Read Time 5 mins
Written by Dave Lockhart Sports & Aerobatics Technical As seen in the Fall 2018 issue of Park Pilot.
>> “3D is for the new generation of fliers.” “Gyros are too expensive and too complicated to use.” These are two statements that I have heard countless times but are less accurate now than even a few years ago. In short, the newest generation of gyros allows pilots to confidently fly a broader range of aircraft and to more easily expand their inventory of maneuvers. The newest gyros are increasingly smaller, lighter, less expensive, easier to program, and capable of far more than stabilization in one or more axis. Not only can the degree of stabilization be adjusted for multiple settings (selectable in flight from the transmitter), but control surface deflection, dual rates, exponential, and flight trim can be programmed as well.
Flex Innovations (flexinnovations.com) and Horizon Hobby (horizonhobby.com) are two companies that produce aircraft that include preprogrammed gyros and also offer standalone gyros that can be added to virtually any aircraft. These new products make it easier than ever for beginner pilots—and traditional aerobatics pilots—to step into 3D flying. Smaller aircraft, that are often more sensitive and “twitchy,” tend to feel like larger, more locked-in aircraft. Short, coupled aircraft, such as Cubs, have greatly improved handling on the ground. Ground loops are a thing of the past, and bouncing when landing is reduced. Even using “stick and rudder” for the smoothest turns becomes easier for the pilot with an onboard gyro system.
Many full-scale aircraft are notorious for being challenging to fly when they are scaled down to model size. Multiengine airplanes no longer have yaw trim changes because of variable performance between engines. High-performance warbirds are less likely to experience tip stalls at low speeds or during high-G aerobatics. Specific to aerobatic aircraft, there are many benefits when using gyro systems. Aircraft can be set up aggressively with an aft CG (center of gravity) and extreme control throws to allow rapid changes in direction and spectacular tumbling. With the stability of the gyro, however, recovery from tumbles is much more predictable and consistent. Control sensitivity for normal flight is not twitchy. Another benefit of gyro systems is that they can reduce bad flight tendencies because of less-than-ideal construction, repairs, and setup. Although all aircraft are ideally straight, warp free, and do not flex in flight, the reality is that not all aircraft are perfect when they are new, and certainly not after some wear and tear from flying.
Small warps that can cause trim changes with a change in airspeed are often countered by a good gyro setup. A heavy wingtip that tends to drop upon landing will be less likely to do so when a gyro is used. Of course, the better answer is to add a small amount of weight to the light wingtip to achieve good lateral balance. There are few, if any, downsides to a well set up gyro system, but care must be taken when using high gain settings. Slower servos might not be able to keep pace with rapid inputs from a gyro using high gain settings, and control oscillations can occur in the air (typically rapidly “galloping” in pitch). Slop in servo gears or linkages can result in increased control surface oscillations on the ground or in the air. Flying at high speeds with high gain settings requires fast servos and linkages with no slop.
Although gyro systems do not specifically add maneuvers to a pilot’s inventory of stunts, they make it easier to perform many maneuvers. For example, a simple harrier pass involves balancing the amount of up-elevator and the proper throttle setting to achieve a nose-high attitude at slow speed. Ailerons typically must be used to combat wing rock, and rudder is required to maintain a straight line (and help with wing rock to an extent). With gyro systems onboard, wing rock is reduced, and nose wander to the left and right is minimized. How effectively the gyro levels the wing and keeps the nose straight is dependent upon the gyro settings, the speed of the servos, and an aircraft’s design. With a reduced pilot workload to keep the wing level and the nose on course, it is much easier to focus on modulating the elevator and throttle to complete a harrier pass.
Specific to Horizon Hobby, many of the Spektrum receivers have built-in gyros. When included with Horizon Hobby-brand aircraft, they generally have multiple preprogrammed flight modes. With most aircraft, the higher stability modes allow intermediate pilots to safely fly aircraft traditionally flown by more experienced pilots. Aerobatic modes allow unrestricted aerobatics while providing stability in turbulent wind.
Flex Innovations has a growing line of aerobatic models that are designed from the ground up to be flown with the Aura 8 Advanced Flight Control System. The Mamba 10 and Extra 300 are slightly larger (approximately 3 pounds) than most aerobatic park flyers (and heavier than the Park Pilot Program weight limit of 2 pounds), but they are capable of being flown comfortably in small spaces. The aircraft are extremely agile but retain good stability with the Aura 8 onboard. Without a doubt, the capability of the newest gyro systems can add substantially to the experience of a broad range of aircraft and pilots. -Dave Lockhart [email protected]
Written by Dave Lockhart Sports & Aerobatics Technical As seen in the Fall 2018 issue of Park Pilot.
>> “3D is for the new generation of fliers.” “Gyros are too expensive and too complicated to use.” These are two statements that I have heard countless times but are less accurate now than even a few years ago. In short, the newest generation of gyros allows pilots to confidently fly a broader range of aircraft and to more easily expand their inventory of maneuvers. The newest gyros are increasingly smaller, lighter, less expensive, easier to program, and capable of far more than stabilization in one or more axis. Not only can the degree of stabilization be adjusted for multiple settings (selectable in flight from the transmitter), but control surface deflection, dual rates, exponential, and flight trim can be programmed as well.
The Aura 8 is compatible with a range of radio brands, and the setup can easily be optimized for different aircraft using a PC interface. Not only can the gyro behavior be changed, but throws, dual rates, and exponential can be changed as well. This potentially provides programming options not available in some transmitters. Photo provided by Flex Innovations/Quique Somenzini.
Flex Innovations (flexinnovations.com) and Horizon Hobby (horizonhobby.com) are two companies that produce aircraft that include preprogrammed gyros and also offer standalone gyros that can be added to virtually any aircraft. These new products make it easier than ever for beginner pilots—and traditional aerobatics pilots—to step into 3D flying. Smaller aircraft, that are often more sensitive and “twitchy,” tend to feel like larger, more locked-in aircraft. Short, coupled aircraft, such as Cubs, have greatly improved handling on the ground. Ground loops are a thing of the past, and bouncing when landing is reduced. Even using “stick and rudder” for the smoothest turns becomes easier for the pilot with an onboard gyro system.
The interior of a Flex Innovations Mamba 10 shows a clean equipment layout with the included preprogrammed Aura 8 Advanced Flight Control System in the aft equipment bay. Flex Innovations/Somenzini photo.
Many full-scale aircraft are notorious for being challenging to fly when they are scaled down to model size. Multiengine airplanes no longer have yaw trim changes because of variable performance between engines. High-performance warbirds are less likely to experience tip stalls at low speeds or during high-G aerobatics. Specific to aerobatic aircraft, there are many benefits when using gyro systems. Aircraft can be set up aggressively with an aft CG (center of gravity) and extreme control throws to allow rapid changes in direction and spectacular tumbling. With the stability of the gyro, however, recovery from tumbles is much more predictable and consistent. Control sensitivity for normal flight is not twitchy. Another benefit of gyro systems is that they can reduce bad flight tendencies because of less-than-ideal construction, repairs, and setup. Although all aircraft are ideally straight, warp free, and do not flex in flight, the reality is that not all aircraft are perfect when they are new, and certainly not after some wear and tear from flying.
With the included Aura 8, simple 3D maneuvers, such as harriers and hovers, are well within the skillset of intermediate pilots and those new to 3D. Flex Innovations/Somenzini photo.
Small warps that can cause trim changes with a change in airspeed are often countered by a good gyro setup. A heavy wingtip that tends to drop upon landing will be less likely to do so when a gyro is used. Of course, the better answer is to add a small amount of weight to the light wingtip to achieve good lateral balance. There are few, if any, downsides to a well set up gyro system, but care must be taken when using high gain settings. Slower servos might not be able to keep pace with rapid inputs from a gyro using high gain settings, and control oscillations can occur in the air (typically rapidly “galloping” in pitch). Slop in servo gears or linkages can result in increased control surface oscillations on the ground or in the air. Flying at high speeds with high gain settings requires fast servos and linkages with no slop.
An E-flite Clipped Wing Cub 1.2-meter BNF Basic uses a Spektrum AR636 receiver with built-in AS3X stabilization that is pretuned for several flight modes. It’s suitable for beginner to mild 3D. Photo by Jennifer Alderman.
Although gyro systems do not specifically add maneuvers to a pilot’s inventory of stunts, they make it easier to perform many maneuvers. For example, a simple harrier pass involves balancing the amount of up-elevator and the proper throttle setting to achieve a nose-high attitude at slow speed. Ailerons typically must be used to combat wing rock, and rudder is required to maintain a straight line (and help with wing rock to an extent). With gyro systems onboard, wing rock is reduced, and nose wander to the left and right is minimized. How effectively the gyro levels the wing and keeps the nose straight is dependent upon the gyro settings, the speed of the servos, and an aircraft’s design. With a reduced pilot workload to keep the wing level and the nose on course, it is much easier to focus on modulating the elevator and throttle to complete a harrier pass.
Even the included diminutive receiver in the 36-gram E-flite Yak 54 3D has AS3X stabilization, which greatly increases the amount of wind and turbulence that this micro flier can handle. Photo by Dave Lockhart.
Specific to Horizon Hobby, many of the Spektrum receivers have built-in gyros. When included with Horizon Hobby-brand aircraft, they generally have multiple preprogrammed flight modes. With most aircraft, the higher stability modes allow intermediate pilots to safely fly aircraft traditionally flown by more experienced pilots. Aerobatic modes allow unrestricted aerobatics while providing stability in turbulent wind.
Programming AS3X receivers can be completed with mobile devices (Android or iOS) or PCs. Available programming includes gyro behavior, as well as control surface deflection, rates, and exponential settings. Photo provided by Horizon Hobby/Dan Landis.
Flex Innovations has a growing line of aerobatic models that are designed from the ground up to be flown with the Aura 8 Advanced Flight Control System. The Mamba 10 and Extra 300 are slightly larger (approximately 3 pounds) than most aerobatic park flyers (and heavier than the Park Pilot Program weight limit of 2 pounds), but they are capable of being flown comfortably in small spaces. The aircraft are extremely agile but retain good stability with the Aura 8 onboard. Without a doubt, the capability of the newest gyro systems can add substantially to the experience of a broad range of aircraft and pilots. -Dave Lockhart [email protected]
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Comments
SANFORD MACDONALD (not verified)
Stabilizers vs Gyros
Thu, 12/27/2018 - 15:04It is difficult to tell if a "Gyro" will bring an aircraft to level flight when reading articles. Only if the word "Stabilzation" is included is it clear that a plane in knife edge will stay there if we let go of the sticks. "6 axis sensor" is also unclear.
The crucial question is, "Will it right my aircraft if I have trouble?" I've read the Aura 8 AFCS ($100.00) and can't tell.
The HG3XA Gyro ($30.00) doesn't say. The WISE Airplane Gyro ($40.00) has a recovery mode that requires a dedicated button.
What I need for training my students is a 3 axis righting device that will bring the plane under control simply by releasing the sticks. Any recommentations?
David (not verified)
Aura 8 gyros and 3D
Thu, 12/27/2018 - 17:22I have over 20 airplanes with the Aura 8 installed. I am 71 years old, yet the Aura gyro has allowed me to fly full 3D with the young guys! I fly everything that Flex has produced plus many full aerobatic gas airplanes up to 120cc size. I can easily touch the rudder to the ground in a full hover.
Bob (not verified)
AURA Gyro in FLEX acft.
Thu, 12/27/2018 - 17:44The complaint I hear most often is the documentation for the Aura Config Tool is not complete. It gives an over view but no details. The gyro works well but tweaking it is trial and error mostly. I don't think you should have to spend hours in a forum trying to figure how how to adjust a throw or something. The documentation is like the old Spektrum and Futaba manuals - they give you the basics but the rest of setup is up to you. Not fun for some of us.
Robert (not verified)
Gyros
Thu, 12/27/2018 - 20:38You forgot to mention the best one. The ET Guardian.
Tommy Hastings (not verified)
Gas model gyroscopes
Fri, 12/28/2018 - 09:08Which gyros are suitable for 60 inch gas powered planes? I understand that there may be a vibration issue with gas powered planes.
Tom Soden (not verified)
AS3X
Fri, 12/28/2018 - 11:39My friend and I both fly the Timber with one exception , he has the AS3x in his as a BNF and I have the PNP . Needless to say his definitely has the better control on a windy day then mine but I tell him I enjoy the challenge .
Ken Knopp (not verified)
AR636 Reciever
Fri, 12/28/2018 - 12:45I purchased the AR 636 Receiver to put in my EFlight P-51. In the tutorial video the presenter uses the mobile app via a communication cable that is no longer available. I purchased the Bluetooth module to be able to set up the plane. After a few phone calls to the technical support department and the rudest tech support agent (Kenny) I still haven't been able to use the AS3X stabilization. I currently am in the process of dealing with the department via email, what a hassle.
Davis Dunagan (not verified)
AR-636
Sat, 12/29/2018 - 12:26I feel your pain, or at lest felt it. I was at the same point when I called the Horizon Hobby tech line. They set me up with a communication cable that plugs into the receiver and your laptop USB port. Download the app to your laptop and you can communicate and program the AS3X functions. Still requires some feeling around but it does work. DO NOT plug your battery in while you are plugged into the USB port. I spent a lot of time going through the Horizon hobby training videos online. They did send the cable to me free of charge since the blue-tooth cable did not function with my Android phone. Good luck!
Bill (not verified)
Other options?
Sat, 12/29/2018 - 10:06Appreciate the great piece on the Aura 8, but it would have been nice to see a by-name mention of (or even better, a comparison with) other sub-$100 AFCS, such as the Eagle Tree Guardian and Hobbyeagle A3 Super 3.
Doug (not verified)
Thank you!
Mon, 12/31/2018 - 10:54Thanks for the article. It is nice to hear coming from a trusted source. I use the Eagle Tree Guardian and FrSky S8R, both very capable. I am tired of having to defend myself at the field with the other members who say "You need to fly without it to be a real pilot", blah, blah, blah. I had no one to help me learn to fly. I was tired of trying to fly, crashing, waiting 3 weeks for parts, repairing, and repeating. The self-leveling has saved me countless times, and encourages me to continue learning.
And to answer Sanford M. above, the Eagle Tree Guardian is just what you are looking for. Release the sticks, return to level flight, students catch their breath, and continue flying.
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