Crow-aware adaptive elevator trim

The goal of this project was to simplify the adjustment of crow compensation. The traditional method involves manually editing the compensation curve, which of course means landing the model each time.

With the adaptive trim system, crow compensaton can be optimised in a single flight, without the need for manual adjustment. The secret is to repurpose the elevator trim, so instead of providing a constant trim offset, it bends the compensation curve. The process is transparent for the pilot.

A 3D printed CG scale

How do you measure the CG of your model? Very likely, you'll be using a variation of the 'balancing arms' technique, where the model is positioned over a pair of pivots. While this method is low cost, it's not very convenient if you want to experiment with balancing weights, as the model has to be repositioned each time. Well, now there's an easier way...

A 3D-printed case for the RX6R

FrSky's latest RX6R receiver is tiny, and offers excellent range. It sounds perfect for F3F, but there's a problem: it comes with a cardboard wrapper instead of a hard case. Maybe okay for a foamie, but not for models like my Stribog.

Ahi 1.0: an OpenTx template for aerobatic slopers

I've just added a new setup to my library of soaring templates. It's for 4-channel aerobatic slope soarers like the Ahi, Phase 6, Voltij etc.

Frsky RX6R - a tiny full range 6CH receiver

The FrSky RX6R sounds like the answer to a lot of pilots' prayers - a receiver small enough to fit in a Pitbull or Stribog without looking as if it's been jammed in with a hammer! What's more, the RX6R is claimed to offer 40% more range than X-series receivers. Sounds too good to be true? Let's find out... [note: updated 18 Oct 2018]

Adaptable ballast spreadsheets, using array formulae

F3X pilots love ballast! However, ballast arrangements seem to get ever more complicated. Many F3F models have multiple pockets for wing ballast, optional joiner ballast, and choice of carbon or steel joiner. The problem is knowing how to distribute the ballast so as to minimise the impact on CG.

Photo magic at the Welsh Open

Here's a publicity shot by MKS, using two of my images. It shows Joel West winning the recent Welsh Open. I think their graphic designer has done a rather nice job!