery, esc and motor.  I'd get 20+ mins flight time off 2 of my 3s 5000mah batts.  I will have room for much more stuff in the future, I figured I may have to adjust the max output of the throttle (after ESC calibration that is) and turn the hover point right down on the FC as it would just scream along.

I'm still stumped as to why my DT750 motor output is stopping at just under 10A (thats only 120W, the motor can do 200W, ESC's can do 18A/22A).....  I know on the test bench they go another 3 amps than that and my other set of ESC's did it.  I think it might be a blessing in disguise as it will ensure that I have a tricopter fit for the future and also good for now.

I'm definitely leaning towards the the MT3515 with some large props.  That way I can move between 4s and 6s easily.

I will wait till I've done my testing as it may just work really well of the 4s batt or I might be ok on 11x4.7 for the 3s, but I suspect the 3s route wont go too far as if it even gives me another 20% would only really make it good without the gimbal.  I ruled out turning the tri into a y6 with DT750's as I'd only need 1 extra to make it happen but then I'd be 22A (3.5A per motor) just to hover as I'd have an extra 300g of weight, I'd have to change my landing gear, etc.....

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2015, 05:12:41 AM
2.8 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/EMAX-MT-3515-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_1512105240.html)
2.8 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/EMAX-MT-3515-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_1512105240.html)
2.8 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/EMAX-MT-3515-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_1512105240.html)

AU $139.10. That's less than 1 months multicopter allowance  >:D >:D

or for  AU $153.28 you could have 'em in 5-15 days  >:D >:D >:D

2.8 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/EMAX-MT-3515-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_1512105240.html)
2.8 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/EMAX-MT-3515-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_1512105240.html)
2.8 (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/EMAX-MT-3515-650KV-Brushless-motor-for-Multirotors/216344_1512105240.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2015, 05:17:44 AM
http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Simon-Series-40A/216344_2042264570.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Simon-Series-40A/216344_2042264570.html)

And then there's next month.

http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Simon-Series-40A/216344_2042264570.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/product/Simon-Series-40A/216344_2042264570.html)

I'm not trying to get you in trouble with the missus, honest  >:D >:D >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 05, 2015, 06:36:42 AM
Hi Crispy,

Argh, that bites.  I measured the package to make sure it was just inside the letter requirements.  I hate it when that happens.  I should have wrapped sticky tape around it to reinforce it.  I've noticed that some of the places I buy from do that.  I've got 8 others and unlikely to use them so we'll try again with a bigger envelope and with sticky tape to reinforce it.  I'll try to get that out tomorrow.

Chris
No problems Chris. Somethinh to look forward to.
Regards Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 05, 2015, 11:55:14 AM
I'm not trying to get you in trouble with the missus, honest  >:D >:D >:D

Sure, sure.....

Okay the results are in and I've made a decision.....

Test Bench (4s DT750/18A ESC/10x4.5 props):
23.5A - 1.7kg (it wasnt maxed out - maybe another 5-10% available, had to be careful as ESC is only burst rated to 22A so stopped)
8A - 800g

ESC & motor wasn't hotter than it gets on a 3s run.

Tethered Tests (test was with gimbal as I figured I'm more likely to fly the tri if I'm videoing something):
4s 3000mah using 10x4.5 props - 18A to 20A hover - flight time was approx 10 mins.  - What was good is if I gave it full throttle it went up to 45A so 15A per motor (under ESC's safe level) and hell did it have some lift.  Lift off point was at 50% throttle - hover just under that.
3s 5000mah using 11x4.7 props - 24A to hover - Flight time was approx 11 mins.  - I did notice that I had to increase throttle when it dropped from 11.5v under load to 10.7v under load, which I didn't have to on the 4s.  Lift off point was at approx 65% with fresh battery.  Hover increased to 70% as battery voltage dropped.

Solution:
1. Order some 3 x 4s 4000-6000mah batts (have to have a look at price, capacity, max current) also order some 13, 14 and 15 inch props.
2. Fly on 3s 11x4.7 for the short term
3. Build a 12V regulator (for FPV transmitter and 8 bit Gimbal mount - can take 4s but not 6s)
4. Order some 4x MT3515 & 4x 40A or 30A Opto ESC's (long delivery to save money)

Once the 4s batteries arrive I'll switch over to them (need to build the 12V reg by then).  Once the MT's arrive I'll switch over to them and fly on either 4s or 6s depending on payload requirements.  I may need to extend the booms if I fly with 15 inch props.....  I've measured I'm good with a 14 inch prop.  Radio mast is just a touch too close for 15inch.

Oh I'll also be ordering a 32 bit alex mos gimbal as I'm over the extension board that wont work properly......  I need a yaw that works.

Hmmm, just thinking.... I have enough spare parts then to build a mid sized quad left over from my tri then (maybe a 330 or 450?).....  I've got 5 DT750's (3 others I might be able to resurrect), 6 18A ESC, plenty of 10x4.5 props, spare APM, a 2 axis 8bit gimbal controller, I'm more likely to fly the tri on 4s (even with the MT's).  Hmmm food for thought....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2015, 12:01:46 PM
It wasn't my fault, you were already there, you just needed a nudge.  :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2015, 12:03:05 PM
You're going to need some more carbon fibre booms now for those big @rse 15 inch props you're gunna need for those motors LOL

Seriously though, I think you will be very pleased with those motors. The quality for the price is pretty bloody good.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 05, 2015, 01:31:36 PM
It wasn't my fault, you were already there, you just needed a nudge.  :cup:

Thanks mate....
LOL, I guess your right.

You're going to need some more carbon fibre booms now for those big @rse 15 inch props you're gunna need for those motors LOL

Seriously though, I think you will be very pleased with those motors. The quality for the price is pretty bloody good.

True I was looking at that, I think I'll start with the 12x5.5 props, so I wont have to move anything.  I only ordered 12 and 14inch props today, will look at the 15's soon.

On the 4s battery front I ordered 2 x 5800 and 1 x 4000.  Plus the 3000 I already have should be plenty to get started with. 

All items ordered.  Now I'm not going to buy anything else for a while.......  I think I'll need to go back to work before the MT's arrives, grrrrr.....  The MT's and ESC's should arrive in a months time and most of the other stuff will be here next week.

I think I'll be grinning from ear to ear once it's all working!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2015, 01:53:29 PM
Now if you tricopter guys buy this, just tell the missus that these opportunities only pop up occasionally and you have to grab them when you can.

Turnigy Talon half price sale (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=25437&aff=1034401)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 05, 2015, 02:50:24 PM
Now if you tricopter guys buy this, just tell the missus that these opportunities only pop up occasionally and you have to grab them when you can.

Turnigy Talon half price sale (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewitem.asp?idproduct=25437&aff=1034401)


Not sure I like the arm locking mechanism on that tri frame.  One of the benefits is that if you do have a hard landing the tri's arms should fold back to absorb the impact.

HK has a big sale on at present.  I think some of the batteries I picked up somewhere around 30% off.

It's on till the 8th.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 05, 2015, 02:55:19 PM
For $50 bucks, it's still a good buy. I'm on credit hold with the missus at the moment. We have only 2 weeks to go before we go on a S/Pacific cruise, both of us celebrate our 50th birthdays this year. I asked if I could take my fishing rod and she just glared at me. Can't win.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 05, 2015, 06:39:29 PM
I got my replacement motors today for the damaged one from the follow me trial. It didn't take long to get them.
Put it on and had a quick flight in the back yard. I am getting quite good at controlling it and getting it in to the correct flight mode for where i want it.
If I get a chance I will have another crack at the follow me setting.
All is good for now.
Regards
Crispy



Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 06, 2015, 11:09:42 AM
I got my replacement motors today for the damaged one from the follow me trial. It didn't take long to get them.
Put it on and had a quick flight in the back yard. I am getting quite good at controlling it and getting it in to the correct flight mode for where i want it.
If I get a chance I will have another crack at the follow me setting.
All is good for now.
Regards
Crispy

Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Hi, make sure when you do the follow me mode that your in a wide open space.  We really need collision avoidance to be working to use it in denser locations.  Main things I found with follow me was it likes to cut corners is you do a rapid turn the other item is make sure it's set to a good alt above you, say 10+m is a good start - really depends on the terrain.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 06, 2015, 02:17:19 PM
I also redid my compass calibration but changed one thing. I took the ferris metal screw (read that as steel) from under the gps and replaced it with a non ferris screw ( read that as brass) and it improved my figures heaps so lesson learnt there.

The problem with our gps is the only update about once every 2 seconds. You can cover lots of ground in that time. Also does not make it so accurate to within 2m. That means it could be out by 4+m between the GPS receivers
Anyway got to give these things a go.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 06, 2015, 03:33:12 PM
I also redid my compass calibration but changed one thing. I took the ferris metal screw (read that as steel) from under the gps and replaced it with a non ferris screw ( read that as brass) and it improved my figures heaps so lesson learnt there.

The problem with our gps is the only update about once every 2 seconds. You can cover lots of ground in that time. Also does not make it so accurate to within 2m. That means it could be out by 4+m between the GPS receivers
Anyway got to give these things a go.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Where are you getting the once every two seconds from?  Reading the Datasheet for the GPS they output much more quickly than that.  I can assure you that they should update many times a second, the update on the OSD might be once every second or two but the position data from the GPS should be output at a much higher rate.

I can assure you I've watched the Mavlink data on this and it detects small changes very rapidly. 

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 06, 2015, 03:48:55 PM
Argh..... Seems like I could have waited to put in my order for all those motors, esc, etc.....  It will be a beast when I'm done :-)

I just took the tri out for a spin with the gimbal (plus camera) with the 11x4.7 props on 3s and it was pretty good I have to say.  I wouldn't do aerobatics with it like the mini but I felt it had plenty of power to arrest falls, i was able to run the battery fully without loss of alt towards the end.  Sigh......

Nothing appeared to be hotter than it was before, i was expecting the motors to be a lot warmer however I was using around 20A to maintain a hover so overall power going in wasnt a lot more was less.  Whats interesting is the few times I cranked it up I was getting into the mid 30's so I have the lift when I needed it.  Even got good flight time off 15 mins of a 5000mah battery too.  Hover throttle was still around 60% so it was a little under powered.

Whats cool is I clocked up 3km's of distance over the 27 mins I spend in the air (1.7 batts).  Mainly did a race track around a local oval, had to use the monitor a few times as it was hard to tell orientation at a distance.  It was windy as all heck so I didn't push my top speed but I was regularly hitting 50km/h downwind and 30km/h upwind - took a constant 20 degree down angle to hold position in the wind.  I reckon in still air it would have been even better - ie less amp's being drawn and therefore longer flight times.

Lesson learnt, my tether test is inaccurate it appears.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 07, 2015, 01:21:26 PM
Hi guys,

For those of you using an APM, I've started using the APM Log analyzer program, you can download it from here:
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2151318 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2151318)

Its pretty good for pulling flight stats, note it only works off the dataflash logs and not the telemetry logs.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 09, 2015, 02:24:37 PM
Have any of you used tower instead of droid planner. It is supposed to be the new droid planner.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 09, 2015, 02:35:01 PM
Have any of you used tower instead of droid planner. It is supposed to be the new droid planner.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

I installed it but I'm still using Droid Planner (v1).  I will most likely switch to it soon as I like some of it's features, such as a periodic read out of info.  Droid Planner bangs out the batt level but would be nice to get the other info and only the info I request.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 09, 2015, 02:58:38 PM
Well this morning I strapped the IXUS 115 to the tri and set it on a few missions.  After some mucking around I managed to get a reasonable survey done of one of the local playing fields.  I'm really impressed with Pix4D Discovery ed, the full version is a little pricey for amateur work (approx $400 AUD a month).

It's more accurate than I thought it would be.  It picked up a 2m embankment perfectly.  It shows that council has planned the drainage nicely as there is a gentle outwards slope, so the water drains to the outside.  The software stitched the images together very nicely, if only Microsoft's ICE would do the same....  Still learning how to use both the tools.

Pix4D is cool in that you can do a survey of a site from just aerial footage (as well as some ground control points to help accuracy).

Here is a sample pix from about 40m looking down:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/08/450d7872ce00ff4cfcbadc30ed93ce67.jpg)

Pix4D Mapper Test Report:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-TiIt-V6pLwN3djX1ZhbU9DR0k/view?usp=sharing (https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B-TiIt-V6pLwN3djX1ZhbU9DR0k/view?usp=sharing)


I had to extend the landing gear by 10cm to fit the downwards facing camera.

The pictures I took at an alt of 40m above the ground and I took around 60 of them, the camera is a Canon IXUS 115HS and was taking one pic every 6.5 sec's.  I had the Tri moving at 1.1 m/s to ensure I got 75% overlap.  Due to battery limitations I was unable to complete the planned mission, as it was I only just got it back in time as sink rate of 30m/m at 100% throttle.  I think to do the area properly I need to be running a 4s battery and / or my new motors.

I had to just tell it to start taking pics as I'm waiting for a step up converter to get my pixhawk to trigger the camera messages, that is why it doesn't contain any GPS coords in the images.  I plan to use MP to geotag the photos once I get the step up converter.  Once it arrives I can then use the cam messages and the number of photos will match and it will tag them.

Main goal tomorrow is to fix up the picture taking rate, currently one every 6.5 sec is too long, needs to be about one every 2 to 3 seconds to cover a reasonable area.

I also had the tri up at 120m AGL today (approx 370 feet), was very still air at ground level but at 120m it was getting buffeted around like nothing else, so it's a new ALT record for me.  I don't plan on taking it any higher at present as it was very hard to see and I had to use the FPV camera output to really know what was going on such as climb / sink rates and my real attitude - damn it was getting moved around.  I felt loiter did a brilliant job.  Took nearly 2 minutes to descend though.....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 09, 2015, 03:29:24 PM
Hey Chris,
I think you only had another 30ft to go before you and stretching the rules of hobby flight at 400 AGL
I have had mine up at 300 ft before and you get a great view but can't see much detail with the go pro.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 09, 2015, 03:57:45 PM
Hey Chris,
I think you only had another 30ft to go before you and stretching the rules of hobby flight at 400 AGL
I have had mine up at 300 ft before and you get a great view but can't see much detail with the go pro.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Hi Crispy,

Controlled airspace starts at 1500 ft in my area.  400ft only applies to flights within 3nm (5.5km) of a defined airport or in controlled airspace.  CASA would like us to believe that we have a 400ft limit in the city but it simply isnt backed up by regulation or legislation. 

Having said that I have no need to go any higher at this time as I agree image quality isnt that great up there.    I was under a flight path and as it was I reckon some of the flights coming in are only at 4000ft so I was high enough for my own comfort.

I reckon the changes that CASA want to put in will have this limitation to bring us in line with commercial UAV's/RPA's.

Apologies as I'm pretty passionate about this topic as I think it's a classic case of the government saying one thing but having legislation or regulations saying another.  If they want it that way it's not hard to get it changed, so just change it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 09, 2015, 04:27:30 PM
Just worked out that I can get it down to 4 sec's per photo, I had the DNG save turned on.  No need for the Digital Negative to be saved.  That should almost double my picture capability, now I just need to get the stepup converter to I can have accurate timings and location data for each image to help improve the accuracy of the photogrammetry data.

Now to see if I can get that down further, fingers crossed.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 09, 2015, 04:43:53 PM
Hi Crispy,

The parcel is on the way, let me know how it goes or if Aus Post manages to eat this one.....  You'll have fun getting into it, it is covered in sticky tape (75%).

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on March 09, 2015, 09:05:26 PM
Hi Crispy,

Controlled airspace starts at 1500 ft in my area.  400ft only applies to flights within 3nm (5.5km) of a defined airport or in controlled airspace.  CASA would like us to believe that we have a 400ft limit in the city but it simply isnt backed up by regulation or legislation. 

Having said that I have no need to go any higher at this time as I agree image quality isnt that great up there.    I was under a flight path and as it was I reckon some of the flights coming in are only at 4000ft so I was high enough for my own comfort.

I reckon the changes that CASA want to put in will have this limitation to bring us in line with commercial UAV's/RPA's.

Apologies as I'm pretty passionate about this topic as I think it's a classic case of the government saying one thing but having legislation or regulations saying another.  If they want it that way it's not hard to get it changed, so just change it.

Chris


Not here to cause trouble however need to ensure things are clear with CASA and unmanned aircraft operations (all contained in CASA 101 regulations)

Specifically :
"101.085 Maximum operating height
A person must not operate an unmanned aircraft at above 400 feet AGL
except:
(a) in an area approved under regulation 101.030 as an area for the
operation of unmanned aircraft of the same class as the aircraft
concerned, and in accordance with any conditions of the approval;
or
(b) as otherwise permitted by this Part. "

Source http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/rules/1998casr/101/101c03.pdf (http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/rules/1998casr/101/101c03.pdf)

additionally backed here:

http://www.rpastraining.com.au/casr-101-uav-drone-legal-or-illegal (http://www.rpastraining.com.au/casr-101-uav-drone-legal-or-illegal)

remember 1500 ft in your area is there lowest height however the Aviation authority wish there to be a 1000FT seperation for safety between us and them therefore the 400ft applies.  Permission can be granted for exception however this is on a case by case situation.

Without predujice

Jody
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 10, 2015, 12:29:29 AM
Not here to cause trouble however need to ensure things are clear with CASA and unmanned aircraft operations (all contained in CASA 101 regulations)

Specifically :
"101.085 Maximum operating height
A person must not operate an unmanned aircraft at above 400 feet AGL
except:
(a) in an area approved under regulation 101.030 as an area for the
operation of unmanned aircraft of the same class as the aircraft
concerned, and in accordance with any conditions of the approval;
or
(b) as otherwise permitted by this Part. "

Source http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/rules/1998casr/101/101c03.pdf (http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/rules/1998casr/101/101c03.pdf)

additionally backed here:

http://www.rpastraining.com.au/casr-101-uav-drone-legal-or-illegal (http://www.rpastraining.com.au/casr-101-uav-drone-legal-or-illegal)

remember 1500 ft in your area is there lowest height however the Aviation authority wish there to be a 1000FT seperation for safety between us and them therefore the 400ft applies.  Permission can be granted for exception however this is on a case by case situation.

Without predujice

Jody


Hi Jody,

Not wanting to be argumentative but you are looking at a very narrow piece of text, you need to consider the full regulation to understand what that part is saying.
 
Yes 101.085 applies, note the text "as otherwise permitted by this part".  Note that 101.400 is the key here, which is in sub part 101.G

We fly under model aircraft rules which is sub part 101.G.  Sub Parts A, B and C also apply.

101.400  Operation of model aircraft outside approved areas
             (1)  A person may operate a model aircraft outside an approved area above 400 feet AGL only if he or she:
                     (a)  keeps it in sight; and
                     (b)  keeps it clear of populous areas.
Penalty:  10 penalty units.
Note 1:       For populous area, see regulation 101.025.
Note 2:       CASA must publish details of the approval of an area (including any conditions) in NOTAM or on an aeronautical chart—see subregulation 101.030(5).
             (2)  An offence against subregulation (1) is an offence of strict liability.
Note:          For strict liability, see section 6.1 of the Criminal Code.

Populous areas are well defined in the regulation.  A park that I was at is not a populous area if there are few or no people present.  If a cricket game was underway then it would be a populous area.  There are also provisions to stay out of controlled airspace.

Trust me the regulation is not what CASA wants.  Note that commerical UAV sub part has no easy get out of jail free card in it, that is why the RPA's training material says what it does.  I disagree with it being pushed by CASA, they need to change their regulations then educate people.  Trying to educate people while not have any legal standing for it is wrong and a waste of tax payer dollars.

Also like CASA claiming that controlled airspace covers all of Sydney, sure it does but it has a floor to it too, think of an upside down stepped cone.  No one in the aviation industry (or in the legal world) would look at it any other way.

On the separation issue, that is a true, separation is key but again that is not what is legislated.  I do need to get out of any full size aircraft way and am extremely unlikely (nor do I want to be) to ever be in that position.  Simply I'm in Class G airspace and requires a visual separation (vertical and horizontal) to be maintained, as a modeler I am expected to yield to all full size (as it should be).

I've debated this particular regulation elsewhere.  I fully believe it will be changed in the review this year, but at present there are few limitations on us modelers.  Please note that CASA AC's are not considered regulations or rules, they are guidelines to follow - of course they would impact in a court case as it would be considered best practice.

Regards,

Chris


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 10, 2015, 11:00:30 AM
Project 450 - In its pieces -- Frame and ESCs arrived today so I can spend some time later putting it together -- Still waiting on a GPS module and folding GPS holder thingy .
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/09/842ec54f906164368f2bebc00776429a.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 10, 2015, 11:31:45 AM
Project 450 - In its pieces -- Frame and ESCs arrived today so I can spend some time later putting it together -- Still waiting on a GPS module and folding GPS holder thingy .
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/09/842ec54f906164368f2bebc00776429a.jpg)

Very nice Steve,

What motors and ESC's are you running with?

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 10, 2015, 11:36:41 AM
Marspower 2212 motors and Banggood el cheapo ESCs .. ( on special ) http://www.banggood.com/4X-XXD-HW30A-30A-Brushless-Motor-ESC-For-Airplane-Quadcopter-p-961966.html (http://www.banggood.com/4X-XXD-HW30A-30A-Brushless-Motor-ESC-For-Airplane-Quadcopter-p-961966.html)

This will be the test for me and the QBrain  I have .. If I don't have too much trouble getting this one to hover then I'll switch the ESCs over to the Alien
and get it working properly - Then try and work out the QBrain on this 450 ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 10, 2015, 08:54:18 PM
Well I got the frame half built - added motors and ESCs - my soldering is getting better !! Will have a go at ESC balancing later this week ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/10/ee3bd3e09b39d5a9d00e471023cb5229.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 10, 2015, 09:19:23 PM
Steve,
You will have to relocate the signal wires from there as there is no holes in the top plate in that location.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 10, 2015, 09:20:39 PM
Yeah I know - Just put them up there while I was soldering ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on March 11, 2015, 11:32:59 AM
Hi Jody,

Not wanting to be argumentative but you are looking at a very narrow piece of text, you need to consider the full regulation to understand what that part is saying.
 
Yes 101.085 applies, note the text "as otherwise permitted by this part".  Note that 101.400 is the key here, which is in sub part 101.G

We fly under model aircraft rules which is sub part 101.G.  Sub Parts A, B and C also apply.

101.400  Operation of model aircraft outside approved areas
             (1)  A person may operate a model aircraft outside an approved area above 400 feet AGL only if he or she:
                     (a)  keeps it in sight; and
                     (b)  keeps it clear of populous areas.
Penalty:  10 penalty units.
Note 1:       For populous area, see regulation 101.025.
Note 2:       CASA must publish details of the approval of an area (including any conditions) in NOTAM or on an aeronautical chart—see subregulation 101.030(5).
             (2)  An offence against subregulation (1) is an offence of strict liability.
Note:          For strict liability, see section 6.1 of the Criminal Code.

Populous areas are well defined in the regulation.  A park that I was at is not a populous area if there are few or no people present.  If a cricket game was underway then it would be a populous area.  There are also provisions to stay out of controlled airspace.

Trust me the regulation is not what CASA wants.  Note that commerical UAV sub part has no easy get out of jail free card in it, that is why the RPA's training material says what it does.  I disagree with it being pushed by CASA, they need to change their regulations then educate people.  Trying to educate people while not have any legal standing for it is wrong and a waste of tax payer dollars.

Also like CASA claiming that controlled airspace covers all of Sydney, sure it does but it has a floor to it too, think of an upside down stepped cone.  No one in the aviation industry (or in the legal world) would look at it any other way.

On the separation issue, that is a true, separation is key but again that is not what is legislated.  I do need to get out of any full size aircraft way and am extremely unlikely (nor do I want to be) to ever be in that position.  Simply I'm in Class G airspace and requires a visual separation (vertical and horizontal) to be maintained, as a modeler I am expected to yield to all full size (as it should be).

I've debated this particular regulation elsewhere.  I fully believe it will be changed in the review this year, but at present there are few limitations on us modelers.  Please note that CASA AC's are not considered regulations or rules, they are guidelines to follow - of course they would impact in a court case as it would be considered best practice.

Regards,

Chris

Thanks CBRK

all good this end. I have been interviewed by a CASA legal investigator regarding Model flying against the CASA Regs and the MAAA MOP's (guidelines). The gentleman was sincere however it is very clear they will hold you well and truly to the line with this stuff. Note thi shad nothing to do with FPV or multis etc etc this was actually flying at a registered MAAA event.

My Concern is persons wanting try and interpret the rules to best suit there need (i.e i want to fly high or far or both) as do I LOL.

The real issue is the fact the airspace is for people flying in machines and the risk to them. Or the people on the ground with objects falling on them.

I really wish there was an app or something that you could easily identify that where you are you can go to height XXX or fly in this area and not that one.  Without being a fully fledged pilot with knowledge of aviation map reading and access to them.

without prejudice



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 11, 2015, 11:35:50 AM
Thanks CBRK

all good this end. I have been interviewed by a CASA legal investigator regarding Model flying against the CASA Regs and the MAAA MOP's (guidelines). The gentleman was sincere however it is very clear they will hold you well and truly to the line with this stuff. Note thi shad nothing to do with FPV or multis etc etc this was actually flying at a registered MAAA event.

My Concern is persons wanting try and interpret the rules to best suit there need (i.e i want to fly high or far or both) as do I LOL.

The real issue is the fact the airspace is for people flying in machines and the risk to them. Or the people on the ground with objects falling on them.

I really wish there was an app or something that you could easily identify that where you are you can go to height XXX or fly in this area and not that one.  Without being a fully fledged pilot with knowledge of aviation map reading and access to them.

without prejudice
I'm not sure how accurate it is, but Droid Planner shows restricted air space on the GPS map. From memory I think it actually stops the multicopter from arming if it determines it is in restricted air space.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on March 11, 2015, 12:17:15 PM
Check out safe to fly app for iOS found it on the wicked copters website


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Hogbert_1999 on March 11, 2015, 04:34:39 PM
Droid planner not on IOS and the wicked one shows me airports as pins but not airspace restrictions etc its a start but not ideal


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: PluckA on March 11, 2015, 05:31:10 PM
Mine gives the over lay in red of restricted airspace


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 11, 2015, 05:38:25 PM
Thanks CBRK

all good this end. I have been interviewed by a CASA legal investigator regarding Model flying against the CASA Regs and the MAAA MOP's (guidelines). The gentleman was sincere however it is very clear they will hold you well and truly to the line with this stuff. Note thi shad nothing to do with FPV or multis etc etc this was actually flying at a registered MAAA event.

My Concern is persons wanting try and interpret the rules to best suit there need (i.e i want to fly high or far or both) as do I LOL.

The real issue is the fact the airspace is for people flying in machines and the risk to them. Or the people on the ground with objects falling on them.

I really wish there was an app or something that you could easily identify that where you are you can go to height XXX or fly in this area and not that one.  Without being a fully fledged pilot with knowledge of aviation map reading and access to them.

without prejudice

All good then, I hope it was a happy outcome for the persons involved (if they were innocent then nothing happened).

The best way to protect yourself is to know the regulations that apply to you (either model or UAV) and stick to them.  I am pretty confident I know the rules and if an investigator decided to fine me or even warn me when there is no real regulations backing it then I'd be more than happy to challenge it.  With the APM and Pixhawk I have far more information that what most General Aviation Aircraft collect, so I can say confidently (within a reasonable degree of error) where I was and when.

We also dont want to overstate the risk, I'm a very risk adverse individual (many comment on it).  I think if you keep to the rules as they are written there is a very low, to non existent risk to fullsize.  If people start to fly in front of full size then it presents some risk and it's unacceptable.  As long as people don't just cherry pick items to meet there needs then it is all good - people need to read it in full and understand it.  A blanket 400ft rule is likely to be in the review but it's not there yet and people do have some latitude.  This will severely affect gliders who often go up to 1000ft and stay there for ages. 

I do have a dislike for the government overreaching, there is limited tax payer dollars, if they have enough to do more then they supposed to then they have a reduction in their budget then.

Having been closely involved with an investigative side of a government agency, I know some will disagree but if you were the subject of the investigation the best advice is do not say anything, the burden of proof is on them (if a modeller, if you hold other aircraft quals then no it's best to be proactive as CASA enforcement may effect those quals/certs).  What you will find is that it's easier to defend it once they have all their ducks in a row.  I know it wastes their time but unless you are 100% certain you were right you only end up making your life worse.

An example would be if a report of you flying too high came in, they won't fine or prosecute you unless they can be reasonably sure you were at that alt or if you challenge them it is hard for them to proove.  Only way to work it is based upon surrounding objects, with an APM or Pixhawk or other FC's with GPS and data logging you take that out of the equation - you know what alt you were (within + or - 10m).  If its about flying too close to people that one if harder to defend, that's why I'm extremely careful about people and their proximity to the model when I fly, some would say I'm paranoid about how close they get.

Regards,

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 11, 2015, 05:56:21 PM
I'm not sure how accurate it is, but Droid Planner shows restricted air space on the GPS map. From memory I think it actually stops the multicopter from arming if it determines it is in restricted air space.


Hi Marschy,

DroidPlanner and Mission Planner both display the airports and 5nm around them (5nm due to US Law - we have 3nm), it wont prevent you from arming it though.  Its just an advisory.

DJI have done that to their drones though as the phantom brigade seem to have trouble following the rules in the USA....

Best to download the charts for your area (the free ones not to be used for navigation purposes from Airservices Aus or CASA - cant remember where I got them from) and know your airspace.  So I know the routes of the sightseeing planes and of course I've got both RNS and Channel 9 heliports in my area too .  As I said I'm in a NOTAM area that can be restricted so I can use freely available online services to check (http://www.rocketroute.com/notam.php?lang=pt&icao=YSSY (http://www.rocketroute.com/notam.php?lang=pt&icao=YSSY)).  Note that these don't meed the legal requirement if you are flying GA or larger aircraft but it gives me the confidence to say I made an effort - which is more than most people do.  You have to pay $150 to get an ARN to get access to the system, it makes sense for full size as they need to log that you have looked at the NOTAM's and which ones.

I have a mate who is working on his fullsize commercial rating at present and he has suggested a few apps to look at, some are approved by CASA for use in GA.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 11, 2015, 06:12:20 PM
Got my 32 bit Alexmos gimbal controller yesterday, todays flights where with it (had to move it's location due to not fitting between the gimbal plates - it has straight header pins, I needed 90 degree bent ones....)  I also have a larger yaw motor, it's a 35XX series gimbal motor, this is much better.

So far it was easy to setup, set the PID to auto.  Motors auto detection got it really wrong, so I had to fix it up.

From the footage I filmed with it, it appears I need further tuning as there was more bumps than I'd expect.  It still had a tendency to not be centered, this is something that will require further tuning and understanding of how it works.

Also got my 4s batteries, so tomorrow I'll be upgrading it to 4s.  I have an interview tomorrow for another contract so my days of flying most days are soon to be over for another 3 to 6 months - I'll have another week of it and then it's likely to be back to work for me.  It will be some mornings before work and weekends :-(

On a plus, I'll have money to spend on the hobby again  :laugh:

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 11, 2015, 11:31:03 PM
I've been exploring more of the aerial mapping / photogrammetry side of the hobby.  There about 80 overlapping images to generate the below.

Here is an orthomosaic of today's effort:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/6c3a52cc89ae9eae725776c7190d2fe5.jpg)

Here is a DSM (Digital Surface Model):
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/b075898c0ab6d5e381f05e616581400c.jpg)

Video of 3D data:
3D View - Small part Blackman Park (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=la2bfaw3VFM#ws)

The software creates 3D data based upon many 2D images.  With the pro version you can export it out in a range of different formats.  It is as accurate getting a surveyor in, as long as the right images are taken.  The yellow in the DSM is at a higher elevation.

The above was one with Pix4D, but unless you have the pro version it is extremely limited ($400 per month or $10K one off).  I'm now exploring VisualSFM, CMPMVS and Meshlabs which is free for non commercial use.  Hoping that I will be able to export out DEM (digital elevation model) data, to generate contour lines, etc (to make custom topographic maps).

Anyone else played with this stuff?

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 12, 2015, 11:14:25 AM
Completed the basic 450 today - tested and calibrated everything -
Swapped the Multistars out of the Alien as I am getting these
http://www.banggood.com/DYS-BX2212-KV920-Brushless-Motor-CWCCW-For-RC-Multicopters-p-936355.html (http://www.banggood.com/DYS-BX2212-KV920-Brushless-Motor-CWCCW-For-RC-Multicopters-p-936355.html) - 600 g of lift !!
Also decided to try APM 2.6 for the Alien as well ...

So now I have to wait for calm weather to test fly the 450 ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/00d5ce7d7e5e833e988eb900f6e39431.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 12, 2015, 12:00:47 PM
Completed the basic 450 today - tested and calibrated everything -
Swapped the Multistars out of the Alien as I am getting these
http://www.banggood.com/DYS-BX2212-KV920-Brushless-Motor-CWCCW-For-RC-Multicopters-p-936355.html (http://www.banggood.com/DYS-BX2212-KV920-Brushless-Motor-CWCCW-For-RC-Multicopters-p-936355.html) - 600 g of lift !!
Also decided to try APM 2.6 for the Alien as well ...

So now I have to wait for calm weather to test fly the 450 ...
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/00d5ce7d7e5e833e988eb900f6e39431.jpg)


Hi Steve, 

That was quick!

Looks good, finding the right time to maiden can be the challenge.  I'm sure it will work well.  If you have done all the prechecks, and it can arm then make sure you turn the logging on the APM to nearlyall or at least +IMU.  You'll want to verify that your vibrations are within acceptable range, if they are not do not attempt to use the auto modes, such as alt hold or loiter, otherwise it might not react as you are expecting.

Stabilise seems to handle higher vibration levels.  After the first flight have a look and if it's getting too much then add more vibration foam.  My pixhawk will need more foam, it's ok but it occasionally has higher vibrations than I'd like.

Hopefully we have another arducopter convert......  How are you finding the software?

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 12, 2015, 12:30:39 PM
Hi,

I've gotten the free software to work somewhat, still learning the ropes with it.  This is all from the same photo data set.

This is an orthomosaic from virtualsfm/cmpmvs:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/ae92f0267672e252741348178b9f3000.jpg)

This is a 3D view from Meshlabs:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/606e02c4bb1d118453dfa4dcd1e80a6e.jpg)

I need to work out how to use GCP (Ground Control Points) in virtualsfm as there is far to much curvature on the outputs.  The fun of learning new tools.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 07:51:43 AM
This is interesting. I wonder if CASA will follow suit.

http://motherboard.vice.com/read/the-faa-says-you-cant-post-drone-videos-on-youtube (http://motherboard.vice.com/read/the-faa-says-you-cant-post-drone-videos-on-youtube)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 08:03:08 AM
Hi,

I've gotten the free software to work somewhat, still learning the ropes with it.  This is all from the same photo data set.

This is an orthomosaic from virtualsfm/cmpmvs:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/ae92f0267672e252741348178b9f3000.jpg)

This is a 3D view from Meshlabs:
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/11/606e02c4bb1d118453dfa4dcd1e80a6e.jpg)

I need to work out how to use GCP (Ground Control Points) in virtualsfm as there is far to much curvature on the outputs.  The fun of learning new tools.

Chris

Very impressive stuff Chris. You're putting us mere geeks to shame.   :cup:

I'm assuming this relies heavily on a very stable camera platform. Have you considered an optical flow meter for position hold in favour of dual GPS?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 13, 2015, 08:51:01 AM
Took the 450 out for a test flight this morning - a bit windy but not too bad - It flies just like my Phantom !! Yeeha success at last ...
SOOOOOOOO
That means either I am having trouble calibrating the QBrain 4 in 1 OR The Naza M and Naza Lite don't like it electronically wise ??
SOOOOOOOO
That means I can rebuild the Alien with standard ESCs and it will fly properly .... ( I think LOL ) .
Its a happy Friday 13th for me ~~~
Steve -- over and out .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 09:42:43 AM
Took the 450 out for a test flight this morning - a bit windy but not too bad - It flies just like my Phantom !! Yeeha success at last ...
SOOOOOOOO
That means either I am having trouble calibrating the QBrain 4 in 1 OR The Naza M and Naza Lite don't like it electronically wise ??
SOOOOOOOO
That means I can rebuild the Alien with standard ESCs and it will fly properly .... ( I think LOL ) .
Its a happy Friday 13th for me ~~~
Steve -- over and out .
If you got hold of some carbon fibre sheet (or fibre glass sheet), you could use the existing hardware for the Alien landing gear for making mounts for the ESC's under the bottom plate and still use the crab undercarriage. Or alternatively you could cut the Alien legs up to make some ESC mounts. Moving the ESC's out from between the plates gives you an enormous amount of room between the plates on the Alien. It's one of the design features of this frame that I really like.

Either way, I'm glad to hear you have restored your confidence in the Alien 560.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 13, 2015, 09:50:00 AM
Yep feeling much happier now ...
So I will rebuild the Alien with 4 ESCs ( might stick with the Alien legs . )
I bought another OSD board - I have a red one which is in Chinese and a blue one in English ( both specific for the Naza )

The APM I bought has 915 Mhz telemetry but its for use with a USB ( Laptop ?? ) so I won't be using it - Will I need an OSD board
to get telemetry ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 09:58:34 AM
Yep feeling much happier now ...
So I will rebuild the Alien with 4 ESCs ( might stick with the Alien legs . )
I bought another OSD board - I have a red one which is in Chinese and a blue one in English ( both specific for the Naza )

The APM I bought has 915 Mhz telemetry but its for use with a USB ( Laptop ?? ) so I won't be using it - Will I need an OSD board
to get telemetry ?

Yep, you will need a minimOSD (http://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&initiative_id=SB_20150312155422&SearchText=minimosd) board.

They are cheap as chips. Avoid the Mavlink version unless you are up for a soldering challenge. I run all my minimOSD's on 5 volts. The Mavlink version of the minimOSD have to be converted to run on 5 volts. Having said that, if you are up for the challenge, it's easy enough to convert to 5V and the Mavlink version of the minimOSD is around $10 and generally cheaper than the minimOSD, but they both do the same job.

Edit: You will also need an FTDI (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/1pcs-FT232RL-FTDI-USB-3-3V-5-5V-to-TTL-Serial-Adapter-Module-for-Arduino-Mini/2019421866.html) programmer, normally under $5 bucks. This is used for updating the firmware on the minimOSD. Most of the minimOSD's from Aliexpress ship with Chinese character sets and must be reflashed. You should be able to find a seller who has both items.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 10:08:47 AM
Steve, the minimOSD also has two versions of hardware that you must consider if you run separate power supplies for the video chip and the atmel chip. One has a switching power supply and the other version has a linear power supply that is prone to over heating and burning out. If you are familiar with switching regulators, you will notice very quickly that the cheaper versions usually have the linear regulator on them. Avoid these unless you plan on running them on 5 volts. If you are going to run them on 5 volts, the linear regulator doesn't get used and the overheating problem is not an issue.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 13, 2015, 10:12:55 AM
All the photos show it connected only to the APM board - Can it get 5 V from there ? Or do I need to add a seperate stepdown power unit ? ( I have variable mini power supply thingys here stepping from 3V - 30 V up or down to 3V to 30V --) Is that what I use ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 10:25:31 AM
All the photos show it connected only to the APM board - Can it get 5 V from there ? Or do I need to add a seperate stepdown power unit ? ( I have variable mini power supply thingys here stepping from 3V - 30 V up or down to 3V to 30V --) Is that what I use ?
Yep, it's powered directly from the telemetry port on the APM, so yes, it gets it's 5 V from there. The video chip is also powered by 5 volts but its on a different network on the pcb, typically from the same power supply you use for your camera. That is why there is a regulator on the OSD board, for stepping down the camera 12 volt supply to the 5 volts required for the video chip.

They have separate power supplies for the atmel chip and video chip to reduce any likelyhood of interference to the video signal from EMI from ESC's, motors etc using the same power supply. If you use 5 volts to power the whole board from the one power supply, you can use an inductor to filter the power supply to the camera to reduce or remove this interference.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 13, 2015, 11:51:32 AM
I built a BT module for the telemetry radio but you can use the on the go cable (OTG) for use on the android phone or android tablets.
This gives portability in the field.
Good work on the 450 Steve. About time you had a win!
Hope to fly on Blue Rag Range tomorrow. If I do I will post up video when I get a chance.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 13, 2015, 12:24:55 PM
Chris,
I got the letter intact this time. You forget to include a tool to get the envelope open!! It's ok a chainsaw did the job.
Did some tests and it works.
Need to trim the pin a little after the weekend!
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 13, 2015, 06:50:26 PM
This is interesting. I wonder if CASA will follow suit.

http://motherboard.vice.com/read/the-faa-says-you-cant-post-drone-videos-on-youtube (http://motherboard.vice.com/read/the-faa-says-you-cant-post-drone-videos-on-youtube)


I think the grounds are reasonably cloudy on this issue for here (that is they could fine you).  CASA has the same set of rules that if you make money then it's commercial.  I think in the US it will take someone going to court, if you look at how their IRS counts as business / commercial then in the example above he would be fine.  I honestly think until someone challenges them the FAA will think their stance is correct.  It might be, it might not be, it will up to their court system to work it out.  The longer no one challenges them the more likely their courts will take the side of the FAA.

Over here we could face exactly the same issue, but I think our CASA is a little bit more reasonable (but it is up to their discretion).  If a person made a sizeable about of money from youtube then sure they'd most likely go after you if a complaint was made.

Fingers crossed CASA stays sensible.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 06:53:23 PM
I'm thinking the AMA in the US will fight this.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 13, 2015, 07:09:40 PM
Very impressive stuff Chris. You're putting us mere geeks to shame.   :cup:

I'm assuming this relies heavily on a very stable camera platform. Have you considered an optical flow meter for position hold in favour of dual GPS?

Thank you, I have a huge inner geek inside me :-)  I have to say the tools out there are surprisingly simple to use and it's all about flight planning and knowing how to get around limitations.

Surprising no it doesn't have to be mega stable, I had the IXUS connected to my battery tray with a layer of latex foam and rubber bands.  If that didnt work I was going to attach to the gimbal mount but no need to.  The battery tray is connected to the frame by 4 small (1.5mm) bits of curved music wire.  The wire takes a lot of the vibrations out, then the foam reduces it a bit.  I personally think the IXUS is doing a great job considering, I'll take a happy snap of it attached on Sunday (I'm running a flood rescue professional development day tomorrow and will be busy till then).  That rig results in 98+% stable photos, I've only had 3 semi unfocused / blurry photos out of 200 odd.

I have considered the optical flow sensor, I was about to order one when I suddenly finished up my last roll and didnt want to spend that much on it, since I start a new job on Wednesday, if that goes well in the next week or two, I'll order an optical flow and a LIDAR.  I wish the LIDAR would be a bit stronger, that is most of my photogrammetry stuff is at 40-50m which is at the limit of what the LIDAR can do.  To get the best results its best to keep the same height for all the pics, hoping that optical flow will help with that.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 13, 2015, 07:16:04 PM
I am constantly surprised with the Canon 115. For a point and shoot, it has a wonderful lens.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 13, 2015, 07:21:24 PM
Yep, it's powered directly from the telemetry port on the APM, so yes, it gets it's 5 V from there. The video chip is also powered by 5 volts but its on a different network on the pcb, typically from the same power supply you use for your camera. That is why there is a regulator on the OSD board, for stepping down the camera 12 volt supply to the 5 volts required for the video chip.

They have separate power supplies for the atmel chip and video chip to reduce any likelyhood of interference to the video signal from EMI from ESC's, motors etc using the same power supply. If you use 5 volts to power the whole board from the one power supply, you can use an inductor to filter the power supply to the camera to reduce or remove this interference.

Hi Steve,

I also have converted my MinimOSD's to 5V.  I also put a small heat sink on them as the analogue chip still gets fairly warm unless you have running air flowing over it.  I'd recommend that you bypass the +5V going in on the analogue side, you only need to connect the GND and SIGNAL lines (both input and output).  You solder the 2 bridges and then it will get its power from the digital side (telemetry connector).  You should see some earlier diagrams I posted for Crisp Image.

I also agree about getting a FTDI board - you'll want to customise the screen and update the character set, also make sure you get a 6pin connector so you can wire it up and have it ready to go.  I have a set of 6 individual connectors hot glued in the right order.  Make sure you also get a Y cable for the telemetry radio and the MinimOSD.

Also I agree with Crispy, get an OTG cable and then you can hook it up to your mobile phone.  I always fly with the telemetry radio connected, if anything goes wrong with my RC radio RX or TX then I have a back to call it home if needed (915Mhz range is much better than 2.4Ghz) or I can sent it on missions easily - it's great to run mission 1 and then decide without landing to upload mission 2 and off it goes, or in the event of a crash I have logs with its GPS location (as well as a copy of the OSD saved to a memory card).......

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 13, 2015, 07:27:52 PM
Chris,
I got the letter intact this time. You forget to include a tool to get the envelope open!! It's ok a chainsaw did the job.
Did some tests and it works.
Need to trim the pin a little after the weekend!
Crispy

You mean the tool fell off, goddam Aus Post.....  ;D

Excellent, it's easy to resurrect those damaged GPS's.  Mine didnt even have a crack in it but yet all it took to repair it was replacing the antenna.  It is even better as this one has the thicker ceramic layer so it is shielded from the electronics better.  I was surprised how easy it was, just trim a little at a time and all will be good.

Chris


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 13, 2015, 07:40:37 PM
I'm thinking the AMA in the US will fight this.

They are limited in what they can do, they can try to change it legislatively (ie: try to convince congress).  It will take someone who gets fined to actually fight it in court, it's a weird how the legal system works, you have to be hit with a penalty to fight stupid laws......

I am constantly surprised with the Canon 115. For a point and shoot, it has a wonderful lens.

I'm just so stoked I found it, I hadnt used it for years.  It is brilliant, in that I was expecting pretty average results after reading many reports on canon cameras - very sensitive to vibrations - something about a floating lens.  Oh you know how I bought a new charger for it, I found my original charger the other day......

I'm thinking of picking up a DSLR to sling on it for for AP - maybe towards the end of the year, I will have the motor power for it.....  I'd need to upgrade the gimbal though, 2208's wont cut it for the pitch and roll and the 3508 wont cut it for the yaw......

I'm still waiting for my step up converter to arrive, it's the only thing holding me back from jumping to 4s, as my camera and FPV Tx needs to get 7-14V....

I got my 14inch props today, damn my Tri is going to be mostly covered in props - I will have to lengthen my booms by 20-30% I think when the new motors arrive.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 13, 2015, 08:50:31 PM
Hi Steve,

I also have converted my MinimOSD's to 5V.  I also put a small heat sink on them as the analogue chip still gets fairly warm unless you have running air flowing over it.  I'd recommend that you bypass the +5V going in on the analogue side, you only need to connect the GND and SIGNAL lines (both input and output).  You solder the 2 bridges and then it will get its power from the digital side (telemetry connector).  You should see some earlier diagrams I posted for Crisp Image.

I also agree about getting a FTDI board - you'll want to customise the screen and update the character set, also make sure you get a 6pin connector so you can wire it up and have it ready to go.  I have a set of 6 individual connectors hot glued in the right order.  Make sure you also get a Y cable for the telemetry radio and the MinimOSD.

Also I agree with Crispy, get an OTG cable and then you can hook it up to your mobile phone.  I always fly with the telemetry radio connected, if anything goes wrong with my RC radio RX or TX then I have a back to call it home if needed (915Mhz range is much better than 2.4Ghz) or I can sent it on missions easily - it's great to run mission 1 and then decide without landing to upload mission 2 and off it goes, or in the event of a crash I have logs with its GPS location (as well as a copy of the OSD saved to a memory card).......

Chris

Well this is going to be interesting isn't it !! LOL

All my camera's are 12V jobs - as I already have an OSD board which also runs on 12V I'll try it first - But that's now a LONG LONG way away ...
Once I get the blue OSD I'll start putting the Alien together with 4 ESCs and the new DYS motors -
Then I'll be using the 450 with the APM and Emax 4 in1 ( or QBrain 4in1) ( I'm getting an EMax programming card so I'll probably resurrect the Emax 4in1 ..)
But that's a LONG LONG way away ...
I just bought a new Epson A3 printer , inks and paper for this years photographic competition entries so I'm all out of spare Quad cash for a few months ...LOL
So off to film with the Phantom and playtime with the 450 for now ...
Thanks for all your help and advice guys ... Hope to catch up with you all in September face to face ... might have all 3 working by then eh !! LOL
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 13, 2015, 10:04:49 PM
Well this is going to be interesting isn't it !! LOL

All my camera's are 12V jobs - as I already have an OSD board which also runs on 12V I'll try it first - But that's now a LONG LONG way away ...
Once I get the blue OSD I'll start putting the Alien together with 4 ESCs and the new DYS motors -
Then I'll be using the 450 with the APM and Emax 4 in1 ( or QBrain 4in1) ( I'm getting an EMax programming card so I'll probably resurrect the Emax 4in1 ..)
But that's a LONG LONG way away ...
I just bought a new Epson A3 printer , inks and paper for this years photographic competition entries so I'm all out of spare Quad cash for a few months ...LOL
So off to film with the Phantom and playtime with the 450 for now ...
Thanks for all your help and advice guys ... Hope to catch up with you all in September face to face ... might have all 3 working by then eh !! LOL
Steve

Hi,

Just to be clear most of my cameras are 12V cameras but I don't run the 12V through the MinimOSD.  Check out my diagrams earlier (I'll dig out the specific post number on Sunday if you dont find them by then).  I do connect the GND though to avoid any ground issues, although if both items are using the same battery then it's all good to go without it.  If you plan to use two different batts (one for flying, one for camera stuff) then you must be careful if the grounds are different by more than 0.3V then it can fry the analogue chip.....

Will be good to see all of the flying things we've put together by then.  Good luck with the flying!!

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 14, 2015, 04:26:21 AM
Well this is going to be interesting isn't it !! LOL

All my camera's are 12V jobs - as I already have an OSD board which also runs on 12V I'll try it first - But that's now a LONG LONG way away ...
Once I get the blue OSD I'll start putting the Alien together with 4 ESCs and the new DYS motors -
Then I'll be using the 450 with the APM and Emax 4 in1 ( or QBrain 4in1) ( I'm getting an EMax programming card so I'll probably resurrect the Emax 4in1 ..)
But that's a LONG LONG way away ...
I just bought a new Epson A3 printer , inks and paper for this years photographic competition entries so I'm all out of spare Quad cash for a few months ...LOL
So off to film with the Phantom and playtime with the 450 for now ...
Thanks for all your help and advice guys ... Hope to catch up with you all in September face to face ... might have all 3 working by then eh !! LOL
Steve
Steve, now that you've flashed your Naza Lite with V2 firmware, the iOSD mini can be used.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 14, 2015, 07:17:58 AM
I would have to get the other thing too wouldn't I ? BTU coz it has the sockets for iOSD and GPS ?? Is that right or does the mini have a GPS socket ? I'll have go look how its connected . Might be no use to me as I don't have iPad or iPhone ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 14, 2015, 07:44:09 AM
I would have to get the other thing too wouldn't I ? BTU coz it has the sockets for iOSD and GPS ?? Is that right or does the mini have a GPS socket ? I'll have go look how its connected . Might be no use to me as I don't have iPad or iPhone ?
You don't need the BTU, but you will need the Naza PMU V2 as this has the additional CAN-Bus port that you will need for the iOSD. My understanding from the links I previously sent to you is that after reflashing, the Lite is then compatible with the PMU V2 from the Naza M V2.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 15, 2015, 10:16:02 AM
Just wait till i get home so i can process the video i have just taken from the pinnicals fire tower.

EDIT: Home now. Check this out. The Pilot still needs training!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9uNW3M1LhY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9uNW3M1LhY)

Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 16, 2015, 12:13:01 AM
Just wait till i get home so i can process the video i have just taken from the pinnicals fire tower.

EDIT: Home now. Check this out. The Pilot still needs training!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9uNW3M1LhY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9uNW3M1LhY)

Crispy

Nice location.  Good clip.  You'll get there with practice, god knows I'm still practicing.  I'm impressed it wasn't extremely windy up there.

I'm thinking you didn't know how far over the cliff you were when you turned around?  You kind of high tailed it back once you spun around.

What camera did you use?  It looks like it was a bit overexposed and struggled with the change in light or was it the weather / environment?  It can be hard to tell sometimes.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 16, 2015, 11:28:15 AM
Goddam HK bearings.....  I've been racking up some serious flight time with my Tricopter over the last month (several hours a week).  Funny thing is I was going to mount the gopro today, but I thought I'd do a warm up flight with the cheap action cam.....  I took it for a warm up spin, was only in the air for 30 seconds, I was trying out my latest config of the 32 bit gimbal controller and suddenly it flips over and hits the deck.  Luckily it was only 5m up at the time, no damage to the frame besides one broken 3mm nylon bolt, couple of zip ties, one less than smoot DT750, all CF and electronics in tact.  After careful review of the flight footage and review of damaged parts I have come to the conclusion that it was again the front left motor that died, this is the same location as the previous one that died for the same reason.  It is down to either the bearings or a failure in the 11x4.7 propeller hub.

Whats funny is I expected this for when I switched to 4s as the DT750's are only 3s rated (but many run them at 4s without any issues and without changing the bearings), whats funny is I'm yet to change over yet, although they have had a 10 min test at 4s.....  So it's possible it was damaged then.

I cannot wait for my emax motors to arrive - why did I choose the slow option!!  Hopefully not too much longer before I get some quality motors on it.  Since I return to work on Wednesday I'll be doing a quick rebuild with a spare motor (DT750) this afternoon and will convert to 4s and be flying again with it tomorrow.  Luckily I have some spare bearings for the DT750's so I can get the dodgy one working again.....

My reasoning behind it is that all parts were found within 10cm of the frame.  It flipped to it's left on the footage, indicating loss of lift or a weight shift to that side.  I could see that the arm which the nylon bolt broke speared into the ground, the motor came off the mount but was still connected by two cables, I think the 3rd cable is due to impact damage, the small bolt end with nut and the head were next to each other.  The propeller was nearby in two parts, a split at the hub.  I think due to the propeller being that location and the split on the hub indicates it occurred when the motor speared the ground while spinning.  The gimbal also had partly separated, 3 of 4 rubber balls had come out of the top plate the 4th came out of the bottom plate.  The left motor is harder to turn than normal, leading me to believe the bearings are not in a good shape.  Only other possibility was that the gimbal bottom plate fell off swinging to that side, but the footage doesn't back that up, in fact the gimbal tried to stabilise the camera on the initial failure.

So it was either bad bearings, or bad propeller which has now damaged the motor....

Oh well more rebuilding......    Lucky I find that part as much fun as flying.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 16, 2015, 03:33:40 PM
Nice location.  Good clip.  You'll get there with practice, god knows I'm still practicing.  I'm impressed it wasn't extremely windy up there.

I'm thinking you didn't know how far over the cliff you were when you turned around?  You kind of high tailed it back once you spun around.

What camera did you use?  It looks like it was a bit overexposed and struggled with the change in light or was it the weather / environment?  It can be hard to tell sometimes.

Chris

A gopro is the camera of choice and usually handles things better.
There was a light breeze up on top but nothing too strong. After I landed it increased in speed a bit so it was a case of good timing.
All of the flight was done LOS so I knew how far I was out there. I must say I was a bit worried about the what if it crashes.
The maximum height at Talbotville was 109m. I think I have a couple of batteries that are about shot. Just as I was bringing it in for landing it started to fall from the sky. I went into hover mode and it continued to fall so throttled up and managed to stop the fall and land safely. That was close!
The altitude of the fire tower is about 1500m.

Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 16, 2015, 11:48:36 PM
A gopro is the camera of choice and usually handles things better.
There was a light breeze up on top but nothing too strong. After I landed it increased in speed a bit so it was a case of good timing.
All of the flight was done LOS so I knew how far I was out there. I must say I was a bit worried about the what if it crashes.
The maximum height at Talbotville was 109m. I think I have a couple of batteries that are about shot. Just as I was bringing it in for landing it started to fall from the sky. I went into hover mode and it continued to fall so throttled up and managed to stop the fall and land safely. That was close!
The altitude of the fire tower is about 1500m.

Regards
Crispy

Really?  I'm surprised.  It seemed to struggle.

Great location, nice, 1500m up, that would be great.  It did look like you went up pretty high at talbotville.

I think I'll be taking my Tri with me when I get around to getting to the Vic High Country.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on March 17, 2015, 10:55:56 AM
A gopro is the camera of choice and usually handles things better.
There was a light breeze up on top but nothing too strong. After I landed it increased in speed a bit so it was a case of good timing.
All of the flight was done LOS so I knew how far I was out there. I must say I was a bit worried about the what if it crashes.
The maximum height at Talbotville was 109m. I think I have a couple of batteries that are about shot. Just as I was bringing it in for landing it started to fall from the sky. I went into hover mode and it continued to fall so throttled up and managed to stop the fall and land safely. That was close!
The altitude of the fire tower is about 1500m.

Regards
Crispy

I started out with the GoPro on mine and while I liked what I was getting from it, a couple of hard landings (one from 50m) had me considering the wisdom of so much money up high. I went to the Mobius and although its not quite the same quality recording, I'm more comfortable with it on the frame.

Your footage was amazing, its a beautiful place and Id be having the same thoughts with the thing hanging over the drop like that.... not so much about the crash, as the recovery! (I still have one frame up the top of a tree not far from my place.... it taunts me....bastard).

The calm conditions helped heaps, I took mine on a fishing trip in November and it was blowing a gale the whole time, it was a 2000k return trip so I wasn't going to waste it, but the footage is really jerky as it tries to stay in the air being gusted around.

Good job!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 17, 2015, 12:02:01 PM
Finally got the replacement miniAPM in the mail last night, as well as another miniAPM and GPS for my Trifecta mini tri-copter (note to self, check the power module pin outs before connecting everyting, doh).

It took 6 weeks this Thursday to deliver. I ordered a couple of days prior to Chinese New Year. I have bought other stuff from China after Chinese New Year and received them before the miniAPM's. Oh well, live and learn.

Chance of me getting the ZMR250 in to the air this side of Easter is zero unfortunately.

I'm off to New Caledonia on Friday for a 9 night South Pacific cruise. What an opportunity to get some fantastic footage using the quads, but I don't think the missus would be too happy with me if I took a quad copter along. In fact I know she wouldn't be.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 17, 2015, 01:25:21 PM
Grrrrrr, bad luck goes in three's right?  Well item two and three today.....  I worked on the 12V regulator but it's not working, I must have fried it somehow - no magic smoke though......  Then I decide to go fly the tri on 3s for a quick spin and this time 30 seconds in the air and down to the ground it went (from 12m up).

I've got lots of snapped nylon bolts, large number of snapped zip ties and a broken prop or two but it seems the CF is in tact except for the nose space but took the full brunt of the crash.  Now I'm running out of the 11x4.7's, grrrr. 

On review of the footage it appears that the rear motor or tilt mechanism played up as I got a sudden left flat roll that accelerated and ended up in a dive to the ground.....  Lots of bits on the ground.  It will take me a few nights to fix it all..... Sigh.  I wish the emax motors where here already.  I'm seriously thinking of making it a Y6 to prevent this in the future, it would be sloppy in one axis but I'd be able to land it, although I'm hoping the emax motors will work better.  No cameras were damaged!!  Although the action cam failed to record the accident - file is corrupted, but I do have the saved FPV footage.

Hmmm 6 x 2.7kg = 16.2 kg of lift, I'm liking the thought of it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 17, 2015, 04:13:39 PM
2.8
2.8
2.8
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 17, 2015, 05:08:38 PM
Grrrrrr, bad luck goes in three's right?  Well item two and three today.....  I worked on the 12V regulator but it's not working, I must have fried it somehow - no magic smoke though......  Then I decide to go fly the tri on 3s for a quick spin and this time 30 seconds in the air and down to the ground it went (from 12m up).

I've got lots of snapped nylon bolts, large number of snapped zip ties and a broken prop or two but it seems the CF is in tact except for the nose space but took the full brunt of the crash.  Now I'm running out of the 11x4.7's, grrrr. 

On review of the footage it appears that the rear motor or tilt mechanism played up as I got a sudden left flat roll that accelerated and ended up in a dive to the ground.....  Lots of bits on the ground.  It will take me a few nights to fix it all..... Sigh.  I wish the emax motors where here already.  I'm seriously thinking of making it a Y6 to prevent this in the future, it would be sloppy in one axis but I'd be able to land it, although I'm hoping the emax motors will work better.  No cameras were damaged!!  Although the action cam failed to record the accident - file is corrupted, but I do have the saved FPV footage.

Hmmm 6 x 2.7kg = 16.2 kg of lift, I'm liking the thought of it.

Chris

Damage is a bit worse than first thought, I'd killed two of the arms as well.  I think I'll order some more square CF tubes so that I can have longer arms for the bigger motors that are on the way.  I think it also killed the tail servo or maybe it was the tail servo that caused it?  It was definately a yaw motion first, so I'm thinking the crash the other day may have damaged the servo.  I might be grounded till the motors arrive as I'm running out of DT750's, I'll know more tonight after I check each of the motors properly.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 17, 2015, 05:40:25 PM
I started out with the GoPro on mine and while I liked what I was getting from it, a couple of hard landings (one from 50m) had me considering the wisdom of so much money up high. I went to the Mobius and although its not quite the same quality recording, I'm more comfortable with it on the frame.

Your footage was amazing, its a beautiful place and Id be having the same thoughts with the thing hanging over the drop like that.... not so much about the crash, as the recovery! (I still have one frame up the top of a tree not far from my place.... it taunts me....bastard).

The calm conditions helped heaps, I took mine on a fishing trip in November and it was blowing a gale the whole time, it was a 2000k return trip so I wasn't going to waste it, but the footage is really jerky as it tries to stay in the air being gusted around.

Good job!

Yep I know what you mean, I will only put my gopro up on it once I've got many hours of crashfree flight and then only for very particular shoots, like if I need or want it in 2.7K or 4.3K.  The rest of the time I use a cheap $80 action cam (gopro sized) which does a pretty good job.  I was so close to putting the gopro on it the other day as I'd had around 6 hours of crash free flight but the very next flight just before I was about to strap the gopro on it crashed.....  I think it if you have quality parts (motors and ESC's) then it's ok, the gopro is designed to take a bit of abuse, just make sure you put a lens protector on it or fly with the case on it.

If though you aren't getting many hours of actual flight time between crashes then I'd rethink it too.

The mobius can take a fair bit of abuse, if you remember in an earlier post I had my quadcopter during a flip move go wrong it hit the ground at very high speed (horizontal and vertical) and the mobius is all good after that.  On image quality, sure it's not the same as a gopro but to be honest it's not far off it for 1080p.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 17, 2015, 06:21:37 PM
I started out with the GoPro on mine and while I liked what I was getting from it, a couple of hard landings (one from 50m) had me considering the wisdom of so much money up high. I went to the Mobius and although its not quite the same quality recording, I'm more comfortable with it on the frame.

Your footage was amazing, its a beautiful place and Id be having the same thoughts with the thing hanging over the drop like that.... not so much about the crash, as the recovery! (I still have one frame up the top of a tree not far from my place.... it taunts me....bastard).

The calm conditions helped heaps, I took mine on a fishing trip in November and it was blowing a gale the whole time, it was a 2000k return trip so I wasn't going to waste it, but the footage is really jerky as it tries to stay in the air being gusted around.

Good job!
The recovery is the problem out there. I have not crashed my quad with the gopro on it yet. Well not hard anyway. The NAZA makes it really easy to fly and so I usually don't have a problem. But lately the gimbal has been playing funny games and I am not sure why. I might have to look at a firmware upgrade if there is one available. And I have 2 LiPo's that have gone puffy so I nearly had one of those hard landings. Time for some new packs!

When I get hoe from Europe I will get some more stuff.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on March 18, 2015, 09:12:15 AM
Nice vid showing up use of Drone with dirtbiking

https://youtu.be/VkPwzjNkvsI
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 18, 2015, 04:57:41 PM
Well I've decided that I'll keep the tri as a tri (of course with the new motors and ESC's that are on the way).  This will have the 3 axis gimbal on it and I'll mount the action cam or go pro depending on what I need.  I still need to check that I didn't damage the 3rd axis gimbal in the crash.....

I'm trying to decide what length to make my new booms for the tri, I want them to be able to the right size for when I get the MT3515's as I'll have a 14" or 12" prop on it normally.  I'm thinking around 45-50cm's.  That should give me clearance for the propellers, my only concern is that I might see the props spinning when the camera is pointed straight forwards. 

I might experiment with the plywood frame as a Y6 with the left over DT750's once I get the new motors.  I bought a stack of new bearings to replace the ones in the suspect motors.  I don't expect to use it much as I don't like the reliability of the DT750's, I cant justify anything of worth on them anymore.

I think I'll also build an X8 for the future where I'll mount a DSLR for better aerial photography, and to protect it against failure.  That will be a later in the year project.  This will also need a 3 axis gimbal but larger to accommodate the DSLR - haven't bought one yet but I will by the end of the year.

I also plan to start a build of a fixed wing UAV style (Electric pusher, V tail, with a straight or slightly forward sweep wing, big fuselage for stuff), it will be a custom job made from balsa and plywood, with a thin fiberglass coating.  I'll start this in the next month or two but it will take me months to finish.  It will be good for aerial surveying that I'd like to pursue.  I'll have to get to flying the bixler 2 to build up my competency in fixed wing again.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 18, 2015, 06:56:04 PM
Hmmm, next upgrade for the Alien maybe. I wonder how effective they are? Doesn't matter really, looks awesome.

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/2/6/7/7/5/a7681181-108-DSCF2111.JPG) (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=31089398&postcount=1285)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 18, 2015, 07:09:28 PM
Clever whats been done with the legs .. They're mounted to be more splayed - I didnt know you could do that ...LOL  ( Suspensions over the top though really - really !! )

Here's my now six-legged beast waiting for stuff to go on it ....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/18/b034de13e90e823c7c62f5c8317d30f2.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 18, 2015, 07:27:19 PM
Hmmm, next upgrade for the Alien maybe. I wonder how effective they are? Doesn't matter really, looks awesome.

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/2/6/7/7/5/a7681181-108-DSCF2111.JPG) (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showpost.php?p=31089398&postcount=1285)


How much does the Landing Gear mod weigh?

If you are really into AP then thats a mod to consider.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 18, 2015, 07:49:57 PM
Weight was my initial thought? Then I remembered

2.8

LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 18, 2015, 09:01:24 PM
Weight was my initial thought? Then I remembered

2.8

LOL

LOL, how true.  I'm killing for my new motors, I just dont think I will trust the tri until I get them on it.

Well my list of broken items is from the crash, I've checked all items now.

2 broken CF arms, about 6 nylon bolts, had to shorten the GPS mast, 2 lost rubber balls for gimbal mount, 1 dead servo, 1 damaged battery tray, frame lead edge block and lots of bent bits.

I'm happy to report that my brand new yaw servo (35xx) is still working, note that they need weight to make them feel normal.  From the same test it appears my new 32bit gimbal controller is working too.

I'm thinking that I need to crash protect my gimbal mount some how.  I'm thinking two wooden spars that would project 2cm beyond the gimbal mount may offer protection in future.

All 3 DT750 motors feel normal, I plan to run each of them through a 3s 2200mah on the thrust meter and I'll look for uneven lift.  Will have to be Friday nights effort, busy tomorrow night.

I think my crash was caused by the tail servo dying.  It would explain what I saw on the video screen as it looked like a loss of yaw control.  I think I'll need to add a regular check of the tail servo, so all the tricopter flyer's take note that tail servo should be checked regularly.  I have to say I got lazy on that, I checked them at the beginning but it had worked so well for the last 6 months that I figured it was good.

On that note I ordered a couple of bigger tail servos (13g vs a 9g - the 13g puts out nearly 2x the force) as I will need it for the bigger motor on the way, more forces involved.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 19, 2015, 01:26:39 AM
Clever whats been done with the legs .. They're mounted to be more splayed - I didnt know you could do that ...LOL  ( Suspensions over the top though really - really !! )

Here's my now six-legged beast waiting for stuff to go on it ....
(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/18/b034de13e90e823c7c62f5c8317d30f2.jpg)

You're going to have to change the name from the Alien to the Caterpillar  ;D ;D

This has really got me thinking now (you can tell, it's nearly 2 am). I don't know how good that pivot point looks.

(http://static.rcgroups.net/forums/attachments/5/2/6/7/7/5/a7681184-164-DSCF2117.JPG)

I think that is the weak link. I think we should throw this over to the brains trust on some of the suspension threads and get some feedback.  ;D

Seriously though. If the pivot point could be strengthened, because I reckon this could twist and snap the carbon fibre, this idea has a lot of merit. I think from looking at the coil overs, the shockies look like plastic, so the weight shouldn't be too bad. The coil-overs are probably Hobbyking stock, I'll see if I can find them and see what the weight is. Whatever the weight is could easily be overcome by using suitably sized motors, and possibly replace the pivot with the folding arm pivots like these ones from Goodluckbuy and replace the carbon fibre plate with carbon fibre tube.

(http://www.goodluckbuy.com/images/product_images/thumbnail_106510_1.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 19, 2015, 02:06:06 AM
Hmmm, weight, price, quality, options are endless.

These ones from Hobbyking list the weight for a pair at 26 grams, but I reckon that weight is more likely for each shockie, and only $5.72 for a pair. So worst case 100 odd grams, plus control horns for securing the top ball joint, say another 20 grams including screws and nuts.

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/21751.jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__21751__Rear_Shock_Absorber_2pcs_bag_1_18_4WD_RTR_Short_Course_Racing_Buggy.html)

Then depending on how much you lay the arms down the connection point for the shockie ball joint to the carbon fibre motor booms could be achieved using tube clamps.

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/40632.jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__40632__Black_Anodized_CNC_Aluminum_Tube_Clamp_16mm_Diameter.html)

And for control horns, I'd use some 1.5mm aluminium angle for connecting the ball joint on the shockie to the tube clamp, or as in the pictured example, the control horn appears to be screwed to the motor mount. The angle could screw directly onto the tube clamp if you opted for tube clamp.

So all up, for a very small outlay, if the shock absorbers save your undercarriage once, then this could be a very good modification to consider for bugger all cost and minimal weight added. I think I would only need a prop upsize to accommodate the additional weight.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 19, 2015, 03:52:04 PM
Hmmm, weight, price, quality, options are endless.

These ones from Hobbyking list the weight for a pair at 26 grams, but I reckon that weight is more likely for each shockie, and only $5.72 for a pair. So worst case 100 odd grams, plus control horns for securing the top ball joint, say another 20 grams including screws and nuts.

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/21751.jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__21751__Rear_Shock_Absorber_2pcs_bag_1_18_4WD_RTR_Short_Course_Racing_Buggy.html)

Then depending on how much you lay the arms down the connection point for the shockie ball joint to the carbon fibre motor booms could be achieved using tube clamps.

(http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/catalog/40632.jpg) (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/__40632__Black_Anodized_CNC_Aluminum_Tube_Clamp_16mm_Diameter.html)

And for control horns, I'd use some 1.5mm aluminium angle for connecting the ball joint on the shockie to the tube clamp, or as in the pictured example, the control horn appears to be screwed to the motor mount. The angle could screw directly onto the tube clamp if you opted for tube clamp.

So all up, for a very small outlay, if the shock absorbers save your undercarriage once, then this could be a very good modification to consider for bugger all cost and minimal weight added. I think I would only need a prop upsize to accommodate the additional weight.


I know that looks pretty but I'm really impressed with cable ties holding on the landing gear, much lighter and applies a progressive resistance force until they snap.  I'm sure that for me a lot of damage has been saved by them.  Remember even if you have motors that can lift up the wazoo it is still worthwhile on the keep it light principal - unless its got a really good functional purpose - like a camera, etc......  Lets say 120g+50g for the aluminium brackets, that may very well buy you an additional 10-15 secs in the air, if you add up all the decisions like that you quickly get to minutes, we all love long flight times :-)  Motors / ESC are an exception, as generally as you increase them you'll gain flight time and / or power.

Just my 2c, I know Marschy, 2.8......  ;D

Why are these motors taking so long, why didn't I choose the slightly more expensive but faster option.......  Looks like I'll continue the rebuild on 4s with the DT750's after they are tested on Friday night.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 19, 2015, 04:24:33 PM
Yeah but, yeah but, yeah but, ok , your right, but bloody hell what a cracker idea.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 19, 2015, 05:16:53 PM
Yeah but, yeah but, yeah but, ok , your right, but bloody hell what a cracker idea.

LOL.

I like the concept, its good, and I like that people are trying stuff, it only makes the hobby better.  It's like those concept cars they make, some of them are great and if only they ever became production models, but then there are reasons why they stay as concept cars.....

I'm just glad you convinced me to try some alternative motors for the tri.  I still try to follow the keep it light principal.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 20, 2015, 03:56:49 PM
Seems good things come to those who wait......

I got 3 parcels today, the first is my long range RFDesign radios (possible range with directional antennas 40km's) - this is for the companion computer but it will provide a link to the Pixhawk, a box from HK (with some 12V reg's) and the most important box (the box with my emax motors).

Now I honestly was expecting another 2-3 weeks before I saw the emax motors.  So no more DT750's for the time being!!!  No need to spend tonight working out which ones are good and which ones have dodgy bearings - that can wait until I'm bored.

I'll see how the EMAX MT3515's go, has anyone tried the AVRoto range of motors?  I'm thinking of trialing some later on in the year, wanted to know if their reputation is actually as good as the web reviews?  At $115 US a motor (accessory pack is extra), they are pricey but commercial operators are using them so I wonder if they live up to their reputation?

A very busy weekend ahead of mounting and configuring stuff.  Sadly next weeks weather forecast doesnt look good, grrrrr.

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/19/dca2f7a8c365fb0e2d17bd10198f835c.jpg)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Artie01 on March 20, 2015, 06:15:22 PM
I LOVE box deliveries.....  :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 20, 2015, 06:24:03 PM
I LOVE box deliveries.....  :cup:

I know it's like your a kid again  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 21, 2015, 07:27:20 PM
Todays progress on the tricopter:

- Redrilled the holes for the rear boom / arm
- Cut and drilled the 3 booms / arms
- Made another tail mechanism as the old one has a different sized servo
- Test mounted the motors onto the frame
- Fixed damage to the battery tray

I should get her back to a flying state tomorrow but it will be sometime in the week before I get to actually test it out down at the park.

I made the arms 50cm long, so it will be around a 700 to 750 sized, so quite big.  I'm hoping that the motors or props wont appear in the footage, otherwise I may to shorten them slightly.  Good news is that the 14" fit with plenty of room to spare.

I also tested out the RFDesign telemetry radio's, it seems it is extremely straight forwards, I have them working just like the 3dr radios but I'll do even more with them.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 24, 2015, 08:34:38 AM
Banggood have a deal here might be useful to y'all ... Heatshrink tubing precut sizes ...
http://www.banggood.com/328pcs-21-Polyolefin-Heat-Shrink-Tube-Sleeving-5-Color-8-Size-p-969574.html?utm_design=11&utm_source=emarsys&utm_medium=Mail_men126_email2&utm_campaign=newsletter-emarsys&utm_content=misue&sc_src=email_1304107&sc_eh=215c5e1e96e493341&emst=EmpBjyICmt_234176_1304107_24 (http://www.banggood.com/328pcs-21-Polyolefin-Heat-Shrink-Tube-Sleeving-5-Color-8-Size-p-969574.html?utm_design=11&utm_source=emarsys&utm_medium=Mail_men126_email2&utm_campaign=newsletter-emarsys&utm_content=misue&sc_src=email_1304107&sc_eh=215c5e1e96e493341&emst=EmpBjyICmt_234176_1304107_24)
Thats a big link for a small item !! LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 26, 2015, 09:51:09 PM
Well I've now got ADSB data appearing on Mission Planner, so I can see all the large aircraft that are flying around.  It uses a DVB-T receiver and it picks up the ADSB signal on 1090 Mhz.

I haven't been as quick as I'd like with the Tricopter rebuild, it should be ready for a flight on the weekend - if I pull my finger out, I've only just finished drilling all the bits.  Now it's wiring and mounting all the electronics....  Can't wait for it to take flight again!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 27, 2015, 03:09:13 PM
Hi guys,


Okay more of my inner geek....

If anyone is interested in the more automated side of the hobby, and your happy to support a crowd funding project you can pick up a Pixhawk Fire Cape for a good price: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/pixhawk-fire-cape (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/pixhawk-fire-cape)

Note that you'll still need a BeagleBoneBlack (BBB) to make a FC this is just the add on board.

So for the cost of a BBB (approx $70) and the cape (earlybird $150) you can have a linux FC.  Note it's still a work in progress so it's not as robust as the APM or the Pixhawk at this stage.  I plan to learn more about how it all works.  Still not sure about the concept of the FC doing other activities, will be interesting to see how it goes.

Argh, now I'll have 2 x APM 2.x, 1 x APM 3.1, 2 x Pixhawk's and 1 x BBB with PXF.  Not to mention the companion computer ODROID....  Solution is I need more flying things!

I also got in the mail last night two of the Bluetooth modules, I'm tired of having to plug my gimbal into the computer everything I want to make a change, will be nice to have the BT module on it and use my phone, heck I could even do it at the field.  Not sure where I'll put the 2nd one.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 29, 2015, 04:47:17 AM
Back on dry land after week cruising in New Caledonia. Geez I love Australia.

Looking forward to some thrust data results Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 29, 2015, 09:09:31 AM
Less than a week and we takeoff for a little place called London. No other flying types for over a month????unless i get off the ground tomorrow.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 29, 2015, 04:10:44 PM
No other flying types for over a month????
Yeah, but you can go to places like Duxford, the RAF museum, Battle of Britain Memorial flight. Lucky bugger.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on March 29, 2015, 08:06:23 PM
Yeah, but you can go to places like Duxford, the RAF museum, Battle of Britain Memorial flight. Lucky bugger.
Not going to Duxford but we are going to the RAF Museum.
We are also going to the place where Bomber Command was (Only a memorial there now so I am told). Our plan is to take a photo of Mrs Crisp's Grandfather and take a photo of my son (who is in air cadets) standing in front of the memorial. You see The Grandfather flew Lancaster's in the war. He completed 30 missions with 21 of them in the same plane. This was a good run for a Lancaster as the average life for one was 16 missions. Eric also was awarded a DFC for a mission that he flew where he lost all instrumentation but still completed the mission and returned safely. So it is a bit of a family history trip.
We are calling it the Crisp Family Cultural Tour.
We will be in London, Paris, Salzburg, Venice and Rome.
Should be good.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 30, 2015, 03:34:37 AM
I was in the ATC myself. Sounds like the itinerary is following in the footsteps of the Grizwalds, oink oink.  ;D

Have fun.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 30, 2015, 03:27:54 PM
Hi all from sunny Yarrawonga..
Just flew 2 batteries worth on the Phantom.. OSD working really well but there's a bit of interference in the video.. I'll post a bit on here when I get home .. Also had the video camera going but I missed one of the many settings and it stopped recording 3 minutes out ?? All in all very happy with the results ... I have 2 parcels at my locker .. probably APM and GPS holders ... Have to wait until after Easter for them ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on March 30, 2015, 03:43:31 PM
Last count, I have 3 Go-pro knock-off with water proof cases. Can you guess what I didn't even give a second thought to taking to New Caledonia?

Only remembered it when I was swimming at Isle of Pines. Would have loved to have taken a quad. Such a pretty place.

I'm on holiday still until after Easter, so I'm finishing off the ZMR250 mini quad and my Trifecta mini tri-copter. Both of these will have have FPV camera's only. My ground station has a DVR recorder so I'll still be able to record my flights, but the quality won't be as good as the Go-pro knockoff's.

I'm in the middle of fixing the gimbal controller on my X-mode Alien. I have finally found a gimbal controller I am happy with. One of these.

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/FPV-Part-HMBGC-BGC-Micro-Brushless-Gimbal-Controller-Driver-w-Sensor-Firmware-V2-2/1976736189.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/FPV-Part-HMBGC-BGC-Micro-Brushless-Gimbal-Controller-Driver-w-Sensor-Firmware-V2-2/1976736189.html)

I have reflashed the controller with BruGui_050 and it works well (so far). No motor squeal which was happening with the stock firmware (Alexmos 2.2). Just have to tune it and it should be good to go.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 30, 2015, 09:56:51 PM
I have 2 parcels at my locker .. probably APM and GPS holders ... Have to wait until after Easter for them ...

Just be aware that after 3 days they move to the post office and then after 1 week they RTS.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 31, 2015, 06:19:31 PM
Seems the new BLHeli ESC's dont like the pixhawk......  I'm having an issue where no motor activity occurs even though it's outputting the right PWM values to the ESC's.  Myself and several others are having the same issue, I'll try a few different firmware version to see if it makes a difference.

Motors and ESC's work properly when connected directly to the receiver so it seems to be a pixhawk issue.  I think I'll be doing some research once I finish doing a change for work tonight (I think it's atmel based vs silabs).

It's been blocking me the last 3 days.  So annoying the weather was perfect for flying this afternoon....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on March 31, 2015, 06:33:43 PM
Just be aware that after 3 days they move to the post office and then after 1 week they RTS.

Chris
There's 6 parcels now with Easter in between...LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 31, 2015, 09:03:51 PM
There's 6 parcels now with Easter in between...LOL

They'll love you, they never put two parcels in one locker.....  I've had 3 to collect before, and yep that was three times I had to enter the details, grrrr...

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on March 31, 2015, 10:40:42 PM
Seems the new BLHeli ESC's dont like the pixhawk......  I'm having an issue where no motor activity occurs even though it's outputting the right PWM values to the ESC's.  Myself and several others are having the same issue, I'll try a few different firmware version to see if it makes a difference.

Motors and ESC's work properly when connected directly to the receiver so it seems to be a pixhawk issue.  I think I'll be doing some research once I finish doing a change for work tonight (I think it's atmel based vs silabs).

It's been blocking me the last 3 days.  So annoying the weather was perfect for flying this afternoon....

Chris

So since I haven't found a solution yet, I decided to put a rush order for 3 blue series 30A ESC's to hold me over till I resolve it.  The blue series only go to 4s, so I will have to solve the issue to get to test out the 6s.  Working with others on diydrones so hopefully wont be long till we resolve it.  Fingers crossed I get the blue series on Thursday, that way I may get a chance to fly the tricopter over the long weekend.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 01, 2015, 12:31:12 AM
So since I haven't found a solution yet, I decided to put a rush order for 3 blue series 30A ESC's to hold me over till I resolve it.  The blue series only go to 4s, so I will have to solve the issue to get to test out the 6s.  Working with others on diydrones so hopefully wont be long till we resolve it.  Fingers crossed I get the blue series on Thursday, that way I may get a chance to fly the tricopter over the long weekend.

Chris
Another alternative is to flash them with SimonK. The bootloader for BLHeli is compatible with the bootloader for SimonK.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 01, 2015, 09:16:22 AM
Another alternative is to flash them with SimonK. The bootloader for BLHeli is compatible with the bootloader for SimonK.


True, I could have saved $45 grrrr.  Hmmm hold on, just thinking that in a few months when I decide to build a Y6, I'll only have to buy 3 more Blue Series and I'm set (i can avoid using the 18A turnigy plush I have plenty of), since they are 30A ESC's I'll have to naturally buy some decent motors for them right?  I'm starting to wonder if the issues I had were purely bearing issues, as the motor I thought might have failed used most of a 2200mah 3s battery with no loss of thrust while I was watching / listening.  I'm wondering if it's the mysterious ESC simonK sync issues some are having?

If they don't arrive for the weekend I think I will just flash them with simonk to get some flying time with the tri this long weekend.  Been fun with the mini quad but I want my tri back in the air!

I'm waiting for pay day so I can order my new Tricopter frame.  I've given up cutting my own CF sheets, its better to offload it to someone with a CNC machine, much more accurate - looks so much better (and less health risks later on).  I've been using qcad to design my new frame (nice to dry fit components to see how far they will stick out).  I'm going to give http://www.cutfromcad.com/ (http://www.cutfromcad.com/) a try, they are based in WA I think. 

Main goals:
I need to have enough room to fit all my electronics, I'll have a stackable frame on top of the pixhawk to mount the ODROID - this way I can remove it easily when I'm not using that part. 
It's nice to know if you put a hole in the plans it will be there to the mm on the actual board (hard bit is to remember if you need a hole for a 3mm bolt, you have to make the hole 3.1mm). 
Make the arms changeable, so that I can try round arms as well as the square arms I've already got.
Tidy up the cabling - I've also used a distribution board this time to reduce the amount of cabling going places and I also ordered last night the HK APM distribution board so I'll switch to it.

Because of this I've decided to not do a super tidy install of the gear on the current frame, I know in a week or two I'll have the new frame and I'll be doing all again.  I figure the new frame I will largely built first (should only take me a night) and then a quick motor and electronics swap (that should only be a couple of hours with some testing) will see me flying very rapidly.

I've got two HK orders on the way, one with round arms and mounts, the other with my temporary ESC's and the APM distribution board.

Anyone else noticed that post Xmas HK's deliveries using Auspost have slowed a lot....  I was getting almost next day deliveries, 2 days at the latest for the 2nd half of last year (order in the morning, next afternoon it was in my parcel post locker), this year I am finding it's getting close to 4 days?  International is also gone from 6/7 days to 10+ days - I'm on day 11 for my recent order.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 01, 2015, 11:07:04 AM
I'm on day 11 for my recent order.

I just got an sms to tell me it's ready for pickup!  So now only waiting on my rush order I placed last night, HK had it ready to ship by 11am this morning so hoping I'll have it tomorrow......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 02, 2015, 01:34:52 PM
I just got an sms to tell me it's ready for pickup!  So now only waiting on my rush order I placed last night, HK had it ready to ship by 11am this morning so hoping I'll have it tomorrow......

Well Auspost have let me down.....  I was hoping that my order would arrive today with the 3 alternative ESC's....  Guess I'll have to look at flashing the EMAX ESC's with simonk so I can get the tri in the air, I can flash them back with BLHeli at a later stage.

Seems my shipment despite having the shipment lodged at 11am yesterday, is apparently been re-notified of the ready for shipment......  So at best they'll leave South Coast today, given the public holidays it means I wont see them until Tuesday next week.... Grrrrrr...   Seems my two day orders are no more  :'(

Sucks as the forecast has gone from all days rainy to now showers on Fri and Sat but just cloudy for Sunday and Monday.  Hopefully I can flash them on the Friday for a test on Sunday  ;D

Hi Marschy,

I'll be doing some thrust tests on the weekend.  I wanted to run a DT750 through a battery the other night and didn't want to have to play swap the motor mount too much.  It's handy have a spare motor and ESC :-)

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 02, 2015, 02:33:17 PM
Hi Marschy,

I'll be doing some thrust tests on the weekend.  I wanted to run a DT750 through a battery the other night and didn't want to have to play swap the motor mount too much.  It's handy have a spare motor and ESC :-)

Chris
It's not much to go by, but just spinning them by hand and you can tell the Emax motors are a quality motor.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 02, 2015, 02:37:55 PM
It's not much to go by, but just spinning them by hand and you can tell the Emax motors are a quality motor.

True they are a very solid yet smooth motor.  But then again I don't have other motors in that size, so hard to tell.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 03, 2015, 06:12:13 PM
Well it seems that my EMAX BLHeli's are sitting waiting at the bootloader when connected to the pixhawk, so until I get that worked out I'm going to have to use other ESC's.

Since my blue series 30A ESC's wont arrive until Tuesday, I decided that I would hook up my 18A (22A burst) Turnigy Plush ESC's.  This means that I'll only be able to push the motors to about 85% to keep them below 22A and preferably below 70% to keep them under 18A (should be plenty of thrust).  This means that once the rain goes away on Sunday I should be able to take the tri for a spin.  I've done a bit of a slap it together when it comes to the wiring, I will do it all properly when i get my new tricopter frame (I'll order it after the weekend).

Tonight I plan to do the thrust tests (I should be able to do this on the BLHeli ESC), and reconfigure the gimbal (and add the bluetooth module).  This means that I'll be able do a dry run tomorrow and then be ready to go up to the park on Sunday.

Will be nice after Tuesday I'll be able to hit 100% throttle to see what they can really do on the Tri itself.

HK stuffed up on my previous order, it seems the 22mm clamps they sent are the exact opposite of which ones I was after.  I've now opened a ticket and I'm hoping they can resend the right ones shortly.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 04, 2015, 02:07:58 AM
HK stuffed up on my previous order, it seems the 22mm clamps they sent are the exact opposite of which ones I was after.  I've now opened a ticket and I'm hoping they can resend the right ones shortly.
Hello Chris,

Is this the first RMA you have opened with HK?

I'm not happy with their return policy, you have to pay for return postage if you don't accept the incorrect item, and then hope to hell that they send the correct item. Or alternatively accept the incorrect item and pay for the correct item to be sent again and still hope to hell they send the correct item. The second scenario happened to me, and they resent the incorrect item again, which they again asked me to return at my expense. I just gave up. Thoroughly pissed off after spending over $1000 with them.

I much prefer Aliexpress.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 04, 2015, 10:11:31 AM
Hello Chris,

Is this the first RMA you have opened with HK?

I'm not happy with their return policy, you have to pay for return postage if you don't accept the incorrect item, and then hope to hell that they send the correct item. Or alternatively accept the incorrect item and pay for the correct item to be sent again and still hope to hell they send the correct item. The second scenario happened to me, and they resent the incorrect item again, which they again asked me to return at my expense. I just gave up. Thoroughly pissed off after spending over $1000 with them.

I much prefer Aliexpress.

Cheers, Mark

Hi Mark,

Nope, I've had one before and it was a similar experience to yours, although mine was a defective KK2 board.  I just gave up in the end, I know it's funny we spend $1,000's of and they haven't made it simple in the past.

Having said that they have recently changed their return policy when this happens, so I just need to upload the photos and it says they are unlikely to require me to send it back.  Not sure what that means (a credit or them posting out the right ones).  This is the draw back of buying from the international warehouse.....  Consumers are not as well protected.

Will let you know if it has changed, if not then I will be moving more and more of purchases away from HK, I've slowly started this as HK used to have postage speed on it's side, now it's slowed down my loyalty is being tested by better deals out there.  I also use aliexpress and I have had 2 items stuffed up by vendors.  Both where sorted by taking a pic and then they sent the replacement parts out, very quick simple and easy.  Just took the postage time again :-(  I'd just have to adjust how I buy stuff, I'll need more lead time but I dont see that as a bad thing, I've got enough stuff now to get by for most things, the rest is just nice to have.

Didn't get thrust tests done last night due to spending time on working out why the Bluetooth module is causing erratic behavior of the gimbal (only happens when I have an active connection).  I can see I'm going to like the bluetooh module on the gimbal.  I will try to move it further away and then retest, then I'll get to the thrust tests.

I've only got to remount the gimbal mount back onto the tri and I'm ready for a test flight tomorrow (if this rain ever lets up, I'm the duty officer this weekend for my area so while it's raining I cant get too much done, people keep calling, please rain stop).

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 04, 2015, 11:22:01 PM
Hi Mark,

I've done a quick thrust test on the new motors.

I used the Turnigy Plush 18A (22A burst) ESC's for the test, will do another test tomorrow as the ESC got quite warm.

Results so far (4s 3000mah battery @ 75% charge - EMAX 3515 with 14x4.7):
11A - 1.3Kg
19A - 1.9Kg (note this was at 75% throttle due to ESC limitations)

So I figure I'll be hovering at around 12-14A total across the 3 motors.  I forgot to record the lower A values but I recall hitting 450g almost straight off the bat with barely any throttle applied (so it might be better), it seems to be very efficient at low A's.  Damn these props move some air, holy crap, I blew stuff over all over the room and stuff that's not just in the direct path behind  - that I've done plenty of times, it was impressive.  Note that the 11in props never moved these objects at all.  Scared my dog a bit.  I couldn't hear the motor noise at all, the props made so much noise.

I'll double check these off the BLHeli ESC if the rain returns, just that they are even better than what the emax website has.  Latest forecast is that there might be showers tomorrow, I'll see what it looks like when I get up.  I'll see if I have time to test out the 12 inch CF props too, will be interesting.

All that's left to do is to add the props to the Tri, charge the new batteries and adjust the mid throttle settings on the pixhawk and I'm good to go :-).

I reckon that with the 30A ESC's that I can hit 2.1 if not 2.2Kg off the 14x4.7's.

If I'm right with my figures I should get the following flight times:
4s 3000 - 11 mins with 20% safety
4s 4000 - 15 mins with 20% safety
4s 5800 - 23 mins with 20% safety

Hopefully I can test those out tomorrow as I reckon they are conservative.

My new frame is almost designed, just need the HK power module to confirm the hole layout and distances and I'm good to order.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 05, 2015, 02:57:22 AM
I'll double check these off the BLHeli ESC if the rain returns, just that they are even better than what the emax website has.  Latest forecast is that there might be showers tomorrow, I'll see what it looks like when I get up.  I'll see if I have time to test out the 12 inch CF props too, will be interesting.
It's handy to know your results. When I did some testing with the 2206 Emax motors, the thrust results where just under the results published on their website when I was only using plastic props and their results used carbon fibre props.

The motors are pretty quiet for their size. I reckon the bearings must be of reasonable quality. You can probably see why my faith in Hobbyking motors is diminishing.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 05, 2015, 01:20:52 PM
It's handy to know your results. When I did some testing with the 2206 Emax motors, the thrust results where just under the results published on their website when I was only using plastic props and their results used carbon fibre props.

The motors are pretty quiet for their size. I reckon the bearings must be of reasonable quality. You can probably see why my faith in Hobbyking motors is diminishing.

It's handy to know your results. When I did some testing with the 2206 Emax motors, the thrust results where just under the results published on their website when I was only using plastic props and their results used carbon fibre props.

The motors are pretty quiet for their size. I reckon the bearings must be of reasonable quality. You can probably see why my faith in Hobbyking motors is diminishing.

I was expecting less than published results, I should get a chance to retry them on the emax blheli this afternoon.  Nice to get better than expected results.

I know those bearing must be bloody good, I didnt hear a single noise from the motors, it was all prop noise.  I found the HK multistar elites to be good, but I agree after these I doubt I could go back to the HK motors.

My next set of high quality motors are likely to be some tiger motors (t motors) or the AVroto's, I can see that I dont want to skimp on the motors anymore.

I took it for a spin just now and well, I stopped as I obviously have done something wrong....  I had the rear propeller fly off, it actually flew and continued to rotate down (nicely balanced, as it stayed horizontal until it hit the ground.  Bad news is that means that for the prop nut to fly off like that I've not checked everything properly.  I decided to not put the teflon tape on for the first flight, silly me.  Good news is that it was still on the ground when it came off, so no damage other than my pride.

Lost one prop nut out of it, I searched and searched but couldn't find it.  It could have gone anywhere.

On a plus it was quiet, like alot less than the tri has ever been, these motors rock, I had barely bumped the throttle past 35% and she was showing signs of lifting.  I think this thing will be interesting to bring down.....

I think the plan will be to do what I normally do, I'll do a tethered test in the backyard tomorrow.  That way I know I've got all my ducks in a row.  It must have been me in a rush to get down to the park that caused it.

Chris

 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 06, 2015, 12:41:09 PM
Nice bloke on Facebook Phantom page just sold me the following for $300 !!
A Phantom 1 with OSD , Zenmuse 2D , DJI transmitter .
6 x 2200 mah DJI batteries
6 x 2800 mah Zippy batteries
2 x 2200 mah Gens Ace ...

Apparently I need a GoPro to fit the Zenmuse to get FPV .. My cameras won't do that ...

I figured the batteries alone would be worth the $300 so the Phantom is a bonus ... LOL ..

Makes up for the one that flew away last year ...

Happy happy happy ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 06, 2015, 01:07:06 PM
Took the tri for a spin today down at the oval, mixed results.  I switched over to the T-Style CF props (12x5.5) and they appear pretty good.  I had one time where I dug the prop into the earth, it was good, just wipe it off and all was good.  I can say I'm very happy with them, now I have motors that can use them I will be ordering more of these  ;D.  I can say though that I'm sure if it wasnt grass it would have ended differently.

Bad news is that I have so much power that when I hit more than 40% throttle it is able to pull my tail mechanism upright, so that tells me the servo is unable to counteract the forces.  I stupidly used a smaller but in theory (had more torque) servo, guess that wasn't a good idea.  Good news is I thought this might be the case and in my order from HK which is held up due to the long weekend (should be here tomorrow) has a bigger tail servo.  Hopefully it will be big enough, I fear with the amount of force this thing is throwing out I may need even bigger!

I do have some older analogue servos that will be strong enough but they are attached to my 4 star 40 plane which I'd use but since I have a digital replacement on the way I figure whats another day.

I'm thinking of changing my tail mechanism, David's direct drive design is good but I may need to go for an indirect drive so that I can try different servo's out.  So question for those with tri's, what tail mechanism do you use? Direct or indirect?

Great news is that with that prop combo at 40% throttle (4s - 12.5A) I just start lifting and at 45% (4s - 15A) I'm confidently gaining alt (AUW approx 1.9kg - the battery weighs more than my 3s batteries), although currently with an increasing spin, so I didn't fly for long before I put her on the ground - only damage was a broken cable tie.  So I think I have my power issue sorted out, it will only get better with 14in props on it.  Time to order some 14 or 15 inch CF props I think :-) - Why do they come in pairs, I'm going to end up with lots of spare CW props.....

Hi Marschy, I'll do the thrust tests this afternoon, family Easter activities go in my way yesterday.  I'll try both the APC props and also the T-Style CF.

Some quick figures from the test flight:
1.9kg / 3 = 630g
12.5A / 3 = 4.2A

So I would day that I'm doing better than the 13x4.0 CF combo on the emax site (they have 4A as 600g).  I would suggest that I'd hover around 4.3-4.5A a motor as I'll loose some lift after I'm out of ground effect.

With my limited testing so far, I highly recommend the EMAX MT3515 motors on 4s, I cant wait to get some 6s ESC that work with the pixhawk and really give the motors a workout.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 06, 2015, 01:10:25 PM
Nice bloke on Facebook Phantom page just sold me the following for $300 !!
A Phantom 1 with OSD , Zenmuse 2D , DJI transmitter .
6 x 2200 mah DJI batteries
6 x 2800 mah Zippy batteries
2 x 2200 mah Gens Ace ...

Apparently I need a GoPro to fit the Zenmuse to get FPV .. My cameras won't do that ...

I figured the batteries alone would be worth the $300 so the Phantom is a bonus ... LOL ..

Makes up for the one that flew away last year ...

Happy happy happy ...

Holly crap that is a good deal.  Have you checked the condition in person?  That is the batteries are in good nick, etc.  Do you have a charger that tells you the Internal resistance of the batteries?  That will let you know what condition they are in.

So do you have it in your hands right now?  I would be careful, it might be hot property at that price or I'd bet the batteries have a high IR value by now.

Nicely done

You might need to tether this one to the ground  ;D

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 06, 2015, 01:14:34 PM
All perfectly legit - all batteries are being charged now -- been well looked after by a professional aerial company .. I was amazed at the price -- This guy flies a Phantom 2 and an S900
for his work .. So he can't use the batteries so he got rid of them all in one go ... I'm happy --

Didn't realise though that the Phantom 1 has all motors with RH threads so I can't use my self tightening blades ...

The Zenmuse looks tricky - might have to do some youtubing to see how they work ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 06, 2015, 02:30:55 PM
Hi Marschy,

Thrust Tests done for 14x4.7 APC and 12x5.5 CF props.  These were all measured using my thrust scales with my Watt Meter attached.  I used the Turnigy Plush 18A ESC, I couldn't be bothered to switch over the ESC on the test harness.  I'll do that soon.

Below is Amps - Grams of Thrust

14x4.7 APC
0.6 - 50
2 - 270
4 - 510
5.9 - 700
7.6 - 900
10 - 1025
15 - 1450
18 - 1700

12x5.5 CF
0.6 - 50g
2.2 - 250
4 - 450
6 - 600
7.5 - 720
10.1 - 900
15 - 1200
18 - 1400

Interesting that on the CF props in the real world I was lifting off at just over 4A - so around 450-500g per motor (I'm sure my AUW with new 4s battery is 1.8kg - so it should have been closer to 6A - I would be surprised if ground effect was that big)

The 14inch props appear to be the way to go, in terms of efficiency.  I'll be weighing up the costs tonight of 14 vs 15 inch CF props as I reckon the 15 inch would be even better.

FYI, still could barely hear the motor over the prop noise (damn those 12inch CF props are quiet too)

Once I've switched over the test harness (to the BLHELI 30A 3s to 8s ESC) I'll give the same tests on 6s.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 06, 2015, 02:50:42 PM
All perfectly legit - all batteries are being charged now -- been well looked after by a professional aerial company .. I was amazed at the price -- This guy flies a Phantom 2 and an S900
for his work .. So he can't use the batteries so he got rid of them all in one go ... I'm happy --

Didn't realise though that the Phantom 1 has all motors with RH threads so I can't use my self tightening blades ...

The Zenmuse looks tricky - might have to do some youtubing to see how they work ...

That is a sweet deal, well done on it.  For $300 hell I would have picked it up.

I have to admit the only thing I use 3s for is the mini quad and it only fits my 1300 and 2200 mah batts.  My other 3s batts (5000 and 5800mah) I will have to wait till I can run 6s (i'll use them in series to get a 6s)

Just check the Internal Resistance values to be sure.  It's the only way to know when the batteries are going down hill.  I've taken to writing the initial IR values in perm marker on my batts and then I check them every now and then.  I've got one 3s 5000mah battery that changed alot after the last crash, so I its now a test bench battery only.  I won't trust it in the air as 2 of the 3 cells tripled in it's IR value.  It means that as the batt gets discharged those cells will drop quicker than the other one and could lead to a serious imbalance and a more sudden drop off on voltage in general.

If they are a professional outfit (ie: hold CASA OC ticket) they will need to have tracked those in their battery log (might be a good idea to ask them for a copy of their battery log for the batteries you have)

My last charger I bought was specifically chosen as it measured IR, that was my main requirement.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 06, 2015, 02:57:25 PM
So happy I have a box of spares!  Just found out I have a 3.6kg @ 4.8V capable digital servo sitting in my parts box (previous was a 2.5kg - but I suspect is less).  This should be able to handle the force of the tail motor!  Bad news is the expected storm just rolled in so no more flying for the day.  Grrrrr

Seems that I have 2 of them, I've still got the other one arriving tomorrow but I've fitted the 3.6kg servo, I'm thinking of ordering a 22g - 7kg servo for $20 just to be sure, just that if had this much trouble with a 2.5kg servo swinging a 12 inch prop I can only imagine what will happen with a 15inch prop.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 06, 2015, 03:07:23 PM
The Zenmuse looks tricky - might have to do some youtubing to see how they work ...

Hey,

It looks pretty straight forwards as long as there is a spare knob on the controller.  I take it is already assembled and attached to the phantom?  Less mucking around than with the other gimbal controllers out there.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2015, 10:19:36 AM
ok guys here's the video through the FPV camera showing lots of flickering can you have a look and advise -- Is this normal or can I get rid of it by repositioning antenna or something ??

www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/INTERFERENCE.3gp (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/INTERFERENCE.3gp)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 08, 2015, 10:23:26 AM
ok guys here's the video through the FPV camera showing lots of flickering can you have a look and advise -- Is this normal or can I get rid of it by repositioning antenna or something ??

www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/INTERFERENCE.3gp (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/INTERFERENCE.3gp)

Hi,

Seem to be getting a 404 error, are sure the link is right?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2015, 10:24:42 AM
Trying to fix now .. ???
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 08, 2015, 10:25:42 AM
Trying to fix now .. ???

LOL, no probs.  Will check back in a bit then  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2015, 10:31:25 AM
Fixed now -- There was a teeny weeny space between the file name and the .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 08, 2015, 11:05:03 AM
ok guys here's the video through the FPV camera showing lots of flickering can you have a look and advise -- Is this normal or can I get rid of it by repositioning antenna or something ??

www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/INTERFERENCE.3gp (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/INTERFERENCE.3gp)


Hi Mandrake,

I think you have two separate issues :-)

The first is the flickering OSD text, the second being the quality / interference.

The first one if it's the same as I had should be easy to fix.  My 2nd MinimOSD did this, all I had to do was update the firmware and character set and it went away.  If you have a FTDI TTL converter then I'd try that first.

On the second issue (assuming your on 5.8GHz), it doesn't look like you are far away from it.  I presume your standing in the park, so you should be getting a strong signal.  What antenna's are you using?  If you have the stock antennas then make sure that they are oriented on the same plane.  That is if the Vtx has it straight up, then the VRx should also be on the same axis.  Any variation, such as a banking (or you walking near it) will reduce the signal getting to them.  Think of your two fingers aligned the same way and touch them together, note the contact area, now rotate one 45 degrees and then note the contact area.  I know you didnt tilt the copter much but even a small tilt can reduce the quality.  So if using the stock antennas then I'd invest in some CP antennas.  If you are using CP antenna's or Patch antenna's then this should be reduced greatly.   Also if anything gets between the VRx and the VTx you'll get interference (I'm guessing you were walking nearby it?).

As a general precaution, I'd whack some ferrite's onto the power lines of the VTx.  On my early Tricopter I did this, on the later frames for some reason I haven't needed to.  Some have reported that the MinimOSD was creating noise and they also have choked the Telemetry Tx and Rx lines, but I've not had to at any stage.  A simple test for this is to bypass the MinimOSD and wire it up to send the signal straight to the VTx, if it goes away then you know it's coming from the Minim's lines (be it power or signal line).

How far away is the VTx to the FC and MinimOSD (and the lines between those items)?  If it's a 10-15cm away then I'd say you'd be okay unless your outputting on a really high EIRP.  Some people have mounted the antenna's upside down to get the VTx to not be blocked by the airframe itself.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 08, 2015, 11:12:18 AM
Hi Mandrake,

I think you have two separate issues :-)

The first is the flickering OSD text, the second being the quality / interference.

The first one if it's the same as I had should be easy to fix.  My 2nd MinimOSD did this, all I had to do was update the firmware and character set and it went away.  If you have a FTDI TTL converter then I'd try that first.

On the second issue (assuming your on 5.8GHz), it doesn't look like you are far away from it.  I presume your standing in the park, so you should be getting a strong signal.  What antenna's are you using?  If you have the stock antennas then make sure that they are oriented on the same plane.  That is if the Vtx has it straight up, then the VRx should also be on the same axis.  Any variation, such as a banking (or you walking near it) will reduce the signal getting to them.  Think of your two fingers aligned the same way and touch them together, note the contact area, now rotate one 45 degrees and then note the contact area.  I know you didnt tilt the copter much but even a small tilt can reduce the quality.  So if using the stock antennas then I'd invest in some CP antennas.  If you are using CP antenna's or Patch antenna's then this should be reduced greatly.   Also if anything gets between the VRx and the VTx you'll get interference (I'm guessing you were walking nearby it?).

As a general precaution, I'd whack some ferrite's onto the power lines of the VTx.  On my early Tricopter I did this, on the later frames for some reason I haven't needed to.  Some have reported that the MinimOSD was creating noise and they also have choked the Telemetry Tx and Rx lines, but I've not had to at any stage.  A simple test for this is to bypass the MinimOSD and wire it up to send the signal straight to the VTx, if it goes away then you know it's coming from the Minim's lines (be it power or signal line).

How far away is the VTx to the FC and MinimOSD (and the lines between those items)?  If it's a 10-15cm away then I'd say you'd be okay unless your outputting on a really high EIRP.  Some people have mounted the antenna's upside down to get the VTx to not be blocked by the airframe itself.

Regards,

Chris

Oh one last thing, if you are using the stock antennas make sure you dont walk underneath it, keep it a fair few metres in front of you if your at 10m alt, very little of the signal will be radiated under or above it, I think they are 3 dbi gain antenna's from memory and at 5.8 GHz I recall that they don't broadcast much under them (or directly above them).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2015, 11:32:44 AM
I'll try the firmware upgrade - I have an FTD USB thing around here someplace ...

I use the mini circular polarised antennae - The receiver is vertical and the transmitter is pointing straight down - I guess sometimes the gimbal would be in the way of direct line of sight but only when the Phantom is flying towards me ... Could it be a loose connector ? I've checked everything I can see that plugs in ( ie not soldered ) and it seems firm enough .

Thanks Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 08, 2015, 11:48:50 AM
I'll try the firmware upgrade - I have an FTD USB thing around here someplace ...

I use the mini circular polarised antennae - The receiver is vertical and the transmitter is pointing straight down - I guess sometimes the gimbal would be in the way of direct line of sight but only when the Phantom is flying towards me ... Could it be a loose connector ? I've checked everything I can see that plugs in ( ie not soldered ) and it seems firm enough .

Thanks Chris

No probs.

Excellent the CP antennas are good, it avoids that issue of needing to keep them on the same plane.  I had another look it seemed like you got the interference when it was facing in all directions, so I think given you've got it pointing downwards we can reasonably rule that out.  I did have a telemetry radio that had a dicky solder joint on the antenna connector which caused me some grief, but I'd suggest you'd notice a loose antenna connector.  If you have spares of stuff you can try swapping them out, just to rule out a dodgy component but I'd be looking at trying the ferrite chokes first.  I'd start with some that you can just snap on (so you don't have to undo lots to get it to fit and yes double check all connections - I had correctly assumed you'd already tried that :-) ), I have several ferrite snap on's just in case I get interference.

Also check if the VTx signal line is near any power cables (such as those going to your ESC's, or other noisy devices such as SBEC's).  If it is then reroute it, or just hold it out a bit to see if that reduces the interference.

I'd expect it to do what it did when you are flying 125-150m away and have the odd tree getting in the way.  Otherwise it might flicker like that once every minute from some random bit of interference.  Just checking there wasnt any major power lines in the near vicinity?  I'm presuming you get the same reception at home as well as out and about.

Besides the MinimOSD / FPV Video giving you grief how are you liking the APM?  How does it compare to the Phantom?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2015, 02:18:22 PM


Besides the MinimOSD / FPV Video giving you grief how are you liking the APM?  How does it compare to the Phantom?

Chris

Haven't got the APM yet - this was the Phantom .. Am still waiting on motors and the APM to finish the Alien off properly ...
I'm going to strip down the Phantom 1 I bought the other day and give it a good clean - its got a bit of sand around the place .
Just ordered 2 Radiolink S-Bus receivers to try out .. hopefully I can use them on the Alien and the Phantom 1 ...
Gotta go find the FTD thingy now ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 08, 2015, 03:07:23 PM
Haven't got the APM yet - this was the Phantom .. Am still waiting on motors and the APM to finish the Alien off properly ...
I'm going to strip down the Phantom 1 I bought the other day and give it a good clean - its got a bit of sand around the place .
Just ordered 2 Radiolink S-Bus receivers to try out .. hopefully I can use them on the Alien and the Phantom 1 ...
Gotta go find the FTD thingy now ...

Wow just learnt something new, I didn't realise you could use a MinimOSD on a Phantom, it makes sense though, all it needs is MavLink data which the can Phantom pump out.

I'm using S-BUS at present on the Tricopter (happened that two of my orangeRX happen to have it), I like it so far.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2015, 03:39:18 PM
Wow just learnt something new, I didn't realise you could use a MinimOSD on a Phantom, it makes sense though, all it needs is MavLink data which the can Phantom pump out.

I'm using S-BUS at present on the Tricopter (happened that two of my orangeRX happen to have it), I like it so far.

Chris
Yep, you load different firmware. Some functions available from the APM telemetry port are not available on the Phantom.

Chris, what are you using the S-bus port for?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 08, 2015, 03:51:43 PM
I'll try the firmware upgrade - I have an FTD USB thing around here someplace ...

I use the mini circular polarised antennae - The receiver is vertical and the transmitter is pointing straight down - I guess sometimes the gimbal would be in the way of direct line of sight but only when the Phantom is flying towards me ... Could it be a loose connector ? I've checked everything I can see that plugs in ( ie not soldered ) and it seems firm enough .

Thanks Chris
I'd try bypassing the OSD first to diagnose where the problem is, just feed the video camera directly to the transmitter and see if that clears up the problem with the video. If the problem is still there, then it is almost definitely EMI interfering with the video signal. If so, use a toroid as suggested by Chris, and try some of that EMI tape, but wrap the wire with spiral wrap or mesh wrap to make sure that nothing conductive touches the EMI tape.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 08, 2015, 05:12:33 PM
This is the OSD
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6535416229.html?orderId=66183809588660 (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6535416229.html?orderId=66183809588660) Its a Remzibi made for Phantoms .
I'll try FPV with it and see if I get stable video if thats OK then I'll give the FTD a try ...
Cheers guys .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 12:17:04 AM
Yep, you load different firmware. Some functions available from the APM telemetry port are not available on the Phantom.

Chris, what are you using the S-bus port for?

The Pixhawk only takes in either CPPM or S-BUS.  From the R800x it outputs S-BUS so that I can get N number of channels on one connection - just like CPPM, the good news is that with SBUS you don't have the limitations of only 8 channels (if you are lucky).  I think the 9XR will output upto 16 channels (although you'd be running out of switches).  Because the Pixhawk decodes it, I don't need SBUS servo's or anything like that on the output.

It was a lucky find as that's why I ordered the lemon rx as I needed CPPM or S-BUS.  I just didn't realise I have two receivers already that could output S-BUS.  I'm still yet to use the Lemon Rx, I think I'll pop it onto the mini quad and move the R615x's to the bixler.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 09:01:23 AM
I'll try the firmware upgrade - I have an FTD USB thing around here someplace ...

I use the mini circular polarised antennae - The receiver is vertical and the transmitter is pointing straight down - I guess sometimes the gimbal would be in the way of direct line of sight but only when the Phantom is flying towards me ... Could it be a loose connector ? I've checked everything I can see that plugs in ( ie not soldered ) and it seems firm enough .

Thanks Chris

Hi Steve,

I forgot one additional thing to try that is quick and easy.  Some people just find the location/s they are flying just have bad interference and it can be as easy as changing the channel to see if that eliminates it.

I'd try:
1. Change Channel
2. Direct connect to remove the OSD out of the equation
3. Then all the other stuff

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 10:58:39 AM
Hi Mark,

Did you end up getting the optical flow sensor?  I'm considering it but I'm reading that people aren't finding it all that good?  It seemed so promising.  I'm thinking of trying the pulsed light lidar instead, but of course it wont help with lateral position holding, only vertical.

Hoping to get a view from someone who has one.


Just worked out that the people getting mixed views are using the PX4 flight stack on the pixhawk, APM 2.x/3.x wont run it.  APM running on Pixhawk still doesnt support it either, due for AC3.3.

Not to worry, still working out if I'll bother with it.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 09, 2015, 11:53:22 AM
My APM 2.6 or 7 turned up today -- Just playing with mission planner ...
Very interesting !!! I guess it means I have to take a tablet or laptop with me now !!

Having a bit of trouble with Compass calibration - I only get 3 hits and it doesn't record anymore after that ....

Checked the Phantom FPV/OSD thing and it works really well at home ( not flying )
So I will wait until I can get it in the air again and see if that was just local interference at Yarrawonga ??
Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 12:25:49 PM
My APM 2.6 or 7 turned up today -- Just playing with mission planner ...
Very interesting !!! I guess it means I have to take a tablet or laptop with me now !!

Having a bit of trouble with Compass calibration - I only get 3 hits and it doesn't record anymore after that ....

Checked the Phantom FPV/OSD thing and it works really well at home ( not flying )
So I will wait until I can get it in the air again and see if that was just local interference at Yarrawonga ??
Steve

Hi Steve,

No need to take the tablet with you, but I do use my phone to record my telemetry data.  Once you move to automated missions, then yes a tablet or Notebook is a must.

On the compass calibration, it will matter if you have a 2.6 or a 2.7.  On the 2.7 you need to get the jumper pins correct for if you are using an external compass (see earlier discussions between Crisp Image, myself and Mark).  The calibration takes a lot less than it did before, the other thing you can do is turn compass learning on as a parameter.   That way it will learn as time goes on.  I had it turned on and initially caused me some grief but later on it was good.  I think the 2.5/6 didn't have an internal compass from memory.

When you do the calibration do you see the sphere and coloured or white dots?  Are you only getting 3 coloured dots?  It should go up to 60 seconds, unless it thinks it's got enough data.  You should get 3 compass offsets at the end (x, y, z), what are those values, we can tell you if they look normal or are way out.  The other thing is it getting the heading correct now?  And when you rotate does it maintain the correct heading?  That is the best test :-)  Also dont forget to do the Motor Compass calibration too.

On the interference, did you try it with the motors going?  You could be getting noise from them.  You can try it by tying it down at home and see what happens.  If it is the park you were at I'd try changing the channel to see if that gets rid of it.  Yarrawonga, one of my Aunts lives there, looks like a nice place.  Someone might be naughty and have a 5.8GHz wifi link that's higher output than is legal, or any number of other possible reasons.  I reckon changing the channel will be the simple fix if it's not the esc's / motors causing a dirty signal - usually is for local interference.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 09, 2015, 12:44:20 PM
My APM 2.6 or 7 turned up today -- Just playing with mission planner ...
Very interesting !!! I guess it means I have to take a tablet or laptop with me now !!

Having a bit of trouble with Compass calibration - I only get 3 hits and it doesn't record anymore after that ....

Checked the Phantom FPV/OSD thing and it works really well at home ( not flying )
So I will wait until I can get it in the air again and see if that was just local interference at Yarrawonga ??
Steve
Tablet and OnTheGo (OTG) cable are very handy for making on the flight line changes to the config.

Compass calibration can be a pain, but here is what I do with good success rate.

Hold quad level, spin quad along tail to nose axis. Spin quad 180 degrees from original position and repeat
Hold quad nose up, spin quad along tail to nose axis.
Hold quad nose down, spin quad along tail to nose axis
Hold quad level, spin quad along left right axis several times. Rotate quad 90 degrees while level and repeat until facing in same position that you started.

If you can't get it to calibrate using this I'd be very surprised.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 09, 2015, 01:42:33 PM
Managed to get compass cal done with GPS module attached.. got the sphere and 1300 odd hits.. all good now..
Shall try to mount it on the alien
Later on .. still waiting on the DYS motors to finish it...
Oh yeah gotta work out where and how to connect in the fpv camera (assuming I can still have one with the osd 915mhz transmitter ) YouTube is my new APM friend...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 09, 2015, 01:45:59 PM
Managed to get compass cal done with GPS module attached.. got the sphere and 1300 odd hits.. all good now..
Shall try to mount it on the alien
Later on .. still waiting on the DYS motors to finish it...
Oh yeah gotta work out where and how to connect in the fpv camera (assuming I can still have one with the osd 915mhz transmitter ) YouTube is my new APM friend...
I've done the calibration in as little as 400.

Yep you can use an FPV camera, minimOSD and 915mhz telemetry transmitter all at the same time.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 01:50:27 PM
Managed to get compass cal done with GPS module attached.. got the sphere and 1300 odd hits.. all good now..
Shall try to mount it on the alien
Later on .. still waiting on the DYS motors to finish it...
Oh yeah gotta work out where and how to connect in the fpv camera (assuming I can still have one with the osd 915mhz transmitter ) YouTube is my new APM friend...

I'm thinking you have 2.6 without an internal compass, that is why you most likely had that trouble either that or you have a 2.7 but the jumper was set to external.

You can use both OSD and 915MHz telemetry radio, you need a Y cable.  Basically it will connect to the telemetry port, then all four wires go to the telmetry radio and 3 lines are spliced off to MinimOSD (APM's Tx - MinimsOSD's Rx, +5V and GND).  Hopefully you have the Y cable in your kit otherwise it wont take long, just use a 6P connector (2.54 pitch) for the minim and your set.

Youtube is very handy!

Let us know if you need any pics of stuff that we have setup.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 01:52:40 PM
I've done the calibration in as little as 400.

Yep you can use an FPV camera, minimOSD and 915mhz telemetry transmitter all at the same time.

I agree its very straight forwards on AC3.2+, barely had to move it around the 3 axis's.  Steve, you should have tried it when we were using 3.1.5, damn it was annoying.  Had to rotate that thing for ages and ages.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 09, 2015, 01:57:01 PM
I like mission planner . Google maps and orange directional indicator line and the level window.. so cool !!!
How do you connect to phone for viewing ? I have android and no standard USB port ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 02:34:45 PM
I like mission planner . Google maps and orange directional indicator line and the level window.. so cool !!!
How do you connect to phone for viewing ? I have android and no standard USB port ?

You'll need an OTG cable, it will take it from the Micro and give you a female USB cable to plug in to, didnt your telemetry radio come with an OTG cable?  The HK ones did (micro to micro OTG cable), cant remember if the GLB one did....

When you connect the OTG cable with the telemetry radio installed it will ask which app you want to launch, choose the app then click on connect.  Dont try to open the app first and then connect, need to get the plug in event to kick off the app.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 09, 2015, 02:39:34 PM
All that came with the radio gear was the connecion cable to the APM and another 4 pin micro to 6 pin micro - dunno what that's for ...
Actually I might have one from one of my cameras ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 03:12:05 PM
All that came with the radio gear was the connecion cable to the APM and another 4 pin micro to 6 pin micro - dunno what that's for ...
Actually I might have one from one of my cameras ...


Ah, sounds like you've got the V1 of the telemetry radios, I've got 4 V2, 2 V1's and 2 RFDesign telemetry radios (All 915-928Mhz).

I'm guessing one of the radios has a full size usb connector and the other has 2.54 header pins.  Yep you'll need to do up a Y cable for the OSD, easiest way is to pop the pins out of the 6P connector and snip them and replace them with new pins which have a piggy back for the 3 lines you are after.

http://api.viglink.com/api/click?format=go&jsonp=vglnk_14285560927188&key=8a24c98a696b4e5723db293f62190b87&libId=i89pegpd010004o4000DAfg49uxs1&loc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rcgroups.com%2Fforums%2Fshowthread.php%3Ft%3D1795674%26page%3D2&v=1&out=http%3A%2F%2Fs243.photobucket.com%2Fuser%2Fpeerke1987a%2Fmedia%2FAPMDiagram.png.html&ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com.au%2F&title=APM%202.5%2C%20MinimOSD%20and%20telemetry%20and%20without%20telemetry%20-%20Page%202%20-%20RC%20Groups&txt=This%20image%20has%20been%20resized.%20Click%20this%20bar%20to%20view%20the%20full%20image.%20The%20original%20image%20is%20sized%201024x464. (http://api.viglink.com/api/click?format=go&jsonp=vglnk_14285560927188&key=8a24c98a696b4e5723db293f62190b87&libId=i89pegpd010004o4000DAfg49uxs1&loc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rcgroups.com%2Fforums%2Fshowthread.php%3Ft%3D1795674%26page%3D2&v=1&out=http%3A%2F%2Fs243.photobucket.com%2Fuser%2Fpeerke1987a%2Fmedia%2FAPMDiagram.png.html&ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com.au%2F&title=APM%202.5%2C%20MinimOSD%20and%20telemetry%20and%20without%20telemetry%20-%20Page%202%20-%20RC%20Groups&txt=This%20image%20has%20been%20resized.%20Click%20this%20bar%20to%20view%20the%20full%20image.%20The%20original%20image%20is%20sized%201024x464.)

Has a good diagram of what I'm suggesting (they splice into the line in the diagram, it can be done at either the middle, or at either end).

OTG cable that comes with the V2 radios looks like this:
http://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/n-nr1m3w/lspvbs/products/478/images/2175/M_HK_PilotTransceiverTelemetryRadio915Mhz001__26830.1424408066.220.220.jpg?c=2 (http://cdn2.bigcommerce.com/n-nr1m3w/lspvbs/products/478/images/2175/M_HK_PilotTransceiverTelemetryRadio915Mhz001__26830.1424408066.220.220.jpg?c=2)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 09, 2015, 03:20:46 PM
By the looks of that diagram the camera has its own OSD and transmitter setup ??
The current transmitter just plugs into the Telemetry socket ( I assume I can't just tap the video feed into this as I won't be able to see it in mission planner ? )
So I think I'll keep it simple for now and worry about FPV / OSD after I get the Alien airborne ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 03:35:41 PM
By the looks of that diagram the camera has its own OSD and transmitter setup ??
The current transmitter just plugs into the Telemetry socket ( I assume I can't just tap the video feed into this as I won't be able to see it in mission planner ? )
So I think I'll keep it simple for now and worry about FPV / OSD after I get the Alien airborne ...

Single connection to APM, the wires out of the APM then go to both the OSD (minus the TX line from the OSD) and Telemetry (all four lines).  It's very easy to do.  You can just jut the wires and make it like the diagram or you can do it at the end that plugs into the telemetry radio.  I'll take a pic of mine when I get home from work, I've done a few home made versions as well as the HK versions.

But if your keen to go for a fly I'd go with your suggestion.  The cable should only take you 15 to 20 mins to do up, it can wait till after your first flight with the APM.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 06:52:35 PM
Hi,

Very impressed with HobbyKing.  I was sent the wrong item by the international warehouse, I was getting a bit annoyed as my RMA wasnt progressing so I hit the live chat and explained the issue to them.  They came back with yes we'll send out the right item, and did I want to buy the item that was sent by mistake.  I explained that I'd be happy to keep them and pay $1 for each of the items (so $3) as I have no immediate need for the wrong clamps.  They asked me to offer a price and I simply said well I'll lowball you and I was upfront about it with them, I pushed the line I had no immediate requirement for them (which is true).  After a minute, they came back with, how about I just keep the items for free (and still get my right items).  I agreed that was the best solution and that they have a happy customer again.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 09, 2015, 07:09:59 PM
Hi,

Very impressed with HobbyKing.  I was sent the wrong item by the international warehouse, I was getting a bit annoyed as my RMA wasnt progressing so I hit the live chat and explained the issue to them.  They came back with yes we'll send out the right item, and did I want to buy the item that was sent by mistake.  I explained that I'd be happy to keep them and pay $1 for each of the items (so $3) as I have no immediate need for the wrong clamps.  They asked me to offer a price and I simply said well I'll lowball you and I was upfront about it with them, I pushed the line I had no immediate requirement for them (which is true).  After a minute, they came back with, how about I just keep the items for free (and still get my right items).  I agreed that was the best solution and that they have a happy customer again.

Chris
Ah, but you haven't got the correct item yet  >:D >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 09, 2015, 07:29:25 PM
Ah, but you haven't got the correct item yet  >:D >:D

LOL, very true, I can only hope they don't stuff up a 2nd time.  Good news is that if they do stuff up again then I'm okay, because I can use the half I need out of the 1st stuffed up order combined with the half from the new stuffed up order will make one good order.  The clamps they sent where supposed to be flush mount both sides, but they sent the flush fit on side and semi circle on the other side.  So I'm covered either way (although I'll be down some bolts) :cheers:

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 10, 2015, 08:52:11 PM
Ok - decided to fit the APM to my F450 instad of the Alien ... So its up and working -
One of the youtubes I watched said motors are not 1,2,3,4  going round the aircraft but 1,2 on a diagonal and 3,4 on the other diagonal ... Do that sound right guys ?

I haven't tried to lift off yet  - I will try a tethered lift off tomorrow to see if the motors work as they should for pitch roll and yaw ..

Mission planner looks good - have successfully armed the motors ...

How do I set Failsafe RTL when transmitter goes off ?? Can't seem to find that option in Mission Planner ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 10, 2015, 09:23:21 PM
Ok - decided to fit the APM to my F450 instad of the Alien ... So its up and working -
One of the youtubes I watched said motors are not 1,2,3,4  going round the aircraft but 1,2 on a diagonal and 3,4 on the other diagonal ... Do that sound right guys ?

I haven't tried to lift off yet  - I will try a tethered lift off tomorrow to see if the motors work as they should for pitch roll and yaw ..

Mission planner looks good - have successfully armed the motors ...

How do I set Failsafe RTL when transmitter goes off ?? Can't seem to find that option in Mission Planner ..


On the motors, yes it is diagonals for quads so motor 1 and 2 are CCW and 3 and 4 are CW.  Note that when you use the motor test it refers to them as A, B, C, D and it goes clockwise from the front  right motor.

http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/initial-setup/motor-setup/ (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/initial-setup/motor-setup/)

Did the props spin when you armed?  If not I recommend turning up the MIN SPIN value so they just spin.

Goto Mandatory Hardware and Failsafes (when you are connected).  Check that when you have the transmitter off that your throttle channel drops (the RX needs to have this capability).  Also on the right and side you'll see an option for failsafe options.  In the drop down list select either RTL or LAND.  I switch between enabled - LAND and enabled - RTL, although with some of the stuff I'm doing I disable it from time to time too.  I recommend for your first time use the land option, just incase there are issues with the GPS (dicky connector, area is glitchy, etc....)

You'll find the ardupilot site is really useful, I am constantly referring back to it.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 11, 2015, 07:01:27 PM
Yay, finally got to take the Tri for a fly today!!  I can say that firstly the issue issue with the tail wagging is gone, it seems it was down to the servo I was using.  The one I've got in there now is great, bad news is that I only have the one (as I killed one today) and HK no longer sell them.  I'll have to check out the model number and see if I can find them elsewhere.  I have a few others on the way, which should be just as good, but this one is perfect.

Holy cow the 3 axis gimbal is perfect (using Alexmos 32 bit controller), the footage I took was so stable its not funny.  I'll work on a small clip tonight so you can see how much better it is.  Only issue I have is that I have to use a cable tie in my FPV camera to make sure it centers properly.  Once I get a few hours of no crash flying I'll put the gopro on there and try some 2.7K and 4.3K footage.

I cant wait for my 15inch CF props to arrive, it appears that I'm using a lot more power than I thought on the 12in props.  It is averaging around 17A, so about 4-5A higher than estimated.  I did get a good 12 min flight out of my 4s 4000mah battery, the 15 inch should drop that right down.  No issue with power, when I hit 85% throttle it accelerates faster than my mini quad does.  I'm also keen to switch over to the round tubes for the arms, the square poltruded arms are just too fragile, I damaged one in transit and I had to return home to replace it.  Hoping HK stuff up package should arrive next week, fingers crossed, it has the mounts for the round tubes.

If the weather keeps like this there will be some more flying tomorrow!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 11, 2015, 07:21:26 PM
Well I got the F450 with APM off the deck ... RTL works !!  As it went straight into failsafe zoomed to 30 metres then came down and landed about a metre from where it took off !!
However I have no idea why it went into failsafe ...
SO - I went home and tried some mission planner changes - took it out again and this time it was surging - no gentle throttle control from the transmitter -
SO - I went home and put it on the "MAYBE LATER SHELF" ...
Took out the Phantom 1 I bought and got it ready for me - removed the iOSD , H3-2D , and some other crap ( GPS and compass ) - mounted a new GPS on the roof and plugged it into
the PC and got Naza all configured along with my Radiolink controller - Will screw the lid on tomorrow and take it for a test failsafe flight .. no camera and no OSD yet ...

So both F450 and Alien are shelved for now - The alien will be built with Naza Lite ( now M ) and the new DYS motors when they arrive - initially will try the Emax 4in1 again - If I can't
figure that out with the Emax programmer I now have then I'll put 4 ESCs in it and hope for the best ...

If anyone wants a H3-2D gopro gimbal let me know as I have no use for it ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 11, 2015, 07:22:51 PM
While you lot are playing i am suffering my way through holiday having to read all this stuff. Only another 3 weeks away then home.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 11, 2015, 07:23:56 PM
Well I got the F450 with APM off the deck ... RTL works !!  As it went straight into failsafe zoomed to 30 metres then came down and landed about a metre from where it took off !!
However I have no idea why it went into failsafe ...
SO - I went home and tried some mission planner changes - took it out again and this time it was surging - no gentle throttle control from the transmitter -
SO - I went home and put it on the "MAYBE LATER SHELF" ...
Took out the Phantom 1 I bought and got it ready for me - removed the iOSD , H3-2D , and some other crap ( GPS and compass ) - mounted a new GPS on the roof and plugged it into
the PC and got Naza all configured along with my Radiolink controller - Will screw the lid on tomorrow and take it for a test failsafe flight .. no camera and no OSD yet ...

So both F450 and Alien are shelved for now - The alien will be built with Naza Lite ( now M ) and the new DYS motors when they arrive - initially will try the Emax 4in1 again - If I can't
figure that out with the Emax programmer I now have then I'll put 4 ESCs in it and hope for the best ...

If anyone wants a H3-2D gopro gimbal let me know as I have no use for it ...

Hi,

Shoot me the Dataflash log from the APM and I'll let you know why it went into failsafe.  Just connect via USB and download the dataflash log from the flight data panel in mission planner.

Chris

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 11, 2015, 07:25:13 PM
Hi,

Shoot me the Dataflash log from the APM and I'll let you know why it went into failsafe.  Just connect via USB and download the dataflash log from the flight data panel in mission planner.

Chris

Chris
If I can find it will do - thanks mate ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 11, 2015, 07:25:33 PM
While you lot are playing i am suffering my way through holiday having to read all this stuff. Only another 3 weeks away then home.
Crispy

LOL, you should have taken one with you  :laugh:  I reckon if you tried that you'd be coming home without a wife.....

Just to make it worse we'll post some video later for you to look at too, just to make you feel better  >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 11, 2015, 11:46:03 PM
If I can find it will do - thanks mate ...


No probs, we are all here to help each other out.

Here's a help page on how to do it:  http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/common-downloading-and-analyzing-data-logs-in-mission-planner/#downloading_logs_via_mavlink (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/common-downloading-and-analyzing-data-logs-in-mission-planner/#downloading_logs_via_mavlink)

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 01:16:41 AM
Video of the Motor and Gimbal test has been uploaded:
Emax MT3515 Motor Test (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=349yOpFHBAg#ws)

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 12, 2015, 01:18:19 AM
Are these the Emax's Chris?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 01:28:31 AM
If anyone wants a H3-2D gopro gimbal let me know as I have no use for it ...

You sure you wont want to put it on one of your future purchases?

If you don't want it I have a possible need in a few months for another gimbal for a competition I'm thinking of entering.  How much are you thinking?  If someone else has a need right now, then I'd give them priority.


Didnt realise that the input is only via a DJI CAN BUS, which is incompatible with the Pixhawk CAN BUS.  Guess it will be up for someone else then.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 02:00:47 AM
Are these the Emax's Chris?

You bet they are (MT3515's with 12x5.5 CF props - still waiting for my 15 inch props), very nice little motors I have to say.  I'm one very happy customer so far.

Will know how they really are after I put 10 hours on them.  The DT750's seem to get a couple of hours on them and then become inconsistent (ie: fail).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 12, 2015, 07:22:31 AM
Crispy is gunna cry in his weeties when he sees that video..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 12, 2015, 07:54:26 AM
Internet is too slow to watch the video here. I might have to wait til I get to PARIS tomorrow to watch it. Oh life is hard.
Regards
Crispy.


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 01:44:27 PM
Internet is too slow to watch the video here. I might have to wait til I get to PARIS tomorrow to watch it. Oh life is hard.
Regards
Crispy.


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Sounds tough, someone had to do it.  I think they have a ban on drones at the Paris landmarks, so you wouldn't have been able to use one there.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 12, 2015, 03:02:26 PM
Here's the beast thats giving me grief ... finally got all together as I like it ...
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/4528e42a9c9aa6cdf8860e666c9fcafa.jpg)

These are the new tri-blades -they got a little bent in the post !! BUT they spin out nice and flat .. can't see any vibration - Brand name on them is A-MEN - hope that's not an O_MEN !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 04:04:32 PM
Another quick session today, I finally think I have a well matched system.  The EMAX MT3515's are just the right motor for this, just need those 15 inch CF props to arrive to improve the efficiency, the gimbal is working nicely.

I took it for a spin in 50km/h gusts today (I'd say that was with 15-20km/h sustained wind), man it had to work hard on those gusts but it stayed in the air, only once did it have some trouble.  The gimbal did a brilliant job, you'd think it was a calm day from it's footage, only the props going up and down give the true picture.  I am a big fan of the Alexmos 32bit gimbal (with two IMU's), only annoying thing is that I have to occasionally adjust the camera yaw center position.

I did have some trouble with a telemetry radio, I have to see if it's fried or not, the antenna came loose and I didnt realise till I got home and I had no telemetry data, huge gaps in what it captured.  Lesson learnt, add this antenna to the checks that I do.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 06:28:30 PM
Here's the beast thats giving me grief ... finally got all together as I like it ...
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/4528e42a9c9aa6cdf8860e666c9fcafa.jpg)

These are the new tri-blades -they got a little bent in the post !! BUT they spin out nice and flat .. can't see any vibration - Brand name on them is A-MEN - hope that's not an O_MEN !!


Hi,

Looks good.

Just wondering why you went with 3 blades?  I understand they produce more lift for the same size but they also take more energy to turn.  Most that jump up to 3 bladed props do so because their frame cannot support a prop any bigger (eg: will hit there frame if they go from 5" to 6" props).  You generally get better efficiency by going up a prop size, if you are already at max prop size for the motor, the 3 bladed version may go over what it's able to do (saying this without knowing what motors you have on it).

I've got a few for the mini quad but haven't had a need to switch to them.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 12, 2015, 07:36:45 PM
Impulse buying - first ones I've seen with threaded fitting .. Haven't flown with them yet ... That might happen tomorrow ... If I can get the RTL business sorted ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 12, 2015, 11:50:45 PM
Impulse buying - first ones I've seen with threaded fitting .. Haven't flown with them yet ... That might happen tomorrow ... If I can get the RTL business sorted ...

Hi,

Ah, no probs, I've done that more than once :-(.

I just emailed you the results of my analysis.  Long answer in the email, short answer is you'll need to try a fresh battery (and if it was then you'll need to calibrate the power module).

If the batteries are all good and you don't have time to calibrate it then for the short term disable the battery failsafe (or change it to land rather than RTL).

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 13, 2015, 12:01:03 AM
Hi,

Ah, no probs, I've done that more than once :-(.

I just emailed you the results of my analysis.  Long answer in the email, short answer is you'll need to try a fresh battery (and if it was then you'll need to calibrate the power module).

If the batteries are all good and you don't have time to calibrate it then for the short term disable the battery failsafe (or change it to land rather than RTL).

Regards,

Chris
Great advice, also, 3DRobotics recommend a minimum 1000mAh per motor.
Title: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 13, 2015, 02:25:35 AM
Hi Chris,
So I am in Paris now and have watched the video. That gimbal is very good. You can see just how hard it has to work. All you have to do is get rid of the props in the pic and also the landing gear. I can see some self retractors coming here!
When I return i have to spend some cash on new batteries and some other gear but for now I am spending my cash on the holiday. We didn't spend all our GBP so may have some in reserve when we get home. Hopefully we don't spend all our euro as well. I still have a trip to the USA in July so my daughter can dance on Broadway so have to keep some cash for that.
Keep up the good work.
Regards
Crispy
Ps the photo is the view from our window.

Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/af904e6eab85352b6c822af166463b75.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 13, 2015, 08:09:55 AM
Interesting name for a Cafe - Le Voltigeur - means The Outfielder ??? Baseball connection ??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 13, 2015, 10:26:13 AM
Hi Chris,
So I am in Paris now and have watched the video. That gimbal is very good. You can see just how hard it has to work. All you have to do is get rid of the props in the pic and also the landing gear. I can see some self retractors coming here!
When I return i have to spend some cash on new batteries and some other gear but for now I am spending my cash on the holiday. We didn't spend all our GBP so may have some in reserve when we get home. Hopefully we don't spend all our euro as well. I still have a trip to the USA in July so my daughter can dance on Broadway so have to keep some cash for that.
Keep up the good work.
Regards
Crispy
Ps the photo is the view from our window.

Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/af904e6eab85352b6c822af166463b75.jpg)


Hi Crispy,

Just image how much better that picture would look from a quad looking down.... :-)

On the gimbal, I'm pretty happy with it so far.  Took a while but damn she's steady.  If you think it worked hard that day, the next was much worse, I had 50km/h gusts and it's still extremely steady.  I almost got blown to the ground one time (convinced it was localised wind shear).  I pulled the plug after just 1.5 packs, I just got it flying nicely I didn't want it back in the workshop too soon.

I use the KISS method when it comes to clearing the FOV.  The plan is to drop the gimbal another 2cm down, this will remove the props for 80% of the time.  The next change change once my CNC cut frame arrives is to switch to slightly shorter arms using round 22mm tube, this will remove them even more.  Lastly the landing gear is out too far, I'll move it closer in to the frame (using those clamps HK stuffed up on - I found a use for them) and put them out at an angle (to reclaim some stability when it's on the ground).  Should mean I'll see them only when I have the gimbal turned 90 degrees to the side and I bet I'll see the arms at the top as well.  Cant drop it too far, it will only just clear the grass with 2 cm drop.  Fingers crossed.

Good news is I start work extra early tomorrow (3am) so I should be able to get some flying in tomorrow if it's not raining or blowing a gale.  Have to get some sleep in there too.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on April 13, 2015, 01:03:28 PM
Does anyone have any recommendations for a reputable Sunnysky seller?

I've had a gutful of the NTMs I've got so I think I'll replace them with the X2212-980kv from Sunnysky if I can find somewhere to get them.

Any positive or negative experiences with Sunnysky?

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 13, 2015, 01:23:49 PM
Does anyone have any recommendations for a reputable Sunnysky seller?

I've had a gutful of the NTMs I've got so I think I'll replace them with the X2212-980kv from Sunnysky if I can find somewhere to get them.

Any positive or negative experiences with Sunnysky?

Goodluckbuy would be my recommendation, but get them via Aliexpress (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/1085370/search?SearchText=sunnysky) as the buyer protection offered on Aliexpress tends to keep the store more honest. My experience with dealing with Goodluckbuy and other stores directly is they generally charge more for postage, and miraculously the post is very slow at the exact moment you make the purchase on their website and the good money you spend on expedited postage is wasted. Whereas because of the buyer protection on Aliexpress, if it is legitimately late, you could potentially get your shipment for free.

I've not had any experience with Sunnysky, bit of a Emax fan myself with 2 quads and a tri all mounting Emax's. Have a chat with CBRK about his new Emax motors.

Low KV motors are more efficient due to being able to swing a bigger prop at lower RPM. I would not be so hung up on the 980kv notors, personally I would look for 600-700kv motors, these seem to be the motors of choice in regard size for tri-copters. And with only 3 motors, the outlay is not too bad.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 13, 2015, 02:24:42 PM
Goodluckbuy would be my recommendation, but get them via Aliexpress (http://www.aliexpress.com/store/1085370/search?SearchText=sunnysky) as the buyer protection offered on Aliexpress tends to keep the store more honest. My experience with dealing with Goodluckbuy and other stores directly is they generally charge more for postage, and miraculously the post is very slow at the exact moment you make the purchase on their website and the good money you spend on expedited postage is wasted. Whereas because of the buyer protection on Aliexpress, if it is legitimately late, you could potentially get your shipment for free.

I've not had any experience with Sunnysky, bit of a Emax fan myself with 2 quads and a tri all mounting Emax's. Have a chat with CBRK about his new Emax motors.

Low KV motors are more efficient due to being able to swing a bigger prop at lower RPM. I would not be so hung up on the 980kv notors, personally I would look for 600-700kv motors, these seem to be the motors of choice in regard size for tri-copters. And with only 3 motors, the outlay is not too bad.


I'd agree with Marschy on the way to buy the emax motors, worked for me.  Just be prepared to wait.....  Mine took around 3 weeks from memory (was a very long 3 weeks).  Same method for sunnysky should pan out too.

In terms of how I'm liking my new motors, I really like them, very solid, robust motor.  Very little vibrations coming through (my FPV cam has very few signs of vibration - none on the 3 axis gimbal :-) ).  Loving the T-Style props.  Unfortunately I've only just  had over one hour of flight time on them, so too soon to know for sure.  I should get to 10 hours over the next few weeks (I plan to fly for an hour or two tomorrow and then every couple of days after work).

In terms of sunnysky, they have a very good reputation, not quite a T-Motor or AVRoto but still not bad.

I've given up on HK motors, my DT750's are so flaky.  I can't even guarantee 10 or 20 hours of hassle free flying.....  They are for proof of concept stuff right now.

Having said that I do have some multistar elites which are still going strong after about 10 hours of use and a hard life (my miniquad has had a few accidents).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on April 13, 2015, 05:13:57 PM
Is there any difference in speed regarding lower kv motors? I don't really want to lose any outright speed if I can help it.

I did look at emax but I couldn't find a motors with the right specs. Their website isn't the best, unless you guys know of another site to use?

I'm was mainly looking at the same kv because I have a metric Sh!t load of 9" gemfan slow fly props and also some carbon e style ones on the way. Although the gemfans aren't really much good for any sort of hard flying - I had one fail the other day at full throttle. I should have known better as I had just been reading that they can't handle high RPMs and sure enough one blew apart. They seem to be ok for just cruising around though.

I checked the other 2 and one of them had fatigue in it as well.

I've been flying a heap over the last 3 weeks so I was getting a lot more confident both in my abilities and also the tri. It's been really good to have a good run of probably 30 batteries through it without any crashes or failures - up until now  ::)! I've been flying in a bit of wind too and handling it ok. I was really shy of any wind to start with but a lot more confident now.

I am planning to run FPV once I can afford it but at the moment I'm just LOS with no camera and I'm not planning on using any gimbals or doing much video work (other than just general flying) so I was going to stick with what was working for me but if you guys reckon a lower kv is the go maybe I should look at that?

I was actually looking at maybe going higher but only thinking about it. I'm running 4s too.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 13, 2015, 05:24:31 PM
Is there any difference in speed regarding lower kv motors? I don't really want to lose any outright speed if I can help it.

I did look at emax but I couldn't find a motors with the right specs. Their website isn't the best, unless you guys know of another site to use?

I'm was mainly looking at the same kv because I have a metric Sh!t load of 9" gemfan slow fly props and also some carbon e style ones on the way. Although the gemfans aren't really much good for any sort of hard flying - I had one fail the other day at full throttle. I should have known better as I had just been reading that they can't handle high RPMs and sure enough one blew apart. They seem to be ok for just cruising around though.

I checked the other 2 and one of them had fatigue in it as well.

I've been flying a heap over the last 3 weeks so I was getting a lot more confident both in my abilities and also the tri. It's been really good to have a good run of probably 30 batteries through it without any crashes or failures - up until now  ::)! I've been flying in a bit of wind too and handling it ok. I was really shy of any wind to start with but a lot more confident now.

I am planning to run FPV once I can afford it but at the moment I'm just LOS with no camera and I'm not planning on using any gimbals or doing much video work (other than just general flying) so I was going to stick with what was working for me but if you guys reckon a lower kv is the go maybe I should look at that?

I was actually looking at maybe going higher but only thinking about it. I'm running 4s too.
Hello Spartan,

It's not the RPM you should worry about, its the thrust. If you are going to get into FPV, this means adding more weight to your tricopter. As an example the 3515 Emax's Chris has just purchased produce 2.8 kg's of thrust. When you add in the other 2 motors you have a lift capability of 8.4 kg. If you are only pushing around 2 kg's with appropriately sized props, you will still get a fast tri-copter, but as you add your FPV gear and larger batteries you are going to need the thrust.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 13, 2015, 05:32:27 PM
Couple of good things today -

One I fixed the F450 failsafe problem thanks to Chris for interpretting the logfile - I'm still not happy with the throttle response its still VERY VERY strange there's a delay of seconds before
it goes up and or down - I'll check this better in an open paddock tomorrow if the wind stays away ..

Two - the flickering on my Phantom OSD appears to have been a loose pin in the transmitter power lead - So I removed it and put in a balance plug and it seems to be OK now - A flight test
will prove it - I also changed frequencies before I flicked the power lead and saw the transmitter LEDs go out !!

So a bit happier today --

Something I found out he other day - The fold down GPS stalks have a 3mm threaded screw hole in the base - So my Phantoms now have the antenna bases screwed to the top canopy/lid
of the body shell - A bit neater than the 3M tape I used before ...

OK back to beer o'clock now ..

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on April 13, 2015, 05:50:56 PM
Hello Spartan,

It's not the RPM you should worry about, its the thrust. If you are going to get into FPV, this means adding more weight to your tricopter. As an example the 3515 Emax's Chris has just purchased produce 2.8 kg's of thrust. When you add in the other 2 motors you have a lift capability of 8.4 kg. If you are only pushing around 2 kg's with appropriately sized props, you will still get a fast tri-copter, but as you add your FPV gear and larger batteries you are going to need the thrust.

Ok thanks for that.

Although I haven't weighed it, I'm pretty sure my tri would be battling to push 1kg as it is at the moment so finding something with enough thrust shouldn't be a problem!

For the fpv gear I'm thinking I'll go with a Mobius both for the FPV and also to record with. So only using 1 camera will save a bit of weight but possibly costing some reliability I guess. But that's all a long way down the track yet. I worked out that the FPV setup will cost me around $1k to get into with decent goggles and OSD. I'd rather buy something decent the first time that spend money on a screen or cheapy goggles only to have to upgrade in 6 months time.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 13, 2015, 10:24:37 PM
One I fixed the F450 failsafe problem thanks to Chris for interpretting the logfile - I'm still not happy with the throttle response its still VERY VERY strange there's a delay of seconds before
it goes up and or down - I'll check this better in an open paddock tomorrow if the wind stays away ..

No probs, I can most likely fix the next problem too :-)

It's your ESC's, they are most likely set to a soft start or super soft start.  If you have the ESC programming card you can modify them to be normal start.  Otherwise welcome to transmitter and ESC hell......  I think soft is 1 sec delay for full spin change and super soft is 2 sec delay for full spin change. 

Two - the flickering on my Phantom OSD appears to have been a loose pin in the transmitter power lead - So I removed it and put in a balance plug and it seems to be OK now - A flight test
will prove it - I also changed frequencies before I flicked the power lead and saw the transmitter LEDs go out !!

Great news!  Fingers crossed on the test flight.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 13, 2015, 10:55:46 PM
Is there any difference in speed regarding lower kv motors? I don't really want to lose any outright speed if I can help it.

I did look at emax but I couldn't find a motors with the right specs. Their website isn't the best, unless you guys know of another site to use?

I'm was mainly looking at the same kv because I have a metric Sh!t load of 9" gemfan slow fly props and also some carbon e style ones on the way. Although the gemfans aren't really much good for any sort of hard flying - I had one fail the other day at full throttle. I should have known better as I had just been reading that they can't handle high RPMs and sure enough one blew apart. They seem to be ok for just cruising around though.

I checked the other 2 and one of them had fatigue in it as well.

I've been flying a heap over the last 3 weeks so I was getting a lot more confident both in my abilities and also the tri. It's been really good to have a good run of probably 30 batteries through it without any crashes or failures - up until now  ::)! I've been flying in a bit of wind too and handling it ok. I was really shy of any wind to start with but a lot more confident now.

I am planning to run FPV once I can afford it but at the moment I'm just LOS with no camera and I'm not planning on using any gimbals or doing much video work (other than just general flying) so I was going to stick with what was working for me but if you guys reckon a lower kv is the go maybe I should look at that?

I was actually looking at maybe going higher but only thinking about it. I'm running 4s too.

There is some thought that a smaller prop is quicker to change in RPM, so that a faster RPM with a smaller prop will change more quickly than a larger prop.

Remember safety first, always check stuff, develop a process you are happy to follow, whatever works just make sure you check stuff.  I got mine down to just bearing failures of the motors.

I have to say by the sounds of it you are after an all rounder to putter around with the odd burst speed.  4s on a 9x4.x should be fine on the motors your looking at.  It is a good match, it will allow for some nimble flying.  You also have to look at the weight being put on the arms, the more weight then the more momentum, so putting 75g vs 150g might be worthwhile.  I would say give the sunny sky's a go, they have a good rep.

In terms of an emax MT motor to match, your right they don't seem to have something that matches nicely to the propellers you are using.  Props are cheap anyway, plus now you are at a point where you don't crash unless you push it you might want to consider some CF props - changing props would open up some of there motors to you.  I encountered this when I was looking, I decided the bigger motors as I was pushing 1.3kg at the time and only going upwards.  I now sit at 1.8/1.9kg as an AUW, so pretty heavy now.  I'm getting great lift out of the MT3515 and I'm still yet to try 15" CF props (should be here tomorrow).

I would recommend to stick with the kV range you have, if you were lifting heavier weights I'd say yep go for the lower kV motors.  If I was moving only 1kg to 1.2kg then all you need really is an efficient lift of 400g per motor.  But if you do switch props, then I'd consider changing down to a 750-1000 kV motor - maybe the Emax MT2216 with 10x3.8 or 10x4.5 would be a good match, 12A for 1.3kg of lift, with a max lift of 3.2kg which is more than the x2 rule of thumb.

Although I haven't weighed it, I'm pretty sure my tri would be battling to push 1kg as it is at the moment so finding something with enough thrust shouldn't be a problem!

For the fpv gear I'm thinking I'll go with a Mobius both for the FPV and also to record with. So only using 1 camera will save a bit of weight but possibly costing some reliability I guess. But that's all a long way down the track yet. I worked out that the FPV setup will cost me around $1k to get into with decent goggles and OSD. I'd rather buy something decent the first time that spend money on a screen or cheapy goggles only to have to upgrade in 6 months time.

My tri started out lean but quickly grew in weight, that was the plan.  I think my AUW when I started was sub 1kg (just).  Note that for FPV the mobius has a slight lag, on my mini quad I have both a security camera and a mobius.  So if you are proximity flying then the mobius will let you down I feel (it's about 50-100ms from what I can tell).  Its great on actual footage to review afterward, good quality for a decent price.

FPV and OSD you should be able to get away with for less, I've assumed 5.8Ghz gear.

Mobius   - $80
Mobius Live out - $5
FPV TX   - $35
OSD       - $20 (if you are not using an APM, then this will be more....)
Googles - $350-400 (good ones will come with a basic RX, if not then add $20-30)
Good Antennas - $40 (both Tx and Rx - dont skimp on this, even cheap CP's will vastly improve the quality)
Misc wires - $10

Expect the tri to get about 100g to 150g fatter :-)

You should have a lot of change from 1K.  I recommend to keep it simple.

Regards

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on April 14, 2015, 03:18:01 AM

I have to say by the sounds of it you are after an all rounder to putter around with the odd burst speed.  4s on a 9x4.x should be fine on the motors your looking at. 

Yep that's pretty much it. Something to learn on and get a feel for FPV and see where I want to go in the hobby after that.

In terms of an emax MT motor to match, your right they don't seem to have something that matches nicely to the propellers you are using.  Props are cheap anyway, plus now you are at a point where you don't crash unless you push it you might want to consider some CF props - changing props would open up some of there motors to you.

 But if you do switch props, then I'd consider changing down to a 750-1000 kV motor - maybe the Emax MT2216 with 10x3.8 or 10x4.5 would be a good match, 12A for 1.3kg of lift, with a max lift of 3.2kg which is more than the x2 rule of thumb.

Aaahh damn you! I was just about to order a set of the SunnySkys but now I'm second guessing myself  ;D! The extra grunt would be nice but it would be an extra $20 for the order plus whatever a few of the 10" props would be. Decisions decisions.

 Note that for FPV the mobius has a slight lag, on my mini quad I have both a security camera and a mobius.  So if you are proximity flying then the mobius will let you down I feel (it's about 50-100ms from what I can tell).  Its great on actual footage to review afterward, good quality for a decent price.

Oh bugger. Sounds like I might have to look at a separate camera when the time comes.

FPV and OSD you should be able to get away with for less, I've assumed 5.8Ghz gear.

Mobius   - $80
Mobius Live out - $5
FPV TX   - $35
OSD       - $20 (if you are not using an APM, then this will be more....)
Googles - $350-400 (good ones will come with a basic RX, if not then add $20-30)
Good Antennas - $40 (both Tx and Rx - dont skimp on this, even cheap CP's will vastly improve the quality)
Misc wires - $10

You should have a lot of change from 1K.  I recommend to keep it simple.

That sounds much more respectable than 1K! I allowed a fair bit more for the OSD because I wanted something fairly plug and play but I haven't looked into it much so something like a Minim OSD might suit - I have no idea on that yet. I was going to go for a 5.8 600mw Tx too so that would cost a bit more and yes definitely will get some CP antennae
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 14, 2015, 05:09:11 AM
Note that for FPV the mobius has a slight lag, on my mini quad I have both a security camera and a mobius.  So if you are proximity flying then the mobius will let you down I feel (it's about 50-100ms from what I can tell).  Its great on actual footage to review afterward, good quality for a decent price.

Oh bugger. Sounds like I might have to look at a separate camera when the time comes.

Note that plenty of people fly with the mobius as their FPV camera, its only if you are flying like Charpu that you'll need to worry about it.  I reckon start with it and see how you go.  You can always buy a security camera later on.  They are cheap as.

MinimOSD will only work with particular flight controller boards (APM, MultiWii, etc), so if you are flying with a Naza or something like that it will hurt the pocket a bit more.

But if you do switch props, then I'd consider changing down to a 750-1000 kV motor - maybe the Emax MT2216 with 10x3.8 or 10x4.5 would be a good match, 12A for 1.3kg of lift, with a max lift of 3.2kg which is more than the x2 rule of thumb.

Aaahh damn you! I was just about to order a set of the SunnySkys but now I'm second guessing myself  ;D! The extra grunt would be nice but it would be an extra $20 for the order plus whatever a few of the 10" props would be. Decisions decisions.

LOL, I'm here to help  ;D  Sunnysky motors are a reasonable quality motor, but I'd most likely take the extra lift if you can.  If you think about it the props will be maybe $10 or $12 for several sets of 10"  props.  Whats the lift with the sunnysky motors on 10" props?  Might be something to consider if they are a little cheaper.  Sorry at work on an early morning change to a system (been here since 3:15am), do the sunnysky motors support the 3 hole CF style (t style) props?  From the pics I can access here it doesn't look like it?  Annoying proxy server getting in the way of seeing the pictures I need to see to know....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 14, 2015, 05:33:39 AM
Hi Spartan,

I've been doing some reading, I'd rethink the sunnysky X2212's on 4s, seems some people have had some overloading issues with 9" props.  The sunnysky X2216 might be worth a look or the emax's.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 14, 2015, 02:59:49 PM
Some stats from the newly arrived DYS 2212 - 920 Kv motors

By the looks of the below figures they are almost the same as the Multi 2212 - 920kv

Prop      Material   Type            Weight      Thrust Max

8" DJI   Plastic   8045   9gms      560gms
9" DJI   Plastic   9443   10gms      660gms
9" Unkn   CF           9443   14gms      540gms
9" Tri    Plastic   9045   16gms      630gms
10"Unkn   Plastic   1045   11gms      730gms

So the Alibaba 10" bolt on props win giving me a max lift off weight of 4 x 730gms = 2920 gms
with a hover of 50% Thrust - 1450gms upto 70% - 2044 gms should be my max total aircraft weight - Yes ???

So the Alien begins again very soon ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 14, 2015, 03:55:53 PM
Some stats from the newly arrived DYS 2212 - 920 Kv motors

By the looks of the below figures they are almost the same as the Multi 2212 - 920kv

Prop      Material   Type            Weight      Thrust Max

8" DJI   Plastic   8045   9gms      560gms
9" DJI   Plastic   9443   10gms      660gms
9" Unkn   CF           9443   14gms      540gms
9" Tri    Plastic   9045   16gms      630gms
10"Unkn   Plastic   1045   11gms      730gms

So the Alibaba 10" bolt on props win giving me a max lift off weight of 4 x 730gms = 2920 gms
with a hover of 50% Thrust - 1450gms upto 70% - 2044 gms should be my max total aircraft weight - Yes ???

So the Alien begins again very soon ...

Is that on 3s or 4s?  Hoping those figures are 3s.  Also any chance you got the current draw while capturing those?  Max lift may not be the best, it's good to get a balance.

It would be great to hear the alien has taken flight.

Chris


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 14, 2015, 03:59:18 PM
I don't have 4S yet only 3S -- Forgot to plug in the watty ... dammit .. I'll do it again its all setup ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 14, 2015, 04:07:45 PM
I don't have 4S yet only 3S -- Forgot to plug in the watty ... dammit .. I'll do it again its all setup ...
LOL, would have thought you'd have a few of them lying around Steve.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 14, 2015, 05:48:49 PM
Just built a new stand for the motor / blade tester .. Very different readings now - I'll have a full range done tomorrow now .. with Amps from my last remaining watty ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 14, 2015, 10:52:40 PM
Just built a new stand for the motor / blade tester .. Very different readings now - I'll have a full range done tomorrow now .. with Amps from my last remaining watty ...

We all love pics   :angel:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 14, 2015, 10:54:38 PM
Yep - it will be done tomorrow - bedtime for us old fogies now ... LOL

Here it is the new construbance - I get very different figures from this lever version - as it employs a lever it is probably more accurate but subject to Archimedes Rules of levers .. The balance point is 7" from the prop and 8" from the pressure point so pretty close to equal forces at both ends ( Mathematically a thrust of 8 will create a down pressure of 7 ) which means my figures are slightly lower than actual ..
But close enough for me ... LOL
Pics -- ( In a second gotta switch to tapatalk )
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/14/5a17d73ea9825d0fa3c1e1b7ad76076b.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/14/304563311d954e7e2bea9fb54c5b373d.jpg)
8" DJI 8045 Plastic 9gms - 740gms at 10 Amps
8" Tri 8045 Plastic 16gms - 860gms at 15 Amps !! 
9"DJI 9443 Plastic 10gms - 780 gms at 10 Amps
9" Unk 9443 carbon 14gms - 660gms at 8.4 Amps
9" Tri 9045 Plastic 17gms - 600gms at 10 Amps
10" Unk 1045 Plastic - 11gms - 840gms at 13.5 Amps !!
Weights on the 2 bolt ons now have the weight of the nut added in .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 15, 2015, 05:37:17 PM
Yep - it will be done tomorrow - bedtime for us old fogies now ... LOL

Here it is the new construbance - I get very different figures from this lever version - as it employs a lever it is probably more accurate but subject to Archimedes Rules of levers .. The balance point is 7" from the prop and 8" from the pressure point so pretty close to equal forces at both ends ( Mathematically a thrust of 8 will create a down pressure of 7 ) which means my figures are slightly lower than actual ..
But close enough for me ... LOL
Pics -- ( In a second gotta switch to tapatalk )
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/14/5a17d73ea9825d0fa3c1e1b7ad76076b.jpg)
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/14/304563311d954e7e2bea9fb54c5b373d.jpg)
8" DJI 8045 Plastic 9gms - 740gms at 10 Amps
8" Tri 8045 Plastic 16gms - 860gms at 15 Amps !! 
9"DJI 9443 Plastic 10gms - 780 gms at 10 Amps
9" Unk 9443 carbon 14gms - 660gms at 8.4 Amps
9" Tri 9045 Plastic 17gms - 600gms at 10 Amps
10" Unk 1045 Plastic - 11gms - 840gms at 13.5 Amps !!
Weights on the 2 bolt ons now have the weight of the nut added in .


Interesting design, I like it!  Is there a reason for not going symmetrical?  That way you wouldnt need to work out what the real figures are :-)  If you were into planes, you'd have one design flaw, you can't use it for pusher props.  Perfect though for multirotors as you can choose which prop you want to use.

I have another question question for you, have you looked the 50% throttle figures?  Reason I ask is that is where you will spend 80% of your time, you want to get as efficient as you can.  I've taken to doing a range of throttles, usually I start with my AUW and work out what it would take to hover at it (so 1.8 kg / 3 = 600g), that way you can find the prop combo that bests works for you, efficient use of power at hover and then what's my max, is it a 2:1 ratio?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 15, 2015, 06:19:20 PM
You can test pusher motors by mounting the motor upside down ... Plenty of room for up to 12" props -

Not too worried about the "actuals" what it measures will be good enough for l'il 'ol me ...

I was surprised by the 8045 tri-blade results ...

I'm a bit concerned with the DYS motors as they don't spin up on their own at the moment - I'm hoping that will change when
I mount them on an airframe as I'm only using a servo tester for these tests ...

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on April 15, 2015, 11:27:40 PM
Well I ended up ordering a set of the sunny x2212 before I read the last replies from you guys, so hopefully no overloading issues with them!

I'll definitely only be running 9" props as I'm only using 20a ESCs (another regret - should have gone with 30a) and a 10" prop will push the draw over 20a according to Sunnysky's data table thing.

Should only pull 15a or so at WOT with 9" props so plenty of head room..... I hope.

I'm sure you'll hear back from me if they end up being crap too!  ;D

Now to find a use for the 5 dodgy NTMs I'll have laying around. Might have to find a foamy or something to throw one on?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 16, 2015, 12:49:37 AM
You can test pusher motors by mounting the motor upside down ... Plenty of room for up to 12" props -

Not too worried about the "actuals" what it measures will be good enough for l'il 'ol me ...

I was surprised by the 8045 tri-blade results ...

I'm a bit concerned with the DYS motors as they don't spin up on their own at the moment - I'm hoping that will change when
I mount them on an airframe as I'm only using a servo tester for these tests ...

I like the design very simple and effective.

I'm a little surprised, I was expecting slightly higher amp draw.  The 3 blades provide excellent lift, but the at a high cost of Amp's, I think you'll find the results for the tri blade a little less desirable at the lower power (say 50%).  But I'm prepared to eat my words  ;D

Hmmm, that's not good, they should fire up on the servo tester.  Are you sure everything is connected right?  Do you have your ESC's set to play music on startup?  If so do they play it?  If not then I'd not be too concerned.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 16, 2015, 12:55:51 AM
I like the design very simple and effective.

I'm a little surprised, I was expecting slightly higher amp draw.  The 3 blades provide excellent lift, but the at a high cost of Amp's, I think you'll find the results for the tri blade a little less desirable at the lower power (say 50%).  But I'm prepared to eat my words  ;D

Hmmm, that's not good, they should fire up on the servo tester.  Are you sure everything is connected right?  Do you have your ESC's set to play music on startup?  If so do they play it?  If not then I'd not be too concerned.

Chris
Servo testers are not the best thing to use for testing motors. The PWM range of the servo tester may not cover the full PWM range of the ESC, so you may not get results reflective of the full capability of the ESC.

If you have a spare receiver, you are better off using that, and calibrate the ESC using the receiver. This will at least give you the full capability of the speed controller.

Don't calibrate the ESC using the servo tester, it often requires a factory reset of the ESC using a programming card to get it to be able to be calibrated again via a receiver.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 16, 2015, 01:30:32 AM
People like this give me the sh!ts. It's not hard to check what you are allowed to do or not as the case may be, regarding flying remote controlled aircraft. The problem is, they jeopardise the hobby for all of us.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2180331&page=1446#post31354597 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2180331&page=1446#post31354597)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 16, 2015, 11:02:55 AM
People like this give me the sh!ts. It's not hard to check what you are allowed to do or not as the case may be, regarding flying remote controlled aircraft. The problem is, they jeopardise the hobby for all of us.

http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2180331&page=1446#post31354597 (http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2180331&page=1446#post31354597)


I've come to accept that in life so many people don't think the rules apply to them.  Rules just don't need to be followed according to so many but when it affects them well that's different, there should have been rules to protect me...... Sigh.  What's worse is that they feel if they didn't know they shouldn't do it, then it shouldn't apply to them....  Really, wow......  I spend a few weeks with the NSW Police in the field and it was an eye opener.

I agree that some of the Quad Racers just don't care, I was particularly concerned when I saw cars actually driving around, so I can only guess that the woolies was open still.  It seems that very little risk assessing went into it, hence the reason why model ac arent allowed to fly at night.  Some are actually trying to put some safety measures in place and I applaud those people.

It was interesting the responses you got, well such and such was on TV so its ok.....  Is that really the way we do things now?  TV is our source of truth now?

These guys chose to fly in an open carpark at night, in clear violation of the CASAR Part 101:

Violations I observed:
101.390 - Operating model ac at night - 25 penalty points or 101.095 - also 25 penalty points.
101.395 - Keeping model ac away from people - 50 penalty points
101.055 - Hazardous operation prohibited (since he flew right a a car and then moved off to the side, it could be considered hazardous) - 50 penalty points

So that's max 125 points - or $21,590.  Honesty I would say CASA if they bothered and that's a big if, then they would only pursue the operating at night or too close to people and then only give a small component of that, so maybe $500 worth of a fine.  The guy in Queensland drew far to much attention to himself, also flew well beyond BVLOS if I'm remembering correctly.  That was a good outcome as he sold his gear, so got him out of the hobby all together.

I think you'll find that CASA will investigate if someone brings it to their attention - and dig further if needed, I have doubts they are trolling youtube specifically without someone pointing it out to them.  I know they'll say one thing and actually do another, its about perception.

The 30m rule is really hard to maintain - with kids and dogs, I start flying in a park up the road and it's empty.  Half way through I get kids arriving and it can be hard to keep them away as they don't understand the risks.  It is not odd for me to land and then go if I feel they won't listen, I try to share the park as much as I can.  In a recent video I had them about 20m away as that was the best I could do, they were sitting for me so it helped, strictly by the rules I could be in trouble, but I risk assessed it and landed when they started to move again, luckily the parents were really good and said, sorry kids time to go.  The way I look at it is that if I throw a prop it can easily travel 10-15m away (or further if I'm unlucky).  Now thats only happened twice (both times because I didn't go through the full checks) - I don't cut corners anymore it's not worth it.  Also I find it fun at SES we will often get people to stand 10m away from an object (it's out min safe distance for downed power lines) and wow people have such varied view of distance (and not in the safe direction).

Sadly it really boils down to education, like so many of our laws.  Sadly your attempt on RCgroups didn't go well.  I recently had someone ask well what is allowed on RCGroups.  When I replied I had the typical response of 'here we go again' from certain people.  Here was someone asking what is it, sure he could have searched but he asked, so I helped.  I now have a thread I can point people to if I get asked the same question.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 16, 2015, 11:08:04 AM
Servo testers are not the best thing to use for testing motors. The PWM range of the servo tester may not cover the full PWM range of the ESC, so you may not get results reflective of the full capability of the ESC.

If you have a spare receiver, you are better off using that, and calibrate the ESC using the receiver. This will at least give you the full capability of the speed controller.

Don't calibrate the ESC using the servo tester, it often requires a factory reset of the ESC using a programming card to get it to be able to be calibrated again via a receiver.

Agreed but it normally at least is enough to make them spin.....  If you want a full test then yes receiver is the way to go.  I know my test turnigy plush 18A ESC has a low of approx 950 and a high of approx 2000, so when using a servo tester I keep to those PWM ranges (it goes from 750 to 2300).

Yep, don't calibrate of them ever - not worth it.

I sometimes use my spare Tx and RX and sometimes I use the servo tester, depends what I'm doing.  Tx gives much more fine control. 

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 16, 2015, 11:20:42 AM
8" DJI 8045 Plastic 9gms - 740gms at 10 Amps
8" Tri 8045 Plastic 16gms - 860gms at 15 Amps !! 
9"DJI 9443 Plastic 10gms - 780 gms at 10 Amps
9" Unk 9443 carbon 14gms - 660gms at 8.4 Amps
9" Tri 9045 Plastic 17gms - 600gms at 10 Amps
10" Unk 1045 Plastic - 11gms - 840gms at 13.5 Amps !!
Weights on the 2 bolt ons now have the weight of the nut added in .

With only these figures I think the 9"DJI 9443 seem to be the winner, best bang for buck (or the most efficient), but you really need to get the hover throttle value to be sure.

I selected the MT3515's not only for their max capacity, but there high efficiency in the weight ranges I fly the Tricopter in.

I'm about to go through this exercise for a Competition I'm entering, but for two platforms of different types.

I picked up a parcel yesterday, had my 15" CF props, so I'll be doing some bench testing tonight  ;D  Will post some figures.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 16, 2015, 12:54:44 PM
I agree that some of the Quad Racers just don't care, I was particularly concerned when I saw cars actually driving around, so I can only guess that the woolies was open still.  It seems that very little risk assessing went into it, hence the reason why model ac arent allowed to fly at night.  Some are actually trying to put some safety measures in place and I applaud those people.
There is a definite 'Too Cool For School" attitude among some of the quad racers on the ZMR250 thread on rcgroups. This is reflected in the user names that some of them give themselves. I asked the 'fatcnt' user a while back where he shot a video as it looked like a good location, but just got a flippant response.

This particular video was shot in the Woodcroft shopping centre carpark, south of Adelaide.

He certainly has a very "couldn't give a sh!t" attitude to other people's property. If he had a 'flyaway' he could have injured people walking around the carpark, flown into vehicles, or damaged other property at the shopping centre.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 16, 2015, 12:55:49 PM
Here's a video of my DYS motor not spinning up ... What do you guys think ?

I've sent it to Banggood for them to advise ..

www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/motor problem .3gp (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/motor problem .3gp)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 16, 2015, 01:00:46 PM
Here's a video of my DYS motor not spinning up ... What do you guys think ?

I've sent it to Banggood for them to advise ..

www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/motor problem .3gp (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/motor problem .3gp)

Have you tried another ESC?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 16, 2015, 01:04:07 PM
Not yet - I have to put pins on the ESC so will try that later ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 16, 2015, 01:20:16 PM
Swapped a motor over onto the F450 and it spins straight away ... Thanks Mark - I should have done this myself earlier ...

So the Emax 4in1 is history ... Anyone want to play with it before I give it the heave ho ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on April 16, 2015, 01:24:34 PM
Swapped a motor over onto the F450 and it spins straight away ... Thanks Mark - I should have done this myself earlier ...

So the Emax 4in1 is history ... Anyone want to play with it before I give it the heave ho ...
I've always been wary of the 4in1 ESC's. They don't leave any room for redundancy and not many of the brands have spares. I think the Qbrain and Quanum 4in1's do, not sure about the Emax. Plus the room they take up leaves only a few options when installing. Single ESC's on the other hand are much more versatile.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 16, 2015, 02:16:09 PM
Updated figures for the 6 props --

Prop             Material   Type   Weight     Thrust Max                 Thrust 50%

8" DJI           Plastic      8045  9gms       740gms/10Amps         260gms/3.5Amps
8" Unkn Tri   Plastic      8045  16gms     860gms/15Amps         275gms/4.0Amps
9" DJI           Plastic      9443  10gms     780gms/10Amps         270gms/3.9Amps
9" Unkn        CF            9443  14gms     660gms/8.4Amps        260gms/3.5Amps
9" Tri            Plastic      9045   17gms     600gms/10Amps        270gms/3.5Amps
10"Unkn      Plastic      1045   11gms      840gms/13.5Amps     300gms/4.0Amps
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 16, 2015, 04:31:17 PM
Updated figures for the 6 props --

Prop             Material   Type   Weight     Thrust Max                 Thrust 50%

8" DJI           Plastic      8045  9gms       740gms/10Amps         260gms/3.5Amps
8" Unkn Tri   Plastic      8045  16gms     860gms/15Amps         275gms/4.0Amps
9" DJI           Plastic      9443  10gms     780gms/10Amps         270gms/3.9Amps
9" Unkn        CF            9443  14gms     660gms/8.4Amps        260gms/3.5Amps
9" Tri            Plastic      9045   17gms     600gms/10Amps        270gms/3.5Amps
10"Unkn      Plastic      1045   11gms      840gms/13.5Amps     300gms/4.0Amps

Hi,

Just my view, feel free to ignore or follow.  Others may have a differing view.

Is the Alien still around 1.6kg?  If so then you are going to need 400g / motor just to hover.  I think the 10" 10x4.5 are the best match in this case.  You'll be hovering at around 60% throttle, I reckon which is a little on the high side but should be ok as long you dont expect it to drive like a Ferrari.  Reason for not choosing the tri's blades is that you'll be spending a lot of your time in the 60% to 80% throttle range.  For a whole extra 20g of lift per motor you loose 1.5A (I'd say they'd use an extra .75A to 1A at 80% throttle), that will reduce your flight time and the extra 80g in the grand scheme of things will only be a mild help.

Good news is that at 840g / motor you get a 2:1 thrust ratio at 100% power!  Just where you want and need to be.

Hope it helps.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 16, 2015, 04:43:41 PM
There is a definite 'Too Cool For School" attitude among some of the quad racers on the ZMR250 thread on rcgroups. This is reflected in the user names that some of them give themselves. I asked the 'fatcnt' user a while back where he shot a video as it looked like a good location, but just got a flippant response.

This particular video was shot in the Woodcroft shopping centre carpark, south of Adelaide.

He certainly has a very "couldn't give a sh!t" attitude to other people's property. If he had a 'flyaway' he could have injured people walking around the carpark, flown into vehicles, or damaged other property at the shopping centre.

Yep there are some threads I figure I'll just stay out of, I rarely look at that one.  It's sad that they don't realise the implications of what they are doing, not only to them but to others.  If they can find a safe place to do it, ie indoors in a controlled location (ie: nets to keep people out).  I wonder how many of them have seen what a prop does to a person if they hit someone.  I bet if you ask them they'd say they were safe the other night at the woolies.  I strongly disagree with them, sadly laws are only followed by law abiding citizens and the rest just do what they and and complain when they get in trouble.

I remember the clip of the Canadian film / photography crew and then suddenly it flies in to the car in the car park.  People were claiming, oh there's no way that octo did that much damage to the car.  If I recall correctly, it wrote the car off, that's several thousands of dollars of damage.  Imagine if that was a person, it could be $100,000's in medical bills.

I bet he doesn't have public liability insurance for it, and if he does and I was the insurance provider, I'd be saying well we don't cover 'stupid', your on your own sunshine.  Then the poor person who was hit is out of pocket because he'll just declare bankruptcy.

His handle says it all, I wonder if he's just trying to get a rise out of people with the name or thinks he's clever.  You'd think the mod's would look at the name and go, hmmmm, you are trying to say something which people may find offensive, we should get that changed or suspended.

Unfortunately since the costs have come down more people are getting into it.  It is fun after all, it's just that they need to understand the local shops isnt the local racetrack.....

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 16, 2015, 06:59:53 PM
Hi,

Just my view, feel free to ignore or follow.  Others may have a differing view.

Is the Alien still around 1.6kg?  If so then you are going to need 400g / motor just to hover.  I think the 10" 10x4.5 are the best match in this case.  You'll be hovering at around 60% throttle, I reckon which is a little on the high side but should be ok as long you dont expect it to drive like a Ferrari.  Reason for not choosing the tri's blades is that you'll be spending a lot of your time in the 60% to 80% throttle range.  For a whole extra 20g of lift per motor you loose 1.5A (I'd say they'd use an extra .75A to 1A at 80% throttle), that will reduce your flight time and the extra 80g in the grand scheme of things will only be a mild help.

Good news is that at 840g / motor you get a 2:1 thrust ratio at 100% power!  Just where you want and need to be.

Hope it helps.

Chris

Just did a rough weigh of the Alien bits - 1.8 Kg... Without gimbal and camera it's around the 1.5 Kg mark - The 6 bandy legs might have to go in favour of its own 4 CF legs

Still wondering about which FC to use in it too . Don't want to fork out for a DJI GPS but might have to ... I guess the question is - Do I really want/need 4 flying machines ?? I really like the Phantoms so I think I'll put the APM into the Alien - Yep decision made !! The F450 can wait for its GPS until I get my pension ..LOL .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 17, 2015, 09:51:10 AM
Just did a rough weigh of the Alien bits - 1.8 Kg... Without gimbal and camera it's around the 1.5 Kg mark - The 6 bandy legs might have to go in favour of its own 4 CF legs

Still wondering about which FC to use in it too . Don't want to fork out for a DJI GPS but might have to ... I guess the question is - Do I really want/need 4 flying machines ?? I really like the Phantoms so I think I'll put the APM into the Alien - Yep decision made !! The F450 can wait for its GPS until I get my pension ..LOL .

Hi,

You'll still have 1.8:1 lift to weight ratio, which is acceptable, you just wont be able to treat it like a sports car.  If you can easily lighten it then I'd go for it but at the end of the day it will be a cost benefit analysis ( plus losing valuable flying time :-) ).

You made the right choice on the FC I reckon!  You can never have to many.  I have in flying condition a Tricopter, the mini quad and a Bixler 2.  I have a damaged nitro trainer and a partially build 4 star 40 (I'll convert this to electric).  I'm about to add for a competition I'm entering into with a group of people a UAV frame (likely to be a custom build) and a VTOL (likely to be a custom tilt rotor design - think Osprey).  You can never have to many flying things :-)  Sadly my wife thinks otherwise....  All I can say is i'm lucky I have a large walk in storage space under my house (that and my wife's stuff occupies about 60% of it so I'm good till she starts clearing stuff, I only use 25% at most).  I'd be screwed otherwise  ;D

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 18, 2015, 06:41:05 PM
Grrr, my thrust tester is too small for the 15" props.....  I will just put them on the tri and see if it feels better.  I'll try to modify the thrust meter in the next few weeks (data will follow once I've tested it).  Cant believe it didn't fit, it was out by about 1.5 cm's.  I dont think when I build it that I was even contemplating 15" props.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 18, 2015, 07:15:36 PM
I started on the Alien re-build today and put the new DYS motors on .. Found out real quick what was wrong the other day - Same as last time the screws supplied are about 2mm too long and start to bite into the motor windings BUT only on the motors with black nuts ( CW ?? ) - So I added a couple of fibre washers between the motor and the motor holder and we're good to go ... Banggood very kindly told me that my video indicated the motors were shot so they are sending the order again - Bonus now ... So I'll have enough motors spare to make an octocopter !! LOL ..
Anyway the FPV and OSD are wired in and mounted on the Alien's lid - QBrain and Naza are about to be tested - then I have to wait for a GPS module to arrive to complete the build .. Not sure what to do next week as the weather is going to be crap .. Probably go shopping for an octo frame LOL - NO !!! Housework says my missus ...
Maybe some pics tomorrow ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 19, 2015, 12:53:13 AM

Grrr, my thrust tester is too small for the 15" props.....  I will just put them on the tri and see if it feels better.  I'll try to modify the thrust meter in the next few weeks (data will follow once I've tested it).  Cant believe it didn't fit, it was out by about 1.5 cm's.  I dont think when I build it that I was even contemplating 15" props.

Chris
over hang the bench to test it.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on April 19, 2015, 12:57:32 AM

.. Not sure what to do next week as the weather is going to be crap ..
Maybe some pics tomorrow ...
Me neither we will be in Salzburg and Venice before spending the next week or so in Rome. We'll I guess when in Rome...............
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 24, 2015, 10:57:40 AM
OK - I have had it with this APM 2.6 thing ... Its for sale ... APM 2.6 , GPS , 915Mhz 3DR - Best Offer bought for $100 AUD ..
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6535416230.html?orderId=66183809598660 (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6535416230.html?orderId=66183809598660)

Going to stick with what I understand Naza M ....

Send PM if you want it --

Cheers

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 24, 2015, 12:40:23 PM
OK - I have had it with this APM 2.6 thing ... Its for sale ... APM 2.6 , GPS , 915Mhz 3DR - Best Offer bought for $100 AUD ..
http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6535416230.html?orderId=66183809598660 (http://www.aliexpress.com/snapshot/6535416230.html?orderId=66183809598660)

Going to stick with what I understand Naza M ....

Send PM if you want it --

Cheers

Steve

What happened?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on April 24, 2015, 12:48:04 PM
don't know exactly but It wants to fly where I don't want to .. SO enough is enough -- Naza is idiotproof enough for this idiot so I'm sticking to what I understand and can fix easily ...
Man's gotta know his limitations !!!
Already pulled it apart ready to  ship to anyone that wants it...

Fitted a Naza Lite (M) upgraded and it works ...

So on with the Alien powered by Naza M...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on April 24, 2015, 12:49:24 PM
don't know exactly but It wants to fly where I don't want to .. SO enough is enough -- Naza is idiotproof enough for this idiot so I'm sticking to what I understand and can fix easily ...
Man's gotta know his limitations !!!
Already pulled it apart ready to  ship to anyone that wants it...

Fitted a Naza Lite (M) upgraded and it works ...

So on with the Alien powered by Naza M...

Fair enough, as long as it gets you flying and having fun that is the main thing.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on April 30, 2015, 02:06:38 PM
The new DJI Phantom 3 Pro looks good ........

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 04, 2015, 12:41:39 PM
Finally, sunshine is forecast for nearly the whole week!!!!  Been a weird 2 weeks, definitely had a bad week to be my areas Duty Officer (would have been oh so nice to have a weekend, oh well).  The other nights I've been out in a truck, going to work, spending a few hours with the family and then the rest being sleep (I've been a bit of a zombie the last few days).  So I've not progressed at all on any of my projects, good news is that I've had a bunch of stuff that I ordered last month arrive so I have lots of 'stuff' to play with.

You'll laugh Mark but you were right HK sent me the wrong bits a 2nd time.  Its taken me 3 weeks for them to realise that it's a stuff up on their labelling at the warehouse and that I was trying to help them (and not effect other customers).  Their only solution to getting me the right part was to refund the money, wait a week (and hope they had fixed the issue) and order again.  When I asked about the P&H costs, they refused to refund it - despite this issue not being my fault at all.  So currently all HK ordering is on hold with me.  They are appealing to management after I suggested they check out how much I'm spending with them at present and did they really want to lose me as a customer....  Say no to refunding me $15 of P&H and I say no to spending more money.  I also have the UAV Challenge - Medical Express competition which will be several thousands in various of bits (although they would only get a small amount of the items).  Ball is in their court.

Having said that it has made me buy more from other vendors now, I just have to get used to ordering earlier.  Whats funny is a APM power distribution board I bought from HK gets hot on 3s and burnt out the 12V reg on 4s (it's rated to 6s), the one I got from aliexpress is cooler on 4s than the HK on 3s......  So not sure what HK have done to their board.....

Before the weather went all funky, I was getting in some good flying time, I think my emax motors are up to nearly 4 hours of flight time.  So far all good.  I have my 15" props to test out on it, hoping for a quick flight on Wednesday afternoon.

Anyone got a good supplier for LiPO batteries besides HK.....  I can see myself picking up another couple of 4s batteries. 

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on May 04, 2015, 12:56:03 PM
I have a couple from Aliexpress 3S - brand is Lion Power - they seem OK .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on May 04, 2015, 04:44:32 PM
Here's my latest project - Finally found a small toolbox at Bunnings for 4 bucks to house it all ...
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/fed81e3e3adb6b27f25c4f8d252f5f1d.jpg)
Then you mount it on the tripod and connect the antenna and battery and switch on the DVR...tanah..
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/c11c2f509d94f9174f7bdb465e9ed330.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on May 04, 2015, 08:10:17 PM
Here's my latest project - Finally found a small toolbox at Bunnings for 4 bucks to house it all ...

Then you mount it on the tripod and connect the antenna and battery and switch on the DVR...tanah..

That looks the goods Steve. I need to do something similar.

Chris, Hobbyking don't give a crap if they stuff up your order. If they lose you or I, another dozen customers step up to the plate on a daily basis.

OCD has got the better of me of late. I've been helping my brother with his van and also sorting out the solar panels on mine. One of my panels looks like it took a hard knock where it was permanently mounted on the roof and it smashed the tempered glass and when it shorted out, the other panel connected in parallel also shorted out. It looks as though the bus wire has melted when it shorted on the panel that isn't smashed, so I've ordered some bus wire from Aliexpress for 10 bucks that comes with 40 B grade 0.5 volt cells. I'm going to have a go at repairing the panel that shorted out, and if it works it will go on the shed roof to trickle charge the vans batteries. If it doesn't work, eh, 10 bucks, worth a shot.

But the APM Arduino software has opened my eye's to other projects. I am currently designing a solar panel mount that will fit on the rear of my van the will be raised using a linear ball screw and high torque stepper motor using an Arduino to control everything.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on May 06, 2015, 08:31:14 AM
Well after mucking around getting everything going on the 350QX I have just ordered a complete system from DJI .... How do you find your Phantom Mandrake ?

Thanks
yogi

PS(I will still be playing with my other quads but this new Phantom 3 Pro is a camera only platform)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on May 06, 2015, 08:48:48 AM
Phantom is good - Its the only one I use for Videos... Stable and reasonably reliable as long as you keep well away from cyclone fencing !!! 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on May 06, 2015, 10:01:51 AM
I had been waiting for the Tali H500 with ground station to get all the bugs ironed out but this new Phantom 3 Pro with the modified Inspire 1 ground station software and inbuilt Lightbridge had me sold. Never thought I would buy DJI .... lol

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on May 06, 2015, 12:04:56 PM
I had been waiting for the Tali H500 with ground station to get all the bugs ironed out but this new Phantom 3 Pro with the modified Inspire 1 ground station software and inbuilt Lightbridge had me sold. Never thought I would buy DJI .... lol

yogi
So does it have all of the automation that you were looking for yogi? I'm being lazy and haven't had a look at it yet
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on May 06, 2015, 01:58:03 PM
There were issues with some P2 batteries.. hopefully been resolved in P3..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on May 07, 2015, 03:57:03 PM
Hi Marschy,

yeah it's got 2K range with full 720 HD downlink video, 4K video, manual camera controls, uses both American and Soviet GPS systems, full OSD, 23min flight time and eventually full ground station capabilities (way points and follow me not available yet but lots of interest and a full developers kit available) you can even live stream to the web if you want.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on May 07, 2015, 04:22:52 PM
This is a bit more informative ... lol

http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-3/feature (http://www.dji.com/product/phantom-3/feature)

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 11, 2015, 02:13:02 PM
Been a bit busy with the bad weather and then family catch up, no flying at all :-(  Was brilliant weather on the weekend but my wife had Uni so I was looking after the daughter so no flying, this weekend is looking average but hoping I'll sneak a flight in somewhere...  Whats annoying is the working days are beautiful sunshine... Grrrr.

Chris, Hobbyking don't give a crap if they stuff up your order. If they lose you or I, another dozen customers step up to the plate on a daily basis.

I agree they seem to forget it's much easier to keep a customer than it is to pick up a new one.  For the sake of $15 they have already lost nearly $150 of orders and that is about a month, I have got a big project where we are building two craft, we would have spent around $1000-$1500 with them, we need a gas motor or two, ESC's, BEC's, batteries, fuel tanks, transmitters, CF reinforcing, Tx modules, receivers, etc.....  Now they will get exactly $0 dollars worth of that.  I would rather buy from another vendor and wait an extra 1 to 2 weeks, after the time I spent on chat trying to get them to understand the issue.

OCD has got the better of me of late. I've been helping my brother with his van and also sorting out the solar panels on mine. One of my panels looks like it took a hard knock where it was permanently mounted on the roof and it smashed the tempered glass and when it shorted out, the other panel connected in parallel also shorted out. It looks as though the bus wire has melted when it shorted on the panel that isn't smashed, so I've ordered some bus wire from Aliexpress for 10 bucks that comes with 40 B grade 0.5 volt cells. I'm going to have a go at repairing the panel that shorted out, and if it works it will go on the shed roof to trickle charge the vans batteries. If it doesn't work, eh, 10 bucks, worth a shot.

But the APM Arduino software has opened my eye's to other projects. I am currently designing a solar panel mount that will fit on the rear of my van the will be raised using a linear ball screw and high torque stepper motor using an Arduino to control everything.

I know I have so many thoughts as to what I could do!  However I'm looking at it from an embedded linux machine instead.  For $30 bucks I can get something that is fairly powerful and so many options as you can generally plug in the arduino modules.  Arduino is way cool.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on May 12, 2015, 07:03:07 PM
Hi All,

With so many toys out there can we get a quick list of everyone's quads / flying machines with a run down on features, technology ie flight systems, controller, frequencies ect and what you guys are using them for ? I will start working on a list of mine .... Might help some others and also good for a perv and drool .... Oh and I won't tell the wife either 8) I know most of them are spread through the other 76 previous pages but having them all listened in one post might be more helpful. What's everyone's thoughts ?

Thanks
yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on May 13, 2015, 02:00:22 AM
Hi All,

With so many toys out there can we get quick list of everyone's quads / flying machines with a run down on features, technology ie flight systems, controller, frequencies ect and what you guys are using them for ?

 What's everyone's thoughts ?

Thanks
yogi

Sounds good to me... if someone else goes first!  :-[ :angel:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on May 13, 2015, 08:02:31 PM
GoPro meets quad...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vGcH0Bk3hg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vGcH0Bk3hg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bigsteve on May 13, 2015, 11:37:30 PM
That's techno porn. I want one

S
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on May 14, 2015, 04:51:22 PM

That's techno porn. I want one

S
Me too. Only $499 usd pre ordered to be delivered in 2016.
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 15, 2015, 01:39:26 PM
Hi All,

With so many toys out there can we get a quick list of everyone's quads / flying machines with a run down on features, technology ie flight systems, controller, frequencies ect and what you guys are using them for ? I will start working on a list of mine .... Might help some others and also good for a perv and drool .... Oh and I won't tell the wife either 8) I know most of them are spread through the other 76 previous pages but having them all listened in one post might be more helpful. What's everyone's thoughts ?

Thanks
yogi

I'll start then.... I'm okay with it, as long as the wife doesn't find out :-)

I have the following:

 - CF Tricopter with 3 axis gimbal
 - Wooden Framed Tricopter (not in flying condition - removed ESC's and motors for competition)
 - GF 250 Mini Quad
 - Bixler 2
 - Flying wing (about 900mm wingspan) - to help train up my team mates for an autonomous flight competition

In the progress of building:
 - Large UAV style airplane (target weight is upto 8kg's - 2-3m wingspan, will be gas motor powered - has to be capable of 60km autonomous flight) - Currently designing in CAD.
 - Tiltrotor (target weight 2-3kgs, also has to fly upto 60km autonomously - will be electric powered) - Currently designing in CAD - pending test results of the prototypes.
 - Tiltrotor prototypes (have one partly built out of foam board) - started building it last night

I also have 3 250/300 sized CF / GF frames.

For the meetup in Sept, I plan to bring the Tricopter, the Miniquad, the Large UAV (if it will fit) and the flying wing.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on May 15, 2015, 01:54:45 PM
"I'll start then.... I'm okay with it, as long as the wife doesn't find out :-)"

#officeofstatusofwimmins@WTF*%%!your metadata are ours eunuch!!!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on May 15, 2015, 02:28:20 PM
Ok here's mine.

Alien 560 560mm wheelbase quadcopter, w/Naza M V2 flight controller, FPV and aerial videography platform
Alien X-mode 500mm wheel base quadcopter w/APM 2.6 flight controller FPV and aerial videography platform
Reptile Aphid 450mm wheel base quadcopter w/APM 2.6 flight controller, FPV platform
ZMR250 250mm quadcopter w/mini APM v3.1 flight controller, FPV platform (work in progress)
Quanum Trifecta Tricopter w/mini APM v3.1 flight controller, FPV platform (work in progress)

My ground station is like Steve's, only mine doesn't have the flash looking box, plus I have Fatshark Teleporter googles that make me feel as sick as a dog when I use them, so my preference is to use the 7 inch ground station video screen.

Plus I have enough bits and pieces to put a KK2.1 flight controller quadcopter together. I plan on bringing whatever I have that is working by the time of the September get together, so I'm hoping to finish off the ZMR250 and Trifecta by then.

Edit: Almost forgot my Tek Suma flying wing
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 15, 2015, 03:52:20 PM
Oops forgot to put the all important stuff....

I have the following:

 - CF Tricopter, Pixhawk FC, 3 axis gimbal, look down camera for photogrammetry, sometimes has a ODROID companion PC for processing image data on the fly, 915Mhz telemetry data, 2 GPS's (M8N and Neo 7).  2.4 Ghz for control, 5.8 Ghz for FPV camera
 - Wooden Framed Tricopter (not in flying condition - removed ESC's and motors for competition), uses an APM2.5 FC, 915Mhz telemetry data, Neo 7 GPS, 2.4 Ghz for control
 - GF 250 Mini Quad, uses an APM3.1, 915Mhz telemetry data, Neo 7 GPS, 2.4 Ghz for control, 5.8 Ghz for FPV camera
 - Bixler 2, shares a Pixhawk FC (with flying wing), 915Mhz telemetry data, Neo 7 GPS, 2.4 Ghz for control, 5.8 Ghz for FPV camera
 - Flying wing (about 900mm wingspan) - to help train up my team mates for an autonomous flight competition, shares the Pixhawk FC with the Bixler, 915Mhz  telemetry data, Neo 7Q (small GPS), 2.4 Ghz for control

In the progress of building:
 - Large UAV style airplane (target weight is upto 8kg's - 2-3m wingspan, will be gas motor powered - has to be capable of 60km autonomous flight) - Currently designing in CAD.  Will have Pixhawk FC, 2 GPS's (M8N and Neo 7), RFD 915 Mhz Telemetry radios (upto 50km range) x 2, 5.8 Ghz radio for high bandwidth data, ODROID as companion PC, likely to have 2.4 Ghz for control or maybe 433MHz - still in discussion
 - Tiltrotor (target weight 2-3kgs, also has to fly upto 60km autonomously - will be electric powered) - Currently designing in CAD - pending test results of the prototypes.  Pixhawk FC, 1 GPS (M8N or Neo 7), RFD 915Mhz Telemetry radio (up to 50 km range), 2.4 Ghz for control
 - Tiltrotor prototypes (have one partly built out of foam board) - started building it last night.  Likely to be pixhawk FC, 3DR 915 Mhz telemetry, 1 GPS.

I also have 3 250/300 sized CF / GF frames.  Lots of other bits, I could most likely build another 1 or 2 copters from spares and another plane or two.  I have a new CF Tricopter frame that I'll switch to that was CNC cut, instead of my dodgy attempts.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 17, 2015, 12:19:58 AM
During some testing of the 15 inch props I found the limitation of a servo.  It was tethered so it can't go higher than 1.5m.  I was wondering why the servo was turning to one side as I throttled up - no amount of input would affect it, turns out the servo was struggling to fight forces of the motor, the servo was trying but just couldn't keep up.  My second hint was that the external BEC was warm and I mean much warmer than it has been before.  Then I noticed I had melted a hole in the servo case and of course  I did what all of us guys would do, I touched it.  So now I have a dead servo and a small burn on my finger......

It was a blessing it happened when it did, if it had happened when I was flying it at the park it would have resulted in a total failure (uncontrolled spin and loss of attitude control).  So I've swapped it out to the newer bluebird servo's I ordered a few months back.

I have switched back to the 12" props till I work on a mount for my 7kg servo (18g), current one is 4kg.  Once I have i'll put the 15" props back on.  I'm sure the newer servo would handle it but I think after that experience I'll wait.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on May 17, 2015, 08:06:58 AM
Here's my list -

Phantom FC40 , Naza M , GPS , OSD , FPV camera and Gimbal with videocam ... New FPV Videocam on its way .

Phantom P1 , Naza M , GPS , OSD , Gimbal with Videocam

Alien 560 - ( nearly complete ) - naza M ( converted from Lite ) GPS OSD FPV and gimbal with videocam .

F350 Quadcopter with Naza M ( converted from Lite ) - GPS does not function due to a burnout on an OSD board one day .. This is the flight tester !!

Hexacopter frame is coming and I have all the other bits to complete it ...

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 17, 2015, 06:17:28 PM
Not happy at present, I finally switched over to my 30A blue esc's for the Tricopter.  I have a very bouncy experience, currently reviewing what is different.  I'm thinking I may need to modify my PID rates right on down and possibly change the refresh rate to be higher.  I will also check the RC feel options as I tinkered with them the night before.  I thought I set them to be more calmer, thinking I may have gone the wrong direction!

Kept it under control (no crashes) took it for a 10 mins spin but dont like the current feel of it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 18, 2015, 01:32:25 AM
Not happy at present, I finally switched over to my 30A blue esc's for the Tricopter.  I have a very bouncy experience, currently reviewing what is different.  I'm thinking I may need to modify my PID rates right on down and possibly change the refresh rate to be higher.  I will also check the RC feel options as I tinkered with them the night before.  I thought I set them to be more calmer, thinking I may have gone the wrong direction!

Kept it under control (no crashes) took it for a 10 mins spin but dont like the current feel of it.

Hmmmm, I've done some more playing.  I reviewed my log files and I can see that there is some pulsing on the pitch and roll axis, this is compared to the desired pitch or roll.  I really like being able to look at this stuff.  Fault finding is much easier.

Seems this is an issue for some ESC's.  So I've not had good luck with ESC's lately, the EMAX BLHeli's enter boot loader mode and stay there and my Blue series seem to pulse instead of being steady.  I've got yet another tool on the way to update the blue series ESC's, so I can flash them with SimonK, this seems to fix the issue according to some.

Still more testing to do, I'll test them on both my 2nd pixhawk and the APM 2.7 to be sure it's a pixhawk issue.  I also ordered 3 Turnigy Plush 30A, I know yet another HK order (I was trying to avoid it), but unfortunately I have the 18A Plush that work with the Pixhawk, so I figured I'd get them to give me something to work with till I have this resolved.

I'll also redo the ESC calibration on the off chance that my earlier calibration didn't work, some have reported similar behavior. Why did I read that at midnight when it was too late to test it out....

Doesn't appear to be the sync issue that some people complain about either.

I've also turned down the RC_Feel parameter to 4 (was at 20, on my APM before I flying with it at about 50), same with the sensitivity, its right down.  I've left my PID's at current levels as it is definitely the ESC's causing the motors to pulse.

So now I have 2 different types of ESC's with issue with the Pixhawk to resolve.  I have only Wednesday and Thursday night at home to work on this as I'm away on a cave rescue training weekend and busy on Mon and Tues night....  Just as well as it's forecast to rain most of the week and next weekend :-)  Fingers crossed the following week will be better.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on May 22, 2015, 07:54:23 AM
Ok so here is my list

350QX - 2.4Gh setup with eBay gimbal and SJCAM4000 using a Bosscam 200mw 5.8Gh transmitter for video, though the compass doesn't seem to like the gimbal (working on that)

200QX - 2.4Gh has 3D modes just good fun to fly may set it up with fpv one day.

Phantom 3 Pro - 2.4Gh probably just keep this one standard.

I have a Spectrum DX6i with 7 inch monitor and Bosscam 5.8Gh receiver setup to use with the 350QX

Also have a Taranis Plus with Spectrum receiver, it  has a few other mods  to - working on moving all my models over to this transmitter.

I may also have a few other rc heli's, planes and cars but that's only a rumour ;D

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on May 22, 2015, 09:48:46 AM
I only have the DJI F450 with gimbal gopro and vtx to goggles and a 7 inch ground station. FC is a NAZA 2 and ezosd
The other one is a scratch built quad at about 400mm that has a apm FC minim OSD vtx and just the camera that has no recording ability.
Would like to build a bigger folding Alien  type of craft and a 250 class quad too. Other things on my plate at the moment.

Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on May 23, 2015, 10:37:34 PM
Just the one for me...... so far  >:D.

Davids V3 tricopter with the KK2.1.5 flight controller- basic LOS setup so far.

I'm pretty sure that this week I'll be ordering Davids upgraded frame with built in Naze32 board, power distribution and 5v BEC (plus some spare parts). Plus I'm leaping head first into FPV! So I'll also be ordering ImmersionRC 600mW 5.8 transmitter, IBCrazy blue beam ultra antenna set, Headplay goggles and either a Skylark Tiny OSDIII or ImmersionRC EZOSD. I'll probably also go with a Mobius for both recording and flying with but also considering the Runcam and Xiaomi.

Credit card is going to be running hot and very empty by the end of this week!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: ScottT on May 25, 2015, 02:06:33 PM
Have you all seen this ?

https://www.lily.camera/ (https://www.lily.camera/)

Cheers, Scott
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on May 25, 2015, 04:01:31 PM
Have you all seen this ?

https://www.lily.camera/ (https://www.lily.camera/)

Cheers, Scott
I think someone posted a link a page or two earlier. Pretty cool
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on May 26, 2015, 12:14:32 AM
Have you all seen this ?

https://www.lily.camera/ (https://www.lily.camera/)

Cheers, Scott

I'm gunna have to get one just to pee all the kids off I can take the ultimate selfie  :cup:

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spartan on May 26, 2015, 11:13:03 PM
Pretty happy with myself after my last couple of flights this week.

I had found lately that I was hitting the limits of the tricopter pretty easily and getting pretty comfortable flying accro rather than self level. So I decided it was time to attempt some flips and rolls.

I cranked up my stick scaling on the KK board from 30 to 45 and found it was way more responsive but still not good/quick enough for flips so ended up at 55. I found it too twitchy in normal flight for me then, so I upped my expo from 30 to 40 which helped a lot with fine control but still allowed me to chuck it around when I want.

So today was flips, rolls and wing overs and only one crash! Flying almost totally on accro except for a couple of times when I needed a break in concentration and just as a safety thing to get my bearings again.

I can't believe how different the performance is with just a few setting changes! I was getting worried that I was expecting too much out of the tri but no, this thing will well and truly out fly me for a while yet! I think I'm finding it easier to fly aggressively in accro than just trying to potter around and ease into it. I seem to find a bit of a rhythm and fly a bit instinctively rather than over thinking things. Whatever - I am just loving chucking it around at the moment!!

On another note, the sunnysky motors that I got from Banggood are awesome. Not fake ones which I was really worried about and soooo much smoother than the old NTMs. The 9x5 carbon fibre props are way smoother than the old gemfans too but they have taken a bit of getting used to. Definitely not as much performance at lower rpms but so much more consistent. They hardly even break a sweat as do the ESCs so I'm glad I'm not pushing any of the components too hard.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 28, 2015, 09:28:48 AM
Pretty happy with myself after my last couple of flights this week.

I had found lately that I was hitting the limits of the tricopter pretty easily and getting pretty comfortable flying accro rather than self level. So I decided it was time to attempt some flips and rolls.

I cranked up my stick scaling on the KK board from 30 to 45 and found it was way more responsive but still not good/quick enough for flips so ended up at 55. I found it too twitchy in normal flight for me then, so I upped my expo from 30 to 40 which helped a lot with fine control but still allowed me to chuck it around when I want.

So today was flips, rolls and wing overs and only one crash! Flying almost totally on accro except for a couple of times when I needed a break in concentration and just as a safety thing to get my bearings again.

I can't believe how different the performance is with just a few setting changes! I was getting worried that I was expecting too much out of the tri but no, this thing will well and truly out fly me for a while yet! I think I'm finding it easier to fly aggressively in accro than just trying to potter around and ease into it. I seem to find a bit of a rhythm and fly a bit instinctively rather than over thinking things. Whatever - I am just loving chucking it around at the moment!!

On another note, the sunnysky motors that I got from Banggood are awesome. Not fake ones which I was really worried about and soooo much smoother than the old NTMs. The 9x5 carbon fibre props are way smoother than the old gemfans too but they have taken a bit of getting used to. Definitely not as much performance at lower rpms but so much more consistent. They hardly even break a sweat as do the ESCs so I'm glad I'm not pushing any of the components too hard.
Sounds like your having lots of fun! I havent done a flip for a few months after i crashed the mini quad. Acro mode is how i learnt to fly. Steep but worth it.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 28, 2015, 09:33:15 AM
Well i think ive resolved the gittery esc issue. Had to flash simonk onto the blue series esc. Done one, still testing before i update the other three. Should know for sure tonight.  Then I can get back to having some flying fun.

Still to yet to successfully flash a silabs based esc but I'll get there. Both my new plush 30A and emax blheli 30A Opto esc's are silabs based. Has any one had any joy flashing either?  I've tried using various single connector usb adapters but done seem to actually communicate with the EMAX BLHELI ESC's.  They all timeout.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 29, 2015, 11:42:11 AM
Well i think ive resolved the gittery esc issue. Had to flash simonk onto the blue series esc. Done one, still testing before i update the other three. Should know for sure tonight.  Then I can get back to having some flying fun.

Still to yet to successfully flash a silabs based esc but I'll get there. Both my new plush 30A and emax blheli 30A Opto esc's are silabs based. Has any one had any joy flashing either?  I've tried using various single connector usb adapters but done seem to actually communicate with the EMAX BLHELI ESC's.  They all timeout.

Chris

It looks good, I tested one of the updated ESC's on the Tricopter and it looked smooth, no pulsing or jittery behavior at all.  Having said that I could only reproduce the jittery issue on the other two once despite trying lots.  I did have the props off so I'm wondering if the jittery issue was partly due to the props, will double check when I reattach them.  Only way to be sure is to now update the other 3 ESC's to the latest simonk and then go for a fly!  Weather looks good this weekend, fingers crossed a park will be free for a test fly.

Also ordered an optical flow unit for the my Pixhawk's. 

For those using APM 2.x's be aware that no new firmware versions (besides critical bug fixes) will be released for APM:Copter - plane, antenna trackers, rover is still good for a while.  Looks like Pixhawk or Linux is the future.....

They have added yaw auto tuning in the latest beta version and switched to EKF for validating the other sensors, so less of an issue when stuff gets a bad reading here or there - such as GPS's.  Should result in a much more stable machine (which was already pretty good to start with).

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 02, 2015, 10:38:14 AM
Well I've been quiet for a while - finally got the Alien together and waiting for a test flight ... Hex frame arrived and will be the next project...

Here's the Alien folded and waiting for good weather ... Hmmm when ???

(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/01/5d1ef317c9836d78df45a622ed710057.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on June 02, 2015, 12:09:59 PM
Some ideas for you blokes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JsGggcQRTM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JsGggcQRTM)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 03, 2015, 12:15:35 PM
Gotta question for you guys --- I recently bought an FPV video camera BUT its NTSC not PAL and can't be changed ... Too expensive to send it back so - o- o 

Is there a program that will convert NTSC files to PAL ???

Cheers

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on June 03, 2015, 02:47:42 PM
Google convert  NTSC to PAL shows up a lot ot of freeware [ have to be careful of virus / malware though so check it ].
Pretty sure from memory Nero media / burning programs had the capabillity also if you had that on your computer ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 03, 2015, 07:24:52 PM
Gotta question for you guys --- I recently bought an FPV video camera BUT its NTSC not PAL and can't be changed ... Too expensive to send it back so - o- o 

Is there a program that will convert NTSC files to PAL ???

Cheers

Mandrake

Hi,

I'm confused what is the issue?  I have both PAL and NTSC cameras, I just switch my monitor between the two as needed.  Whats the need to convert the output?  Once you save it as a digital file (like you would do with a FPV receiver) then it is not longer a PAL vs NTSC issue. 

In terms of a program, they exist but most consumer devices can playback both formats these days.  There is not much point in converting it as it would result in a loss of quality (the NTSC when converted would be down scaled to 25fps and the view stretched), it's just a slightly different use of the bandwidth.  PAL is 576 lines at 25fps while NTSC is 480 lines at 30fps.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 03, 2015, 07:39:08 PM
Thanks for the replies guys - I just had a play with the little camera and can't see any difference in colour so I'll stick with it -- Its the same size as a gopro and cost USD 70 so I'm happy with that - the video seems pretty good - I'll see what happens when it gets launched ...

The Alien is ars# heavy again - I don't seem to be able to get it to balance - Gotta undo it again and move the battery holder to a more central location --

Put the Hexframe together ( sortof ) yesterday and found out I don't have any M3 x 10mm bolts - So ordered some yesterday so I can fit the legs ... Found the bloody packet of bolts
today still in the bag the legs came in --- Dohhhh !!!

That's my day - how's yours ... LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 03, 2015, 07:55:24 PM
Thanks for the replies guys - I just had a play with the little camera and can't see any difference in colour so I'll stick with it -- Its the same size as a gopro and cost USD 70 so I'm happy with that - the video seems pretty good - I'll see what happens when it gets launched ...

The Alien is ars# heavy again - I don't seem to be able to get it to balance - Gotta undo it again and move the battery holder to a more central location --

Put the Hexframe together ( sortof ) yesterday and found out I don't have any M3 x 10mm bolts - So ordered some yesterday so I can fit the legs ... Found the bloody packet of bolts
today still in the bag the legs came in --- Dohhhh !!!

That's my day - how's yours ... LOL

Great news then, I switch between them, my mini quad has NTSC while all others I use are PAL.  I wish I could spend it on flying things, instead work, work and more work.

I have a nice little LIDAR package (accurate to alt to 40m AGL) that arrived yesterday as well as two pitot systems (to measure true airspeed).  More stuff to play with, have to get them fitted and used before my optical flow arrives :-)

I'm still to do a full flight test to see if my ESC's are working how I want.....  My tethered tests look good.  I'll have to get up early one day to get some flying time as my local oval seems to be in use every time I'm good to go for a fly......  Starting to think of flying around home a bit, hmmm I still need to do a roof inspection......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 07, 2015, 12:37:12 AM
Very happy with my SimonK flashed Blue series ESC's, no bouncy flight at all, very steady.  Not sure what settings were bad on my old firmware but wow they are perfect now.  I'm keen to get my EMAX BLHeli's flashed with a newer version to see if that gets around my issue with them working with the Pixhawk.....  I'll devote some time on Monday to researching it.

Too bad my gimbal wasn't well configured, lots of jumps from it - cant put my finger on what has changed but something has to have to caused it), I've done an auto tune again and it appears good.  Fingers crossed there are no games on at the local parks tomorrow and I can get another hour of flying in.  These rugby and soccer games have been finishing later and later (such that they only start packing up at 5pm and don't leave till after 5.30pm - which is when the light is gone, grrrr), today was an exception where they packed up by 2pm.  What is frustrating is that council doesn't have an online booking system so I cant even see if they have it booked for the time they are using it.  They used to finish at 4pm and gone by 4.30pm.  Allowing me to either let the dog have a good run around or for me to go for a fly.  Might have to call council to see what days and times they have it booked out.

Finally I can set it on a mapping task at a larger local playing field, since I've got the flight time to just on 20 mins (not quite the 25-30 mins I was hoping for), the mission will take around 16 mins to fly.  Just need to solder up one more bit to get the pixhawk to control the picture taking.

Tomorrows main task is to fit my new diesel heater to the camper, I suspect I'll be doing it over two days if I want to get some flying time too.....

If my gimbal is all good I'll start to post some footage again.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 07, 2015, 03:26:05 PM
Got a good 40 mins of flying in today!!  I like long weekends, just on 1.5 hours so far, I should get another hour or so of flying tomorrow.  Got the mapping mission to run.  Bad news is my diesel heater project hasn't even started.  I might get to it tomorrow or maybe next weekend.

Tried some full throttle in Stabilise mode, got it to have a climb rate of 300m/m at 57amps (so lift of 5m/s), in a quick burst, will try a more sustained attempt tomorrow.

My gimbal is almost well tuned again, seems my roll I rate is too low as I have a visible roll in the footage.  The yaw and pitch seem to be good.  I'll update the roll rates tonight and I think I'll be pretty happy again.  I do need to work on yaw jumping as the cables stop it and it has a noticeable jump.  Those who have 3 axis gimbals, what have you done with your cables (MPU sensor, Motor cables, etc) to stop it from catching, I've tried cable tying them but I still get loops which get caught on stuff occasionally?  Curious to see what others do.

I ordered a bigger gimbal too (annoyed I didn't realise I ordered the 2 axis, so I'll have to convert it - the same 3 axis gimbal from another vendor was only $15 more, grrrr), its for when I get around to picking up a Sony A5100.  Since I dont' have any tail wag anymore I might just try the 2 axis to see how it goes.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 08, 2015, 12:14:21 PM
Those who have 3 axis gimbals, what have you done with your cables (MPU sensor, Motor cables, etc) to stop it from catching, I've tried cable tying them but I still get loops which get caught on stuff occasionally?  Curious to see what others do.


I think I've worked it out, either the gimbal control board goes on the gimbal itself (on a part that the yaw motor spins) or you use a hollow shaft gimbal motor.  Since my gimbal wont allow me to mount it on the lower part (my header pins are straight up, need 90 degree pins) I've put an order in for a hollow shaft gimbal motor so I can run the cables through it, should reduce the issue I get at present.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on June 14, 2015, 12:12:23 AM
Who needs you control freaks anyway-

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/06/11/national/science-health/drone-developed-fly-autonomously-inside-fukushima-reactor-buildings/#.VXw1JPmqpBf (http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/06/11/national/science-health/drone-developed-fly-autonomously-inside-fukushima-reactor-buildings/#.VXw1JPmqpBf)

Drone going where no man or GPS will go!  Just call it Freddy cos no-one wants it back   >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 14, 2015, 12:56:22 PM
Well based upon my ground testing I should now have accurate AGL readings up to 40m with my LIDAR module  ;D.  Now to fit to my tricopter for some flight testing!  Optical flow will arrive hopefully next week or two.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 14, 2015, 03:01:13 PM
G'day Chris,

Eyeing off those new mini pixhawk controllers. Like you said , the APM looks like it has died a sudden death.

How much of the hardware can you transfer from APM to pixhawk? Haven't played around with the quads for well over a month. Got to pull my finger out if I am ever going to be ready for the September trip.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 14, 2015, 03:28:18 PM
G'day Chris,

Eyeing off those new mini pixhawk controllers. Like you said , the APM looks like it has died a sudden death.

How much of the hardware can you transfer from APM to pixhawk? Haven't played around with the quads for well over a month. Got to pull my finger out if I am ever going to be ready for the September trip.

Cheers, Mark

Hi Mark,

If you want any full sized pixhawk's just wait a little bit longer as most of the pixhawk's will drop in price as 3DR has a pixhawk 2 that they are using in the Solo but will release soon separately soon.  I'll most likely pick up one of the mini pixhawk's for my 250 sized quad but anything larger I like the pixhawk format/size.

Some of the stuff the Pixhawk can do is great, for example I use the EKF stuff and it has stopped the odd wander from happening (I find the wandering instances were happening less due to two GPS's but it still occurred once in a while).  I've not had one uncommanded move since I've turned it on for the tricopter.  Compared to my 250 quad, it sitting in loiter will often decided to wander upto 4m before returning to the right location (only takes the GPS getting a funny reading).

In terms of reusing stuff, to be honest only the airspeed sensor and optical flow are the only items that are impacted (from memory you don't have the airspeed and I think you might have bought a optical flow at some stage?).  They'll work but the pixhawk versions are better.  If you buy a cable pack (or two) or you have a bunch of DF13 6 position connectors spare then you can convert  the GPS and telemetry.  Most of the other items there are no changes, just plug them in.

In their defense they have said for the last 9 months that APM on copter wont be able to go much further.  Sadly that day is here, I could kind of see it happening a while back and thats why I switched over.  I will go further and pursue more of the linux boards as time goes on.  In terms of Pixhawk's life span for copter, I'd say you'd get another 1.5 to 3 years before we are in the same boat again :-)

I'm struggling with my local oval's being used later and later each weekend.  I got some good flying in last weekend and I should get a small flight in later this afternoon.  This is one of my reasons for getting optical flow and lidar so i can fly near my house, I'd like to get my roof survey done as well as do some more photogrammetry stuff too (so more varied locations).

There is nothing wrong with the APM's you just wont get the new features as they come out, they'll still fix critical bugs.  Mine are about to be used as antenna trackers for my UAV challenge project.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on June 14, 2015, 05:03:27 PM
I went for a walk today with the wife and wandered past the oval. There was no wind and the sun shin and there was no one on the oval. It was the perfect day to fly. The only problem was I had too much other stuff to do so I shall live through others for the time being. After we get back from the states at the end on July I will have to go on a spending spree so I can Finish things that I have started or want to start.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 14, 2015, 05:17:34 PM
Think I'm becoming a grumpy old man  >:D  Not a good thing when you in your late 30's......

Hmmm, local flying locations are running out at present.  My closest oval was again still being used right up till 5pm, had to travel to the 2nd place which was also busy on the top ovals, the lower oval was free but had a fair number of the dogs and kids playing.  I had a small quick flight but it's getting crazy how our local ovals are being overbooked in my view.  The local dog owners who use the park for off leach fun are getting frustrated, because they never booked out so many of the grounds so much before (games used to be over by 3pm).  Not to mention all the traffic it brings.  I'm happy to have an oval nearby, happy for them to use it for organised games but seriously, from 8am (they start arriving as early as 7am) till 5:00pm it's booked (or at least organised games - still yet to find out if they have it booked) on a weekend.....  As well as most weeknights, 3 out of 5 nights.  This is one of those issues where the local government have sold off so much open space land and it's getting pushed into less and less places.

Is everyone else lucky to have open space to fly around home or do you go somewhere to fly?  I think I will have to go elsewhere for the fixed wing flying.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 19, 2015, 10:56:26 AM
Howdy everyone ... Back into it again ...
I've built the Hexa and got it running OK .... BUT ( there's always a but aint there !! ) one motor stops running as soon as I push the stick above idle ... Resistance joint somewhere ??
or worse ?
If its a resistance problem how do I find it with the Multimeter ? Its Ohms setting isn't it with the power off ?
Cheers
Steve
Pics to follow later if I can fix this little problem ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 19, 2015, 11:40:43 AM
Howdy everyone ... Back into it again ...
I've built the Hexa and got it running OK .... BUT ( there's always a but aint there !! ) one motor stops running as soon as I push the stick above idle ... Resistance joint somewhere ??
or worse ?
If its a resistance problem how do I find it with the Multimeter ? Its Ohms setting isn't it with the power off ?
Cheers
Steve
Pics to follow later if I can fix this little problem ...
Hello Steve,

Make sure the DC supply cables to the ESC's are as short as you can possibly achieve. Test the motor in isolation using the ESC it is currently connected to, then using another. See if that is the problem. Both Chris and I have experienced problems with motors not winding up due to having too long a DC supply line to the ESC. The AC output from the ESC doesn't tend to be as affected by length as the DC side.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 19, 2015, 11:49:37 AM
The DC leads are about 100mm long and it fires up ok .. But won't handle any extra throttle for more than a few seconds ... If I then drop the idle and stop all the motors and do another startup all motors fire up until I hit the throttle then this one goes to sleep again .. Keeps doing it over and over - So I'm about to pull out the ESC and swap it with a new one .. See how that goes ..Cheers mate ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 19, 2015, 05:21:25 PM
New ESC fixed it... Now for the flight test !! ( Crispy - I might need a coupla 4S batteries for this one !!! LOL ) 

Cheers to y'all

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 20, 2015, 02:09:28 AM
New ESC fixed it... Now for the flight test !! ( Crispy - I might need a coupla 4S batteries for this one !!! LOL ) 

Cheers to y'all

Steve

Hi Steve,

Thats great news!  I was thinking it was either the esc, it sounds like one of the FET's is dying.  I'm using 4s on my Tricopter, it can really move when I push it now (I think it's power to weight ratio is better than my mini quad).

Hi Mark,

I've got my optical flow it arrived the other day.  I have hooked it up to my test pixhawk and it looks good.   Still to fit the lidarlite to my tricopter (I keep adding stuff to my poor tricopter) - I'll most likely to that in the morning as it weighs next to nothing.  Did you end up ordering a pixhawk lite or are you waiting a bit to see if the price drops due to the pixhawk 2?

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 20, 2015, 07:28:01 AM
Waiting at the moment, I'm going to persevere with the APM for now.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 21, 2015, 02:41:04 PM
Here's the hexa hovering this arvo ... Looking quite good ( unlike the Alien this one actually gets into the air !!! )
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/20/7d22b1184c0530f4f74e59bb6d5b3f74.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 21, 2015, 02:45:20 PM
Looking good Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 21, 2015, 02:50:09 PM
And the boring video -- Maiden test flight ...
www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Hexaflight.mp4 (http://www.lingeringlandscapes.com/Photos/Hexaflight.mp4)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 21, 2015, 03:02:46 PM
Hexa looks great Steve,

The legs can be a bit of a pain. If you land off level, they snap like twigs.I have 8 spare that I don't use anymore. I'll bring to the meet in September, they're yours in you want them.

Cheers, Marschy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 21, 2015, 03:13:09 PM
I'm gunna put the bandy ones you sent me on it -- Just wanted the three legs until I have it working OK .. I can hang the vidcam off of the bandy leg unit ...

My newest vidcam has FPV and works really well its a no brand G3 from Banggood ( its the NTSC one I complained about ...) Got to wire that up into the

Phantom for best video --

Alien has been pulled apart and boxed for now - When I get 4 ESCs I'll rebuild it with the APM FC but that is a long way away for now ...

The Phantom 1 I bought with the 17 batteries is going to get a motor refit soon so I can use spin on rotors at the moment all 4 motors on it are threaded the same way !!

That's  my news update --- Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 25, 2015, 09:03:25 PM
Drilled the 4 retaining holes for the bandy legs and fitted them today - along with the FPV camera and transmitter ( all works !! ) ...
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/25/7c8c44c37c01b3b8de03ddf870b9377a.jpg)
Somehow or another I seem to have a spare 700TVL 12V camera here - Must have bought 2 for a special price  LOL .. Anyone interested ? PM me ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on June 25, 2015, 11:22:40 PM
Hi all

Just returned from a trip to the US and Canada and bought myself a quad.  A Parrot Bebop. Not quite as good as some of the pro kit you guys have but it's easy to fly and has a pretty good camera.

Also discovered iMovie on the iPad. Boy you can have some fun with this stuff...!


https://vimeo.com/131767509 (https://vimeo.com/131767509)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on June 25, 2015, 11:24:12 PM
Hi all

Just returned from a trip to the US and Canada and bought myself a quad.  A Parrot Bebop. Not quite as good as some of the pro kit you guys have but it's easy to fly and has a pretty good camera.

Also discovered iMovie on the iPad. Boy you can have some fun with this stuff...!


https://vimeo.com/131767509 (https://vimeo.com/131767509)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on June 26, 2015, 12:20:41 AM
Hi all

Just returned from a trip to the US and Canada and bought myself a quad.  A Parrot Bebop. Not quite as good as some of the pro kit you guys have but it's easy to fly and has a pretty good camera.

Also discovered iMovie on the iPad. Boy you can have some fun with this stuff...!


https://vimeo.com/131767509 (https://vimeo.com/131767509)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Hi,

Oh no, now you've got the bug it wont stop, once you get your first one the 2nd, 3rd, etc will follow quickly :-
Good to see some other footage out there.  Keep getting out there and get a good feel for it, just make sure that if you dont already know the CASA regs that you do so soon.  Oh and keep having fun with it!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on June 26, 2015, 05:10:38 AM
Hi all

Just returned from a trip to the US and Canada and bought myself a quad.  A Parrot Bebop. Not quite as good as some of the pro kit you guys have but it's easy to fly and has a pretty good camera.

Also discovered iMovie on the iPad. Boy you can have some fun with this stuff...!


https://vimeo.com/131767509 (https://vimeo.com/131767509)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
LOL love the vid
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on June 26, 2015, 07:59:57 AM
Looks very neat .. Hope you have some spare props .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on June 26, 2015, 08:06:44 AM
Unfortunately the vid had been compressed by Tapatalk so its not as good as what the original looks.  Also doubled up the post...?

That iMovie app is heaps of fun.

Got a set of spare props.  Not intending to fly it too close to trees and other obstacles for now.

I always knew these things were cool but I never realised how much fun they really are.

This forum has a lot to answer for...! :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on June 27, 2015, 02:08:28 AM
You call that a drone? THIS is a drone!
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/world/australia-to-join-us-armed-forces-in-pilotless-aircraft-revolution/story-fni6um3i-1227416768299 (http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/world/australia-to-join-us-armed-forces-in-pilotless-aircraft-revolution/story-fni6um3i-1227416768299)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: dales133 on June 27, 2015, 02:46:19 AM
I saw the most amazing drones today.... There was one in a shop that had huge motors...8 of them and a full aluminium frame.
It was full gps touch screen control and held a full size cinematographic camera.
I've got major issues with pics on my memory card but they are saving to my Google back up.
From the quick research I did 200 Au will get you a full gps takeoff and land control and flight track.
I've never seen anything they have here in aus
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on June 27, 2015, 12:58:26 PM

Hi all

Just returned from a trip to the US and Canada and bought myself a quad.  A Parrot Bebop. Not quite as good as some of the pro kit you guys have but it's easy to fly and has a pretty good camera.

Also discovered iMovie on the iPad. Boy you can have some fun with this stuff...!


https://vimeo.com/131767509 (https://vimeo.com/131767509)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
That is a very cool video. It is like a trailer for the next action movie!
Well done.
Enjoy your new camera and keep posting the videos for us.
Regards
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on June 28, 2015, 10:32:29 AM
 Thanks Crispy.

Making the movie was a pinch.  Used the iMovie app on iOS. It's so easy any idiot can look like Steven Spielberg...!


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 03, 2015, 11:42:02 AM
OK...not strictly a Quad or Orno thingy but how super cool is this...???

http://www.poweruptoys.com/ (http://www.poweruptoys.com/)


 :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Kennchris on July 05, 2015, 11:46:19 AM
After some advice, If you were going to buy a ready to fly drone for photos and video, which one would you get? Don't want to spent any more then $2000.00, I know everyone will have a different opinion.   
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 05, 2015, 12:03:14 PM
Phantom 2 or Vision Plus ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on July 06, 2015, 10:14:45 AM
All in one ... Phantom 3 Professional

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 08, 2015, 12:59:07 AM
After some advice, If you were going to buy a ready to fly drone for photos and video, which one would you get? Don't want to spent any more then $2000.00, I know everyone will have a different opinion.

If you are looking at only RTF then I'd have a serious look at the 3DR Solo (https://store.3drobotics.com/t/solo (https://store.3drobotics.com/t/solo)), but the DJI products are good as well, as best as they can be for a RTF.  Seems alot of people can understand the DJI's range quite well.

But it really depends on what kind of photos and videos you want to take?  Did you want to sling a DSLR under it or something like a gopro?  If you want to put a DSLR up in the air with some reliability then you need to rethink the budget, if it's a gopro sized camera then the above suggestions will work well.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 08, 2015, 09:32:04 AM
There's a new smaller and lighter GoPro on the market.

http://www.theverge.com/2015/7/6/8887691/gopro-hero-4-session-camera-cube-hands-on (http://www.theverge.com/2015/7/6/8887691/gopro-hero-4-session-camera-cube-hands-on)

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on July 08, 2015, 01:37:20 PM
Not sure how much you know but if you plan on using your camera with a gimbal then said gimbal need to be designed, built and calibrated for that camera otherwise it will not behave in a desirable manner.

Solo looks the goods but I don't like the cost or the fish eye effect you get with the GoPro cameras.

You can also have a look at the new Yneec 500 Typhoon or the Blade 350 QX3 or the new Blade Chroma their at a lower price point but all have the pros and cons.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Kennchris on July 08, 2015, 05:30:46 PM
Thanks for your replies, I was thinking the DJI Phantom Professional but wouldn't some advice first, I will have a look at the others.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 09, 2015, 12:05:15 PM
Ok, so there's a million pages her about flying things, and I don't really have the time to read through them so I hope this query is not a repeat.
I did what seems to be recommended and bought a basic quadcopter, a Syma X5C-1.
I tried it inside for nearly 1 minute before crashing into the TV, trinkets and other assorted crap, and was banished from further indoor use.
I took it out to the back yard which is an acre with a small dam and a river as a back boundary.
All went well for about 60 seconds,then when I went reasonably high and zoomed around a bit, I lost sight of it, even with flashing red and green lights.
Longish story short, it is now parked in the top of a 25m high Camphor Laurel tree near the river bank and unless a few lengths of conduit joined reach it, I will need a new quad (or hex or octo).
This Syma has a camera but I did not have a chance to use it.
If they are available, what sort of price range/brand/model of these things have the camera view in real time to the hand control or to a smart phone/tablet?
At the current rate my new hobby is costing over $2 500 per hour so I need to get better or give up.
Cheers
Ian
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 09, 2015, 01:32:25 PM
Longish story short, it is now parked in the top of a 25m high Camphor Laurel tree near the river bank and unless a few lengths of conduit joined reach it, I will need a new quad (or hex or octo).
This Syma has a camera but I did not have a chance to use it.
If they are available, what sort of price range/brand/model of these things have the camera view in real time to the hand control or to a smart phone/tablet?
At the current rate my new hobby is costing over $2 500 per hour so I need to get better or give up.
Cheers
Ian

Hi Ian,

That is a bit of a bugger.  Depends on what you want to use the camera and multicopter for?  Is it only for FPV?  Or do you want to be able to film something in particular?

There are lot of RTF in the sub $500 mark that would do most of what I can see above, there are some nice RTF in the between $1200+ range too.  What environment do you wish to fly in?  How windy is it where you fly?

This is why I started off simple and built from there, I started with a few motors, some plywood, some pine squares, a few ESC's, transmitter, receiver, and a basic flight controller.  I was flying for under $200.  Of course I have now spend a lot more on more advanced stuff as I've wanted to do more and more.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 09, 2015, 07:27:44 PM
Thanks Chris, it looks like more information is needed.
No real interest in high quality filming, just junky home use, not windy conditions, and generally open areas, hopefully with short trees.
The write up of the Syma looked good at first but I did wonder how you know when to use the photo button when you can be 80 metres away and just guessing where the camera is looking.
Cheers
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 10, 2015, 12:46:26 PM
Thanks Chris, it looks like more information is needed.
No real interest in high quality filming, just junky home use, not windy conditions, and generally open areas, hopefully with short trees.
The write up of the Syma looked good at first but I did wonder how you know when to use the photo button when you can be 80 metres away and just guessing where the camera is looking.
Cheers

I'm having heaps of fun with a Parrot Bebop.  Despite what some of the expert reviews are saying, its brilliant and heaps of fun.  The images captured by the camera, particularly the video, are incredible considering the lower cost of the unit.  Extremely stable and more than good enough for a home hack like me.

Its not perfect.  Battery life is a bit ordinary but you get 2 batteries.  They are also continuously updating the firmware and the control app. Third party accessories is growing too.

Its not as good as say a Phantom with a GoPro but its not as expensive either.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on July 10, 2015, 10:59:52 PM
Ok, so there's a million pages her about flying things, and I don't really have the time to read through them so I hope this query is not a repeat.
I did what seems to be recommended and bought a basic quadcopter, a Syma X5C-1.
I tried it inside for nearly 1 minute before crashing into the TV, trinkets and other assorted crap, and was banished from further indoor use.
I took it out to the back yard which is an acre with a small dam and a river as a back boundary.
All went well for about 60 seconds,then when I went reasonably high and zoomed around a bit, I lost sight of it, even with flashing red and green lights.
Longish story short, it is now parked in the top of a 25m high Camphor Laurel tree near the river bank and unless a few lengths of conduit joined reach it, I will need a new quad (or hex or octo).
This Syma has a camera but I did not have a chance to use it.
If they are available, what sort of price range/brand/model of these things have the camera view in real time to the hand control or to a smart phone/tablet?
At the current rate my new hobby is costing over $2 500 per hour so I need to get better or give up.
Cheers
Ian
Can you climb trees? I have put mine up there a couple of times but have been able to get them back. Once an arborist climbed the tree cause i could not get near it. No cost as it was the local shire bloke and it was in a tree in the local park.
Have fun but be safe.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 11, 2015, 05:07:35 AM
Can you climb trees? I have put mine up there a couple of times but have been able to get them back. Once an arborist climbed the tree cause i could not get near it. No cost as it was the local shire bloke and it was in a tree in the local park.
Have fun but be safe.
Regards
Crispyd





Hi Crispy
My tree climbing days are long past, but I wouldnt have climbed this sucker for the $80 the Syma cost. If I cant poke it down it can stay there. The tree is considered a pest so the Council would want it dropped.
Cheers
Ian
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on July 11, 2015, 07:40:21 AM
Some good shots

http://www.news.com.au/national/incredible-images-from-international-drone-photography-contest/story-e6frfkp9-1227437248001 (http://www.news.com.au/national/incredible-images-from-international-drone-photography-contest/story-e6frfkp9-1227437248001)

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 16, 2015, 12:40:56 PM
i went down to the tree to recover my Syma, and it is gone.
I has not fallen down and there is no sign of damage to the flora under the tree so no one has climbed up the tree to recover it. It could not fly off by itself.
The tree in only 10 metres from the Logan River which is tidal and in an area frequented by birds resembling sea eagles.
At a guess, I am thinking the nice white shape could have been seen by the local bird life to be injured prey and took it, but I have no real idea whether that is even feasible.
It's now a toss-up whether to get a replacement cheapie or spend a few more dollars and get one with FPV so I can at least steer it properly.
Back to the searches.
Cheers.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 16, 2015, 04:02:02 PM
i went down to the tree to recover my Syma, and it is gone.
I has not fallen down and there is no sign of damage to the flora under the tree so no one has climbed up the tree to recover it. It could not fly off by itself.
The tree in only 10 metres from the Logan River which is tidal and in an area frequented by birds resembling sea eagles.
At a guess, I am thinking the nice white shape could have been seen by the local bird life to be injured prey and took it, but I have no real idea whether that is even feasible.
It's now a toss-up whether to get a replacement cheapie or spend a few more dollars and get one with FPV so I can at least steer it properly.
Back to the searches.
Cheers.

That sucks...!! 

Have to say though, the thought of some bird taking it back to its nest and realising WTF...?? ???  That would be quite funny.

Little comfort to you though
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 16, 2015, 05:47:33 PM
That sucks...!! 

Have to say though, the thought of some bird taking it back to its nest and realising WTF...?? ???  That would be quite funny.

Little comfort to you though





It would be a shock to sink the beak into it and have the LED's start flashing.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 22, 2015, 09:54:17 AM
Just received this today - Hope I can get the Hex to lift it !!! 10,000mah - 649 gms ... USD 56.22 - http://www.aliexpress.com/item/ZOP-Li-poly-Li-on-Lipo-Battery-10000mAh-11-1V-25C-3S-XT60-Plug-For-RC/32309908579.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/ZOP-Li-poly-Li-on-Lipo-Battery-10000mAh-11-1V-25C-3S-XT60-Plug-For-RC/32309908579.html)

Steve
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/21/e7b9de0102ae613ba531a2e1b223e9a3.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on July 22, 2015, 09:58:13 AM
Just received this today - Hope I can get the Hex to lift it !!! 10,000mah - 649 gms ...

Steve
Looking forward to seeing this in September Steve. What sort of flight times are you expecting with it? There must be some sort of payoff with 6 motors. Some of the guys on the Alien560 thread on rcgroups are getting close to 30 minutes with similar sized flight batteries with motors around the 600 kv mark.

Cheers, Mark
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 22, 2015, 10:15:01 AM
I think if I configure the Naza cutoff voltages properly I should get 20 minutes minimum .. But flight test will tell when the wind stops ( hahahahahahaha !!! )

Edit - Added URL and price above and here  - http://www.aliexpress.com/item/ZOP-Li-poly-Li-on-Lipo-Battery-10000mAh-11-1V-25C-3S-XT60-Plug-For-RC/32309908579.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/ZOP-Li-poly-Li-on-Lipo-Battery-10000mAh-11-1V-25C-3S-XT60-Plug-For-RC/32309908579.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on July 23, 2015, 01:02:48 PM
Ok who on here is going to try it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqN2DqKyKtw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqN2DqKyKtw)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 23, 2015, 01:10:06 PM
Ok who on here is going to try it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqN2DqKyKtw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqN2DqKyKtw)

hmmmm.......I'd give it a go but I'd be wearing some body armour...!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 23, 2015, 01:20:46 PM
I think if I configure the Naza cutoff voltages properly I should get 20 minutes minimum .. But flight test will tell when the wind stops ( hahahahahahaha !!! )

Edit - Added URL and price above and here  - http://www.aliexpress.com/item/ZOP-Li-poly-Li-on-Lipo-Battery-10000mAh-11-1V-25C-3S-XT60-Plug-For-RC/32309908579.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/ZOP-Li-poly-Li-on-Lipo-Battery-10000mAh-11-1V-25C-3S-XT60-Plug-For-RC/32309908579.html)


Hi Steve,

Looks good, do you have something that measures internal resistance?  If you do can you take a reading for me, otherwise if you dont mind when you come to the meet up can I run it through the IR measurement on my charger?  Depending on the results I might see what they have in the 4s range......  Just be careful, if you are using the XT60's check that they are decent quality version (see how strong the thin part of the plastic is), just that if you have high current draw their have been lots of failures of the low quality connectors.  I ordered some from ebay and they were bad.

I got a 4s 10,000mah (only 10c though - 10cx10 = 100Amps) battery the other day, still waiting to take it for a spin in the tricopter (sits at 15A draw on the 15" props).......  HK was having a sale and i thought I'd try one - first order since they stuffed me around.  10Ah @ 20A draw (I figure an additional 5A is extremely conservative for the weight difference of the batt) so I'm hoping to hit high 20's for flight times.  5.8A batteries I'm getting 18 mins of flight (with normal 20% reserve)....

Annoying thing is between Work, SES, Family and the weather I haven't been able to take it for a spin.  My last flights were on the 15" props, huge amount of vibrations.  I've balanced them - they were bad.  Now for a test flight, this weekends weather appears to be good.  I also received my 30cc petrol motor for the fixed wing but work has asked me to work the 4 weeks before the meet up so I may not have it ready for that.  So now financially better off but time poor again, grrrr.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 23, 2015, 01:23:29 PM
hmmmm.......I'd give it a go but I'd be wearing some body armour...!

Given the reliability of most of the gear, I'd give it a miss till it's working a bit better (and then I'd still wear body armour).  See the movement on some of those motor mounts......  Doesn't inspire confidence.  I'd prefer a X8 or should that be an X10 config.....

Good on him though, although to actually sit in it will require a whole host of legal things to meet (experimental ac - depending which country it's from).
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 23, 2015, 02:18:21 PM
Chris

Simplified ( ie NOT TOO SCIENTIFIC  --- used one of my wattmeters )
18 degrees centigrade ...
Unloaded 12.46 , loaded 12.33 - ( load was a 12V bulb at 71 watts ) - registered 5.78 Amps ...

So the IR is 12.46 - 12.33 / 5.78A x1000 = 22.5 milliohms ...

I believe that's pretty good ...

Going to make my tester a bit safer and test all the batteries and see what's watt and watt is resisting - LOL

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 23, 2015, 02:42:58 PM
Chris

Simplified ( ie NOT TOO SCIENTIFIC  --- used one of my wattmeters )
18 degrees centigrade ...
Unloaded 12.46 , loaded 12.33 - ( load was a 12V bulb at 71 watts ) - registered 5.78 Amps ...

So the IR is 12.46 - 12.33 / 5.78A x1000 = 22.5 milliohms ...

I believe that's pretty good ...

Going to make my tester a bit safer and test all the batteries and see what's watt and watt is resisting - LOL

Steve

Hi Steve,

Thanks for that, it is exactly the way to do it!  I went the easier route and bought a charger that does it for me, i looked at doing that way and urgh, maths.....   22.5 is on the high side of low, so I'd say for the money spend that is a good outcome.  For most of my batteries I'm getting about 3 to 4 milliohms per cell (so for 3s around 9 to 12).  I havent put my 10Ah 4s batt on the IR tester yet, so can't compare it yet.

I'd recommend investing in a charger that can do it per cell, that way you know when your battery is on the way out.  You can cycle them to the non critical ground duties over the important spin the props job......  Batt's tend to start to get a dodgy cell, and if one goes it might be masked by the other two (I had a 2, 15, 3 - Cell 2 was dying - ground duties for it - even though total was just 20millohms).  Another way to see it is after a flight see if one of the cells voltage is much lower than the others.  I only check my batts once every 4 to 6 weeks or if it suffers a hard impact from an IR perspective.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 23, 2015, 03:03:31 PM
Bloke on Youtube I copied his tester idea ... says between 20 and 40 for 3S batteries is OK .. after 50 he retires them - over 100 they get recycled...

So if I get a chance I'll solder up the test lamp with a nice battery XT60 on it and start ( as he did ) a spread sheet to keep track of the IRs on all my batteries ...

As I now have 28 of them it'll be a big spreadsheet !!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 24, 2015, 09:46:47 AM
Bloke on Youtube I copied his tester idea ... says between 20 and 40 for 3S batteries is OK .. after 50 he retires them - over 100 they get recycled...

So if I get a chance I'll solder up the test lamp with a nice battery XT60 on it and start ( as he did ) a spread sheet to keep track of the IRs on all my batteries ...

As I now have 28 of them it'll be a big spreadsheet !!

I too keep a spreadsheet to see when they start to go, I have the original values written in perm marker on the side of the battery just in case.  I have about 20 to keep track of and the list grows far too quickly.  I've retired 1 battery so far, 2 are not far off it.  I haven't included my transmitter or VRX batts, that would be just a nightmare but something I will add soon.

I use a slightly different rule, as long as the cells are similar in value I'm not as concerned but certainly for a 3s if it gets to 40 it would be ground use only.  The one I mentioned earlier that was 2, 15, 3 is ground use only for light loads of non critical items - the difference between cells is large, if the middle cell was 10 I still be using it in the air.  The one I retired had a dead cell (under 2V) - was in a crash a long time ago, didn't even bother to measure IR on it, I tried a charge (outside in an area where things were less likely to catch alight if it went wrong) but it didn't work.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 24, 2015, 05:19:22 PM
Oh dear - Oh me Oh my - Oh gosh ....
Just tested all my batteries (18 ) and only 1 is OK  - Most are between 80 and 110 !!!
Looks like I need to get some new ones for the Phantoms ....

Good job I don't fly them much !!

Steve
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 24, 2015, 09:33:01 PM
Oh dear - Oh me Oh my - Oh gosh ....
Just tested all my batteries (18 ) and only 1 is OK  - Most are between 80 and 110 !!!
Looks like I need to get some new ones for the Phantoms ....

Good job I don't fly them much !!

Steve

Hi Steve,

Ouch, that is high.  Can I suggest you bring one or two along on the trip in Sept, I'll chuck them on my charger that measures IR values, just to see compare the two methods.

I'm wondering if they have been over discharged, might want to shorten the flight time by a few minutes on the newer batteries to give them a longer life (unless of course those 18 batteries are all very old ones :-) ).

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on July 24, 2015, 10:01:59 PM
Most of them were the one I bought off the guy when I bought my Phantom 1 ---

I'll give a couple of them a complete discharge / recharge / conditioning and see if that does any good -

My charger does all that if i can work out the right sequence of button presses !! LOL
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 24, 2015, 10:16:34 PM
Just wanted to say that Emaxmodel.com have been really good after they stuffed up an order.  I ordered a bunch of MT-3515's from another vendor and I decided I like to have spares of accessories kits, you never know when you will lose stuff.  I could only find them on the emaxmodel site at the time and I happen to order right as they cut over to their new website and they stuffed up my order.  I got those accessory kits about 8 weeks later, after I inquired if they could track what had happened.  They dispatched the items express and they arrived 4 days later, they also offered me a discount on my next order, I said that it would be month or two before I was ready to take them up on that offer.

Well I've just ordered 7 new MT-3515's for my Y6 I'm working on at present (to hold my Sony A5100), normally they are $29.70 USD per motor.  I emailed the guy to ask how to handle it and he remembered me and said that they will do them for $23 USD given the huge delay.  Even after postage that works out at around $40 AUD with quick postage, should be here in under 10 days!  Lowest I could find elsewhere was $43 AUD and it was with slow mail, my previous ones took around 4 to 5 weeks last time.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on July 27, 2015, 12:19:48 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCHoTIsCtio (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCHoTIsCtio)  not sure if its been on before .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 29, 2015, 12:45:30 AM
I have made a very hard decision tonight, I am giving up on the tricopter for the time being, the servo coming off the tilt mechanism is just plain bad design.  Since I'm building the Y6 I can't see a reason to keep a Y6 and a tricopter, that was another build I wasnt planning on.  Good news is that since I ordered 7 MT3515's for the Y6 and I have 3 good motors and one for testing that will give me plenty of spares.....

The Y6 should be far more reliable and be able to handle loosing one motor, it could even loose two but jut not on the same arm.

It was a bit of a worry watching my GoPro crash into the ground at high speed, I had just build up confidence it was good.  I had just under 10 hours of crash free flying.  I need to feel that I can sling my Sony A5100 onto one of my platforms, a Y6 gives me a higher level of comfort, but it will be some time before I feel I can put it on the frame.

Bad news is I killed one of the telemetry radio's, its taken the copper track off where the antenna connector connects to.  Everything else appears good, all the motors are good now that I've cleared out the dirt (very time consuming as you dont want to spin the motor while stuff is still in there).  The LiPo is less nicely packaged, I've check the cells, all good (same IR values too).  So overall not too bad I have to say.  I'm putting this down to the Quanum 15" props, they just vibrated too much which caused the tail servo to disconnect from the tilt mechanism, which then in a high spin as I killed the power it threw the tail motor a good 20m away.  I ordered some more 12" and 13" CF props as they appear to be better balanced, I thought I had balanced the 15" before but I could hear they were vibrating (plus the FPV video was bouncing around). 

Having reviewed the footage and telemetry logs, it seems if I have not killed the power it was looking like I might have been able to bring it to the ground in an uncontrolled spin.  Just would have been down to the tail motor staying on long enough.....
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 29, 2015, 11:32:44 AM
Since a tree ate my little Syma (or a bird took it), I bought a Hubsan X4 to practice with, but thought a FPV flyer was worth trying so that at least I could see where I am looking at to take video or photo's, and then upgrade to something decent.
I have a Walkera QRY100 hexcopter in the mail system, but research shows that spare blades are only available from China or the US with weeks worth of postage delays.
More internet study shows that blades from QRW100S are supposed to fit but being a quad I don't know whether this is true, as the Hubsan quad has different blades from side to side (and different colours front to back), is it safe to assume that hexes may also have different blades to quads?
This raises three queries if anyone knows:
1. Are the blades generally different depending on the motor location on quads or hexes?
2. Is there any other model Walkera blades that would fit the QRY100?
3. Is there any Australian suppliers that sell Walkera blades? 
Cheers
Ian
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 29, 2015, 07:37:40 PM
Hi,

This raises three queries if anyone knows:
1. Are the blades generally different depending on the motor location on quads or hexes?

In this context there are two types of props, Clockwise (CW) and Counter Clockwise (CCW).  They are placed in opposing directions (directly opposite).  They also come in different sizes and pitches - although they change for different reasons.

2. Is there any other model Walkera blades that would fit the QRY100?

Not sure, but they do appear to have a custom or very narrow hub - its the curse of the small multi's.  Seems they have a small screw that holds it to the shaft of the motor.

3. Is there any Australian suppliers that sell Walkera blades? 

Can't help you with this one. 

Not Australian but it seems places like GLB and other sites where they sell them cheaply (either free or low cost freight options), I'd buy alot (like 20 spares) and reorder another set when you get down to 10.  I have 20 spares for my mini quad, my other models i have a few to a dozen spares.

Good luck with it

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: terravista on July 30, 2015, 06:50:33 AM
Thanks Chris.
That pretty well confirms everything, it looks like a wait for spares.
Cheers
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 08, 2015, 12:23:17 AM
No more selfie  sticks or go pro's needed with this thing   https://www.youtube.com/embed/4vGcH0Bk3hg?rel=0 (https://www.youtube.com/embed/4vGcH0Bk3hg?rel=0)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on August 08, 2015, 04:37:08 PM
Should have been out test flying today but the cold has got to me so I stayed in --
Been thinking about a reversing camera for the Dmax and had a few odd FPV pieces left over
from various quad things - So I built this today - The camera/transmitter is totally portable so I
can rest it on the DMax rear step for hooking up or on the rear of the camper for backing in ...
Being wireless I didn't have to tap into the Dmax wiring loom -
Screen is a 2.4Ghz DVR which I use to record flight data from the OSD on the Phantom ...
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/07/edce9634d6b38e32dc53fe915c8ae108.jpg)

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 09, 2015, 12:40:59 AM
Very nifty there Mandrake, now of to china with it put them into production and flog them off before the copies hit the shelves  .. ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 24, 2015, 09:29:44 AM
Thought you blokes might be interested in this doco .. http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/documentaries/2013/9/1 (http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/documentaries/2013/9/1)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on August 25, 2015, 01:06:33 AM
Thought you blokes might be interested in this doco .. http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/documentaries/2013/9/1 (http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/documentaries/2013/9/1)

I have a team in the current comp, hoping to get to the final 20 teams that get to fly. This time we have to fly upto 30 km's away, locate Joe, land within 30 to 80m away,  receive an item and fly back.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on August 25, 2015, 07:37:05 PM
It was bound to happen
http://www.news.com.au/world/north-america/drone-packed-with-handgun-marijuana-and-pornography-destined-for-a-maxmim-security-prison/story-fnh81jut-1227498554135 (http://www.news.com.au/world/north-america/drone-packed-with-handgun-marijuana-and-pornography-destined-for-a-maxmim-security-prison/story-fnh81jut-1227498554135)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on August 31, 2015, 08:35:54 PM
Thought you blokes might be interested in this doco .. http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/documentaries/2013/9/1 (http://tenplay.com.au/channel-ten/documentaries/2013/9/1)

And we get excited to get them off the ground and back safely.
That was very good to watch.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: petrolburner on September 01, 2015, 10:07:23 PM
I no longer fly RC anymore due to time constraints with a young family but I hop to get back into it when my young bloke is old enough.

The fixed wing was capable of unlimited aerobatics has a 170cc twin cylinder 2 stroke making about 20hp turning a 30 inch prop. Totoal weight of 17.5kg's

The heli is a 700 class electric Mikado Logo.

Power system is a 12S 5000mah pack packing 10,000watts of pure electric grunt!!

I will try and dig up some photos of other toys from another computer......
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 02, 2015, 08:56:34 AM
Great flying field, not many trees and flat as a bicky. Where abouts is it?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: petrolburner on September 02, 2015, 06:42:09 PM
The top picture is on a mates farm. The whole paddock is lush turf now.  Was great to have a private airstrip!!

The bottom picture is wagga model flying field.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: petrolburner on September 02, 2015, 07:42:23 PM
More toys :) :) I was hopelessly addicted!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 04, 2015, 09:56:06 PM
Hi all,

Having one of those weeks that nothing goes right in the RC world......  My Y6 is a total flop, cant get it to be stable it goes into a terminal spin each time.  I had it 4m off the ground the other day, was good but way to hairy to fly (had to do almost full left rudder to stop it from spinning).  Tried lots of things (motor angles, checked rotation of props 50 times, looked at logs on the pixhawk), also the additional clearance space needed for the bottom set of motors is crazy high.  I noticed it was very hard to get rid of the landing gear out of my images, so I have to rethink this Y6 design.....

So I don't only have my mini quad and fixed wing stuff for the up coming trip, I'm rapidly rebuilding my Y6 as a quad.  Just using two sheets of 1.5m CF and various other spares.  Should have it ready to test fly on Monday afternoon - SES activities and Fathers day are stopping it from happening sooner.  Just doing up the design on CAD before I start drilling into the CF plates (I have 4 sheets, so hopefully if I design it well then all will go well).  Seems like I'll have lots of spare MT3515's, I have 11 of them and now I'm only using 4.  Seems like I should build two of these :-)

To top it off I damaged the motor mount on the flying wing with a hard landing today, but nothing some epoxy wont solve.....  Love that stuff!!

Hope every one else is having success right now.....  Good news is I have a contract for when I return from the trip, so more money to spend on this stuff!!!!

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on September 05, 2015, 08:56:48 AM
Well I have been playing with my RC stuff lately but not anything that flys.... or drives.....or floats.
You may well know that I build stage sets for something to do in my spare time for my daughters musical theatre group.
I have been working on automatic gate openers. Nothing new you say but I have been designing my system around electric car window winders.
So using the winders as the motive force couples with a speed controller for brushed motors I have been able to come up with a working model.
All I have to do now is full size it to see if my concept model works. It should I just need to get to the gates that are in storage and bring them home to the cave to test.
I am also waiting on some wheelchair motors and gearboxes so I can build bigger stuff. Exciting times ahead in my shed.
Maybe I should play with the flying stuff too.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 05, 2015, 02:11:35 PM
I know exactly what you mean Crispy. The quad copters have led me off on a tangent with Arduino microprocessors. It's amazing when we put our minds to it that we have this incredibly useful piece of machinery disguised as a quadcopter that has so many other ways it can be put to use. My latest adventure is now into creating an MPPT solar controller using an Arduino.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 06, 2015, 12:39:42 AM
Good news is that I have now built 90% of the quad, I may have gone a bit big though.....  It's 900mm motor to motor, so I'm thinking of sliding the motors a bit closer in.  I'll see how it goes after its first test flight.  I'm thinking I'll be good for next weekend.

Just need to make one extra landing gear (downside to converting from a tri to a quad) and add the gimbal.

So I may just get to test flying it tomorrow afternoon, if not then Monday afternoon will be it, fingers are crossed that it will work out.

Weight without battery is 2kg, so it should be under 3kg.  With 14 inch props it should give me 4 x 2.2kg lift, thats 8.8kg of lift so it should be fairly agile.  Will also try the 13 inch and 12 inch CF props too as they were so quiet on the tri.

On the playing with other items, I've been playing with some nano's, dataloggers and doing RTK GPS with post processing for highly accurate GPS readings.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: firefox on September 08, 2015, 10:12:13 PM
Hey guys,
So I finally took the plunge. Whilst in Melbourne decided to buy one of the new fancy dji phantom 3 advanced. I know I know.. Should have built one, but for me I don't have the capability to do repairs etc and build my own being space and a place to work.

From what I've read the new versions are pretty rock solid (expensive) but seem ok. The build quality looks good. I will take for a test flight tomorrow.

Looks good and will be interesting.. Have a particular interest in the new GPS and other new sensors etc.

Anyhow wil update when I've had a chance to play, I don't know if anyone is running these at the moment on the forum??
JD
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 09, 2015, 12:21:11 AM
You know Firefox, Melbourne is only a 4 hour drive to the Mandrake and Marschy's Desert Flying Funanza (http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=41744.msg755425#msg755425).

We don't discriminate against ready to fly quads vs scratch built, but to get bragging rights for having the latest and greatest you may have to just show us in person. What if someone shows up with the same quad as yours, you'll lose bragging rights. Not to mention all of the collective advice and wisdom that we can and will give you, whether needed or not.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: firefox on September 09, 2015, 08:27:41 AM
Ha ha.. I'd love to if I had the time.
I was actually in Melb on Monday and Tuesday this week. Actually were I brought the quad.
Though I will have it for the my swag flinders trip and hoping to get some flight time in before the trip.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 09, 2015, 08:43:39 AM
Hopefully after this weekend, there is going to be a bit of video that we can start showing of our aerial videography skills (or lack thereof in my case). Got some picture's of your new toy firefox?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: firefox on September 09, 2015, 09:15:18 AM
ill post some pics today :)..

I ended up buying the travel backpack and extra battery kit etc.. THe backpack seems robust as i am travelling all the time seems a good way to store and was great taking on the plane yesterday.

Hopefully if the sun comes out today thought i would go for a quick fly, need to relearn how to fly (used to fly single RC heli's.. so it shouldn't be too hard!)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 09, 2015, 09:29:55 AM
Its a helluva lot easier than single rotor helis... These things just sit in midair and hover until the battery runs out ..
I have a Phantom 1 and 2 and a Hex with Phantom 2 electrics - Just let go of the sticks and they stop and hover ..

The 3 has a lot better FPV and camera controls than mine - But I don't mind editing my videos ...

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: firefox on September 09, 2015, 06:47:50 PM
So she just got her first flight and battery run. Have to admit i'm stunned at how stable but smart the thing is.. I was careful as you can imagine but wow, although "slow" as such compared to flying a real heli i tested some of the features out. Pretty impressed and stability was what i was after so i can do video and photo.

Love the "home" feature and was impressed with GPS lock and even little things like detecting the rapid decent and braking to ensure a perfect landing without lifting a finger.. I'm betting i only touched about 10% of what you can do.. But not bad..

Here's a couple of pics of the setup.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on September 20, 2015, 11:35:29 PM
Crazy Yanks https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvirzLY-idM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvirzLY-idM)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 21, 2015, 03:47:56 AM
So she just got her first flight and battery run. Have to admit i'm stunned at how stable but smart the thing is.. I was careful as you can imagine but wow, although "slow" as such compared to flying a real heli i tested some of the features out. Pretty impressed and stability was what i was after so i can do video and photo.

Love the "home" feature and was impressed with GPS lock and even little things like detecting the rapid decent and braking to ensure a perfect landing without lifting a finger.. I'm betting i only touched about 10% of what you can do.. But not bad..

Here's a couple of pics of the setup.
Look out, the bug has bitten.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on September 24, 2015, 08:08:11 AM
Foud this on Ebay - Pity its not a motorised zoom lens !!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/800TVL-Mini-PCB-Board-Camera-IR-Cut-2-8-12mm-Zoom-Lens-CCTV-Hidden-Security-Cam-/251997237710?hash=item3aac34b1ce (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/800TVL-Mini-PCB-Board-Camera-IR-Cut-2-8-12mm-Zoom-Lens-CCTV-Hidden-Security-Cam-/251997237710?hash=item3aac34b1ce)

Also Hobbyking are selling 800 TVL mini cams for $93.63 !!! I get mine ( 700 TVL ) for $22 !! -- Do they really get away with this ripoff ????
Here's Ebay version at $23.47 !!!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/12V-800-TVL-COMS-EFFIO-P-FPV-Ultra-Low-Illumination-Mini-Camera-CCTV-iCam-E-/361000019522?hash=item540d472642 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/12V-800-TVL-COMS-EFFIO-P-FPV-Ultra-Low-Illumination-Mini-Camera-CCTV-iCam-E-/361000019522?hash=item540d472642)

Sheesh !!!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on September 24, 2015, 09:07:01 AM
Swa the hobby king email today anf thought it was a bit steep. If it had a Vtx in it then it would be ok.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Marschy on September 27, 2015, 12:26:11 PM
This guy (https://www.youtube.com/user/8bitandrewmcneil) has posted some really interesting and easy to make FPV antennas. I'm going to be giving the Quadrifilar Helix Antenna 5.8 GHz (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InLEq04R5So) a go very shortly as well as the 5.8Ghz Double Biquad (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iqin9aS_C6E) for the ground receiver.

If the gains he claims are fair dinkum, then they should be very effective antennas and a lot more robust than the homebrew circular polarised antennas I have already made.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: firefox on September 27, 2015, 05:09:00 PM
Went for a fly yesterday, first time to let it very much out of my sight (hit the virtual boundary and it turned around) was 800mt away from me up the beach..
Worked like a treat. Took some footage, still getting the hang of it, but really enjoying it and the video i'm extremely impressed with..

Still getting the hang of it, but have to admit i just love the stability of the unit. And even let the daughter have a quick fly. Very impressed with all the newish technology on these and the new firmware update gives me incredible quality on the camera..

here's some video we put together from a couple of flights i did at sunset yesterday..

https://www.youtube.com/embed/W-TLcpaZqKs (https://www.youtube.com/embed/W-TLcpaZqKs)

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on September 28, 2015, 02:59:32 PM
So she just got her first flight and battery run. Have to admit i'm stunned at how stable but smart the thing is.. I was careful as you can imagine but wow, although "slow" as such compared to flying a real heli i tested some of the features out. Pretty impressed and stability was what i was after so i can do video and photo.

Love the "home" feature and was impressed with GPS lock and even little things like detecting the rapid decent and braking to ensure a perfect landing without lifting a finger.. I'm betting i only touched about 10% of what you can do.. But not bad..

Here's a couple of pics of the setup.

Hi firefox,

Make sure you upgrade the tablet mount to the Inspire 1 aluminum unit they are only $50 and are a direct bolt in replacement and stop all of the wobbles and having to tighten up the nut all the time.

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: firefox on September 28, 2015, 06:32:07 PM
hey yogi, where can i get one? Do you think they would sell them in the hobby shop i brought from??
I'm in melbourne currently and i brought from the shop in swanson/flinders st..

Was thinking about getting some more blades, i've had one crash and everything came out good, so don't know if i need spares. (i did buy a secondary battery)..

Yeah i dislike that holder.. could be much better.
JD
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on September 29, 2015, 09:25:14 AM
hey yogi, where can i get one? Do you think they would sell them in the hobby shop i brought from??
I'm in melbourne currently and i brought from the shop in swanson/flinders st..

Was thinking about getting some more blades, i've had one crash and everything came out good, so don't know if i need spares. (i did buy a secondary battery)..

Yeah i dislike that holder.. could be much better.
JD
Vic Hobby centre have blades but they may have to come from their other shop at boxhill where most of their RC stuff is.
other than that many online places have them too.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: stiffbreeze on September 29, 2015, 01:01:32 PM
Hubby and I got a phantom 3 a few weeks ago but had a few issues initially with firmware, updates, gyroscrope bias and metallic interference blah blah blah. Finally took it to my brother's farm on the weekend and got tons of flying time.

Damn it's a sweet machine and so stable.

Will take pics/upload videos once we're a bit more comfortable etc.

Great thread btw.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: yogi on October 01, 2015, 09:32:41 AM
I got mine online from Just Hobbies ... but any one who sells DJI stuff should be able to get it in for you. Part 45 for the Inspire 1 :D

yogi
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 04, 2015, 11:34:58 AM
Hi all,

The mini quad is flying again!  I cant say what was wrong with it, but I rebinded the RX (which I did down at the campsite) seemed to work.  Not happy as the site would have been awesome to whip around with a 250 sized quad.  I also took the opportunity to swap out the full sized telemetry radio for a HK Micro Telemetry radio which worked great.  Just zipping around the local oval the micro telemetry is not as good due to the small integrated antenna (was dropping down to 80% RSSI just 100m away), I would only use it for a close in machine.

I've got the Bix 3 ready for a test flight either this afternoon (is the high level wind dies down) or tomorrow morning (when it will be calmer).  I decided that I didnt want the same problem as last time, so I've switched it to 433MHz for control, still using 915MHz for telemetry and I'm still using 5.8GHz for the video (but I'll be working on some better antenna's).

I also plan to try the small home built flying wing, I've downgraded the prop (7x5), so hoping this will be better if not I'll switch to a smaller motor and smaller prop (5x3).

Big quad will get 1 more chance to balance out and be auto tuned, if not then I'll be redoing the design.  I'm thinking of similar design with the plates but moving it to a H quad (one of tube for both front arms and another tube for the read arms, instead of the 4 I'm using).  Bonus would be that it will be smaller and easier to transport, downside is that I think the largest props I can use then will be the 14inch props. 

I'm also experimenting with the storm32 gimbal controller, it's better than I first thought.  The tools arent as feature rich as the Alexmos ones but they sure are cheaper ($35 vs $130).  I will give it a chance on the big quad once I've gotten it ironed out.

I should get some video posted of this weekends flying.

Happy flying!  So weird this is the first Oct Long weekend where I havent gone camping in years.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on October 04, 2015, 12:28:54 PM
If anyone has any footage I have 17 eager buyers  :worthles:
http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/new-laws-nothing-to-drone-about-say-hawks-20150123-12wvd5.html (http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/new-laws-nothing-to-drone-about-say-hawks-20150123-12wvd5.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 04, 2015, 05:08:24 PM
If anyone has any footage I have 17 eager buyers  :worthles:
http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/new-laws-nothing-to-drone-about-say-hawks-20150123-12wvd5.html (http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/new-laws-nothing-to-drone-about-say-hawks-20150123-12wvd5.html)


I think that footage is guarded well, can't have the opposition getting hold of it.  Not sure where the issue is there, the players were part of the RPA's operation, that is they were a employed target of the footage being captured.  There should have been a safety brief at some stage in the past and then there was no issues.  RPA's will crash just as normal GA aircraft crash, just they will cause much less damage.  As long as the Hawk's have an Operators Cert and a certified pilot then they did everything right.  Most would be surprised at how widely used they are now.

Some of the rules cited are for commercial use only (the 121m/400ft limit, the no fly within 3nm/5.5km's of an airport), it would be good if reporters could say that as it gives everyone else the impression these apply to hobby use too.

Interesting language from CASA in the article, I wonder if it was slanted by the writer, as all the stuff being said by CASA elsewhere would imply that they are in fact going to soften up (although not as soft as France).  Yes they will still be tough for those who cant follow the rules but they are moving to a risk based approach so the smaller devices (sub 2kg) will be less but the heavier items will have more.

Chris


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on October 04, 2015, 06:41:30 PM
Perhaps eagle fans already have a cunning plan for 2016   ;D
 http://www.theverge.com/2015/8/12/9145495/drone-eagle-attack (http://www.theverge.com/2015/8/12/9145495/drone-eagle-attack)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on October 09, 2015, 07:02:39 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2xBh1Y5cCk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2xBh1Y5cCk)
launch of the gatewing photogrammetry drone

was around 40km/h wind

the drone will fly by itself, it completes a preprogramed flightpath and the time in air is around 30mins, the operator can control some aspects like holding pattern return to home pattern or drop if other aircraft are encountered in airspace (need CASA license and part of this  is VHF radio)

due to the cost the unit, we fit a tracking beacon into the cockpit- hawks have taken the unit out in the past

landing is a bit tricky, you set the orientation for the landing and point of return, but the on board computer power cannot calculate everything so it is still a bit hope and see.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzHtDHV2gVw  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzHtDHV2gVw)


and the units- like mentioned in the other thread ours is a bit of older tech now.
http://uas.trimble.com/ (http://uas.trimble.com/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 09, 2015, 11:50:00 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2xBh1Y5cCk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m2xBh1Y5cCk)
launch of the gatewing photogrammetry drone

was around 40km/h wind

the drone will fly by itself, it completes a preprogramed flightpath and the time in air is around 30mins, the operator can control some aspects like holding pattern return to home pattern or drop if other aircraft are encountered in airspace (need CASA license and part of this  is VHF radio)

due to the cost the unit, we fit a tracking beacon into the cockpit- hawks have taken the unit out in the past

landing is a bit tricky, you set the orientation for the landing and point of return, but the on board computer power cannot calculate everything so it is still a bit hope and see.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzHtDHV2gVw  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzHtDHV2gVw)


and the units- like mentioned in the other thread ours is a bit of older tech now.
http://uas.trimble.com/ (http://uas.trimble.com/)


What software is used to do the photogrammetry?  What sort of outputs are being used, is it more DEM, or the orthomosaic.  Are you doing any GCP and using RTK GPS? or DGPS?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on October 10, 2015, 12:44:04 AM
Way too many acronyms in that post Chris!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on October 10, 2015, 07:46:46 AM
What software is used to do the photogrammetry?  What sort of outputs are being used, is it more DEM, or the orthomosaic.  Are you doing any GCP and using RTK GPS? or DGPS?

there are a few steps required in the post processing, in regard to the photogrammetry
the images need to be collated into one image- typical run a 75% overlap on the runs
we can field check the flight path and photo matching before leaving site

I don't do the post processing so not sure of the program used, but it requires big computing power

we use both the ortho- geo referenced but mostly the DEM (or point cloud)

As ours is an older unit we need a base station and also reference points on the ground (targets)

problems found in the DEM are typical of aerial photogrammetry in that the points on the ground can model trees and grasses, but in our typical use of pit or stockpile surveys this is not a real point of concern.

BUT we are looking to upgrade and are hoping for the release of a LIDAR unit in the future  :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 10, 2015, 11:07:15 AM
there are a few steps required in the post processing, in regard to the photogrammetry
the images need to be collated into one image- typical run a 75% overlap on the runs
we can field check the flight path and photo matching before leaving site

I don't do the post processing so not sure of the program used, but it requires big computing power

we use both the ortho- geo referenced but mostly the DEM (or point cloud)

As ours is an older unit we need a base station and also reference points on the ground (targets)

problems found in the DEM are typical of aerial photogrammetry in that the points on the ground can model trees and grasses, but in our typical use of pit or stockpile surveys this is not a real point of concern.

BUT we are looking to upgrade and are hoping for the release of a LIDAR unit in the future  :cheers:

For photogrammetry tests I've been using about a 70% overlap and a 60% sidelap, seems to work pretty well.  I use a Canon point and shoot presently but I'm about to start using a Mobius that I converted for NIR.  I use a mix of trial versions of paid software and I'm starting to have some good success with the open source stuff (paid software is still more feature rich and easier to use but that gap is closing very fast).  Datasets sure do take a while, I get a basic point cloud usually in under 30 mins for a small local park but the dense point cloud takes 8 to 9 hours to run.

On the point cloud picking up the trees, you should try to do some point cloud classification to identify the trees then you can remove them, you should end up with just a hole where the trunk is.  I've had variable success.  Far easier to remove moving objects, but if you have enough images from angles you can get rid of a lot of them (depends on the angles and the alt they are captured at).

Interesting that you mention LIDAR, I use one but for accurate alt holding but not for point cloud generation.  The industry from what I can see is moving more to the image photogrammetry method, rather than the LIDAR method.  It's cheaper and software driven so enhancements can be gained by just rerunning an existing data set (reducing costs), you can also use different types (Normal Colour, Near Infrared, Thermal, etc).  I see LIDAR more in the collision avoidance space in the future.  But it would work well if you just want to determine stock pile sizes.  Not so good if you want to see crop health, or count cattle or sheep.

Did you have to go through much hassle to get the OC, the CC or RPC should have been straight forwards.  I'm just about to start on my CC.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 11, 2015, 10:05:45 PM
Way too many acronyms in that post Chris!

LOL,  I'll break it down for you :-)

DEM - Digital Elevation Model
Orthomosaic - Simplistic view would be stitching the photos together (but it is really more complex than that would take to long to explain so if your bored look up Point Clouds  >:D)
GCP - Ground Control Points - Something that is at a known GPS location and is unique enough to accurately tag it in the photo.
RTK GPS - Real Time Kinematics GPS - Basically a very accurate GPS - my amateur stuff should get about 10cm accuracy but I have to wait for Atmospheric data from NASA - 3 hours after I capture the data, the really professional stuff gets 1cm or better.  Really handy for accurate surveying.
DGPS - Differential GPS, uses a ground station (that typically uses an an advanced RTK GPS) and sends out additional signals to get better accuracy.  Professional stuff gets about 10-20 cm accuracy.

I've posted some of the above stuff earlier in my early attempt (DEM and Orthomosaic).  The RTK GPS is something I'm just starting to get into it.  Will post up some stuff on it in the next few weeks as I get it working properly.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on October 12, 2015, 11:45:20 AM
we are a private mining company so the data is not commercial we are only interested in the point data (DTM) output
don't need to maximize the potential client base with each data set, and the data is continually changing

so our use/ need is limited, don't need to worry about hot joints, sheep etc

yes we can probably get better data/ post processing to get rid of the grass/ trees, BUT it is still not a direct measurement and as a surveyor we could be held to account if the information is not correct, hence easier to give known false data than fudge, get it wrong by 300mm or more and blast the ore rather than overburden/ for example

we get heaps better results in the open ground/ changing data, and the stuff with grass/ vegetation doesn't change so a single lidar run over this provides a base for the data set in the future

only problem is "cutting out the bad data" so be easier if the entire data set could be confirmed as good
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 12, 2015, 02:25:46 PM
we are a private mining company so the data is not commercial we are only interested in the point data (DTM) output
don't need to maximize the potential client base with each data set, and the data is continually changing

so our use/ need is limited, don't need to worry about hot joints, sheep etc

yes we can probably get better data/ post processing to get rid of the grass/ trees, BUT it is still not a direct measurement and as a surveyor we could be held to account if the information is not correct, hence easier to give known false data than fudge, get it wrong by 300mm or more and blast the ore rather than overburden/ for example

we get heaps better results in the open ground/ changing data, and the stuff with grass/ vegetation doesn't change so a single lidar run over this provides a base for the data set in the future

only problem is "cutting out the bad data" so be easier if the entire data set could be confirmed as good

So you don't rely on the survey data from the RPA mainly due to not knowing if its accurate, sounds fair enough to me.  So the data is more for stockpile mgt, etc?  I plan on doing the survey stuff in the future, so I'm curious if you know if others are having success doing it?  Also are mining outfits to your knowledge outsourcing it or trying to do it in house?  Just that I don't see a lot of mining companies on the RPA OC lists.

I'll be impressed if anyone could rid of the grass with LIDAR or visual image data!  Would have to use radar instead.  If I had a full version of pix4d mapper to remove the trees it would be done in minutes but it has a reasonably large price tag.  I've recently been looking at the point cloud classification stuff so I reckon I can automate it in the open source stuff somehow in the future.

LIDAR sounds like it would be a great match for what your doing.  Lightware has some really good LIDAR's at present, a bit pricey but not too bad.  They have one that is about to be released that is 200m+, so higher than CASA allows commercial RPA's - I think they were looking at $750 USD for it from memory.

My little 40m LIDAR unit was only $150 AUD so cheap in comparison, but I find it handy, much better than sonar which is really limited at about 2-3m for the cheap unit I've got.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on October 12, 2015, 05:55:08 PM
http://pubs.casi.ca/doi/abs/10.5589/m13-047
We are worlds apart in price and technology

From memory the smallest lidar unit we would be looking at would be around 7kg and that is our current problem, needing to lower the payload

Will find some more links data when I'm home
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on October 12, 2015, 09:03:10 PM
http://www.routescene.com/products/product/uav-lidarpod/ (http://www.routescene.com/products/product/uav-lidarpod/)

looks like technology is really advancing fast this is starting to look viable.

in regards to the mining industry, well a 20km long pit is just too big to use drone technology
so the bigger mines that can pay $$$ to buy a drone have at their disposal better different equipment, RTK GPS, laser scanners, machine guidance with RTK or the final paying a professional aerial photography firm to fly the entire operation- this is usually done on a yearly basis- but depends and this costs around 20k 

I used to be a mine surveyor at this pit in central QLD
https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/22%C2%B019'31.9%22S+148%C2%B014'24.3%22E/@-22.325535,148.2378963,1074m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x0 (https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/22%C2%B019'31.9%22S+148%C2%B014'24.3%22E/@-22.325535,148.2378963,1074m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x0)

I now work for a much smaller mining company with many smaller pits in lots of places, this makes the drone surveys more attractive, but you then run into lots of other restrictions like controlled airspace, the DTM is good accurate to 50mm in a hard rock environment- just where the vegetation is, is where unknowns are and the accuracy is lacking like trees that are 15m high are displayed in the DTM


this gives a bit of info regarding lidar and capabilities
http://www.aamgroup.com/services-and-technology/aerial-survey (http://www.aamgroup.com/services-and-technology/aerial-survey)
Quote
LiDAR can also pierce dense canopy, making it able to capture bare earth structure that satellites cannot see, as well as ground cover in enough detail to allow vegetation categorisation and change monitoring
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on October 12, 2015, 11:52:08 PM
looks like technology is really advancing fast this is starting to look viable.


It sure is, just 12 months ago a LIDAR doing 50m or more was over $500.  The software to process LIDAR point clouds is coming down.  The advantage to the system you referenced is that is's a turnkey system so you don't need to muck around with it.

Having said that it's amazing how close you can get with a bit of know how and time.  The RTK GPS is a good example.  I've got 1 RTK L1 GPS for under $50 and a few hours of my time.  This will shortly be scripted and will take no longer than pushing a button a few hours after capturing the data.  Try buying a professional L1 RTK GPS, just hire for a day is many $100's.  Sure I only get 10cm accuracy (and if I work at it with an M8N GPS I can achieve 1cm from what I can see - so the same as the professional units).

The same will happen with LIDAR, take Lightware's short range scatter LIDAR.  It accurately maps out powerlines at a range of 40-50m - this is for collision avoidance but could be adapted to ground mapping quite easily as that is what it is doing.  I think they are now offering a 150m version. 

in regards to the mining industry, well a 20km long pit is just too big to use drone technology
so the bigger mines that can pay $$$ to buy a drone have at their disposal better different equipment, RTK GPS, laser scanners, machine guidance with RTK or the final paying a professional aerial photography firm to fly the entire operation- this is usually done on a yearly basis- but depends and this costs around 20k 


I can see the troubles of doing a 20km stretch, but looking at how I'd do it I'd break it down to 20 smaller sections.  Would take most likely 3 to 4 days to fully cover it (assuming only flying when the sun is high, etc).  I can see where a plane or helo would be cheaper and easier from a Management perspective and do it all in one flight.   As you go higher up there is the need to increase the camera's resolution or use a higher grade LIDAR or use a RADAR, all of which would add to the cost.  I'd be interested to see the economics of the two compared with modern technology.

I'm wondering how well the market is saturated at this point in time?  I have plans but not sure how viable they are, so I'll be doing a part time venture until I take the leap full time to it.

I used to be a mine surveyor at this pit in central QLD
https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/22%C2%B019'31.9%22S+148%C2%B014'24.3%22E/@-22.325535,148.2378963,1074m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x0 (https://www.google.com.au/maps/place/22%C2%B019'31.9%22S+148%C2%B014'24.3%22E/@-22.325535,148.2378963,1074m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x0)


Please tell me you didnt need to do it the old fashioned way by hand, that would have been rough.  Would have been an interesting prospect to fly that from a survey perspective.

I now work for a much smaller mining company with many smaller pits in lots of places, this makes the drone surveys more attractive, but you then run into lots of other restrictions like controlled airspace, the DTM is good accurate to 50mm in a hard rock environment- just where the vegetation is, is where unknowns are and the accuracy is lacking like trees that are 15m high are displayed in the DTM


Controlled airspace is a lot smaller than people think, the 3nm limit around aerodromes only applies to those on two lists that airservices Australia manages (alot less than people think), but even if it is you can apply for an exemption for a specific flight (of course the advance notice can be annoying) so they can risk assess and publish a NOTAM for it if safe.

this gives a bit of info regarding lidar and capabilities
http://www.aamgroup.com/services-and-technology/aerial-survey (http://www.aamgroup.com/services-and-technology/aerial-survey)


A good read, I'll have a deeper read a bit later.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on November 17, 2015, 08:38:55 AM
A very interesting story on how a guy turned from strawberry farming to drone operater  http://www.abc.net.au/landline/content/2015/s4338353.htm (http://www.abc.net.au/landline/content/2015/s4338353.htm)
Keep sharing your hobby with us  guys ...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on November 17, 2015, 08:45:36 AM
A very interesting story on how a guy turned from strawberry farming to drone operater  http://www.abc.net.au/landline/content/2015/s4338353.htm (http://www.abc.net.au/landline/content/2015/s4338353.htm)
Keep sharing your hobby with us  guys ...
Landline is a top show... they show some very interesting stories about stuff we don't hear about in the smoke.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on November 17, 2015, 02:48:15 PM
Camp lighting anyone https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSym6-3yyHc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSym6-3yyHc) ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on November 23, 2015, 07:50:13 PM
Interesting perspective on the military use of drones
http://www.news.com.au/technology/innovation/military/drone-operators-speak-out-against-the-culture-of-drugs-and-callousness-among-pilots/news-story/00e90865e9ecde561dbceaa7396fd3a8 (http://www.news.com.au/technology/innovation/military/drone-operators-speak-out-against-the-culture-of-drugs-and-callousness-among-pilots/news-story/00e90865e9ecde561dbceaa7396fd3a8)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: itchvet on November 26, 2015, 05:21:55 PM
These engines usually have an ideal carby. Does it use a diaphragm pump? It could propel a plane with about a 2+ metre wing span, typically a 1/4 scale WWII fighter sized plane.

I've got in excess of 30 years experience fiddling with stuff like this, and I can say such an engine will give you nothing but trouble. These modifications have been tried squillions of times before in an effort to cut costs. The problem with wipersnipper motors is they have a wide rev band thus unsuitable for R/C application. In the U.S. there was a group that replaced the barrel/bore with a modified sleeve and totally different cutaways thereby altering the timing of the engines and varying the rev range.
However, by the time you import such a mod and the cost involved, you'd be better off buying a purpose built R/C engine.
For my money, putting a whipper snipper engine in a R/C plane always resulted in said plane having a very short life span.

If folks are interested in such engines, I have a R/C 80 cc for sale. PM me if interested. Also have fiberglass nearly completed plane to suit said engine, wingspan of 9 feet.
Got lots of R/C stuff for sale if anyone's interested. PM me.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 16, 2015, 09:24:46 AM
Its been a while -- Just received my new mini OSD - This one "apparently" has a few extras showing on the screen -- I'll post a pic once I get time to fit it to a quad...
Here's a link for the details etc ...http://www.aliexpress.com/item/FPV-Flight-Controller-MINI-N1-OSD-Module-with-Case-for-DJI-NAZA-V1-V2-NAZA-Lite/32461540282.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/FPV-Flight-Controller-MINI-N1-OSD-Module-with-Case-for-DJI-NAZA-V1-V2-NAZA-Lite/32461540282.html)
Cheers
Mandrake
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/15/8c275455915c3d45952660ac16c2190a.jpg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2015, 09:43:35 AM
Its been a while -- Just received my new mini OSD - This one "apparently" has a few extras showing on the screen -- I'll post a pic once I get time to fit it to a quad...
Here's a link for the details etc ...http://www.aliexpress.com/item/FPV-Flight-Controller-MINI-N1-OSD-Module-with-Case-for-DJI-NAZA-V1-V2-NAZA-Lite/32461540282.html (http://www.aliexpress.com/item/FPV-Flight-Controller-MINI-N1-OSD-Module-with-Case-for-DJI-NAZA-V1-V2-NAZA-Lite/32461540282.html)
Cheers
Mandrake
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/15/8c275455915c3d45952660ac16c2190a.jpg)


Hi Steve,

Almost as small as a MinimOSD.  Things keep getting smaller and smaller.

Grrr, my internet is still dodgy, had to escalate it to the TIO - things are looking better....  The video from last time should be posted in the next few weeks.

Thinking we should do the next funanza in March or early April?  We'll need to find a place that is in between the three cities if Tony and Mark can make it.

On a plus I've been getting about 30 mins of flying a week (mix of fixed wing and multicopter) as of late which is good (thank god for day light savings).  On Monday I shortened the arms on the large quad as it was just too twitchy, looks better now, my quick test flight seemed to respond better and it is easier to fit in the car!  Just need to work on some better landing gear.

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 16, 2015, 10:35:23 AM
What's happened to Marschy ????? Anyone know ??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2015, 10:38:30 AM
What's happened to Marschy ????? Anyone know ??

I think after the Drones in Suburbia saga he might be laying low?  He had a bit of a target on his back.  I only saw the thread after it had been locked, lots of different views......

Hmmm, I just checked some of his older posts, his tag line on his account is guest, that is not good.....

Hey Marschy you around?

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on December 16, 2015, 10:50:54 AM
What's happened to Marschy ????? Anyone know ??

Unfortunately he has left the Forum Steve.

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on December 16, 2015, 12:17:57 PM
Just saw this if anyone is interested in having a play:
http://www.instructables.com/id/17-Awesome-Gifts-That-Fly/ (http://www.instructables.com/id/17-Awesome-Gifts-That-Fly/)

Have fun!

 :cheers:

Graeme
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2015, 12:23:55 PM
Unfortunately he has left the Forum Steve.

GG

Hi GG,

Do we know if it was it his choice?  Or was he suspended?

I hope he comes back if it was his choice.  We just need to all get along, even if we have differing views.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on December 16, 2015, 12:43:24 PM
Hi GG,

Do we know if it was it his choice?  Or was he suspended?

I hope he comes back if it was his choice.  We just need to all get along, even if we have differing views.

Chris

It was his choice, nothing to do with a directive from the mods or admin.

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 16, 2015, 12:46:48 PM
It was his choice, nothing to do with a directive from the mods or admin.

GG

Cool, no probs.  I hope he comes back at some stage.  The world is full of shades of grey.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on December 17, 2015, 08:25:37 AM
Chris

I think a lot of it was to do with the thread  from Robbo (?) concerning a drone buzzing round his house.

Lot's of comments were made about invasion of privacy, shooting the thing down, tracking it then bashing the owner & so on. Marschy spoke up in defence of drone operator's but things went down-hill fast until he said "I'm gone" & apparently left the forum.

Graeme
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2015, 08:54:06 AM
Chris

I think a lot of it was to do with the thread  from Robbo (?) concerning a drone buzzing round his house.

Lot's of comments were made about invasion of privacy, shooting the thing down, tracking it then bashing the owner & so on. Marschy spoke up in defence of drone operator's but things went down-hill fast until he said "I'm gone" & apparently left the forum.

Graeme

Hi Graeme,

Yep I saw that thread just after it was locked.  Things got a bit heated there it seems.  Both sides had points but as per our typical human natures neither would see the others side and it just escalated.  Worse it was getting personal on both sides.

I don't think that anyone was threatening Marschy they were just venting how they felt.  If they actually did what they said they would do then they'd be getting into some trouble.

Neither camp seemed to fully understand the regulations that are in place.  My take on it below, I'm not trying to reignite the discussion either.

I enjoy my privacy too, but people these days have a really high perceived right to privacy, which is greater than what they actually do.  If the operator was operating in a deserted street and not within 30m of persons then there is little they can do (a deserted street is not a populous area - I've had many discussions with CASA regarding this topic).  If they have concerns then document it, feel free to locate the operator, take details and report them  All he had to do was walk outside and he was instantly within 30m and the operator is obliged to relocate (within reason - if you start chasing it then CASA will look at it differently).  CASA does follow up on this stuff if their is a genuine concern.  They need evidence though to make it happen, so video footage is helpful, otherwise it's a he said, she said situation.

Should the operator have been there, well I kind of feel not if they were flying at rooftop height and loitering at the neighbours, not alot has to go wrong in an urban env for it to damage stuff.  As hard is this for some, have they done anything technically wrong, nope it didnt sound like it - unless he went outside in the course of his normal activities then the operator needed to relocate which they did from his description.  I have flown in my street before, after hitting a tree and having a dodgy motor or tail servo go on me I just dont do it anymore.  I go to the local park or further away now.

Chris



Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on December 17, 2015, 09:00:47 AM
Quote from: CBRK
Both sides had points but as per our typical human natures neither would see the others side and it just escalated.  Worse it was getting personal on both sides.
Quite simply he refused to admit there was a chance someone could use a drone for perving and spying on people to see what they had in their yards, or if they were home...
Nobody said he was guilty of that, or even suggested it - infact it was well stated that this wasn't against him... But he somehow took it personally. Life goes on.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2015, 10:13:52 AM
Quite simply he refused to admit there was a chance someone could use a drone for perving and spying on people to see what they had in their yards, or if they were home...
Nobody said he was guilty of that, or even suggested it - infact it was well stated that this wasn't against him... But he somehow took it personally. Life goes on.

Sure it could be used for spying, so could just about anything when you think about it (that car with dark tinting looks sus as it drives past, is it casing my place?  Those kids look suspect too now that you mention it....).  I think what he was getting at was peoples instant 'suspicions' that it was up to no good.  Sure it could have been but what are the odds.  Did they technically do anything wrong?  If they did then their is recourse, if not and they just dont like it, go talk to you federal rep to get it changed if it is a real problem.  Simple in my eyes.

To me the issue is more a people issue, people need to just learn to get along in life.  It was both sides that overstepped in my eyes from reading the thread.  Sad that he felt he had to leave the forum, he could have just stayed away from them and blocked / ignore them if they PM'd him.  Or just take a break for a few weeks.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on December 17, 2015, 11:44:54 AM
Someone in our 4WD club brought a Horizon Chroma with him on a trip. Unfortunately I wasn't there but he posted the footage on fb page.
Nice gear, especially the new ones with follow-me and tracking mode.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 17, 2015, 11:47:05 AM
Someone in our 4WD club brought a Horizon Chroma with him on a trip. Unfortunately I wasn't there but he posted the footage on fb page.
Nice gear, especially the new ones with follow-me and tracking mode.

I must admit that when I go 4WDing, it is a hard choice, play in the mud, dirt or rocks, or do I fly and film the others having fun... Choices, choices.....

They make it so easy now, just a reminder though that they arent up to full collision avoidance so while pretty good they arent too smart yet.

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on December 20, 2015, 02:18:14 PM
Friendly reminder :)

http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/warnings-issued-over-christmas-drones/news-story/0c5be894245da7613dfa6c15c483bef1 (http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/warnings-issued-over-christmas-drones/news-story/0c5be894245da7613dfa6c15c483bef1)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 20, 2015, 11:06:31 PM
Friendly reminder :)

http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/warnings-issued-over-christmas-drones/news-story/0c5be894245da7613dfa6c15c483bef1 (http://www.news.com.au/national/breaking-news/warnings-issued-over-christmas-drones/news-story/0c5be894245da7613dfa6c15c483bef1)


Hi D4D,

Sad they need to do that (i wish people would apply common sense), but as a point of fact there are a number of inaccuracies.  I know they are trying to keep it simple but they should stick to the facts.  It's like saying that we should all drive 40km/h in a school zone, even when it's not in effect or even in the school zones but everywhere....  Just to keep it simple....  Sound good or are we dumbing it down too much...  Dumb it down and then expect people to be dumb.....

First Inaccuracy - Night flying is allowed if following MAAA or AMAS guidelines....  No requirement to belong to the organisation.
101.390  Operating model aircraft at night
 &
101.385  Visibility for operation of model aircraft

No 30m rule for buildings, there is an item for a failure, it has to avoid hitting a building in a populous area.  That pretty much means dont fly over a building that you dont own.  Unless you know the failure modes really well dont fly in your street or backyard, stick to a park (unless it's so light it is really unlikely to damage the building).  There is a 30m rule for people.
101.055  Hazardous operation prohibited

400ft limit only applies if within 3nm of a Aerodrome or Helipad or in Controlled airspace (this really doesnt cover most of the cities as claimed by CASA - it does cover most cities but at a height higher than 400ft).  I've got two heli pads in my area after seeking clarification with CASA and Airservices Aus.
101.400  Operation of model aircraft outside approved areas  -- This one says you can operate as a model aircraft higher than 400ft
101.075  Operation near aerodromes
101.070  Operation in controlled airspace

So in the majority of the cases the advice given by the regulator is in fact incorrect.  I love that my tax dollars are being spent on telling me I can't do something that I'm allowed to do. 

I'd rather they push the don't fly in the approach paths of airports, stay below 400ft if within 5km's of an airport / helipad, stay 30m away from people (think of it as a bubble) and avoid flying over people.  That would be just as good as what they have said and been factually correct and in line with the regulations (and a lawful use of my tax dollars).  I feel there should be a law which states that government agencies can only tell you something is against the law if it actually is.....

CASA brushed my question I put to them about these inaccuracies.  They answered all of my other questions quite well and we had some back and forth to confirm my understandings.

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on December 23, 2015, 08:34:28 PM
I saw on the news today footage of a skier and the nice multi rotor crash down to the ground smashing into a million bits just behind them.
Looked god but I feel for their loss.
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 23, 2015, 10:25:20 PM
I saw on the news today footage of a skier and the nice multi rotor crash down to the ground smashing into a million bits just behind them.
Looked god but I feel for their loss.
Crispy

Yep that wasn't some cheap consumer rig, that would definitely had some dollars attached (the camera was prop a high quality 4K job in the 10K's range).

I hope they were insured otherwise the contract better have been worth it.

Very lucky it didn't hit the skier, I bet the skier was surprised after seeing the footage as they wouldn't have seen it.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 24, 2015, 09:57:05 AM
It must be Christmas !!

I was just hooking up the new mini OSD board to my F450 and decided to check all the plugs going into the Naza M -

So I used an old Naza M that last time I used it the GPS wouldn't work - Bonus time it worked with the new mini-OSD ..

So I now have a Naza M to go into the Alien once I attempt a re-build ....

Just ordered some motor arm extension boards so I can run 1245 props on the F450 ...

Then ordered some 1245 threaded props --

Might have to sell one or two of my quads as I think 5 is too many ... LOL

Just love Christmas ...

Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on December 24, 2015, 03:15:33 PM
It must be Christmas !!

I was just hooking up the new mini OSD board to my F450 and decided to check all the plugs going into the Naza M -

So I used an old Naza M that last time I used it the GPS wouldn't work - Bonus time it worked with the new mini-OSD ..

So I now have a Naza M to go into the Alien once I attempt a re-build ....

Just ordered some motor arm extension boards so I can run 1245 props on the F450 ...

Then ordered some 1245 threaded props --

Might have to sell one or two of my quads as I think 5 is too many ... LOL

Just love Christmas ...

Mandrake

Very nice Steve, will be good to see the alien in the air, even it is it is with a NAZA, whatever works for you best!  That's odd that the mini worked but the other one didnt, must be slightly different firmware driving it.

5 is a good number, much more and you dont get to fly them often enough.  I'm running with two Quads and 3 fixed wing.  Im building two competition planes at present so for a while I'll be at 7 flying things.  I have enough to build several more though......

You and Nadia have a Merry Christmas and we'll sort out a new date and location next year for a flying funanza.  Marschy has been in contact via other means so I hope he'll make the next one.

I'll upload my video from the last trip using my slightly faster than snail pace ADSL connection over the holidays.  Apparently I have to get a cable person in to fix up some stuff (Since they stuffed me around the TIO managed to get the call out charges wiped from my provider).

Chris




Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spada on January 04, 2016, 05:06:01 PM
Seems there are a few smart people in here, so I'm turning to the brains trust for advice.

Santa was kind enough to leave a drone under the tree for me (nothing fancy like you guy's talk about, just a basic phantom 3). My plan is to use it to compliment my DSLR trip photo's which I usually package up as a holiday movie. I'm looking for advice on what video editing software to get. The DJI app only seems to work on the phone, and only seems to do 30sec blocks? I've got the GoPro software, but that seems limited and not really suited to non-GoPro video. I've also tried unsuccessfully to use window's movie maker, and again it seems very limited.

I was about to purchase an Adobe Lightroom / Photoshop package for my stills photo editing (Canon RAW files, not the Drone stuff), but I don't know if they are OK for the drone video ?

So what are those in the know using, or what are the recommendations so I can do a reasonable edit on the home PC (windows based) ?

Cheers,
Spada.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on January 04, 2016, 05:25:54 PM
I use Moviemaker .. AVS Video Editor - Sony Vegas130 ( when I get really stuck ) - I have Photoshop CC but haven't tried video editing on it yet ...

Take care with the Phantom 3 - There are a few known problems - checkout PhantomPilots on Tapatalk and read some of the things that have happened

to other pilots .. Phantom 3 is WAY WAY above my limits - 3 x Phantom 1 and F450 hexacopter and an Alien if I can get it up off the deck !!!

mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on January 05, 2016, 02:01:38 PM
I know you specified Windows but if you do have an iOS device, check out iMovie.  It is so simple and easy to produce movies with a professional touch.  The template themes are a lot of fun.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: MattRC on January 08, 2016, 04:35:00 PM
Don't fly much anymore but was pretty heavily into Scale Aerobatics and Dynamic and Slope soaring. A few of my toys below

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/thumb-P0008231_zpsdb73129d.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/thumb-P0008231_zpsdb73129d.jpg.html)

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/Xmas2012026_zps11de8c73.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/Xmas2012026_zps11de8c73.jpg.html)

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/willowyellowred.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/willowyellowred.jpg.html)

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/DSC00714.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/DSC00714.jpg.html)

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/01.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/01.jpg.html)

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/gilsale.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/gilsale.jpg.html)

(http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m95/excelpoint/96.jpg) (http://s102.photobucket.com/user/excelpoint/media/96.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on January 15, 2016, 02:03:52 PM
For anyone interested, did a bit of a review of my Parrot BeBob Quad.  Looking at it from the perspective of someone who is a first time quad owner and wants to get some cool aerial footage on their holidays.

 http://rveethereyet.com/parrot-beebop-drob/ (http://rveethereyet.com/parrot-beebop-drob/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 15, 2016, 02:22:06 PM
For anyone interested, did a bit of a review of my Parrot BeBob Quad.  Looking at it from the perspective of someone who is a first time quad owner and wants to get some cool aerial footage on their holidays.

 http://rveethereyet.com/parrot-beebop-drob/ (http://rveethereyet.com/parrot-beebop-drob/)

Nice review, seems like thr bebob is the perfect match for you.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on January 15, 2016, 02:50:17 PM
Nice review, seems like thr bebob is the perfect match for you.

Thanks....yeah so far its done everything I've wanted it to do which isn't much really.  I'm certainly not making professional motion pictures. 

The other thing I like about it is, this may sound a bit strange, but its unintimitating.  People seem to like it when they see it rather than give you all that grief about 'pesky drones'.  One guy asked me if I could use it to take his fishing line out past the breakers...!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 16, 2016, 10:06:05 AM
Thanks....yeah so far its done everything I've wanted it to do which isn't much really.  I'm certainly not making professional motion pictures. 

The other thing I like about it is, this may sound a bit strange, but its unintimitating.  People seem to like it when they see it rather than give you all that grief about 'pesky drones'.  One guy asked me if I could use it to take his fishing line out past the breakers...!
I've been lucky but I've never had someone with a negative opinion approach me. I've had plenty of positive interactions.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: scrapsD40 on January 27, 2016, 05:15:30 PM
This might already be somewhere in the 104 pages, but still interesting.

https://www.facebook.com/quartznews/videos/1098586363508398/

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: ScottH on January 27, 2016, 07:22:28 PM
Anyone in Sydney that would be able to give me a hand setting up a quadcopter in a week or two?

I have a 2nd hand build mostly from Hobbyking but am out of my depth getting all the electronics hooked up.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 27, 2016, 09:45:53 PM
Anyone in Sydney that would be able to give me a hand setting up a quadcopter in a week or two?

I have a 2nd hand build mostly from Hobbyking but am out of my depth getting all the electronics hooked up.

Hi,

Which part of Sydney you from?  Depending on how far away you are I might be able to help you out - depends on when your looking at.  What do you have?  If your not sure a pic would help to understand if you have all the bits you'll need.

Feel free to PM with details.

Regards,

Chris

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 19, 2016, 05:03:09 PM
Has anyone set up a power thing with the HK APM 2.7? I have been trying to calibrate it for current used and voltage but can't seem to get it to read anything.
I am using a watt meter to get the accurate readings under load with the props reversed so the quad does not fly away while conducting tests.
Thanks
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on February 19, 2016, 05:46:06 PM
Has anyone set up a power thing with the HK APM 2.7? I have been trying to calibrate it for current used and voltage but can't seem to get it to read anything.
I am using a watt meter to get the accurate readings under load with the props reversed so the quad does not fly away while conducting tests.
Thanks
Crispy


Sent using fat fingers on the iPad thingy

Hi,

Sure have.  I think you are saying you have issues reading the amps.

How have you got it wired up?  I use a watt meter in between the battery and the power module so I get V and I(A) values.  I think your saying your getting 0 amps, to make it easy take a happy snap of the setup and I'll see if I can see what the issue is.  Are you certain the the Amp meter is inline and is capable of reading that sort of load?

Make sure you set it to 'other' for the sensor type, this will allow you to access the fields you need to modify.

You should be able to calibrate both the voltage and amps.  I do the test with about a 15A load.  On the props invert and rotate one position around.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on February 20, 2016, 07:02:58 PM
I have an inline Turnagy meter so it is capable of the current and voltage stuff. I am sure it is in the settings that I need to change things. I will have another go at setting it to "Other" when I get a chance and let you know how I go. I will also do the photo thing for reference.
Thanks
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on April 09, 2016, 02:04:32 AM
I see you guys might be able to turn a quid more easily although only for drones under 2kg-
http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/technology/techknow/australia-drone-laws-to-be-relaxed-this-year-but-experts-warn-of-safety-threat/news-story/293de111202282e4a7c35533a12b397d (http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/technology/techknow/australia-drone-laws-to-be-relaxed-this-year-but-experts-warn-of-safety-threat/news-story/293de111202282e4a7c35533a12b397d)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: banksy69 on May 02, 2016, 07:23:37 AM
Spot of fishing


http://biertijd.com/mediaplayer/?itemid=60760 (http://biertijd.com/mediaplayer/?itemid=60760)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: raider on May 08, 2016, 08:16:39 AM
Well I'm in the game. Wife surprised me with a Parrot drone ,which looks brand new , that she got cheap. Probably very basic compared to some of the stuff on here but it's a start.  :D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on May 10, 2016, 09:52:13 AM
Well I'm in the game. Wife surprised me with a Parrot drone ,which looks brand new , that she got cheap. Probably very basic compared to some of the stuff on here but it's a start.  :D

You'll love it.  Even the first Parrot had a decent camera on it that would suit 90% of us hacks. 

Using the ipad as a controller is dead easy but take the time to practice in a large open area with no trees around.  Just makes it easier and less stress when you first start off.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 10, 2016, 09:58:16 AM
Hi,

You have done well, my wife just says not another one.  You'll have fun with it, my prediction is you'll have so much fun it wont be your last ????.

Chris

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on May 12, 2016, 12:45:02 AM
Fairway fare-
http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201605080016.html (http://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/AJ201605080016.html)
but there's a wee penalty for any lowlife hackers in Leyland P76s caught on film kicking the ball out of the rough
Sharlene scores-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNPJMk2fgJU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNPJMk2fgJU)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on May 16, 2016, 11:43:20 PM
Naturally if the bad guys could think of the possibilities the good guys would want to be able to capture or stop them-
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X27-2WDIZR0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X27-2WDIZR0)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on May 22, 2016, 06:39:29 PM
Police and the NSW Government are desperately scrambling to close a dangerous loophole in the law that ­allows you to legally equip your drone with weaponry.

http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/drome-drama-headache-for-police-as-loophole-allowing-remotely-piloted-aircraft-to-carry-guns-exposed/news-story/a666197d194c387753a712713f19f35d (http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/drome-drama-headache-for-police-as-loophole-allowing-remotely-piloted-aircraft-to-carry-guns-exposed/news-story/a666197d194c387753a712713f19f35d)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on May 24, 2016, 09:44:19 AM
Hi all,

Anyone interested in purchasing a good drone at a cheap price, see http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=48365.0 (http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=48365.0)

My mate's son is selling his near new Parrot AR Drone 2.0.  Used once and put away.  Dad unhappy with son...!! $350.

Darcy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on May 24, 2016, 11:45:15 AM
Hi all,

Anyone interested in purchasing a good drone at a cheap price, see http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=48365.0 (http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=48365.0)

My mate's son is selling his near new Parrot AR Drone 2.0.  Used once and put away.  Dad unhappy with son...!! $350.

Darcy

I'd be unhappy if i was him too.

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tk421 on June 05, 2016, 10:08:04 PM
Project for a wet weekend?

https://youtu.be/fDu1S-MMClw
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on June 30, 2016, 04:59:24 PM
https://www.catchoftheday.com.au/event/new-shotbox-ap10-drone-53903/product/shotbox-ap10-drone-black-383443/?st=1&sid=53903 (https://www.catchoftheday.com.au/event/new-shotbox-ap10-drone-53903/product/shotbox-ap10-drone-black-383443/?st=1&sid=53903)

Features:
•ShotBox electronic drone
•Model: AP10
•Colour: Black
•Pack contents: ?AP10 Drone
?Remote controller + phone holder
?Battery charger
?USB charging cable
?Battery pack for drone
?Wi-Fi range extender
?4 x AA batteries for remote
?Neck strap for remote
?8 x propellers
?4 x propeller guards
?Wrench & screwdriver
?Quick start manual

•Flight time: Up to 22 minutes
•Max. flight speed: 72km/h (20m/s)
•Cruising altitude: 500m
•Remote control range: 500m
•Autopilot: GPS stability + auto return to home
•Camera resolution: Full HD 1080p 30fps/16MP stills
•Lens: 120 wide angle, f/2.9 aperture
•Battery: 5300mAh lithium polymer
•SD card slot: MicroSD up to 32GB (not included)
•iOS/Android camera control via AEE AP app
•Built-in Wi-Fi
•Assembly required
•Materials: N/A
•Dimensions (approx. cm): 57.3 x 57.3 x 14.5
•Weight: 1.4kg
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 01, 2016, 10:49:45 AM
Project for a wet weekend?

https://youtu.be/fDu1S-MMClw

That's brilliant...!  What a bunch off wackers...!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on July 05, 2016, 04:27:51 PM
work just bought me a phantom 4 so pretty happy about that.

I'm not allowed to use it for work purposes until the rules change at the end of Sept, so I get a bit of time to "train"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW4SeBSUd2o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW4SeBSUd2o)

This was last weekend at Girraween NP Pyramid walk.

I was a scaredy cat and just took it up and rotated the view a bit- the batteries were "cold" who knew that they need to be above 15 degrees


///
coming to a neighbourhood near you  :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on July 09, 2016, 01:41:45 PM


work just bought me a phantom 4 so pretty happy about that.

I'm not allowed to use it for work purposes until the rules change at the end of Sept, so I get a bit of time to "train"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW4SeBSUd2o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kW4SeBSUd2o)

This was last weekend at Girraween NP Pyramid walk.

I was a scaredy cat and just took it up and rotated the view a bit- the batteries were "cold" who knew that they need to be above 15 degrees


///
coming to a neighbourhood near you  :cup:

Hi,

Hope you enjoy it!!!!

I'm still wanting to know when insurance companies will release prices for non uoc holders for commercial sub 2kg ops (public lib and pro indem).  Have you seen any yet?

Chris

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on July 11, 2016, 08:55:17 AM

Hi,

Hope you enjoy it!!!!

I'm still wanting to know when insurance companies will release prices for non uoc holders for commercial sub 2kg ops (public lib and pro indem).  Have you seen any yet?

Chris

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

sorry Chris I cannot help you out on the insurance side of things

our company actually has a UOC as that was how things used to be and as a company we have been flying drones commercially for over 5 years
(this phantom 4 for my office was set aside to be my training money for a uav control certificate)

these rule changes make it easier in some respects, but harder in others.  I suspect it could turn into a big mess in a few years when the inevitable "incident" happens
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on September 06, 2016, 07:07:59 AM
The things people will do to save their drones https://www.vicpolicenews.com.au/news/drone-down-and-drowned (https://www.vicpolicenews.com.au/news/drone-down-and-drowned)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on September 18, 2016, 07:39:12 AM
Hello Everyone ,

I am new to drones but I decided to buy a 3DR Solo last week and when I was learning to fly it , the drone flew into a tree while in Go Home mode, It did eventually fall out of the tree ( hit the ground heavy ) , but since then the controller no longer talks to the drone. When I turn the controller and the drone the control screen reads " Waiting for Solo " and the lights on the drone remain green, I have tried pairing, rebooting, removing the battery and have done the control reset. Does anyone know what may be wrong or how to fix

cheers duggie
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 18, 2016, 10:59:25 AM


Hello Everyone ,

I am new to drones but I decided to buy a 3DR Solo last week and when I was learning to fly it , the drone flew into a tree while in Go Home mode, It did eventually fall out of the tree ( hit the ground heavy ) , but since then the controller no longer talks to the drone. When I turn the controller and the drone the control screen reads " Waiting for Solo " and the lights on the drone remain green, I have tried pairing, rebooting, removing the battery and have done the control reset. Does anyone know what may be wrong or how to fix

cheers duggie

Hi duggie,

3dr has support you can contact via the app. Use that to lodge a ticket.

If you are happy opening and tinkering, I'd check to see if sololink card has been dislodged in the solo. What lights are you getting.

Once you get it in the air again you'll love the smart shots.



Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on September 18, 2016, 12:08:48 PM
Thanks CBRK

Mate I have had the thing apart, checked the SD card , still held in place. removed and replaced . no go.  Checked the Pixhawk was still held firm, yes it was but removed and replaced , no go.

I have done a factory reset on the Solo and controller, re-paired as well. The controller seams to pair up OK, but the Solo will not respond, Only have the four green lights constant , not changing to 2 x red & 2 x white.

The tablet and solo app can not connect to vehicle.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 18, 2016, 01:03:20 PM
Thanks CBRK

Mate I have had the thing apart, checked the SD card , still held in place. removed and replaced . no go.  Checked the Pixhawk was still held firm, yes it was but removed and replaced , no go.

I have done a factory reset on the Solo and controller, re-paired as well. The controller seams to pair up OK, but the Solo will not respond, Only have the four green lights constant , not changing to 2 x red & 2 x white.

The tablet and solo app can not connect to vehicle.

From memory when i pulled mine apart there is the sololink card. Its a bit smaller than a credit card. It should look like http://www.spektreworks.com/3dr-solo-parts/3dr-sololink-oem-mini-pci-e-wifi-card.

I think its mounted under the main pcb, near the front (not in the bulge at the back marked sololink - was a late design change).

Chris

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on September 18, 2016, 01:51:56 PM
From memory when i pulled mine apart there is the sololink card. Its a bit smaller than a credit card. It should look like http://www.spektreworks.com/3dr-solo-parts/3dr-sololink-oem-mini-pci-e-wifi-card. (http://www.spektreworks.com/3dr-solo-parts/3dr-sololink-oem-mini-pci-e-wifi-card.)

I think its mounted under the main pcb, near the front (not in the bulge at the back marked sololink - was a late design change).

Chris

Sent from my SM-G930F using Tapatalk



Thanks again Chris,

I have reassembled the solo , but after the car race I will pull it apart again and have a look.   That may be the cause of my problems as the controller is not linking with the solo.

Cheers duggie
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on September 28, 2016, 06:49:34 PM
Fixed my 3DR Solo drone, I bought another new one.   :'( No problems now. ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on September 29, 2016, 08:55:37 AM
Fixed my 3DR Solo drone, I bought another new one.   :'( No problems now. ;D

Hope you got it from the US with a shipping forwarder?  Just that the Aus retailers are charging a lot compared to the sales you can get in the US (looking at around $400 to 500 USD - some deals include the backpack, some deals have an extra battery).  Unless of course you got a great deal from an Aussie vendor, in which case you should share :-)

You should still get 3DR to fix the first one under warranty and then you'll have a spare or a spare parts one  ;D

I've been busy trying to get all the smart shots working on a custom bird I have, planning to use it on commercial ops in the next few months (about to get my RePL - booked in early next month and my ReOC is almost finalised so I can submit it).  Registered for the sub 2kg but its really limited due to insurance requirements.

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on October 13, 2016, 12:12:16 PM
Hers a cool machine .. gets moving real quick too https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rInUxB8t3Yg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rInUxB8t3Yg)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: prodigyrf on December 12, 2016, 11:11:04 AM
Big boys toys- http://www.flixxy.com/the-incredible-flyboard-air.htm (http://www.flixxy.com/the-incredible-flyboard-air.htm)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: silverfox1111 on December 27, 2016, 09:21:27 PM
Gday all
Santa got me a parrot ar2.0 drone so i can take pictures while camping.
What sort of charger do i need to charge the batteries from 12v?
Thanks
Silverfox
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 28, 2016, 07:28:43 AM
Charger should be in the box with the drone ... Check this out - http://global.parrot.com/au/products/ardrone-2/ (http://global.parrot.com/au/products/ardrone-2/)

Cheers
Mandrake
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: silverfox1111 on December 28, 2016, 07:35:41 AM
Gday mandrake
Yes, there is a 240v charger. I'm after advice about a charger that can run of 12v battery for when I'm camping.
Silverfox
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Mandrake on December 28, 2016, 07:38:14 AM
Oops
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Crisp Image on January 16, 2017, 03:47:43 PM
So not knowing what battery connection you have for the drone or the size of the battery this makes it a bit hard to say. The other possibility is running the charger from an inverter that way you don't need to buy another charger.
My charger I got from Hobbyking is a 12v charger and I purchased a 240v power supply to power it when at home.
Regards
Crispy
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: stiffbreeze on January 17, 2017, 05:50:04 PM
Recently finished producing a video for our UAV/drone business which I thought I'd share. It really does fit the 'remote control' aspect of the thread!  ;D ;D

Recorded on a Phantom 3 Pro. What were we filming?
Remote controlled model planes! Warplanes, jets, single and twin propellers etc. Lots of fun!

FYI: We are fully licensed, had spotters, maintained separation and filmed in a controlled environment/airspace. Footage in video shows 'zoomed' pictures which doesn't reflect true height above 30m etc.

https://youtu.be/MTbNw4SatOU (https://youtu.be/MTbNw4SatOU)

Mods: If this is deemed marketing/plug for our UAV/drone business, please let me know/delete if I'm breaking rules, sorry!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: CBRK on January 18, 2017, 10:55:25 AM
Recently finished producing a video for our UAV/drone business which I thought I'd share. It really does fit the 'remote control' aspect of the thread!  ;D ;D

Recorded on a Phantom 3 Pro. What were we filming?
Remote controlled model planes! Warplanes, jets, single and twin propellers etc. Lots of fun!

FYI: We are fully licensed, had spotters, maintained separation and filmed in a controlled environment/airspace. Footage in video shows 'zoomed' pictures which doesn't reflect true height above 30m etc.

https://youtu.be/MTbNw4SatOU (https://youtu.be/MTbNw4SatOU)

Mods: If this is deemed marketing/plug for our UAV/drone business, please let me know/delete if I'm breaking rules, sorry!

Hi,

Good to see you got the business off the ground.  I've got my RePL late last year and I'm just going through the ReOC fun myself.  Did you do your ReOC through FDS or through CASA?  Sad that we have to put the disclaimers on work that is done these days (but people will pull stuff apart like crazy as you would have seen on ARPCO).

Are you finding much in the way of work?  The industry is getting quite crowded now but I'll still do it as a part time business.

Regards,

Chris
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: stiffbreeze on January 18, 2017, 12:35:31 PM
Hey Chris,
CASA jas been easiest to deal with so far. Aviassist have been great as well, husband did repl through them last year.
Got ongoing work where we are located but still establishing business etc, so got a way to go.
Fun times ahead.

Sent from my D6653 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: stiffbreeze on January 19, 2017, 03:49:07 AM
--
accidental posted twice.
--
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on March 09, 2017, 02:27:58 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnN9X2KqL2c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnN9X2KqL2c)
had a play with the phantom 4 using active tracking

was very impressed with the picture and ease of use, including tracking during a 180 degree turn  :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on March 09, 2017, 02:45:18 PM
Would have to be very happy with that, worked real well .. :cup:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on March 11, 2017, 05:55:36 PM
Yeah, I thought it was pretty good and so easy
now just need to get in the triton for more trips
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DannyG on March 19, 2017, 09:16:49 PM
Im looking for a bit of advice on buying a basic entry level drone.

Id love to buy a Phantom 3 or something similar but I just cant justify the cost for what I want it for. So before I ask for advice its probably best to explain my need for one.

We only want to take photos/videos of our property as we develop it over the next few years. That simple really!
There is no real desire to make holiday videos from a drone or any other reason other than to capture our property (4 acres) from above. But having said that I am sure there will be occasions where I might get it out to film other things but its not the priority.

I already have a gopro so I dont need a drone with a camera but wouldn't rule it out. Given that we only want to take some pics and maybe some video from about 100 or so metres above our property I am not really willing to spend big money. I just need a drone to fly up in the air, capture the pics and land again, but obviously me being a novice needs to be able to use it!

In my very limited research I can see drones on ebay under $200 that have no camera but have a gopro cradle that is solidly mounted.

From what I can gather there are drones that are very basic...no gps, so no headless mode or return to home function. Can an amature fly these ok??

Then there are the ones that have the headless mode, return to home function etc that from what I can gather are a lot easier to fly??

Then of course we have the real deal that has the works, 3 axis gimble, gps etc etc etc but Im not willing to get one of those.....yet ;)

So I think I may have narrowed it down to two chinese cheapys to get the job done that we need.

This one that should be easier for me to fly??
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/182099951413 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/182099951413)

And this one that doesnt have any headless flying or return to base but does have brushless motors and has some great youtube reviews.
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/282273509758 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/282273509758)

In my situation which one do you recommend? If any of those! Or perhaps steer me in another direction??

Thanks for any help.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: stiffbreeze on March 19, 2017, 10:11:32 PM
I just found this recent list of compatible drones that you can attach a go pro to. Not sure what currency it is in... but at least you can price some of the products in AU in ebay/online as a starting point, or buy overseas.
http://www.dronesglobe.com/guide/gopro/ (http://www.dronesglobe.com/guide/gopro/)

The Phantom 3 and recent DJI models are amazing but like you said, cost is higher because it is a better product - stability, ease of flying etc. I've tried flying the cheaper ones ages ago and found them hard to fly and stabilise for still photography. Horrible if you take pictures only to realise afterwards that it's blurry as hell! Also, factor in the whole replace factor if el cheapo crashes and you have to buy a new go pro. Food for thought.

Never heard of the ones in your link, but that's not to say that they might be perfect for the job you want to do on your property.
Good luck!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DannyG on March 19, 2017, 11:06:33 PM
Thanks stiffbreeze. I am now seriously considering buying a Phantom 3 after giving it some thought. Its the poor man pays twice thing. If I buy an ebay cheapy for $200 and it doesnt work out for me then ive wasted $200.
I can get Phantom 3 for $600 or so and I know it will do what I need and Ill be able to fly it.

Now I need to do the old its easier to ask for forgiveness rather than permission  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: grantxx on March 20, 2017, 05:57:09 AM
Hi Danny, I had a phantom 3 pro, recently sold it as was not using it much and wanted a new camera. You cant get better bang for buck, than any of the phantoms, plenty around 2nd hand as well. Very easy to fly and very reliable, I also had a cheapy first, to learn to fly before using the expensive one, it did not help as the cheapy was a steep learning curve and crashed many times, go the phantom for sure

Cheers
Grant
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Stone Stomper on March 21, 2017, 12:58:05 PM
Hi Grant,

I bought the Phantom 3 Standard and love it, a large model shop had a good deal with two batteries and JB HiFi matched the deal as I had gift cards there.

Join the DJI forum as heaps of good info on there.

Christian

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DannyG on March 22, 2017, 10:21:02 AM
Thanks gents. I bit the bullet today and bought a Phantom 3 standard.

I wont get to use until the weekend though.

My wife mentioned something about my 'toys' being so expensive so I just asked what this little corner of our house owes us where she plays with all her toys  ;D

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Stone Stomper on May 02, 2017, 07:18:52 AM
Had a go at filming the stone stomper stone guard on the move in Victoria's Outback

https://www.skypixel.com/share/video/journey-from-my-heart-d37273dd-ef34-4c5e-ac52-f65421b3900a (https://www.skypixel.com/share/video/journey-from-my-heart-d37273dd-ef34-4c5e-ac52-f65421b3900a)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 02, 2017, 08:31:57 AM
Good buy DannyG - I bought myself one recently too. Similar thought process to settle on the same model - though I do use mine for travel (or will... once I actually learn to fly it!). The way I see it these things are built to be user friendly and stabilised for the purpose (video/photography), so hopefully ideal for an amateur. :) Good luck with yours!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JCAT on May 23, 2017, 11:40:00 AM
I have been asked to find a drone for around $300 for a work colleague.

Any recommendations ?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 23, 2017, 12:26:35 PM
I have been asked to find a drone for around $300 for a work colleague.

Any recommendations ?

...Maybe a Parrot drone? Like this: https://www.jbhifi.com.au/cameras/parrot/parrot-ar-drone-2-0-elite-edition-sand/712090/ (https://www.jbhifi.com.au/cameras/parrot/parrot-ar-drone-2-0-elite-edition-sand/712090/)

No idea about them from a practical sense. I steered well clear because of the fragility of the build and reports that the phone app to control it wasn't as easy to use as a dedicated controller. I was a tad tempted only because of the price point...

Does it need camera? What kind of quality? Etc.?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JCAT on May 23, 2017, 03:10:16 PM
Yes Trinity it needs a camera and we want the best quality for the price.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 23, 2017, 03:45:24 PM
Other than the Parrot drones I'm struggling to think of others with a camera that... don't just crash and burn from what I've read. Sorry I'm not more help. Even the Phantom 2's (if you can find one... with a camera...) would be over that price point.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Annieandandy on May 23, 2017, 04:32:57 PM
Hi all, just wondering if I get a drone that is controlled through my phone through wifi, will it still work and take pics if I use it in an area that doesn't have wifi or mobile coverage?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on May 23, 2017, 06:46:56 PM
Hi all, just wondering if I get a drone that is controlled through my phone through wifi, will it still work and take pics if I use it in an area that doesn't have wifi or mobile coverage?
Yes (phantom drones don't know of others)
The phone plugs into the controller which sends out the signals.  The sd card in the drone records the photos/ videos
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Annieandandy on May 23, 2017, 07:15:37 PM
Yes (phantom drones don't know of others)
The phone plugs into the controller which sends out the signals.  The sd card in the drone records the photos/ videos

Thanks for that. As I get older technology gets harder lol
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on May 24, 2017, 09:35:03 AM
Thanks for that. As I get older technology gets harder lol


We have been using a Parot drone for about 2 years now.  Its not a bad bit of kit.  In fact I found it to be extremely useful and easy to operate.  Its not perfect but for the price its hard to beat.  You can read more about it here: http://rveethereyet.com/parrot-beebop-drob/ (http://rveethereyet.com/parrot-beebop-drob/)

The batteries are a weak point.  Both of mine have now died.  Fortunately there are plenty of spares available at reasonable prices on the net.

Its quite robust considering its light weight construction.  I've crashed it a few times and its survived. Still using the original propellers.

I do want to upgrade it later this year and the DJI Mavic looks to be the likely candidate.  Just have to save up some mulla...! 

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on May 24, 2017, 04:13:10 PM
I do want to upgrade it later this year and the DJI Mavic looks to be the likely candidate.  Just have to save up some mulla...!

I do love the look of the Mavic Pro https://www.dji.com/mobile/mavic (https://www.dji.com/mobile/mavic) the promo videos make me want to hand over some hard earned for one, just don't have enough available hard earned to hand over for them to hand me a Mavic back.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on May 26, 2017, 11:28:35 AM
I do love the look of the Mavic Pro https://www.dji.com/mobile/mavic (https://www.dji.com/mobile/mavic)

Just when I thought the Mavic was small they have released the Spark (https://www.djivideos.com/watch/791134e7-c639-4f33-a963-d79aae12f2dd?autoplay=false&poster=//videocaption.djicdn.com/upload/poster/20170523/7ad238093525bf242f54a87f3e64e0dd.jpg@!1200)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 27, 2017, 08:40:14 AM
Just when I thought the Mavic was small they have released the Spark (https://www.djivideos.com/watch/791134e7-c639-4f33-a963-d79aae12f2dd?autoplay=false&poster=//videocaption.djicdn.com/upload/poster/20170523/7ad238093525bf242f54a87f3e64e0dd.jpg@!1200)

I saw that! It looks like a great little unit, though I haven't dared to check the price tag...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on May 27, 2017, 09:32:31 AM
I saw that! It looks like a great little unit, though I haven't dared to check the price tag...

You can get it for $777 at the moment, although the fly more package at $1096 would probably be one to go for.

https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-drones-osmo/dji-spark/dji-spark-white (https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-drones-osmo/dji-spark/dji-spark-white)

https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-spark-drone-combo (https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-spark-drone-combo)


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 28, 2017, 08:11:36 AM
You can get it for $777 at the moment, although the fly more package at $1096 would probably be one to go for.

https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-drones-osmo/dji-spark/dji-spark-white (https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-drones-osmo/dji-spark/dji-spark-white)

https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-spark-drone-combo (https://www.camerasdirect.com.au/dji-spark-drone-combo)

Hmm, if I'd known that earlier I would have been tempted!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Troopy_03 on May 28, 2017, 09:27:02 AM
This is interesting. Hope it hasn't already been posted, but from a quick look, I didn't see it.
https://www.casa.gov.au/droneapp (https://www.casa.gov.au/droneapp)

Actually, having a look at the online version, there sure are a lot of restrictions out our way.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DrewXT on May 28, 2017, 10:05:50 AM
The GoPro Karma looks interesting...

http://shop.gopro.com/APAC/karma?gclid=Cj0KEQjwx6TJBRCWtsiXpI7bhOYBEiQA1en3F95jtEhEwHB4VAsul9YX8YF8SEK3AnuISmso00AmWX4aAsII8P8HAQ&dclid=CMr5t5-lkdQCFQcjvQodSiUO5g

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 29, 2017, 10:21:26 AM
This is interesting. Hope it hasn't already been posted, but from a quick look, I didn't see it.
https://www.casa.gov.au/droneapp (https://www.casa.gov.au/droneapp)

Actually, having a look at the online version, there sure are a lot of restrictions out our way.

I had zero idea that there was an app but was aware of a lot of the restrictions. Actually just downloaded the app, its kind of awesome. Thanks for sharing! :D

Another one travellers may not not about is the South Australia National Parks - ALL OF THEM. Disturbance to wildlife they reckon... Not negotiable unless you pay some hefty commercial filming licence.

So for the Simpson trip we'll only be flying the drone on the QLD side of the border! Ah well.

Sometimes the drone footage I see on Instagram really surprises me. Not "illegal", just perhaps a little foolish... Like a couple perched right on the edge of The Balconies in the Grampians NP flying the drone away from them waving at it. Then again, I don't like the idea of people sitting there at all... one day its gunna fall, surely, with all the foot traffic it gets for Insta-worthy photos! Maybe I'm just a little over cautions, who knows... LOL.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on May 29, 2017, 10:47:29 AM
The GoPro Karma looks interesting...
http://shop.gopro.com/APAC/karma?gclid=Cj0KEQjwx6TJBRCWtsiXpI7bhOYBEiQA1en3F95jtEhEwHB4VAsul9YX8YF8SEK3AnuISmso00AmWX4aAsII8P8HAQ&dclid=CMr5t5-lkdQCFQcjvQodSiUO5g (http://shop.gopro.com/APAC/karma?gclid=Cj0KEQjwx6TJBRCWtsiXpI7bhOYBEiQA1en3F95jtEhEwHB4VAsul9YX8YF8SEK3AnuISmso00AmWX4aAsII8P8HAQ&dclid=CMr5t5-lkdQCFQcjvQodSiUO5g)


Yeah, it's interesting, it doesn't fare too well in comparison to the Mavic in every review that I have seen though. Interestingly GoPro released the Karma and it was really well received, then DJI released the Mavic very shortly afterwards and is quite similar but does most things they do better and GoPros share price dropped 6% straight away as a result. 
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DrewXT on May 29, 2017, 11:25:51 AM
Yeah, it's interesting, it doesn't fare too well in comparison to the Mavic in every review that I have seen though. Interestingly GoPro released the Karma and it was really well received, then DJI released the Mavic very shortly afterwards and is quite similar but does most things they do better and GoPros share price dropped 6% straight away as a result.
I hadn't really read any side by side reviews as yet...

I've been vetoed from buying an expensive (over $500 according to her) drone anyway, so looking at a kit drone I can buy in components gradually, but not really sure where to start

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on May 29, 2017, 01:07:16 PM
Just when I thought the Mavic was small they have released the Spark (https://www.djivideos.com/watch/791134e7-c639-4f33-a963-d79aae12f2dd?autoplay=false&poster=//videocaption.djicdn.com/upload/poster/20170523/7ad238093525bf242f54a87f3e64e0dd.jpg@!1200)

Crikey...!!  That looks pretty good...!  The price is awesome and the camera quality is up there.  For most of what I would want to do its a serious contender.  I still like the portability of the Mavic though and its camera is pretty awesome.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on May 29, 2017, 01:20:55 PM
I hadn't really read any side by side reviews as yet...

I've been vetoed from buying an expensive (over $500 according to her) drone anyway, so looking at a kit drone I can buy in components gradually, but not really sure where to start

If you don't have a big trip etc planned that you especially want one for I'd just wait, Drone prices and sizes, are coming down and their features improving at a pretty remarkable rate.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 29, 2017, 01:56:07 PM
Crikey...!!  That looks pretty good...!  The price is awesome and the camera quality is up there.  For most of what I would want to do its a serious contender.  I still like the portability of the Mavic though and its camera is pretty awesome.

A Spark that folds like a Mavic would be awesome...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DrewXT on May 29, 2017, 02:31:12 PM
If you don't have a big trip etc planned that you especially want one for I'd just wait, Drone prices and sizes, are coming down and their features improving at a pretty remarkable rate.
We're about to build a house, so would like to get aerial footage of the build...

Might just borrow a mates from time to time

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on May 29, 2017, 10:26:12 PM
We're about to build a house, so would like to get aerial footage of the build...

Might just borrow a mates from time to time

I have seen both some drone footage and some time-lapse of some new commercial builds, for my money the time-lapse left the drone footage for dead, If I had access to a mates drone I'd borrow that as well but if I wanted a cool memento of the build I'd look into trying to stick a cheap time-lapse camera into a nearby tree etc to capture the build.

A Spark that folds like a Mavic would be awesome...

There probably will be in the not too distant future, there is evidence that the spark has been deliberately held back a little probably part in keeping the cost down but also I think partly to differentiate it enough to not compete with the mavic, the camera in the spark, for example, is apparently capable of 4k but they have kept it only to 1080. I think if the spark could do 4k and folded
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 30, 2017, 07:15:34 AM
I have seen both some drone footage and some time-lapse of some new commercial builds, for my money the time-lapse left the drone footage for dead, If I had access to a mates drone I'd borrow that as well but if I wanted a cool memento of the build I'd look into trying to stick a cheap time-lapse camera into a nearby tree etc to capture the build.

There probably will be in the not too distant future, there is evidence that the spark has been deliberately held back a little probably part in keeping the cost down but also I think partly to differentiate it enough to not compete with the mavic, the camera in the spark, for example, is apparently capable of 4k but they have kept it only to 1080. I think if the spark could do 4k and folded

I know nothing about time lapse stuff. But I agree that the time lapse footage of builds is SO much more impressive. And now you've given me an idea for when we do major renos to our place! LOL!

A Mavic-in-a-Spark-body (folding, awesome camera) would be amazing. And MAY just make me upgrade in the future!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on May 30, 2017, 07:43:59 AM
We do a lot of time lapse as well as drone, a mix is good. Some of our cameras are up for 18 months some time during a project, here is a quick one for a crane erection

https://youtu.be/Ln9i49xl0-M

GG
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on May 30, 2017, 07:27:06 PM
We do a lot of time lapse as well as drone, a mix is good. Some of our cameras are up for 18 months some time during a project, here is a quick one for a crane erection

https://youtu.be/Ln9i49xl0-M

GG

Off topic for the thread, but could you recommend a cheap camera for this purpose or anywhere I could find out more about the time lapse stuff?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: GGV8Cruza on May 30, 2017, 07:36:24 PM
Off topic for the thread, but could you recommend a cheap camera for this purpose or anywhere I could find out more about the time lapse stuff?

Pretty sure this is the one that shot the crane

Look at this on eBay http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/172183972730

GG

Sent from my SM-G950F using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: tryagain on June 07, 2017, 08:11:01 PM
Anyone looking at buying a quad, the Mavic Pro fly more package is a cracking deal for the next hour for only $949 here in eBay http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/112433958204?_trkparms=%26clkid%3D5197265183554409914 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/112433958204?_trkparms=%26clkid%3D5197265183554409914) use the code C5OZ to get the additional $50 off

edit, all 300 sold within about 10mins, that was a crazy good deal.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: suby on June 07, 2017, 11:34:49 PM
Off topic for the thread, but could you recommend a cheap camera for this purpose or anywhere I could find out more about the time lapse stuff?

If you have some computer skills, the raspberry pi  3 has built in wifi, usb, and has a camera option https://www.raspberrypi.org/products/camera-module/ (https://www.raspberrypi.org/products/camera-module/) . You can pick up packs with a pi 3, charger and case relatively at low cost. Another option is to use an old mobile phone with software capable of doing time laps...

Steve.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on June 11, 2017, 06:01:08 PM
Anyone chasing 3DR solo batteries , Gimbals and other accessories as well as great priced 3Dr Solo drones there is a sale at Harvey Norman .


http://www.harveynorman.com.au/3dr-solo-aerial-smart-drone.html (http://www.harveynorman.com.au/3dr-solo-aerial-smart-drone.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on July 06, 2017, 01:41:20 PM
Words fail me...!

http://www.9news.com.au/national/2017/07/06/08/01/pauline-hanson-may-have-broken-the-law-with-drone-video (http://www.9news.com.au/national/2017/07/06/08/01/pauline-hanson-may-have-broken-the-law-with-drone-video)

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on July 19, 2017, 12:21:45 PM
Here's another question for the drone nerds. ;)

I'm CONSIDERING the idea of building a hexacopter after *cough* some issues with my DJI P3S.  >:(

Recommendations for build kits, cameras for them, etc. that won't cost the earth?

Or alternatively, good but not horribly expensive hexacopter that isn't a DJI...? Just want to know what my options are if I do go down that path. Started doing some reading but got a bit overwhelmed pretty quick. Haha.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: McTavish on July 25, 2017, 11:33:03 PM
http://www.swellnet.com/news/swellnet-dispatch/2017/07/25/no-more-drones-snapper-rocks (http://www.swellnet.com/news/swellnet-dispatch/2017/07/25/no-more-drones-snapper-rocks)

CASA have spoken...  No more drones at Snapper Rocks and others...

A map is in the article.

McT
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DrewXT on July 26, 2017, 11:53:15 AM
Here's another question for the drone nerds. ;)

I'm CONSIDERING the idea of building a hexacopter after *cough* some issues with my DJI P3S.  >:(

Recommendations for build kits, cameras for them, etc. that won't cost the earth?

Or alternatively, good but not horribly expensive hexacopter that isn't a DJI...? Just want to know what my options are if I do go down that path. Started doing some reading but got a bit overwhelmed pretty quick. Haha.
I've been looking at the Xiaomi Mi Drone 4K recently... Looks the business, for a pretty decent price

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Troopy_03 on July 26, 2017, 12:14:17 PM
http://www.swellnet.com/news/swellnet-dispatch/2017/07/25/no-more-drones-snapper-rocks (http://www.swellnet.com/news/swellnet-dispatch/2017/07/25/no-more-drones-snapper-rocks)

CASA have spoken...  No more drones at Snapper Rocks and others...

A map is in the article.

McT


Yep, that's because it's in the airport no fly zone, quite understandable. If you check out the web app on the page I linked a few posts back, you can enter a location (in this case: Snapper Rocks) in the search bar (top left), then drag the little blue drone icon around to check the regs for different areas.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on August 16, 2017, 04:17:16 PM


Bloody cheap 3DRSolo drone copy the code and get another %20 off



http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/3DR-Solo-Aerial-Smart-Drone-SA13A-create-accurate-maps-and-data-/332306536313?epid=1364752641&hash=item4d5f035779:g:ZNQAAOSwhilZa1C7 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/3DR-Solo-Aerial-Smart-Drone-SA13A-create-accurate-maps-and-data-/332306536313?epid=1364752641&hash=item4d5f035779:g:ZNQAAOSwhilZa1C7)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on August 16, 2017, 06:21:41 PM

Bloody cheap 3DRSolo drone copy the code and get another %20 off



http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/3DR-Solo-Aerial-Smart-Drone-SA13A-create-accurate-maps-and-data-/332306536313?epid=1364752641&hash=item4d5f035779:g:ZNQAAOSwhilZa1C7 (http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/3DR-Solo-Aerial-Smart-Drone-SA13A-create-accurate-maps-and-data-/332306536313?epid=1364752641&hash=item4d5f035779:g:ZNQAAOSwhilZa1C7)


Do you know anything about them? I may need a new drone... :/
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 17, 2017, 01:48:07 AM
Just dragged a dusty pair of these cheapy old Dragonflies out of the garage [ be at least 10 yro ], loaded the transmitter with batteries and stuck them on charge.. The bloody things still work . 8)
Think  my little girl might get a bit excited when she gets up in a few hours,  at the thought of trying to fly one this afternoon after school. .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: duggie on August 17, 2017, 06:47:18 AM
Do you know anything about them? I may need a new drone... :/



I have had a 3DR for a while now , does everything I want it to do .

The GoPro and Gimbal do not come in the package and are Sold Separately


But you can buy a gimbal from Harvey Norman at present for $97 and fit you own GoPro to this

http://www.harveynorman.com.au/3dr-solo-3-axis-gimbal.html (http://www.harveynorman.com.au/3dr-solo-3-axis-gimbal.html)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on August 17, 2017, 09:00:18 AM

I have had a 3DR for a while now , does everything I want it to do .

The GoPro and Gimbal do not come in the package and are Sold Separately


But you can buy a gimbal from Harvey Norman at present for $97 and fit you own GoPro to this

http://www.harveynorman.com.au/3dr-solo-3-axis-gimbal.html (http://www.harveynorman.com.au/3dr-solo-3-axis-gimbal.html)


I may consider it. The only thing I don't like about after-market (or even recommended "add ons") gimbals is that they are usually designed for GoPro's. I don't have one of those. I do have an action camera, but its a totally different shape... Having an all-in-one unit (gimbal + camera) would be of more value to me, because there are times I'd potentially have the action cam running and be flying (ie. follow me 4WDing), so it'd be nice not to have the camera on the drone... But a lot of the cheaper drones have woeful cameras (Parrot BeeBop, and cheaper...). Considering I mostly use mine for photography... Hm.

Investigating a lot of options right now. It appears nearly every drone maker you look at has lemon units with variable levels of support when something goes wrong (take a look at the DJI forums...). Some of the fair DJI alternatives (Yuneec? Others?) are difficult to find here other than in specialty stores, and then no idea about warranties/etc. - could it come into "parallel import" laws? I've seen DJI burn people on that, no doubt the other drone manufacturers would do the same if the seller wasn't "approved".

May end up building my own. Really don't know. There's still a chance I'll get an operational drone back under warranty, fingers crossed...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 17, 2017, 09:21:17 PM
My budding young pilot, little miss had her first flight of the Dragonfly today, wind was a little strong and the usual over corrections but did ok for a first try.
 Then a large hungry tree 100 m away on my works golf course  decided it would like a little yellow Dragonfly. Ended up stranded in some branches about 15 feet  up luckily ..
With the aide of some ally tube from the maintenance workshop and a stick taped to it she got her helicopter back . ;D
Now to order a couple of sets of new batteries for it .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: DrewXT on August 18, 2017, 12:49:04 AM
I may consider it. The only thing I don't like about after-market (or even recommended "add ons") gimbals is that they are usually designed for GoPro's. I don't have one of those. I do have an action camera, but its a totally different shape... Having an all-in-one unit (gimbal + camera) would be of more value to me, because there are times I'd potentially have the action cam running and be flying (ie. follow me 4WDing), so it'd be nice not to have the camera on the drone... But a lot of the cheaper drones have woeful cameras (Parrot BeeBop, and cheaper...). Considering I mostly use mine for photography... Hm.

Investigating a lot of options right now. It appears nearly every drone maker you look at has lemon units with variable levels of support when something goes wrong (take a look at the DJI forums...). Some of the fair DJI alternatives (Yuneec? Others?) are difficult to find here other than in specialty stores, and then no idea about warranties/etc. - could it come into "parallel import" laws? I've seen DJI burn people on that, no doubt the other drone manufacturers would do the same if the seller wasn't "approved".

May end up building my own. Really don't know. There's still a chance I'll get an operational drone back under warranty, fingers crossed...
Check out the MiDrone in 1080p or 4k...

Lots of good reviews for both, and very much equivalent to the DJI, if not a little better in some areas

Sent from my Nexus 6P using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: trinityalyce on August 18, 2017, 09:43:38 AM
Check out the MiDrone in 1080p or 4k...

Lots of good reviews for both, and very much equivalent to the DJI, if not a little better in some areas


Sweet! Thank you for the recommendation! :D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: 4wd26 on September 12, 2017, 04:37:48 PM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eS-usr4JiNM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eS-usr4JiNM)
playing with the drone at Byron Bay and Broken Head a couple of weeks ago.
Son had a play at editing, think the quality is a bit low (set for phone) but otherwise he did pretty well.

watching the whales frolic below us at sunset was awesome, don't know what the third whale thought was going on, caused a stir  :laugh:

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: McTavish on October 15, 2017, 10:49:39 PM
Pretty good hey - I'm still amazed how far the drone can be from the controller and still work...
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Spada on October 16, 2017, 07:44:46 AM
Discovered that they don't float  :'(

Was using it to take pictures of the girls fishing from the rocks, turns out Mrs Spada can cast further than she thought.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 26, 2017, 01:59:39 PM
LOL! nobody saw this coming... or did they....


Quote
Lansing — Drones are emerging as the latest threat to Michigan prison security, but experts are divided about how to deal with them as the state prosecutes three Detroiters who 11 days ago allegedly used an aerial vehicle to deliver contraband inside an Ionia prison.

The Aug. 17 drop of three cells phones, razors and marijuana at the Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility was the third known drone intrusion at a Michigan prison this year, according to the state Department of Corrections. Other drone attempts, including a toy topped with two propellers, crashed into state correctional facilities or glided over the wall with no payloads.

It is the first time in state history in which the alleged pilots and getaway driver were arrested at the scene.

The alleged pilot and co-pilot — Patrick Corey Seaton Jr., 22, and Jonathan Larawn Roundtree, 33 — face felony smuggling charges along with the alleged driver, Daryl Steven Marshall, 34. They say they are innocent.

Drone and prison experts said these incidents are becoming more frequent in Michigan and across the nation. Although some experts say the risk can be met by increasing security measures like having more guards scan the skies for drones, others say there’s not much that can be done without policy changes.

It likely will take a major event to prompt new policies, Tamez said.

“When someone drops an AK-47 over a fence … and they have a major riot because these guys have guns,” he said, “then someone’s gonna scratch their head and say, ‘Gee wiz, maybe we should do something about this.’”


http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/politics/2017/08/28/drones-weapons-threat-prisons/105044002/ (http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/politics/2017/08/28/drones-weapons-threat-prisons/105044002/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: holsty on October 28, 2017, 03:25:13 PM
Got given a Mavic Pro for my 30th and just starting to get my head around flying it. Seems to have lots of features and bits of pieces I haven't played with yet. Mainly interested in it for aerial photography rather than video.

Here was a pic from my second flight :)
https://www.dropbox.com/s/j6o8te2g82kv5fr/DJI_0013.JPG?dl=0 (https://www.dropbox.com/s/j6o8te2g82kv5fr/DJI_0013.JPG?dl=0)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: JusyApples on December 07, 2017, 08:30:19 AM
Can anyone help with some recommendations

Looking for a drone/quadcopter for my old man for Xmas

Only looking to spend $300 - $400 as it will be his first one
I gather he would mainly use it to take some aerial video or pics from wherever he has parked the caravan on his trips.

Any advice is appreciated
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 08, 2017, 01:32:06 PM
This little Jigger looks the goods https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gMea1lgg7A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gMea1lgg7A)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on December 14, 2017, 09:39:42 AM
Now here's a challenge for all of you ;D

https://petapixel.com/2016/01/28/these-surreal-folding-landscapes-were-made-using-drone-photos/ (https://petapixel.com/2016/01/28/these-surreal-folding-landscapes-were-made-using-drone-photos/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 14, 2017, 10:56:58 AM
^^^ Looks like  scenes out of the Matt Damon film " ELYSIUM " .. very  8) 8)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 22, 2017, 08:43:58 PM
Righto you blokes n sheila's heres a project  for you to excite the kids with next Christmas .. Build one of these ...Depron foam would work ..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Km1myEhFvf0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Km1myEhFvf0)   .... more https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEm7C0BAq7E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEm7C0BAq7E)    ;D ;D ;D ;D
MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on January 23, 2018, 03:16:10 PM
Bugger ya' drones - I want one of these! :D

https://newatlas.com/zapata-ezfly-flying-segway/53044/ (https://newatlas.com/zapata-ezfly-flying-segway/53044/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on January 23, 2018, 09:53:18 PM
Haaa  Fizzie Nothing new but the size, they just rehashed 1950's tech with modern gear is all ... Still a cool way to fly though ..
I would prefer this one though https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIMWYeP7O1w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIMWYeP7O1w)   Comes from the inventor of the Rocket pack from the 1950's / 1960's https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JjCS2uciXo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JjCS2uciXo)   corny music but shows the Rocket pack of nicely  8) ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on January 24, 2018, 08:08:32 AM
Haaa  Fizzie Nothing new but the size, they just rehashed 1950's tech with modern gear is all ... Still a cool way to fly though

Yep, you've got to wonder what we'd have now if they'd been playing with the idea for the last 60 years :D

& I'd like to see the score from that first bloke's Range Practice with his M1 carbine >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on January 24, 2018, 09:49:42 AM
Going by the M1 I used to have it wouldnt be that good at distance  .  You could almost see the rounds going through the air.
There was more than a few times with  Ammo from the 50's, I did see a smoke trail about 80% of the way to a 100m target ..
It reminded me of the Ammo smoke / vapour trails seen in the battle of Britain gun camera footage at the 3:33 mark in this footage
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OraWcmsSe6Y (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OraWcmsSe6Y)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on January 24, 2018, 10:51:27 AM
Yep, had one myself (till it was decided that it was too dangerous, so I replaced it with a nice, new, bolt-action .223, thus making Australia a safer place! >:D), & 100m's is a looooooong way away :D

But, they did a job they weren't designed for, very well, so you can't complain about that
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on January 31, 2018, 02:40:09 PM
Has anyone had a look and or play with the new Mavic Air.

Been looking at a few vids and it looks pretty good.

The only thing I'm not sold on is the weight and its performance in windy conditions.  But I love the rear sensors, the new set shot modes and the size is AMAZING...!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Wingnut84 on February 01, 2018, 02:05:08 PM
Hey Darcy,
I don't have the Mavic air but have the Dji spark so a bit smaller.
I can tell you the spark performs very well in windy conditions, I really can't see it move when it is hovering in one spot.
I love the spark but am seriously considering the mavic air.
cheers
wingnut
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on February 01, 2018, 02:11:27 PM
Has anyone had a look and or play with the new Mavic Air.

Been looking at a few vids and it looks pretty good.

The only thing I'm not sold on is the weight and its performance in windy conditions.  But I love the rear sensors, the new set shot modes and the size is AMAZING...!
buy it ... test it... dont like it ... leave it at my campsite... I'll store it with your chair ;D :D ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on February 28, 2018, 01:25:24 PM
Hey Darcy,
I don't have the Mavic air but have the Dji spark so a bit smaller.
I can tell you the spark performs very well in windy conditions, I really can't see it move when it is hovering in one spot.
I love the spark but am seriously considering the mavic air.
cheers
wingnut

A guy I spoke to who sells and services then said the Spark was actually more stable than the Mavic Pro because it has a higher thrust to weight ratio. (if that's the tight term)

I haven't seen anyone say the Mavic Air is no good in high wind.

I'm debating whether to wait for the new Mavic Pro or just bite the bullet and get the Air. 

decisions decisions
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on February 28, 2018, 01:44:40 PM
buy it ... test it... dont like it ... leave it at my campsite... I'll store it with your chair ;D :D ;D

If you insist....!  ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on March 26, 2018, 05:18:58 PM
Kaboom
http://www.news.com.au/technology/gadgets/queensland-cops-to-be-armed-with-antidrone-guns-during-commonwealth-games-next-month/news-story/d4d0aff3563e9e9754c7848b55ec7d33 (http://www.news.com.au/technology/gadgets/queensland-cops-to-be-armed-with-antidrone-guns-during-commonwealth-games-next-month/news-story/d4d0aff3563e9e9754c7848b55ec7d33)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on March 26, 2018, 06:28:20 PM
Here ya go https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ujdmr2K2G70 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ujdmr2K2G70)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on March 26, 2018, 06:39:21 PM
Look out if your a crop duster pilot, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2YPG8PO9JU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2YPG8PO9JU)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on March 28, 2018, 07:51:08 AM
These guys are a crack up ..https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H-JHIGRRNM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0H-JHIGRRNM)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Darcy7 on April 20, 2018, 12:16:31 PM
Couldn't wait any more and bought the Mavic Air.

Just one word......WOW...!

Its bloody brilliant.  I cannot believe how portable it is.  I think I'm glad I didn't wait for the Mavic Pro 2.  If its the same size as the current model, it would have been just that little bit bigger and that may have made a big difference for the sort of travel we're doing.

The quickshot modes are amazing and allow any idiot to make visually stunning movies.  I made this very roughly using Movie Maker on the iPad. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWpJ_aeCu9E (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWpJ_aeCu9E)


Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: mumbls on May 09, 2018, 04:45:46 PM
Question for the brains trust. If this has been covered I apologise, I did a search and couldn't find anything.

Wanting FPV googles to pair up with a Mavic Pro. Looking at the DJI ones but at $500 posted for the std's, I'm not sure if i want to spend that sort of coin. Is there any that are nearly as good, that would work with the Pro, but not hit the wallet as hard? Cheers
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on May 09, 2018, 06:56:27 PM
From what I understand, You can get a VR program to run on your phone and clip it into a goggle set https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRtY7ZGNf-o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TRtY7ZGNf-o) price is right about $10 > $50
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: xcvator on August 09, 2019, 09:38:17 AM
Has any 1 seen/used/have 1 of these drones  https://www.banggood.com/Xiaomi-FIMI-A3-5_8G-1KM-FPV-With-2-axis-Gimbal-1080P-Camera-GPS-RC-Drone-Quadcopter-RTF-p-1368969.html?ID=533034&cur_warehouse=GWTR (https://www.banggood.com/Xiaomi-FIMI-A3-5_8G-1KM-FPV-With-2-axis-Gimbal-1080P-Camera-GPS-RC-Drone-Quadcopter-RTF-p-1368969.html?ID=533034&cur_warehouse=GWTR)
I really like the feature that it has its own monitor and you don't have to try and pair it with a phone. Most need a 5g wifi connection which very few phones here have
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on August 09, 2019, 09:58:31 AM
These vids may help you Keith https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qth67BJ4gjw
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on November 05, 2019, 10:42:49 AM
Not really a drone as such, but for a bit of fun ;D

https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/powerup-4-0-smartphone-controlled-paper-airplane--2?utm_content=campaigns_one_column2_hero_image&utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=bck-11042019indemand&gs_variant=control#/ (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/powerup-4-0-smartphone-controlled-paper-airplane--2?utm_content=campaigns_one_column2_hero_image&utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=bck-11042019indemand&gs_variant=control#/)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on November 05, 2019, 11:00:54 AM
Flite test reviewed these a while ago   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PjPAgZrMUM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PjPAgZrMUM)   ........                                                   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ9pM-1pWX0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ9pM-1pWX0)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: rockrat on November 05, 2019, 06:21:38 PM
I see DJI has released the Mavic Mini - thinking about adding it to my birthday/Xmas wish list.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on December 01, 2019, 06:04:43 PM
I see DJI has released the Mavic Mini - thinking about adding it to my birthday/Xmas wish list.

I've spent the weekend researching aka watching lots of YouTube videos on the Mavic Mini. I think the price point vs. usage vs. features is there for me now and it is on my wish list.

For those of you with experience, I notice the Mini doesn't have any front avoidance sensors or a 'track-me' feature like the Spark. Are these really necessary/useful?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: sharkcaver on December 01, 2019, 09:46:46 PM
I believe the mini has front, bottom and a new addition being rear sensors. The mini flymore combo is a great buy, especially as I paid the same for the spark flymore with not so many features and only a 2 axis gimbal. The killer punch for me is the mini doesn't have active trac (follow me mode). I hope to be able to use that a bit out in the field. As to whether this is useful or not I guess comes down to your own preferences. I wouldn't like to not have it. Maybe I will end up with both and just use the spark for active trac shots??
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: D4D on December 02, 2019, 05:14:43 AM
I believe the mini has front, bottom and a new addition being rear sensors.

Mini only has bottom sensors
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: sharkcaver on December 02, 2019, 09:38:39 AM
Mini only has bottom sensors

I just looked this up, you are correct. I was sure I heard it had rear sensors, but I am wrong. Must have been another model I was looking at.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 02, 2019, 07:38:39 PM
If there was ever any question as to range of the mini  5.51 Km outbound and returned to crash out of power about 10 feet short of its take off base ..    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBXS2m9xwXc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBXS2m9xwXc) .
Looking to get one next year . wishing it had the follow me abitlity though
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: xcvator on December 02, 2019, 08:01:50 PM
No need to worry about range more than about 300/400 meters. CASA laws are it must be in sight at all times. Don't yell at me, I think it's a bit of a wank too, but I didn't make up the rules
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 02, 2019, 08:06:33 PM
But but I can see it osifer,  look heres its propellers on my screen   ;D ;D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on December 18, 2019, 05:36:36 PM
For those that might like to set up a drone for fishing offshore .. If your Game or would like to send / drop anything ..Get the wife to send cold beers to you while your out mowing the yard .. ;D ;D      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yY89aFh-Adk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yY89aFh-Adk)  ..
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: sparksy on March 15, 2021, 10:49:17 AM
Check out this.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/bowling-alley-drone-video-creator-has-other-dramatic-footage/13246900 (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-14/bowling-alley-drone-video-creator-has-other-dramatic-footage/13246900)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Jimbags on March 15, 2021, 07:20:48 PM
That's pretty cool. Those people must have a lot of faith in the skills of the drone pilot!
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Fizzie on March 16, 2021, 08:42:40 AM
Saw a mention about the bowling alley video that yes, they filmed it in one go, but they also took 12 goes to get it right!

Don't know how many ambulances were involved in those attempts ??? (especially with the bloke where they flew it between his legs!) >:D
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on April 16, 2023, 09:25:30 AM
Thread dig.  ;D

I was in at JB HiFi yesterday filling in time with a son and he says.........here's the drones over here Dad. As we were there looking at them, a bloke came over and asked if there was anything that he could help with and of course, I said yeah and started asking some questions.  :laugh: He proceeded to answer them straight away without thinking or looking lost, he then stated that he uses them for commercial photography and now, I'm torn between getting one and not.  ??? I know that it will be used for plenty of times and this one is a very good one as a starting point with plenty of goodly features, so do I pull the trigger today or not, that is the quandary now.  ;D

https://www.jbhifi.com.au/products/dji-air-2s-4k-drone-fly-more-combo?ab_version=B&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI08ftuIKt_gIViF99Ch3mAQ9BEAQYASABEgL5yPD_BwE (https://www.jbhifi.com.au/products/dji-air-2s-4k-drone-fly-more-combo?ab_version=B&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI08ftuIKt_gIViF99Ch3mAQ9BEAQYASABEgL5yPD_BwE)

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: xcvator on April 16, 2023, 11:23:10 AM
Before you buy 1 check out where and when you can fly them. There is a free app, I think it's called "can I fly here ".
I bought 1 just after our last trip 4 years ago, bloody thing is still in it's box  :'(
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on April 16, 2023, 11:54:26 AM
Before you buy 1 check out where and when you can fly them. There is a free app, I think it's called "can I fly here ".
I bought 1 just after our last trip 4 years ago, bloody thing is still in it's box  :'(

Yeah, already know about that app, as the bloke told me about it and times that certain air space has restrictions with height and the fact that Amberly can cancel your toy and it will drop to the ground.  ;D

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on May 13, 2023, 03:35:03 PM
Well, I pulled the trigger on the S2 this morning and it was $200 less that when I first looked at it a month ago, so I got a carry case that is laser cut for each part to sit in, plus it's water proof, lockable and has a atmosphere release button for when it has been sitting in a hot place. Total cost with the case and 256gb card = $1678.  :cup: ;D

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on May 13, 2023, 07:31:01 PM
They are a nice piece of gear, Daughters partner has one ..Thinking you should be very happy with the photos it takes  and the handling of it ...  8)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on May 14, 2023, 03:04:46 PM
They are a nice piece of gear, Daughters partner has one ..Thinking you should be very happy with the photos it takes  and the handling of it ...  8)

Yeah, had a quick play this morning in standard mode and very happy with vid quality but everyone at home, hates me if I go to upload a vid, seeing as it is 5K quality.  :laugh: :laugh: >:D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLVYF5_l1LA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLVYF5_l1LA)

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: edz on May 15, 2023, 10:23:18 PM
 :cup: That is sooo rock steady and smooth, even with a bit of wind theyre not too bad .
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on May 16, 2023, 02:24:46 AM
:cup: That is sooo rock steady and smooth, even with a bit of wind theyre not too bad .
It can fly in 70kmh winds from the reviews that I've read and watched. I watched one where it was tracking a cargo carrier in high winds and footage was very good.

That vid it was only 9kmh.

Foo

Sent from my CPH1879 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on May 16, 2023, 10:14:31 AM
It can fly in 70kmh winds from the reviews that I've read and watched. I watched one where it was tracking a cargo carrier in high winds and footage was very good.

That vid it was only 9kmh.
does it have that tracking gig where it follows ya along by itself?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on May 16, 2023, 12:17:25 PM
does it have that tracking gig where it follows ya along by itself?
It certainly does and return to home also for landing.

Foo

Sent from my CPH1879 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on May 23, 2023, 03:19:00 PM
How hard will it be to fly it with only the use of one hand?
Say you put the controller on a table, is it possible to reach both sticks with the fingers on the left hand?
I can't use my right arm/hand, hence the question.
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on May 23, 2023, 07:57:50 PM
How hard will it be to fly it with only the use of one hand?
Say you put the controller on a table, is it possible to reach both sticks with the fingers on the left hand?
I can't use my right arm/hand, hence the question.

I would think with a little practice, you could do it. It is very responsive but once you got the hang of the toggle controls it would be easy. Once you have it in the air at an altitude for flying, then you really only use one hand.

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on May 29, 2023, 07:57:02 PM
Another play this afternoon after I got home. I noticed Ken being a sloth up above me again.  ;D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DD4ZFRG3iLU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DD4ZFRG3iLU)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgknc-sK46o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgknc-sK46o)
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on October 22, 2023, 09:09:41 AM
Got me a RC controller for my Air S2 and it makes it much easier to use rather than having the phone hanging off the side of the standard controller.  :cheers: Now I need to learn when to use the filters on the gimbal for the light conditions.  :P

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFVy0ADkfg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFVy0ADkfg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Cf8HsDv9nM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Cf8HsDv9nM)

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 23, 2023, 09:51:26 AM
Got me a RC controller for my Air S2 and it makes it much easier to use rather than having the phone hanging off the side of the standard controller.  :cheers: Now I need to learn when to use the filters on the gimbal for the light conditions.  :P

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFVy0ADkfg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McFVy0ADkfg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Cf8HsDv9nM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Cf8HsDv9nM)

Foo
Gee looks green wet and hazy!  nice footage though, very still and steady
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on October 25, 2023, 06:32:36 AM
Gee looks green wet and hazy!  nice footage though, very still and steady
Thanks. The green bit is lucerne crop. A lot of fires around over the last week.

This drone can fly in up to 60kmh winds and still have good focus but I won't be trying that out.

Foo

Sent from my CPH1879 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Bird on October 25, 2023, 09:27:44 AM
Quote from: Foo
This drone can fly in up to 60kmh winds and still have good focus but I won't be trying that out.
So ya happy with it?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on October 25, 2023, 04:07:59 PM
So ya happy with it?

Bloody oath I am.  :cup:

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on February 27, 2024, 01:57:34 PM
Anyone using the Montion Controller 2 from DJI?
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: cyberess on February 29, 2024, 12:46:22 AM
I am not sure if people are interest, I am into FPV style of micro drones.

This ia a 3-1/2 Inch sub 250g -- that's has a 4K camera, and flies off 18650 batteries

(https://i.ibb.co/sQg6311/Rekon35-Drone01.jpg)

(https://i.ibb.co/v401CHN/Rekon35-Drone02.jpg)

It's a quiet stealthy drone that takes great video, and good for one takes.
Video from the drone. (Make sure you watch it in 4K, as youtube will probably try to default you to 720p or something like that.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWSleLyWXFs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWSleLyWXFs)

This is from a build video, the link should be start at flight footage as the view from within the Goggle OSD footage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5c4YACaH1H4&t=123s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5c4YACaH1H4&t=123s)

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: xcvator on February 29, 2024, 07:37:40 AM
14 minutes flying/rth/and camera on a drone that size is pretty good. Good quality video too  :cheers:
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: Foo on February 29, 2024, 08:10:19 PM
Anyone using the Montion Controller 2 from DJI?

Had to have a look at what you were talking about, I have enough trouble with the RC controller that I bought for mine, let a lone that fancy thing.  :o :)

Foo
Title: Re: Remote controlled flying things-Quads, Hex, Octo or anything
Post by: WilSurf on March 05, 2024, 11:14:19 AM
It looks good for my intented use as I have only one usable hand/arm.
Only thing is it only works with the mini 3 pro and up.