Ready To Fly
After the successful test of the Gen 1-P, we were close to finally testing the parachute system in flight. But first, we needed to collect some performance data on the FTS without the parachute system. During this flight test, we discovered that both the drop and camera systems were nonfunctional. The drop system was easily…
107
While we waited for the replacement receiver to arrive we decided to start studying for a 107 license. A 107 license is needed to operate a sUAS (small Unmanned Aircraft System) or “drone” for commercial purposes. We are unsure if this license is needed, but as it also allows greater freedom in sUAS operation we…
Preparing for Flight
Our original plan was to perform our first drop test of the parachute system on the 20th of December. The three failures of the parachute system print jobs (more about this here) used up much of our time, but we still had one more week before this deadline. To achieve this goal, we had many…
The Cameras of Project Redirect
When we flew the FTS (Flight Test System) for the first time, we recorded the flight from the ground. While this was sufficient for recording that flight, we need more cameras to record footage from different view points during the next test. This footage is necessary to gauge the performance of the system that is being…
Onward and upwards
This week, we have been working on the test payload. So far, we have finalized the design for the main body, copied it to foam board and cut it out. The interior of the first generation test payload was not very flexible or accessible. Seeking to fix both problems, we decided to implement a test…
Taking Flight
On the 2nd of September, we headed out to fly the S1000+ for the first time.
Delays
Originally the plan was to fly the FTS (Flight Test System) for the first time on Saturday the 25th. To achieve this goal, we first had to complete a few parts of the FTS. We began by finishing the S1000+; starting with wiring and securing the various components of the flight controller. We also needed…
The Flight Test System; an Overview (Part 2)
Click here for part 1 The second subsystem of the FTS (Flight Test System) is the test payload. It will be dropped by the S1000+ from 106.7 m (350 ft). Above is a 3D model of the guidance system test payload. The test payload will differ in design depending on which system will be tested. …
The Flight Test System; an Overview (Part 1)
The Flight Test System (FTS), is one of many systems that make up Project Redirect. The FTS is designed to test various components of Project Redirect in a real world environment.