My last build was based on a Milwaukee M18 (5S) drill battery, a proof of concept that I am applying to a large VTOL fixed-wing project (more to come on that). While it did function (and rather well as a trainer or beginner setup) the high inertia, weak 3D prints, along with my elementary piloting skills, proved to be too limiting for continuous use, and after the third quad crashing in an epic yardsale, I decided it may be time to try a more traditional approach for freestyle applications. So, to bridge the gap while I work on the VTOL system, I have decided to apply what I've learned in the last project and put together a normal 4S 6inch quad.
Of course, I will also be using it as another testbed, and will utilize the PX4 firmware, which I will be leveraging in the larger build for waypoint an AI functionality. To support waypoints, I printed a custom "recliner" mount for the GoPro, GPS antenna and receiver, using 3M VHB adhesive for the GPS, and while I'm not sure I like PETG as a plastic for drones, it's all I have at the moment. I'm looking to get carbon fiber parts made that should do better, but I have no idea where to get them cut. It also works, so, yeah...
The bottom has racewire LEDs, which help keep the arms clean, and looks sexy as hell. I also just decided to keep the blue clips on for now, since I couldn't come up with a solution I liked more. Ideas???
Given the massive prop size to body ratio (6.1in props), the thing floats at zero throttle, and is super smooth as well... I'm quite surprised. I also love the auto-take-off, position hold and waypoint functions PX4 lets me do, as I'm still not the LOS or FPV pilot that you see on youtube.
I Hope someone finds this build inspiring, or gives them ideas for their next build-- Let me know what you think!
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Appreciate the kind words, and thanks for the machineworks reference!
Agreed on the learning curve with this. I wanted to try stuff I haven't seen before, and this build was no different. Which antenna are you referring to to lock down? If it's the 5.8 loli-pop, I agree completely; I just couldn't come up with a better option.
I also assume you're referencing the radio receiver board being the vulnerable circuit board? The valuable stuff in the main stack is pretty well guarded?
It is a pretty tight build, mostly dictated by the compact frame.
You pretty much summed up my approach: once I get comfortable with the flying characteristics and put together the VTOL project I referenced, I will probably upgrade to an HD camera like the Caddyx Tarsier, improve the guards around the stack, ditch the lounge chair entirely, put the battery on top and have a proper speed quad.
The firmware is the PX4 FMUv2 based on the nuttx RTOS, similar to ardupilot. It's programmed with QGroundControl, which is a little meh, but overall I like it. I am also very, very happy with the Kakute F7 FC.
You nailed it, the reciever board, and the vtx antenna. I just picked up a tarsier, i'll let you know how that goes when all my parts get here (who knows how long it will take...corona delay).
Happy flying!