Virtual flybar--alternate solution?

[jrohland]

Virtual flybar--alternate solution? Well not really, not yet anyway.

I purchased an FMA Direct CPD4 (Co-Pilot) (http://www.fmadirect.com/detail.htm?item=1489&section=20) and a CSM Cylock (http://www.trextuning.com/cyclock.php). This combo is currently installed on my MA Razor 600e (http://www.miniatureaircraftusa.com/helicopterkits/1027_razor_600e/1027_kit_main.asp).

I have not yet installed the two gyros needed to eliminate the flybar. However, I do plan to do that over the next month or so.

How does this compare to the AP2000i+FMA Direct IR sensor?

It is cheaper! The FMA Direct CPD4 is about $70 (US), the Cylock is about $70 (US) [You will need a programming cable, I got the USB version for about $55 (US).] So, for under $200 (US)+shipping, I got everything I need to do IR stabilized flight.

With a couple of gyros (Futaba GY240s) (http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/WTI0095P?FVSEARCH=gy240), I could have a usable, flybarless and IR stabilized heli for about $440 (US).

The Cylock is extremely programmable. I was able to virtually eliminate all interactions at all swashplate extremes. That alone made my Razor very stable and predictable during my "stick banging".

Because each item in the control chain is a discreet device, I will be able to connect devices in the best places. For example, I will be able to put the IR sensor in front of the gyros. This will prevent the IR stabilization from fighting the gyro stabilization.

The downside to this layout--as compared to an AP200i, etc--is messy wiring and, there are numerous points of failure. I plan to solve the wiring problem by removing the circuits from their boxes and place them all in an electronics bay. This will also allow me to shorten and solder the wires. My hope is, it may look better and might be more reliable.

jrohland

[MarkWebber]

Yep, a bit more messy than my AP2000i version. I hope you have better results over time with the CPD4. I've not used one myself but from what other I've sold to have said...well, keep your eyes on it.

[jrohland]

I to am concerned with the iffy quality of the CDP4. For me, FMA Direct could raise the price on their products and, use the extra cash to greatly increase the quality. Their products are innovative but, the production quality appears to be problematic.

As you say, I'll keep an eye on the CDP4. However, the Cylock mixer is very nice.

jrohland

[fogger]

Hopefully CSM will come out with an all in one solution using a 3-axis gyro... Mikado needs some competition to drive the V-bar pricing down.

-C

[jrohland]

Hopefully CSM will come out with an all in one solution using a 3-axis gyro... Mikado needs some competition to drive the V-bar pricing down.Yes CSM could make a nice self contained Eflybar system. That does not give you the IR (or some other horizon line) sensor option. While I know horizon line sensors are not necessarily the best horizontal stabilizers, they are the least expensive (in terms of price and weight) option we have at the moment.

There is no question the V-Stabi system cost way too much. Competition is certainly needed in the Eflybar space. I don't think it will be too long until Asia, Inc. jumps into that market.

jrohland

[j_kookboy]

Or you can just go for a Helicommand Rigid for $600.

You'll get gyro stabilization, flybarless and tail gyro all in one tiny little box.

[MarkWebber]

Funny you should mention FMA increasing their price/quality. It wasn't too long ago that they went the opposite direction. Many have seen this in their IR sensors. Frequently, one of the rear eyes is 15 or so degrees off kilter. Doesn't seem to affect performance but it's an obvious quality control issue.