Things Are Afoot

It has been a while since my last post. I have received and constructed my Shapeoko and have been getting used to using it and its ‘quirks’. The problem I have had with the OSQ450 has been finding a source of the Epoxy Glass board (G10/FR4) in the UK. I may now have found a couple of suppliers, once pay day turns up I shall be looking at buying some so I can start the prototype.

Most of my ideas have been refined as much as I can in the computer, so I now need to start the physical construction in order to check joins, spacings etc.

I am hopeful that I should have an update with the beginning soon!

Introducing the OSQ450

When I started to build my quad I really wanted to make my own frame to use. However there were two factors that stopped me being able to attain that dream:

1. Inexperience of quad design,
2. No equipment to prototype with.

The first one is quickly lessening as I use the experience of building my quad, learning what I liked about the F450 frame and where I needed it to be different to fit my needs. Having taken the skills I have developed I felt I was able to design my own machine, that leads me on to the second issue.

Landing Legs

One of the issue with the F450 frame is the limited clearance under the frame. If you want to add an under-slung gimbal, or even a battery, you may need more clearance. The biggest issue adding your own landing gear is the lack of attachment points. I decided I wanted to add extensions to the existing landing legs mainly for cosmetic reasons, I didn’t like the idea of ‘horns’ sticking out for no reason.

Build Progress – Delays

Well the build is almost over, almost. Unfortunately I am waiting on the motors and props. An email from Unmanedtech let me know that there is some problem with the factory not sending them out. Infuriating as I have the machine sitting here almost ready to go.

Build Continuing – APM Mount, GPS, Landing Gear

As I continue to build my Quad’ I have had to solve a few issues. After reading on the ArudPilot website about the compass (and GPS) module, I needed to mount it away from sources of interference; the ESC and motors. As both can output a magnetic field it seems. Again I turned to my trusty 3D printer to produce a design I made to mount the GPS and compass module on a mast. This sits about 100mm above the top of the frame, which is about as far as I can go with the length of its cables.

Build Started – 3D Printing to the Rescue

The build has started! My parcel of parts turned up on Friday (most of them anyway, still awaiting the motors and props – more on that later). I got home all ready and excited to start my build and just as I finish making the obligatory cup of tea (I am British after all!), the power failed.

Parts Ordering Started

Okay, I have completely thrown out my plans! I have currently ordered the motors, props, ESC, APM (inc GPS/compass) and frame from Unmannedtech.co.uk. They have been really helpful so far, having put the items on reserve for me while the motors and props come back into stock – hopefully in about 2 weeks or so.

Building a new Quadcopter

For years I have been wanting to build an autonomous quadcopter. While the cost as been an issue mostly I have been trying to research the best options for an auto pilot etc. I am now starting with the purchasing of parts.