Part 1 Learning to FLY Homemade Helicopter

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 8 ก.ย. 2024
  • Red Back aviation
    www.redbackavia...
    My first attempt at controlling the helicopter, all seemed to work fine just need to practise. I was tilting the rotors too far backwards to start with which is why it was lifting the front first. After a correction it was then lifting evenly and I could experience some control. The wind was a little gusty and that wasn't helping, next time I will try in calmer weather. I'm happy with everything at this stage and no modifications to be made.

ความคิดเห็น • 267

  • @christatler7378
    @christatler7378 2 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    I’m not a helicopter pilot, I fly fixed wing, but looking at the wind sock, it seems to me like it would be safer to point the thing into the wind for the initial tests at least.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I think you're right it would have been easier without a cross wind

    • @rodciferri9626
      @rodciferri9626 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Good first lesson - take off and land into the wind.

    • @toddw6716
      @toddw6716 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      You are correct sir. In fact I believe it’s more dangerous in a helicopter than a fixed wing

  • @myfavoritemartian1
    @myfavoritemartian1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Just my $.02 You need to hang it from the rotor head, block the controls in the neutral setting and sit in the seat. Have someone ballast it until it hangs straight and level. Then you will have a good chance to hover it.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      will do thanks 👍👍

  • @doyouwanttogivemelekiss3097
    @doyouwanttogivemelekiss3097 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    silly question: have you considered connecting a ~1kg rc control (servos, cameras and what not) and loading it with an 80kg test dummy instead?

    • @stealhty1
      @stealhty1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      He prefer to play the role in person

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks yes it did cross my mind and could still be an option. I will see how it goes 👍👍

  • @Petermomo5050
    @Petermomo5050 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I enjoy watching this particular video because the elder knew you could've flown the craft for the first time.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      👌 yes the machine was capable of getting off the ground at this point. There were plenty of things to sort out which I wasn't aware of at the time. It will be fun in years to come rewatching the journey and remembering the events. 🙂

  • @nixxonnor
    @nixxonnor 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The incredibly dangerous machine actually seems to produce enough lift to get off the ground. Well done!

  • @ThePethericks
    @ThePethericks 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great video which was randomly suggested to me by youtube!

  • @RedbackAviation
    @RedbackAviation 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome little helicopter, to be able to build and fly your own design is what many of us dream of. You just lived it! Congratulations...

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks very much Adam, your website was very inspiring and helpful. 👍👍

  • @TheFreshSpam
    @TheFreshSpam 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Great video, and what a crazy personal pioneering project. Scary as scary can be . Looks good though.
    My only main quarrel is how everyone is so comfortable being so close to the blades while you test! Sheesh I couldn't stand near a manufactured helicopter yet alone a homemade one

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the input and I understand the concern. Next test will be more responsible.

    • @TheFreshSpam
      @TheFreshSpam 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Ben-Dixey sorry I hope my comment didnt come off as a complaint, just more of a wide eyed observation, with a large grin on my face as I watch the helicopter. Love the project tho

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, you are absolutely right though I didn't choose to have that many spectators it just happened and I didn't react responsibly. Glad you enjoyed the video.

  • @andrewcollier755
    @andrewcollier755 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Horizontal air sock at 3 m from the ground; a ‘tad windy’ ? The most frightening bit was thankfully your shoe laces. Well done.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Andrew, Perhaps more than a tad windy 😀 I'll wait for calmer conditions next time and get Lisa to tie my shoelaces properly.

  • @fabriciogarcia6084
    @fabriciogarcia6084 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What a beautiful coaxial machine, I love It, greetings from México

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  9 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thank you 😊

  • @alansweet2221
    @alansweet2221 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I helped my brother to learn how to fly his Safari by sliding it on a firm grassy surface to help learn the inputs required and then gradually increasing collective while still sliding forward to lift off and run on again. Once you can repeat that, gradually slow down each time before setting down and eventually you will be in a hover before landing. Ditch the teather, that will only roll you over when it becomes tight. I have been flying helicopters for fourty years and 15,000 hrs and im still here. Find a smooth surface!!!

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for this, very interesting comment, did you have extended landing gear or just the normal skids?

    • @alansweet2221
      @alansweet2221 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Ben-Dixey they were normal skids and the idea was to learn to control the lift just enough to allow you maneuver without lift off very incremental. Hovering is more difficult than forward liftoff and touchdown. The skill to hover is attained slowly with repetition. His was a two place with only enough power for one. He had no previous flying experience and was soon hovering with no further instruction. Be careful! Good luck and well done.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I can see the logic in this, there is however one big difference between your brother in his safari and my coaxial and that is the blades being fixed pitch. There seems to be quite a delayed response in the control of altitude with mine so things get worse before they get better. I've only had a small go in an R22 and that seemed to respond pretty quick to lowering the collective. I need to dial in my reactions to changes in altitude on the tethers as they have already saved me lots of times. Once I've got that under control I will then think about your suggestion, definitely food for thought. 👍

  • @airgunningyup
    @airgunningyup 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    incredible , getting a feel for where the cyclic likes to be at takeoff will be the big hurdle.

  • @tomshiba51
    @tomshiba51 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    You've built it well, and you won't need to worry about losing your tail rotor in this design. Take your time. I hope to see you progress to unrestricted and safe flight.

  • @sky173
    @sky173 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Beautiful work. This is a dream of mine. Maybe one day. There appears to be a lot of people nearby. I would recommend that no one is near it (no less than 50 or 75 meters). Also, point it into the wind. It'll make your life a bit easier. Additionally, your control stick looks like it's really close to the ground. A hard landing that causes the gear to bend could make you lose control and be disastrous.
    Stay safe because we are all looking forward to the next videos.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you, there won't be anymore spectators from now on. 👍 I'll reduce the length of the cyclic stick below and test in calm conditions. Thanks
      Part 2 if you haven't yet seen it
      th-cam.com/video/4JNiHFk0qdg/w-d-xo.html

  • @themechanical5945
    @themechanical5945 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love from India... ❤️❤️❤️

  • @joemilich
    @joemilich 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    DUDE. that looks so cool. I thought at first it was a Gyrocopter. But was then super surprised when I saw both rotors whipping up immediately. So cool. Good luck.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Joseph, a lot of people who see it for the first time think is a gyro. 👍

  • @birdy695
    @birdy695 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Looking promising Ben, you've come a long way from machining mini inlet manifolds at IBL.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks Birdy, I remember everything you taught me. 😀

  • @stealhty1
    @stealhty1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great Coaxial Chooper , I like your metal & Spruce Rotors

  • @lovethezone2303
    @lovethezone2303 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    When this video and channel blow up on the platform, remember this comment.

  • @erwe1054
    @erwe1054 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Привет! Поздравляем с первыми запусками в поле!
    У нас проект чуть затягивается, потому что некоторая разваливающаяся империя решила поиграть в войну.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks and sorry for your situation

  • @cloudusterable
    @cloudusterable 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Is there anyone out there that knows anything about this fully tilting rotor head arrangement ???

  • @user-kl9pu8ri6x
    @user-kl9pu8ri6x ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very nice. Don't give up

  • @ArtimusFreeman
    @ArtimusFreeman 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So great to see you do that! Wonderful! So daring to build and fly your own machine. BRAVO!!!

  • @ramjet4025
    @ramjet4025 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Lots of missing essential info. The blades appear to be fixed pitch, The center of gravity appears to be excessively aft. The key thing is that this machine cannot registered or legally flown almost anywhere.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      There's more Information on my channel. You are right it cannot be legally flown or registered. It's a hovering machine only.

  • @BalajiSankar
    @BalajiSankar 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    You are an inspiration. Thank you for posting your work for others to see.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you 👍

  • @helicopter2630
    @helicopter2630 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Try nil wind or at least into wind for initially getting light on the skids.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Here's a more up to date video.
      th-cam.com/video/4wNnU3swb94/w-d-xo.html

  • @rigilchrist
    @rigilchrist ปีที่แล้ว

    Amazing, well done. I would recommend trial hovers on a smooth surface, not grass. This reduces the risk of dynamic rollover. I also agree with others about practising into wind. Good luck!

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, I have done quite a few videos since this one. I'm up to 3ft high and can hover for nearly a minute but that's it so far. Totally agree about the smooth surface being the best finding one is not so simple.

  • @stevelibby6852
    @stevelibby6852 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Homemade experimental aircraft? What could go wrong?

  • @robertspeschel9868
    @robertspeschel9868 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Mankind has wanted to fly for thousands of years and your also there ,

  • @brandonfranklin4533
    @brandonfranklin4533 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Man that’s really cool! Excellent work!

  • @henrimartin-le7ru
    @henrimartin-le7ru ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Gracias amigo por su video muy ilustrativo aunque no entiendo ni papa su idioma...

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Does the translate with subtitles work ? I know the translation isn't accurate sometimes.

  • @simocreations
    @simocreations 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Well I’m up for it. Looking forward to the next video

  • @mr.perfect1er
    @mr.perfect1er 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    How much experience flying helicopters did you have before this flight...thank you.
    Asking for a friend...his dial up is broken and AOL isn't working so good for him.
    Merry Christmas for you and yours. Godspeed and Blessings.
    Stay Dangerous

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Stay dangerous 😆
      My total experience in flying helicopters at this point was 1/2hr's dual instruction on an R22. I had flown RC helicopters though. I went on to have another 1/2hr's dual instruction but most of the learning to hover was done with my helicopter. I wouldn't recommend what I did but with long poles it can be done with some degree of safety. Tethers aren't safe above 8" long as they can cause an accident.

  • @jackburnell3209
    @jackburnell3209 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That is the coolest thing I've seen today. If it were me I'd be worried about the blade flap problem, i.e. counter-rotating blades having a catastrophic collision.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I was worried about that too in the windy conditions but looking at the video the blades stayed nice and separated.

    • @jackburnell3209
      @jackburnell3209 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey You're braver than me...or more foolish.To be clear, I want to see you succeed, not die in a horrific crash...but I subscribed.

  • @joneispetri
    @joneispetri 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Congratulations! You've done an excellent job so far. Don't play it all for nothing in the final stretch. Be patient and correct errors:
    1- The CG is far behind. Forward cyclic will not correct the CG, it will just make the helicopter move forward. Position the seat further forward until the helicopter balances itself supported by the mast;
    2- Fixed pitch does not allow to enter autorotation in case of motor failure. If your engine dies in flight, you will fall like a stone. Think in a variable pitch at least for collective control;
    3- Try to gain more experience in helicopter piloting, or ask an experienced pilot to do the test for you. Helicopters are very difficult to fly;
    4- Do the tests with calm wind and with the helicopter facing the wind;
    5- On the day of the tests have few expectors and keep them safe in place.

    • @rodciferri9626
      @rodciferri9626 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Good points - but, instead of collective control - couldn't he put in a clutch that disengages the drive to allow the rotors to auto-rotate?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for this insight, good points i have taken note. Cheers

    • @rodciferri9626
      @rodciferri9626 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey I have no doubt this is going to fly beautifully when you get all the adjustments done and have taught yourself how to fly. I appreciate your step by step self-training - it will help me when I have to do it.

    • @joneispetri
      @joneispetri 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@rodciferri9626 Good point about the free wheel... I didn't notice if it is present in the project. She is also essential.
      But I was referring to the collective pitch of the rotor blades in case an autorotation was needed. The rotor will only maintain 100% RPM in autorotation if the blade pitch is zero or negative, which is not possible in the case of fixed pitch.

    • @rodciferri9626
      @rodciferri9626 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@joneispetri I didn't realize that - so collective control is needed - or, perhaps a ballistic parachute is possible.

  • @dustinmcdermont699
    @dustinmcdermont699 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I wish you would do a video showing how the collective works

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi, this machine does not have collective pitch blades, to keep things simple the blades are fixed pitch and altitude is controlled by rotor rpm/throttle. Happy to do more videos explaining more details.

  • @whathasxgottodowithit3919.
    @whathasxgottodowithit3919. 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good job, nice work too, are you happy with the C of G location?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you, the CG during the hang test before this flight was 0.25 degrees to the rear, I moved the seat forward as it was 3 degrees to the rear after the addition of the radiator. So no, it needs some improvement but shouldn't be too much work to sort. I think you can see the rotor is tilted slightly forward to lift evenly. Surprising how much rotor tilt is needed to compensate for 0.25 degrees.

  • @TheIronHeadRat
    @TheIronHeadRat 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Amazing, great work 👏👏👏

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you 👍

  • @ghall66570
    @ghall66570 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice design...Q would b proud.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Do you remember little Nellie from the bond film? Flown by the legend Ken Wallis .

  • @chucksdesk
    @chucksdesk 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Looks tail heavy to me. Suggest you double check the balance with you in it.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Check out part 2 will explain more. cheers
      th-cam.com/video/4JNiHFk0qdg/w-d-xo.html

  • @normiukkeli3739
    @normiukkeli3739 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cool project. What kind of engine does it have?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, it's an outboard engine, Johnson 60hp 2 stroke 2 cylinder. I had to make the exhaust expansion chambers to make it produce the power necessary.

  • @CameronCarter1
    @CameronCarter1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow, go Ben. Getting exciting now. Small steps.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks Cam, I've had a full day today of testing to try and get a feel for it. I know you started with a simulator but did you use tethers at all?

    • @CameronCarter1
      @CameronCarter1 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey I gave up the tethers as soon as I knew it would lift me. The ground was dead flat and smooth being a rugby paddock, which made sliding around on the skids reasonably safe. Keep up the great work. 🙂

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Someone else commented the same sliding on the skids is the way. The only difference is the slow response to changes in altitude in my case. I'll take my time and decide how to best to proceed.

  • @davivify
    @davivify 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Cool. So did you buy it pre built, build it yourself, design it yourself, or what? You've got me curious.
    If self built and there's a video, I'd love to see it.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi, I have designed it from scratch but its loosely based on the Bensen B9. There are videos on my channel with more info but here is the build picture montage th-cam.com/video/UgowB_HUVJc/w-d-xo.html

  • @victormuckleston
    @victormuckleston ปีที่แล้ว +1

    center of gravity is behind center of lift.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      There was more to it. Part 3 and 4 shows the solution.

  •  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Damn... gimbaled fixed pitch coax...
    That damn thing is 90° offset everything :p
    It'd be a nightmare to fly if you're used with the regular cyclic/collective...

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      good point, I will change the throttle/collective lever position to conventional.

    • @cloudusterable
      @cloudusterable 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I don't think is what you say........what do you mean.

  • @ramadhanramadhan4983
    @ramadhanramadhan4983 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Please give us specification engine ..horse power ..blade diameter .. and how to make blade

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi. Engine j60elcia 60hp. Rotor diameter 4.3m. I have done a couple videos on making blades on my channel.

  • @TheSateef
    @TheSateef 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    can't believe your first flight was in a gale force wind

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      yes point taken

  • @teacher555555
    @teacher555555 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    2 main issues. 1) too small of a motor to get any sustainable results. 2) the center of gravity is too far to the back which is why you leaned back when you actually had enough power to lift off.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Correct, I need to improve the CG, I think the engine is ok for now, I haven't used full throttle yet.

    • @teacher555555
      @teacher555555 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey the CG on helicopters should be right under the shaft of the rotor so what happened in this video doesnt happen as far as i can tell. and with how the engine was sounding, i think you were pretty close to max power even though the throttle might have some or a lot of play left in it.
      for the next test. i would make something simple to indicate how much power you are adding. i dont know of what that would resist the wind coming down from the blades but even without the motor running, that should give a good indication on what is left.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The CG in my hang test was 0.25 degrees to the rear so I knew it wasn't perfect but the field sloped backwards as well. I'll sort it and find a more level piece of ground next test.
      I have a vacuum gauge to install which will measure inlet manifold pressure, this will tell you the throttle position and power being used. The maximum take off weight with 60hp is around 275kg, my total weight is currently 240kg

    • @teacher555555
      @teacher555555 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey overall its looks like you did a great job as its hard to build a helicopter let alone a homemade design and counter-rotating blades but as you know you have a lot of work still left ahead of you. one thing i dont thing i saw or see in this is a way to move forward or backward all i am seeing is a way to rotate left and right.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, the tilting mast can move in any direction 4 degrees of maximum tilt. I was pulling too far back to start with which is why it lifted the front so violently. Pushing forward it was then starting to lift more level but the CG is still off. The field also sloped backwards which didn't help either. Yes still work to do. 👍

  • @captainhindsight5132
    @captainhindsight5132 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Have you flown rc helicopters before? Maybe that could help the transition a bit.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi, yes I have and I think it does help but it's still going to take many hours of practise I think. At some point I hope to feel confident enough to ditch the tethers and go to extended landing gear.

  • @navybluejacket4401
    @navybluejacket4401 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    More balls than brains. I love it. Way to go Brit.

  • @toddw6716
    @toddw6716 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It appears to be out of balance. Perhaps this is why no one has flown one. The cockpit looks like maybe it should be a few inches forward than it is

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Part 2 will expand on this but the balance issue hasn't been investigated yet. Could be downwash pushing more on the tail could be the balance of the drive assembly. th-cam.com/video/4JNiHFk0qdg/w-d-xo.html

    • @toddw6716
      @toddw6716 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey I’m no engineer however with a counter rotating rotor I would think it has to be balanced with someone in it pretty close otherwise you would run out of controls to fly

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@toddw6716 you could well be right.

  • @shademe
    @shademe ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome job but I would have made the spectators move well away in case of the blades let go. Someone could be cut in half. Be safe thank u for sharing

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes. The spectators were not planned I didn't know the landowner invited them and I should have cancelled the test. I had run the blades probably 50-100 times by this stage though and was confident they wouldn't come off. However I wouldn't do this again just in case.

  • @fizzyplazmuh9024
    @fizzyplazmuh9024 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Apparently you didn't put on enough weight on. I thought that radiator placement was sis. Good for flow, bad for CG. Looks like you will just about get it off the ground on the next try but I don't think you will have much power to spare for manoeuvring safely. Stills beautiful job for 100% DIY.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes I need to put on more weight ha! The plan with the radiator was to have it placed to that ultimately I could run a belt driven fan from the pulley I machined on the centrifugal clutch. For now I'll just stick on an electric fan so I could have mounted it vertical helping the CG. I'm not at full throttle at any point and estimate I have 10-15% reserved power.

  • @Altinget
    @Altinget 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks like the helicopter tilts back!? Shouldn't a helicopter tilt slightly forward at take off?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      yes I was tilting the rotor back and the CG is slightly to the rear

  • @bradgeary3467
    @bradgeary3467 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    the spectators ,, seemed kinda close…

  • @amrinwello6620
    @amrinwello6620 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good job👍

  • @kimkeam2094
    @kimkeam2094 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Just a few constructive comments, if you plan not to use an extended landing gear it it critical that you don’t bury a skid. Long grass can be a killer and a good mow in the flying area is much easier. I noticed that the helicopter is lifting front first. That means it is tail heavy. In Microlight aircraft we hang it from a strong rafter with the pilot in to check the c of g. I suggest it is a lot more heavier at the back than you expected. Please do that prior to continuing for your safety. Hopefully you have plenty of power remaining or was that near full throttle? Hope all goes well, but as you have no collective pitch as I could see, relying on the engine perhaps a safety bar at the front in case of rollover, going through a fence or blade strike will at least afford you more protection. All the best from Australia.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Hi thanks very much for the comment. Take a look at part 2
      th-cam.com/video/4JNiHFk0qdg/w-d-xo.html
      I think it's the downwash creating the apparent aft heavy issue but would like your thoughts.

    • @kimkeam2094
      @kimkeam2094 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the prompt reply. If you have already done a balance check and still have the pitch up moment, I agree that the airflow over the tail may have some impact. To isolate this is difficult, unless there was a way to change the rudder angle temporarily to vertical, so there is no aerodynamic drag with the airflow. Of course it would prevent you being able to yaw the helicopter but I would assume you would only do this to confirm whether or not it is the cause of the pitch up action during a tied down test. I still think that if it is true you would either have to add weight to the front or shift mass forward still to correct the moment as the downward pressure from the rotors remain a constant whilst in flight.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@kimkeam2094 Thanks for this. Great thoughts 👍👍

  • @hots2215
    @hots2215 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have been working on a custom helicopter for couple of years now and I want to share my experience with you...
    the main problem I see with his design is stability in the air...
    make sure that all of your connecting connections and rods are pretty good fit and not loose at all...
    also do not allow your friends and family to be near because anything throwing from the helicopter can kill anyone...
    then I suggest you another thing that is complicated but again I think is necessary to make this concept fly well...
    and here it is:
    I think you need to connect your control stick to a fly controller like pixhawk or anything that can do the job then you need servo motors to move the controling arms...
    an autopilot must take the control of the heli by pid control and you just tell the autopilot where to go...
    Unestly I think you can not controll all of that by your self...
    seems complicated but again... I suggest at least talk to a nice person that you know...
    best of luck

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks for the interesting comment I will bare it in mind. cheers

    • @floridacoder
      @floridacoder 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      If you were going to use a flight controller would you make it all fly by wire or still have mechanical controls for the pilot? Seems a bit complicated to mix the two approaches without there being a conflict.

    • @hots2215
      @hots2215 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@floridacoder Right but I just imagined that the goal of this project is carrying a man into the air...
      that way the man can control by his stick...
      but yea you can just control it by your rc transmitter... for just the test or for the final test with him self in it...

    • @floridacoder
      @floridacoder 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@hots2215 ah, that makes sense. I was thinking about using the flight controller in normal flight also - once all the testing is done. A poor man's auto pilot and an "oh crap button" to get you back in level flight. You don't necessarily need the receiver or RF if the pilot is on-board. I like to fly my RC aircraft FPV (video displayed on goggles) and that is probably how I would prefer to test these larger human sized aircraft also to start. Why put your body in any danger when there is a simple way not to.
      But, my hobby grade servos are also much smaller. Not sure what sort of torque is required on servos to control an aircraft like this. But you definitely wouldn't want to be under-powered. Curious how much human input (muscle strength) is required on the controls.

    • @hots2215
      @hots2215 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@floridacoder well.... there are proper servos for the job... but what matters the most is how even do you find the right pid setting for a thing that is near completely new....

  • @dkjens0705
    @dkjens0705 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Your CG is way off, should be at the mast but seems to be behind it. Looking at engine and pilot placement makes sense. Move the pilot forward.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      It certainly looks that way in the video, I'm a bit confused at the moment because I hung the helicopter from the centre of the mast again and it was only 0.15 degrees heavy to the rear. I hung a 5.5kg weight in the front and that tilted the machine 1.8 degrees nose heavy, I tried to fly again and there didn't seem to be a big difference from the pilots perspective. I should have filmed side on so I could see the tilt of the rotor discs. I'll do that next I think.

    • @dkjens0705
      @dkjens0705 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ben-Dixey If it's not your CG then I suspect that the rotor down wash simply hits a combined larger area of the frame etc. on the rear half and this changes the apparent weight and CG.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You maybe on to something there, very good point. Thank you 👍

  • @ricci8366
    @ricci8366 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Слежу за вашими успехами, у вас получится!

    • @user-lh1ef1st9k
      @user-lh1ef1st9k 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Remember your flying ka52 Which has been shoot down by Ukraine force eh 😆

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Very true 😀

    • @leemnav
      @leemnav 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@user-lh1ef1st9k According Yandex translation RICCI said :
      " I follow your progress, you will succeed!"
      Which word , in this 7 word sentence , triggered your brain to drag the Ukrainian war in this as a reply ?

    • @user-lh1ef1st9k
      @user-lh1ef1st9k 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@leemnav that helicopter is suck so hard in the term of price to performance ratio 😆

  • @burnerjack01
    @burnerjack01 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Awe, c'mon! What could possibly go wrong? This could be bleeding edge DIY aviation, right?

  • @Armafly
    @Armafly 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Brave and brilliant!

  • @floridacoder
    @floridacoder 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Definitely get some training first.
    I'm curious about your gear box and the contra-rotating rotors. I like the approach because it cancels out the torque effect. What are some of the challenges it creates?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well coaxial in the conventional sense with collective and cyclic control creates some challenges like yaw reversal in auto rotation for example but with mine having fixed pitch there's not much to it and it's simple. The blades get closer together in forward flight due to the dis-symmetry of lift which can be a concern and the machine is slightly heavier having two sets of rotors this is offset by not having a power robbing tail rotor. I really don't like tail rotors and don't know why so many manufactures have gone down this route.

  • @OliveiraX
    @OliveiraX 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    It seems the CG is a bit aft. That is bad. A bit forward is ok, aft is always problematic - you've got to eat more and it will be balanced! 😁. in other matters, It looks very nice. Strongly built, no vibrations or lack of balancing in the rotor system. just needs a little tuning and a bit of practicing. keep it up!

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for the comment, I will adjust the CG and try again. 👍

    • @taxwe36qrsqaukasdfyjocds
      @taxwe36qrsqaukasdfyjocds ปีที่แล้ว

      CG.must be​ forward +1​ inch​ or​ more..

  • @craigthescott5074
    @craigthescott5074 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I hope you got good life and medical insurance. I’ve built cars and owned many modified sports cars/muscle cars and as much as they break down at least I can pull off to the side of road. In something like this you have a mechanical problem your dead.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That's true

  • @autosocorronetoneto1685
    @autosocorronetoneto1685 ปีที่แล้ว

    Good evening, do you have the construction project for this coaxial helicopter for sale?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Hello, are you asking about any construction plans for sale?

  • @BogdanLW
    @BogdanLW ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello! How can I buy plans for this helicopter?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi. No plans are available for this helicopter. The nearest you will find is the Bensen B9. There are plans for non coaxial helicopters such as the AW95 and Furia.

    • @BogdanLW
      @BogdanLW ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey at least please sell me main rotor system plans/blueprints

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      It all needs to be thoroughly endurance tested before I would consider selling any plans. You don't want to be making the same mistakes I might have made.

  • @voanirges
    @voanirges 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    this vehicle doesn't have adjustable blades angle ?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      No, it doesn't. The blades are fixed pitch and altitude is controlled with throttle.

  • @mm93mustwin13
    @mm93mustwin13 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks fun

  • @bruceyoung1343
    @bruceyoung1343 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Congratulations 🎉. I’ve been following your progress. And wish you would get some ground school first before taking to the sky’s Be safe

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      good advice Bruce. thanks

  • @223mike
    @223mike ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It seems to me that the C of G is wrong

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      It's more complicated than that but I explain how I resolved it in later videos.

  • @ilikeyellow22
    @ilikeyellow22 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Cool design! Is that an old Johnson/Evinrude outboard motor powering that thing?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes 60HP 2 stroke Johnson with twin expansion chambers

  • @captainbotbot2151
    @captainbotbot2151 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The blade angle doesn't changed?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      That's correct, they are fixed pitch rotors. Works but it has limitations.

    • @captainbotbot2151
      @captainbotbot2151 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ben-Dixey yeah. I don't know if it can perform suitable autorotation for safe landing. What do you think.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      No it can't autorotate, it was built just for hovering and slow forward flight.

  • @_west94
    @_west94 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    We want sound heli no music

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I understand, I have done other videos with no music and I'm happy not to add music to new videos if that's what people prefer.

  • @bartekmajchrowski9669
    @bartekmajchrowski9669 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Rotax engine type?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      It's a Johnson j60elcia

  • @micahwest5347
    @micahwest5347 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    So you have no previous rotary wing time? Sikorsky had to teach himself but there aren’t any good reasons not to find someone to teach you the basics in an R22 or something similar.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I've had some lessons in a Robinson but maybe need more

    • @micahwest5347
      @micahwest5347 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey If you can hover, take off, and land in a Robinson you may actually have a future keeping the spinning side up in your homebuilt.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I think you could be right. I'm going to proceed for now in trying to teach myself as lessons could cost more than what I spent building this machine. However I have no intention of risking myself or the machine in any dangerous trials, there's just too much at risk. I will find a safe way or go with lessons as you suggest.

  • @greateagle2076
    @greateagle2076 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    That's amazing.

  • @victorpowell4757
    @victorpowell4757 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello
    Dear friend, your center of gravity is behind
    You add a little weight to the nose

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes you are correct, I will add weight to the front 👍

  • @quadtraxxx
    @quadtraxxx 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Won't work 😉 - just kidding! Well done!!! 👏

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      😆 thanks

  • @tatianabobrova4107
    @tatianabobrova4107 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Great job, take it slow and easy.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks and good advice, I need to learn to be more gentle with the controls.

  • @kasifyldrm1981
    @kasifyldrm1981 ปีที่แล้ว

    Merhaba kolay gelsin kaç hp motor kullandınız teşekkür ederim

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      60hp

    • @kasifyldrm1981
      @kasifyldrm1981 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey bunun daha ufağına insansız olanına 30 hp motor yeterli olurmu

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      It is possible to lift a man with 30hp. The GenH4 can hover with 30hp, for an unmanned helicopter 30hp will be loads.

    • @kasifyldrm1981
      @kasifyldrm1981 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ben-Dixey toplam ağırlık 70 kilogram gibi olursa

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yes. 30hp can lift around 160kg

  • @buditarigangersang3692
    @buditarigangersang3692 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Yes.sir.baling.baling.kipas.heli.harus.teliti.

  • @DrHumlae
    @DrHumlae 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Looks like there's no way to autorotate with this machine, or did I miss something.
    Great work otherwise. Have fun and stay safe. 👍

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi Ai, you are correct, no autorotation is possible. It's intended use is for hovering around a field close to the ground. Did you get your mosquito back flying ?

  • @Mumbamumba
    @Mumbamumba 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Impressive!

  • @okgo8315
    @okgo8315 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Aaaaahhh great, i've been waiting for this well done. Wise to have a 1ft tether, although i thought that may have been too prudent, but no, absolutely right. Can't wait for the 2ft tether 🤣👏👏👏👏👏👏 peace from Rome👍🇬🇧

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, I don't know how best to proceed from here as a 1ft tether at this stage feels dodgy. The response to altitude is slower than I'd like particularly the decent so by the time you lower the throttle things are still getting worse for a second or two. With collective pitch the response is much quicker. Other than that I'm happy.

    • @okgo8315
      @okgo8315 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ben-Dixey Many thanks. I don't know anything about hcopters, but someone else commented on cg, perhaps move the seat forward, could be next move.👍🇬🇧
      Also it was rather windy/gusty.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Yes I will do that, CG seems to be more sensitive than I realised. I will also wait for a calmer day. 👍or perhaps I'll just eat some more cake, that will sort the CG 😀

  • @ruberlangoncalves
    @ruberlangoncalves 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Center gravitcion

  • @danletter9357
    @danletter9357 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    This contraption is reminding me of a gokart I had as a kid….except when the chain fell off, or something else broke, I didn’t fall out of the sky.

  • @JeffChoppah
    @JeffChoppah 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    I can feel the joy of a smooth running build on your behalf 😄...I love your simple instruments panel seems am overthinking by trying to buy an electronic EFIS from talcos aviation... question is, is that sitting position comfortable? Can you do a 1hour straight sit in that config?

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks, engine temperature and rotor rpm are a must gauges wise, the others are not so important to begin with. No point spending lots of money on gauges until you know everything else is going to be ok was my opinion. The seat position seems ok but I've only sat in it for a couple minutes. Perhaps I'll eat my lunch sat in the seat today and find out how comfortable it is. 😀

    • @JeffChoppah
      @JeffChoppah 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Ben-Dixey how are you taking the rotor rpm measurements? Is there an easy simple instruments out there

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I just bought £10 digital rpm readouts, they come with a sensor triggered by a stuck on magnet. The same sort of thing as a bicycle speedometer. The refresh is a little slow which means it takes a second for the gauge to catch up with actual rpm but it seems to be accurate otherwise. Certainly good enough for testing purposes.

    • @JeffChoppah
      @JeffChoppah 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ben-Dixey I see, will definitely add it up to list of instruments to purchase.

    • @JeffChoppah
      @JeffChoppah 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hey friend can you share more details of that rotor rpm instrument or a link on where to buy it, need to ship in one...plus those ground hooks

  • @GroovyVideo2
    @GroovyVideo2 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice

  • @georgehaeh4856
    @georgehaeh4856 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Find an empty field with obstacles, spectators and wires a few hundred metres away.
    Pick a day with NO WIND.
    +1 on getting proper lessons.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thanks, Part 2 and 3 are addressing some of these suggestions. I have had a lesson in an R22.

  • @onlybugwit
    @onlybugwit 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    The rotors are too short

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      How long should they be ?

  • @phillipzx3754
    @phillipzx3754 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Fixed-pitch so you have no way to autorotate...no thank you. I'd rather fly a gyro as it's a safer rotorcraft than a fixed-pitch coaxial. Cool concept, but I'd not fly it any higher than I'd willing to fall....2 maybe 3 feet for me. :-)

    • @mntbighker
      @mntbighker 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Not near enough rotor inertia either.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree in this configuration I won't be going higher than a few feet. Two engines or collective pitch then maybe.👍

  • @Flies2FLL
    @Flies2FLL 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Skip forward to 3:55 to see the aircraft unable to leave the ground.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  2 ปีที่แล้ว

      trust me, it can leave the ground, it's me that's stopping it.

    • @Flies2FLL
      @Flies2FLL 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Ben-Dixey Well, at least you are honest!
      It was a great video by the way. But be careful with that thing!

  • @surlookmedia
    @surlookmedia 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Christ, watch yourself with this one!!

  • @marcosventurapro
    @marcosventurapro 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    👏👏👏👏👍👍👍

  • @Tinkercatnh
    @Tinkercatnh 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Spectators should be in a bunker

  • @sjvche7675
    @sjvche7675 ปีที่แล้ว

    Not a helicopter, a counter-rotating 2 rotor, helicopter with non-rigid drive train.

    • @Ben-Dixey
      @Ben-Dixey  ปีที่แล้ว

      en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Helicopter

  • @wickedprotos1937
    @wickedprotos1937 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Be careful!!!!!!

  • @Moosetraks21
    @Moosetraks21 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    terrifying

  • @chinsawjosh
    @chinsawjosh 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    A English man and his shed.