OctoCopter Build

**Paulice** · 16-03-2012, 02:24 PM

Originally Posted by Edders

What frame is it?

Edders

It's a NHP prototype, Marks working with Dave at NHP to make Quads and octo copters

**Mslater** · 24-03-2012, 05:28 PM

So the Xbee Telemetry module arrived, now for some serious tuning and its a Dark art, thankfully I've got some friendly American pals helping and its getting there. This is version 2.5 of the firmware, just for reference here's a screen dump of the parameters in use.

Attachment 39628

And today's final test

We also finalised the frame design today and I'll have the final V5 Frameset at some point next week, all efforts now moving to the Camera modules.

**wingspinner** · 10-05-2012, 11:09 PM

Originally Posted by larryrauen

Gaza

Thanks for the info. I'll do a new download today and try it in the "+" mode instead of the "x" mode. My APM2 is Velcroed on so all I have to do is turn the board 22.5 degrees.

Larry

Just to help out.. It'll never work well with that mounting arrangement and you'll pull your hair out. You either need to use the mounting studs (not my preference) or use thick flexible double sided mounting tape like used on VBar or MicroBeast controllers. Velcro is not secure enough and will cause the gyros and accelerometers to become saturated with excess vibration.

Cheers,
Ron

**Zeeflyboy** · 11-05-2012, 09:12 PM

How cool is that!

8 frikkin motors, wowzers...

**Mslater** · 12-05-2012, 12:29 AM

Camera mount and legs are now in the final stages - very nearly there.... But I've been saying that for months, I wonder what will bite this time !

**asomaro** · 12-05-2012, 12:44 AM

Damn this stuff drives you nuts eh - just when we think that things are going to plan something kicks us in the arse which serves to remind us that we are not the ones in control...... lol

Cheers,

**Mslater** · 05-08-2012, 01:11 AM

Its been a while since the last update, mainly due to running out of space for the firmware on the ArduBoard and a long wait for the new board to arrive. BUT ITS HERE.. Yipee !!

Once again we had to change the frames around for little tweaks here and there but at last the new frameset is on the production bench.

That means I'll shortly be selling the last test frames ( as pictured in the Opening post) for anyone brave enough to want to have a go at an Oct or HEX

Since Paulice had had some success with the latest firmware on his quad I'm expecting some really good results this time.

Latest upgrades.

1. Modified frame design, slightly larger but lighter
2. now running 8cell 10000mah
3. new props, max total thrust 16Kg
4. New Power distribution board
5. Pre cut holes for all cable routes
6. Switchable LED strip lightsNav Lights
7. Bespoke ESC rigid mounting plates

One major requirement still not fulfilled is the ability to fold the arms down for transport. If anyone has any lightweight ideas for this I'd love to hear them. Basically I need to fold the booms, the Main power for each motor runs through the centre of each so the folding mechanism should allow for this. Each Boom needs to fold through 90 degrees.

Testflight and pics of the new frameset scheduled for 1 week tomorrow (12 Aug)