3D printer plane and the Aura 5 Lite

[navillus5]

The prints are coming out okay so I will probably keep going and build the Eclipson Model A.
However, since I am a new pilot, I am pretty sure that all my work would be for naught after my first flight
So - I was wondering what is the concensus on using a flight contoller? I have been building an flying drones for a couple of years and the flight controller is the heart of the system. From reading through the forum, I get the impression that not many pilots include a flight controller in their builds.

I supposed there may be a bias against using one because most pilots want to actually fly their planes. That being said - would a flight controller help a newbie get their planes in the air and allow them to get used to controling the plane. Kinda like using a buddy box when a buddy isn't available??

 

[Merv]

....would a flight controller help a newbie get their planes in the air and allow them to get used to controling the plane. Kinda like using a buddy box when a buddy isn't available??

Yes, a flight controller, when properly setup, can be helpful for a newbie learning to fly. If they are setup with the control surface moving backwards, it will be nearly impossible to fly.

The downside to a FC, some become dependent and never learn to fly without stability.

 

[navillus5]

Thanks for the reply. It's pretty much what I thought. Does anyone have any opinions about particulat flight controllers? I am inclined to support FT, but I am also curious about anyone who has experience with the F7 flight controllers (mostly used for quads) that can run iNav and ardupilot.

 

[Merv]

Not all F7 boards are suitable for planes. Matek has several models that work well. Most flight controllers are over kill for planes. If all you need is stability & the “save me” features, there are much simpler options. Like the Hobby Eagle.

This video discusses the difference between stabilizers & flight controllers.

Here are some good videos about flight controllers in planes.

 

[navillus5]

Thanks for the reply. I subscribe to Painless 360. Lee is very good at explaining concepts. Not sure if he has reviewed the Aura 5. Maybe I'll suggest that!

 

[Merv]

Thanks for the reply. I subscribe to Painless 360. Lee is very good at explaining concepts. Not sure if he has reviewed the Aura 5. Maybe I'll suggest that!

I think the Aura is going to be in the stabilizer class, it’s not a flight controller, it’s not going to run iNav.