Skyhunter VTOL Conversion
PX4-based VTOL kits built for Skyhunter and Mini Skyhunter aircraft
Overview
Designed VTOL conversion kits that retrofit the Skyhunter and Mini Skyhunter RC platforms with vertical takeoff capability. We built and flew a number of prototypes and relied heavily on 3D printed components. We used the PX4 flight stack and tuned each airframe.
I designed all of the mechanical parts, did more of the electrical soldering and wiring. I also sized the lift and propultion systems for both platforms.
These kits were a lot of fun to design and build and taught me a lot about PX4 and VTOL aircraft in general.
Rough layout of lift system for the Skyhunter.
First flight of the Skyhunter VTOL.
Waiting for the OK from Ground Control.
Close up of Skyhunter VTOL.
3D printed motor mount for the Skyhunter VTOL.
Skyhunter Mini VTOL under construction.
Skyhunter Mini VTOL Assembled for first flight test.
3D printed boom mount for the Skyhunter Mini VTOL.
Accomplishments
- ✓Delivered multiple kits that reuse the proven Skyhunter airframes while adding lightweight VTOL hardware.
- ✓Advanced in my understanding of the PX4 codebase.
Lessons Learned
- •Torional stiffness of the center wing section is important to hover well. The Skyhunter's wing was not designed for these torsional loads.