(FBW on Launch, not FBI (LOL)..... Every time I try and launch my Maxi Swift (with 8000-10000 mah batteries) it's a real nerve-bending experience because it is so heavy and difficult to get in the air. Once its in the air and cruising the plane becomes very stable, predictable, and easy to fly, but getting it into the air is another story indeed. If I had a runway I'd figure a way to put wheels on it for launch but since I don't, I'm trying to find anything that might make the experience a little less terrifying.
I was wondering if anyone had ever heard of people trying to launch with the RVOSD AP activated. I remember reading an article a while back about some guys using another brand AP to help them launch the older EPP Zepher which was a similar nightmare to get in the air, and their videos showed some real promise if I remember right.
Do you think any of the RVOSD modes might create a similar measure of help when it comes to hand-launching some of the more difficult/heavy FPV craft?
Thanks!!
I ALWAYS launch with FBW engaged. I always hand launch. There can be an issue with ground roll vibrations upsetting the IMU during takeoff ROG, but its not an issue with hand launching.
I even had a brave friend hand launch my 6Kg BigAss wing (RIP). We always launched the big bird on a slope though. Just make sure to slam the throttle open after releasing the wing, if its a pusher, as a safety precaution.
Heres a clip of a 20kt slope launch at a turbulent slope site. No throttle needed, but also it was hands off by me, no stick inputs for the first stage of flight. FBW does it all. https://vimeo.com/38911058
I also hand launch my ZephII with FBW active. Just donīt do it with tailwind.
when ready to launch I turn FBW on, then move wing in roll and bank to see correcting action of elevons moving the right way (and LEVEL when level).
Then I hold wing in right hand on leading edge, standing on end(nose facing sky). With left hand apply full throttle on TX, then move left hand to other stick and hold FULL UP input (in MY FBW thatīs 18° nose up). Then ZII is almost hovering in my hand, just give it a strong upwards pull over your head into the wind.
She stabilizes right away at wings level and gradually climbing like on rails.
My ZII weighs 2,7kg, with no wind she sometimes drops 1,5m while picking up speed, a slightly elevated lauch position is always good.
I launch my ZII somewhat like veithjj. But I setup a switch on my radio to give some up elevator and throw with no stick input other than throttle. I feel I could give my radio full throttle then set it on the ground, then launch with no problem. I haven't been brave enough to try it yet.
I launch my MaxiSwift with overhead throw. But I don't have RVOSD there (it's in my Skywalker now), so I have to handle it with sticks :-).
Before I asked someone to throw Maxi - without motor, after it was off his hands, I give it a full throttle. It was OK, but I still had to find someone to help. Once there was no-one but my wife. It ended with broken prop and motor mount... Then I tried hand launch with engine on, but it was too dangerous - I can't recommend it. Then I tried overhead launch (I was pretty afraid to do it for the first time) and - it's perfect. Well, once I launch it bad (fortunately high grass saves everything), but it's still the best way to launch this beast.
FBI on launch
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FBW does it all.
