PD-250C
The PD-250C prototype.
The passively stable PD-250C helicopter is developed to give universities, labs, engineers and scientists a simple flying platform for UAV science projects. Compared to previous version of Proxflyer type helicopters the PD-250C offers increased lifting capacity, extend operation time (flying time) and enable control in all directions (added roll control).
The helicopter has been developed to increase the interest for passively stable helicopters and to fuel interest for MAV related science. For non-commercial use, universities and labs can download free drawings and specifications to build their own flying platforms or they can buy complete ready to fly helicopters.
Typical use and applications
Typically an inherently stable flying platform like the PD-250C helicopter is used in indoor labs and test areas with no wind or turbulence. Applications will include:
• Autonomous control and navigation
• Flight pattern studies
• Obstacle recognition and avoidance
• Testing of systems for vertical control
• Swarm studies
• Interaction with other kinds of vehicles
• Stereo vision control
Specifications
The helicopter uses a slightly modified rotor compared to the earlier Proxflyer type helicopters. The rotor blades are connected to the hub with pivots and the coning is reduced. The changes allows for a higher forward speed while the passive stability is kept unchanged. The helicopter has a double tail with two “tilting” motors giving the helicopter the same maneuverability as other helicopters. To fly sideways (roll control) the two tilting motors are run in opposite directions to create a sideways tilting momentum. To fly forward (pitch control) the motors are run in the same direction.
The helicopter is equipped with a basic radio receiver, motor drivers and an yaw gyro and depending on the application additional navigation sensors could be part of the payload or control system implemented on the helicopter.
Lifting capacity and typical flight times will vary depending on the weight and capacity of the battery. The specifications for the PD-250C equipped with a 2-cell 7.2 V, 250 mAh lithium polymer battery are:
Rotor diameters: 250 mm
Max length: 300 mm
Height: 140 mm
Weight without payload: 70 grams
Maximum payload: 30 grams
Flight time (90g): 10 minutes
If the payload is powered from the flight battery the flight time will be reduced according to the power drawn by the payload. For operations in high altitude (above 1000m) the flight times must be expected to decrease.
Availability
PD-250C in forward flight
The PD-250C is a relatively simple design with few critical or complicated mechanical parts. Most engineers, lab technicians or students will be able to build their own helicopters. For non-commercial use it is possible to obtain a full set of drawings, part lists and specifications. A kit with critical parts is also available. Finally two versions of Ready to Fly Helicopters are available (some lead time must be expected).
If you are interested in FREE Drawings or in purchasing any of the Ready to Fly Helicopters for your science project (non-commercial use only); please download, fill out and return the PD-250 Order form. When we receive and accept an order form asking for free drawings we will send out the drawings and specifications in pdf format to the email address listed in the order form within one week.
Download DOC Order Form here: PD-250C-order.doc
Download PDF Order Form here: PD-250C-order.pdf
Free Drawings:
• Complete set of drawings in pdf format
• Part list including supplier information
• Building specifications
• Flight tips
Critical Parts (price US$ 200,-):
• Gear set for main rotors (two large and two small gears)
• Main Rotors, injection molded plastic
• Ball bearings for main shaft
• Two main motors
• Two tail motors
Ready to Fly Helicopter, Plastic rotors with reduced capacity (price US$ 1.800,-):
• Complete Ready to Fly PD-250C
• Hand built carbon fiber main structure
• Injection molded plastic rotors
• Motors, motor controllers, yaw gyro
• Basic 4 ch radio control incl. transmitter
• Flight time and lifting capacity reduced 35%
Ready to Fly Helicopter, Carbon fiber rotors (price US$ 3.000,-):
• Complete Ready to Fly PD-250C
• Hand built carbon fiber main structure
• Vacuum molded, hand built carbon fiber rotors
• Motors, motor controllers, yaw gyro
• Basic 4 ch radio control incl. transmitter
All specifications and descriptions are preliminary and can be changed without notice. Prox Dynamics AS take no responsibility for the use and/or interpretation of this information.