Andrew W
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Folding Tricopter Build

I really like tricopters, the yaw authority on them are awesome. This one based on David Windestål's (RC Explorer) design, I love that it folds into a compact form factor for storage and carrying.  The body is made from Lexan (polycarbonate), uses David's camera and battery tray design , the booms are 1/2" hollow square aluminum tubing from Hobby King.  I have tried carbon fiber booms just like David's but I found running the wires through the small arms a pain and anytime I landed hard or had a crash the carbon fiber just shatters.  Benefits of carbon fiber booms is it made the tricopter super rigid, but aluminum was a nice compromise and it was easier to run all the wires.  The components are all zip-tied onto the frame, so it is easy to swap out parts like motors if I want to change something up or repair stuff, especially at the field.  I think the end result was clean looking, I'm very happy with it.

Specifications:
Flight Controller: Ardupilot APM 2.5
ESC: Hobby King 20A - Reflashed with simonk firmware
Tail Servo:
BMS-965DMG Coreless Digital Metal Gear High Torque Servo 5.7kg / .11sec / 29.5g
Motors:
NTM Prop Drive Series 28-26A 1200kv / 286w (short shaft version)
Props: 10"x4.5 or 9"x4.5
Battery: Turnigy 3s 2200mah or 4s 2200mah
Controller: Futaba 8J, FRSky Receiver

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