Written by Jon Barnes Versatile flight for smaller spaces As seen in the Winter 2019 issue of Model Aviation
Released in autumn 2016, the original E-flite Convergence creatively bridged the gap between multirotor and fixed-wing aircraft genres. This VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing)-capable aircraft merged many of the best features of both types of aircraft into one versatile and exciting-to-fly hybrid model. Fast-forward to the summer of 2018 and the crafty wizards at E-flite have, with a wave of their wands, created the Mini Convergence. Although the wingspan and length of this scaled-down version are approximately 66% of the measurements of its larger uncle, park the Mini Convergence next to a full-size Convergence and it presents to the eye as more like a 50%-size replica. Items that arrive packed within the Mini Convergence box include a multilingual assembly/operating manual and transmitter quick setup sheet, three large sheets of colorful adhesive-backed graphics, and two spare propellers. The Mini Convergence is FPV ready and comes equipped with a prewired, labeled video transmitter power cable that is already in place on the inside of the battery bay. Pilots wishing to press this model into service as an FPV platform can use the E-flite-recommended components.
Multiple sheets of brightly colored graphics allow pilots to creatively customize their Mini Convergence.
The recommended and wee-size Spektrum FPV Camera: Torrent 110 FPV (#SPMVCM01; $18.99) and 150 mW Spektrum video transmitter: Torrent 110 FPV (#SPMVTM150; $29.99) can both be had for less than $50. Prospective FPV pilots who have yet to procure a pair of goggles or a headset might be attracted to the affordably priced Spektrum 4.3-inch Video Monitor with Headset (#SPMVM430C; $89.99).
A prewired video transmitter power cable encourages pilots to explore this model’s FPV potential.
Two options are available when it comes to programming a transmitter to fly the Mini Convergence. One places the flight and gyro modes on a single three-position switch. This option is detailed in the included single-sheet “Transmitter Setup Quick Start Guide.” The second programming choice splits the flight modes and gyro modes between two switches on the transmitter. To keep the mental workload that is required to switch between the available flight and gyro modes as light as possible, less-experienced pilots might want to go with the first option. Choosing this programming option does, however, preclude a flier from being able to select the Acro Mode while flying the Mini Convergence as a multirotor. Before the first flights, pilots should take a few minutes to proactively go over the entire airframe. Tasks to be performed include verifying that the control horns are glued tightly in place, flexing both elevons and examining the hinge lines, and checking to make sure that all three prop nuts are securely tightened. Safety dictates that pilots use the throttle lock feature of their transmitters if they are so equipped.
This model be nimble, this model be quick! Remove the bank-limiting shackles of Stability Mode and this little hybrid aircraft can be pushed through an amazing number of aerobatic maneuvers!
With the throttle lock engaged and the model in multirotor mode, a flier should eyeball the two boom-mounted motors to verify that they are horizontally level. Pilots should then switch to airplane mode and ensure that the elevons’ trailing edges are aligned with the top edge of the fuselage. Any required adjustments should be made mechanically by carefully adjusting the pushrod linkages. The Mini Convergence weighs 6.7 ounces out of the box; adding in a Kinexis 30C 11.1-volt 3S 800 mAh LiPo battery (KXSB0010; $12.99) brings it up to a ready-to-fly weight of 9.1 ounces. Pilots will probably want to apply a small piece of surface-mounted hook-and-loop material to supplement the factory-provided hook-and-loop strap. There is enough space fore and aft in the battery compartment when using the recommended three-cell 800 mAh packs that the battery is allowed to shift while in flight. The resultant shift of the center of gravity could be slightly problematic. Although pilots seeking adrenaline and adventure could theoretically hand launch the Mini Convergence in airplane mode, all takeoffs and landings should typically be performed in multirotor mode. Attempting to land the model in airplane mode is all but guaranteed to damage the delicate twin motor tilting mechanisms and propellers. The Mini Convergence is an impressively stable model when flown in multirotor mode. Its diminutive size, when compared with its larger, full-size predecessor, allows weather-challenged and colder-climate fliers to take to the air in indoor venues. Pilots will have no problem confidently cruising the Mini Convergence around a room and in the inherently tighter quarters of their respective domiciles. Caution is in order, however, in case this aircraft’s amazing stability in multirotor mode lulls unsuspecting fliers into a complacent and overconfident state of mind. Pilots will definitely want to make their first transitions into airplane mode with the protective bank angle limitations of the Stability Mode enabled. In this mode, the model will churn through a lot of aerial real estate when making turns. A quick flip of the switch into Acro Mode will introduce pilots to this model’s surprisingly intense, in-flight persona! This little EPO foam-composition, delta-wing model is agile and aerobatic when flown in airplane mode. Although loops are quick and tight, aileron rolls are slightly chunky. The yaw axis in airplane mode is controlled via differential thrust. This feature contributes to the Mini Convergence’s excellent ability to execute flip-flopping, tumbling spins. Push the transmitter sticks to their corners and this aircraft quickly turns itself into a wicked little whirling dervish! In straightforward flight, and with the throttle pinned to the stop, the Mini Convergence can—and will—get small in a hurry. Although the perceived top speed is somewhat relative to the model’s smaller size, pilots might want to strategically apply the variety of included brightly colored graphics to enhance in-flight orientation cues. When flown at varied throttle settings, flight durations of 5 to 6 minutes can be expected using the recommended three-cell 800 mAh LiPo battery. The trio of brushless power system motors used on the Mini Convergence results in a high-performance, hybrid aircraft that demonstrates an amazingly diverse multirotor and fixed-wing flight envelope. Less-experienced pilots will enjoy the confidence-inspiring features of the Stability Mode, and more-experienced fliers will no doubt revel in the uninhibited insanity permitted by the no-holds-barred Acro Mode.
The EPO foam airframe comes out of the box ready to rumble. Pilots only need to bind and program their transmitters. Strategic application of the included graphics can greatly enhance in-flight orientation.
The included diversity of adhesive-backed graphics allows pilots to come up with an assuredly unique scheme. Horizon Hobby offers a full selection of replacement parts. Should pilots become too aggressive with their Mini Convergence, a full replacement EPO airframe can be purchased for approximately $50. Pilots interested in further expanding the capabilities of this model can experience the excitement of the Mini Convergence with the optionally available Spektrum FPV gear.
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