AP Cameraships

[FlyGuy]

I have been doing my research for over 4 years now on AP.
And have dabbled in it for the last year.
Finally broke down and plunged in headfirst.
I bought a Bergen Observer.
The person I bought it from says it was started but, never flown.
Bergen Observer (Non-EB) w/Hanson modified G26 Pro Engine (NEW & original)
(1 pair) 710mm RotorTech™ "Luminous" 710mm (Night Blades) CF BLADES with MS charger & cables (Slightly Used)
(1) K&N filter W/Velocity stack (New)
(1) Futaba GY-401 and 9253 Servo (Used)
(1) Stock Factory Muffler (New)
(4) Futaba S9001 Servos (Used)
(2) Futaba S3004 Servos (Used)
(2) 6 Volts Gel Batteries (New)
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/bergen-01.jpg
It is the older version, as I am a poor man.
But, I am sure it will work well for my needs at this point.
I will have more on it in the future.
Including, pictures etc.





Eventually, I would like something like this (http://www.guidedsys.com/VTOL/sicx-45t-uav.php).
http://www.guidedsys.com/images/products/thumbnails/SiCX-45T2.jpg
Size and Weight
Height 38" ( 95 cm)
Rotor Span 10' ( 300 cm) 10 FEET ! ! !
Weight - MTOW 165 lbs ( 75 kg)
Available Payload 45 lbs ( 25 kg)
http://www.guidedsys.com/images/products/SiCX-45T.png

[swatson144]

Sweet!! more more!


Steve

[mtpenguin]

That is a picture of it from the previous owner.

What picture?


B-)

[FlyGuy]

What picture?


B-)

I see a picture.
wtf?
Actually there should be 3 pictures up there.
But, only one of the bergen.

[mtpenguin]

And that is the one I don't see....

Although, now you should be able to take some yourself!

B-)

[FlyGuy]

I will. I just need to get things worked out a little first.
Make some changes/modifications etc. etc.
Pictures soon though ! ! !

[mtpenguin]

I'll get to that head by this weekend....


B-)

[FlyGuy]

Sweet ! Next weeks weather is looking good.

[FlyGuy]

Just trying to finish up the video portion of this setup.
I have the front mount for the observer done.
Although, I have yet to start on the Helicam-Solutions E4 underslung mount.
More on that later...
I am using a 3s 2200mAh lipo for the video TX's power.
I haven't tested it to see how long it will last yet.
I am sure it will last long enough to get a flight or 2 in anyway.
Testing will come later with more pictures and maybe some video.
But for now, here is some pictures of the front mount for the Bergen Observer.


http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/vdotx-1a.jpghttp://www.videomarines.com/bergen/vdotx-3a.jpg
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/vdotx-2a.jpghttp://www.videomarines.com/bergen/vdotx-4a.jpg

I also have been working on a portable setup for the camera operator.
Being the video guy I am, you can see how I did this with the minimum amount of weight and hassle.
Using 12v for the video RX and the monitor, the old Sony NP1 battery found in most professional video gear works well for this.
It also works well for the base of this unit too.
I will use this setup for the pilot, when I get the other mount done.
Anyway, here are some pictures of that setup.

http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-01a.jpghttp://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-04a.jpg
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-03a.jpghttp://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-02a.jpg

I know this is going to be a lot of trial an error.
First thing I will do is get a better ant for the video RX.
I'm looking at 7 and 13 db gain ants for it now.
Probably buy one tonight or tomarrow.
I will get more pictures as the progression proceeds.
But, it has been a lot slower process than I expected.
Guess I should have know better. . . lol

[mtpenguin]

Dang that looks nice and neat!

B-)

[FlyGuy]

Thanks.
I'm trying, hope it works as nice and neat.
Find out soon though eh?

[FlyGuy]

Here are some pic of the bergen mocked up.
I still have a lot to go through though.
And the pictures do not include the E4 mount yet.

http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/bergen-01.jpg

http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/bergen-02.jpg

http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/bergen-03.jpg

[mtpenguin]

Wow!

Making progress.


What did you end up doing with the elevator servo?


B-)

[FlyGuy]

That is one of the things I still need to go through.

[FlyGuy]

Now I am getting a little further with this bird thanks to Steve.
But, still have a ways to go.
I actually talked with Chris Bergen (http://www.bergenrc.com/) on the phone today.
But, other than ordering parts. Not much was said.
Although, he said he may be able to find a manual.
That would be great !
I am not going to hold my breath. But, I will cross my fingers. lol

[BobinNJ]

I got this camera last year and put it on an RC car, which I then drove around from my desk. LOt of fun for only a few bucks. If I get better at flying, I would love to go down this path. Good luck and keep us in the loop.

[URL="http://www.hobbypartz.com/wosm2mispyca.html"http://www.hobbypartz.com/wosm2mispyca.html[/URL]

[mtpenguin]

Did you mean that little $60 one at the end of the page?

B-)

[FlyGuy]

Looking at all the linkages on this, one might be a little intimidated.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/l-links2.jpg
Much different from the trex heli's I've had in the past.
But, same overall function.
After Steve help build a little fire under my butt,
I decided to continue with the project.
It came with a 6v system that I intend to use.
That fits perfect in the camera mount.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/mnt-batt.jpg
The one for the heli is a different story though.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/heli-bat.jpg
I use a servo end to charge it so I don't have to pull "the nest" apart.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/chg-plug.jpg
There's a power switch for the camera mount on the right side.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/r-s-mnt.jpg
And one for the heli itself, and a kill button for the engine.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/switch.jpg
All the servos are working well.
I had Mtpenguin come over to take a look and get his opinion as well.
We went over a few things and made a few changes to the linkages.
And were happy with the results.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/r-side-m.jpg
I spent the next day going over a few more things that we talked about.
And thought I was just about done and ready to fire it up soon.
But, something didn't quite look right with the flybar.
And I needed to tighten one arm anyway.
So, I pulled the flybar out, and well...
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/r-side-w.jpg
After looking at the picture you can see that it is bent.
(it was loose in the pictures I know the paddles are down)
But, the shipment of other parts from Chris Bergen (http://www.bergenrc.com/) were already on their way.

When all the parts arrive,
I plan to get Mtpenguin there when I start it for the first time.
Then after tracking the blades. I look forward to it's maiden voyage.
But, first I have to do something about the muffler.
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/muffler.jpg
It ports out right onto the landing skid.
Not sure who was thinking what with that one.
So, when I get a little more money for the flybar and muffler fix,
it should be good to go.
I'll try to get more pics and maybe some footage later too.

[swatson144]

No more bent than that flybar is I'd just straighten it.

Steve

[FlyGuy]

Thanks Steve
I may just try to do that.

[mtpenguin]

Did it have flat spots for the set screws?

What are you going to do with the muffler, just add a hose to re-route? Or replace the whole thing?


B-)

[swatson144]

Assuming 1/2 inch I'd just fit a copper elbow over it and attach with a couple screws. If it's smaller than 1/2" I'd look at some silicone tubing, or fitting the 1/2" el bassackwards larger than 1/2" you may find something in the gas grill repair section or some copper accordion tube for installing gas appliances.

You may also want to look in the electrical conduit section as it is measured differently and has slightly different sizes (galvanized)

Steve

[mtpenguin]

Lot's of options!

Great advise.


B-)

[swatson144]

Oops I got to thinking after posting that. The part about backwards don't work unless you use a "Street Elbow" which has one end smaller to go into another fitting vice over a pipe.

Steve

[FlyGuy]

No flats spots for the set screws.
I have a friend that has a muffler shop.
I was thinking of taking it to him to see what he can do. ;)
But, thanks for the idea.
I think I am going to sell my fixed pitch heli.
If anyone out there wants one?
It's the balck one in my fleet picture.
Been hovered 3 times counting one today.
It is the only bird in the picture that I still have.
When I sell it, I should probably unpdate that picture? :roll:

[swatson144]

We don't need no stinkin' flat spots after all thats why they call the "sheet metal screws"

Steve

[mtpenguin]

You really wouldn't recommend putting them in? Each control arm going to the flybar is separate, and seems like a weak point.


B-)

[swatson144]

Wow I was still on the muffler and not on the flybar. Sheetmetal screws to hold the deflector on...

Flat spots or not on the flybar doesn't really matter as there isn't that much force on them. No more than the paddles can create anyhow. Many setups call for making the Flybar Control Arms square with the linkage vice perpendicular to the MS/ square with the flybar carrier. Besides most single arm systems have a much longer set screw than the caged units and hold well.

Century is the only one I know of that grinds the flats off center to position the arms in the proper place.

I haven't seen enough of the head itself to comment on how I'd set it up

Steve

[Mysterious]

Anyway, here are some pictures of that setup.

http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-01a.jpghttp://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-04a.jpg
http://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-03a.jpghttp://www.videomarines.com/bergen/tx-02a.jpg


I bet everyone who sees that radio comes over to get a betterlook, or runs away thinking you have a hellfire missle targetting them ;)

[FlyGuy]

I bet everyone who sees that radio comes over to get a betterlook, or runs away thinking you have a hellfire missle targetting them ;)

That's funny.
But, gives me more ideas. he he he

[FlyGuy]

Steve what would you like a closer look at in the head area?
I will take some more pictures for you to see what ever you want.

[mtpenguin]

How bout a picture of it in the air!!!!


???


B-)

[FlyGuy]

How bout a picture of it in the air!!!!


???


B-)

Sounds good.
I got all the parts from Chris now.
And have already installed them and am ready to start it.
Let me know when you have some time to do just that?
I still need to get the oil for the gas yet. But, should have some today.
Give me a call when you get a chance. Preferably today.

[mtpenguin]

Will do.

Sat. sounds good, although I never make and FIRM plans for they day after Fri. night.....


B-)

[BobinNJ]

I think someone was talking about the bolt on camera a few pages back. I found it by going back several years in my files. Airfoil Aviation at www.airfoilhelicams.com. They are still in business. And yes, I used the camera for $60. It was $49. a year ago. Motor did mess with the picture but not enough to matter.

[FlyGuy]

Not sure about Sat. Myself will be working at the theater.
Call me anyway, I may be able to swing some time in there.

[Slippery750]

Any more news? Inquiring minds want to know!

[FlyGuy]

Not yet. Still working on the muffler thing.
It seems everyone who says they can do it, wants to keep it for a month.
And do nothing with it.
I really do not want to spend more money on another muffler yet.
So, I am waiting to get this one done.
If you look at the older bergen observers you will see that the muffler ports onto the skid.
I am not going to fly mine like that. I have seen others burn there skids etc.
No can do for me.
But, I fully intend to keep you all in the loop.
If it ever comes full circle that is...

[swatson144]

Dude that's just a plane jane weedeater muffler. They'll all have the same bolt spacing from 23cc - 29cc. Maybe have a look at some of the lawn and garden equipment repair places and see if you can find one ported in a more reasonable direction in their scrap pile. Try the rental shops too. You should be able to pick one up for next to nothing if not free. I'm thinking maybe one that exhausts out the top (top is the side the bolts go in).

You could also make a spool for between the motor and muffler. Sorta like a 1/2" thick AL gasket. Piece of 1/2" AL plate and a few mins with a saw and drill....about a 4 beer project.

Steve

[FlyGuy]

lol thanks for the ideas.
I'll check into them for sure.
At the rate I'm going maybe a 12 pack project. lol

[FlyGuy]

I finally got another muffler thanks to Jenny.
I'm chargeing all the batteries, etc.
May try to get out this week sometime for starting and tracking.
Would like to take the maiden soon though.
Should have some pics and vids with that.
Just a qiuck update for those interested.

[swatson144]

So how about some details on that muffler? Will just any old John Deere muffler work or did you find something more specialized? :D

Steve

[FlyGuy]

Well, I wasn't sure if it would work or not.
But, I got one from ebay (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=390160858876&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT).
This seller (http://shop.ebay.com/jennys_rcsport/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=&_trksid=p3686) seemed to have it.
It just said for a 26cc motor.
So, for a buy it now shipped for $12 I thought what the heck...
It ports out the side rather than the elbow that originally came with the heli.
I bolted it on, and everything seemed to be just fine.
I have done all my other preflight checks etc.
And hope to get it started in the next few days or so.

[swatson144]

Yep that was about what I was talking about previously. You won't get as much power out of it but your needles will be sweeter.

Steve

[FlyGuy]

Why wouldn't I get as much power out of it?
It doesn't seem much different from the original.

[swatson144]

I'd think that the stock pipe would be tuned to act on some level as an expansion chambe (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expansion_chamber)r. Not having the advantage of tuning would have the disadvantage of losing any power derived from the pipe. It'd also have the advantage of making tuning much easier. Gains from a properly tuned pipe can be incredible or nearly insignificant. Generally the more the gain the more trouble tuning is.

Steve

[FlyGuy]

By looking at the pipe, it almost looks exactly like the stock one.
Although, the pipe ports out the side rather than down towards the skid.
I did get it started, and ran a tank through at an idle.
Then I ran another half tank through at about 50% throttle.
Everything seemed to check out good.
I will try to take it to Brian at Heliproz to do the tuning and final checks.
Hope to get that done soon.

[mtpenguin]

That is GREAT news.

Brian is awesome.

Lemme know when, and I'll see if I can observe and learn.


B-)

[FlyGuy]

I guess Brian is no longer with Heliproz.
He is the manager of miniture aircraft under the same roof.
He said, he didn't know about gassers.
And that I should talk to Rick or Kurt.
So, I will try to get over there soon for the tune up.
Low and high seem ok but the midrange still needs work.

[FlyGuy]

I still have done nothing with this bird.
I know it's pretty much ready to fly.
But, I don't seem to find the time or courage to get it in the air yet.

[FlyGuy]

Now is the time.
If I can't get this up and running this spring/summer,
I'm going to throw it all in the garbage.
I have spent way too much time and money with no return.
So, I guess it's time to S%!# or get off the pot.
The weather here has been quite a problem here though.
We are getting maybe 2-3 50 degree days a week, without the wind.
And unfortunatly, it's unsually in the middle of the week.
All parties say they are ready. So, the next good weekend is trial time.
I plan to get footage from the bird and the ground for it's maiden voyage.
Maybe I will share that on the next update.

[FlyGuy]

Well, things didn't really go as planned.
Had a loose cable issue, and battery going low after problem was fixed.
So, we didn't get it off the ground yet.
But, plans have been made for friday.

[FlyGuy]

Got tired of broken promises and heartache. SOLD the bergen and acc.
Anyone want some 450's?