Field Test 5.22.15

Field Test
Date: 5.23.15
Time: 7:15 PM
Location: Genoa/Stoddard Area-Rural Power Line from Dairyland Power

This was a short test. Upon takeoff the UAV flipped 12-16" above ground and snapped off the tip of a prop which halted the field test until we can put on a different prop and recalibrate the ESC's at school. The grassy takeoff area must have had a piece of gravel or rock near the surface to cause this damage.

We have had the UAV flip upon takeoff before. In evaluating the problem in the past, we determined that the causes are one of the ESC's needed to be recalibrated or pilot error. For example, when the pilot applies throttle at takeoff, it is essential that no other controls are initiated until the UAV is a safe distance above ground with room to maneuver. We are learning that after a crash, we need to recalibrate the ESC's if one of the props comes in contact with the ground as a precaution regardless if there is damage to the prop or not.

We are a little surprised at the lack of durability of the props. We compare the props on the UAV to our Phantom Copter which has never had a broken or severely damaged prop after a crash. The UAV props appear to not be as thick (to save weight) which may cause them to be more fragile.

Concerns:
1) We need a positive weather window to continue the field test. It looks like the weekend may be sunny so as long as we do not have a wind we can attempt another field test.
2) Props and batteries: We are down to our last spare prop which will get us in the air. Extra props are on backorder along with our spare battery. No indication on when they will be shipped. If we have prop damage again, we will have to halt testing until the shipment arrives.

The pen points to the damaged prop tip.

Future goal:
Attempt another field test along a power line in a rural area Friday night or this weekend dependent upon weather.