When I first started with building and flying RC models, "Fun Scale" was a popular class of models. When one could have the scale lines of a famous full scale aircraft while still having a nice easy model to fly. As some full scale airframes do not make good flying scale models. My attempt here as with my other project "Shiner" are not to achieve ultra long range, or the farthest range possible, but to have a fun, and solid quad I can take farther then normal, or average distances. Considering where I live Ultra long range could take me out over open ocean. I guess one can gain altitude and test out the "Flat Earth" theory with the camera(s). As long as I can get in and out of a nice scenic valley, and get some mountain surfing in during mild trade winds I'll be happy. So I would really consider my goal with this quad as "Fun Range". I'm also finding that using eCalc really helps to plan my builds.
A couple of issues I ran across with this build. The Flight controller for one. I really like alot, but it would have been nice to have a 4v5 pad powered by usb for the GPS, and receiver. I also learned that you do not want your Lost Model Alarm to0 close to the GPS/Compass module. I was having trouble with GPS lock/ and compass calibration until the beeper was moved more then 15mm away from the unit. I'm sure there will be more updates to come.
TomoQuad's "Katana" INAV Build Weights
More testing needed
-175g w/o battery (Heavier then I would have liked)
-282g w/Powerhobby 2s 7.4V 2000 mah Lipo ,max amps used 13 amps (14:00 min mixed flight time down to 3.5 volts per cell)
-246g w/Venom 2s 7.4v 1300 mah Lipo ,max amps used 9 amps (10:00 min mixed flight time down to 3.5 volts per cell )
Update 2/7/2021
More testing needed. The max amps used on the 1300 mah pack went down even though I could have swore I was a little more aggressive on the throttle. Also it feels kinda punchy with the 1300 mah pack.(it's no slacker) 10:00 min max flight time. Very interested to see what the next few flights show.
Update 2/7/2021
Received a 2s 1300 mah Venom battery. Weight after replacing the connector with an xt30 is 71 grams bringing the total fly weight too 246 g, 4 grams under 250. Looks like a little wiggle room in case I pick up some grass and dirt after a crash! Getting ready for a flight test.
Update 1/31/2021
Finished another flight. It's looking like about a 13:00 min mixed flight time down to 3.6 volts per cell with the 2000 Mah pack.
Update 1/30/2021
Sorry for the delay other things, and the weather were kinda putting things on hold. Calling the the build finally done! Just flew a third battery pack. A hover flight, line of sight really. I cheated With the pids and copied the numbers for the Flywoo Explorer. I wasn't sure where to start with a dead cat style frame. I liked the way it flys right away! I could tell it's a little on the heavy side with the 2000 Mah pack. I'm gonna try a 1300 Mah lipo before I look into playing with Li Ion cells. The 1300 pack I'm looking to try should bring it down below 250 grams.
Update 1/23/2021
Just finished a couple of battery packs with another quad, and well I had recently upgraded my old Eachine EV800 goggles (non diversity). I've had them for years. I can remember getting them when they were still relatively a new product. I'm now sporting a set of EV800Os, all I can say is "I don't think we're in Kanasas any more Toto".
Update 1/22/2021
Got some soldering done on the flight controller. Harnesses for the LMA,VTX, and GPS soldered.
Update 1/21/2021
9:30 PM Started wiring the Flight Conroller. Lost model alarm wiring first. there wasn't much documentation I could find, but a semi graphic lol.
Update 1/21/2021
Awaiting one final item, Started working out the power/drive system (Esc/Motors) . Found a battery to try from Powerhobby. This Company is new to me, but at
about 103 grams for a 2000 mah 2s lipo I'm willing to take a chance on something new. Plus it's dimensions were a better fit for my liking.
Update 1/13/2021
Final Parts order made with AirBlade. They had a couple of TPU items that looked tempting. Pleasent correspondence with them, turned out they were out of red filament for the vertical T-Mount that I'd like to try, I asked for black. Final parts list created. This will be the build.
Update 1/12/2021
Another parts arrival from Race Day Quads! The Esc, VTX, and stack mounts are here. Along with some m2 screws from Monster Bolts.
Update 1/10/2021
Another order placed today. Decided on a Flight Controller. It wasn't even on the orginal list until it was discovered it does have a barometer. Perfect as I orginally wanted an F4 Board for this build.
Update 1/8/2021
Frame and camera here. Motors on the way went with the 6000kv. More parts on the way. Focused on "Shiner", Crossfire Upgrade. Still to make final call on the flight controller. Needs to be 5-6v minimum voltage. Baro, and SCL/ SDA also a must.
Update 12/18/20, Current max target of 140g. parts weight estimate about 120 grams of max target of 140. Not including wires and connectors.
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