RC Mixing

[middle_watch]

Dumb question time again: I have a 4 channel flight transmitter (as yet unused) and was perusing the manual when I came across a section on mixing, from what I gather the set can be programed to use elevators or aerilons to work either together or opposite each other. In which case is it possible to use the set to control two ESCs such that they can operate in tandem or against each other to steer?

If not what is the normal method of achieving independent steering using a flight controller?

(I suppose the obvious answer is to buy a specialist ship controller, but this was a gift and when dropping hints for it I neglected to be specific)

[ARH]

Dumb question time again: I have a 4 channel flight transmitter (as yet unused) and was perusing the manual when I came across a section on mixing, from what I gather the set can be programed to use elevators or aerilons to work either together or opposite each other. In which case is it possible to use the set to control two ESCs such that they can operate in tandem or against each other to steer?

If not what is the normal method of achieving independent steering using a flight controller?

(I suppose the obvious answer is to buy a specialist ship controller, but this was a gift and when dropping hints for it I neglected to be specific)

The thing is it is illegal to use a flight radio if it is not converted to 40 megs here in the u/k. a very heavy fine.

[middle_watch]

It is 40 Meg, I don't have actual model number with me but it is a new one. Interesting about the legality though as the out of the box aircraft I bought last year and which ended up as Dog Boat was 27 Meg which unless memory fails me was the original standard and the cause of so much grief between RC flyers and CBers, of which I was both way back when, I seem to remember the solution was to go to FM, I did not realise the frequency had changed until I got this unit, the first in 20 years or so.

[Laurent]

Hi Middlewatch ,

there are some options existing by some brands , like "mixers" which allow you more than one function on one channel , but don't ask me how they work ...

Anyway , to me , the best option for a multiple propellers ship , is to get a Futaba/Robbe F-14 "Navy" , with the twin stick option , that system allows you to control easily both ESC's , like in the true life ...

You find sometimes some on Ebay , I got mine that way ...

if you want to stick with the transmitter you got , another "ol'fashioned" option is to put micro-contacts at your rudder arm , which stop the inner motor in a tighter turn

Regards ,

Laurent

[middle_watch]

Cheers, the micro switch does sound cool, running with the idea I suppose I could use one of the unused channels to "manually" kick the motors into opposition too.

I will look out for the proper controller, but going to be hard to justify it to she-who-must-be-obeyed "I got you one for Christmas, what is wrong with that? You nagged me enough for it!"

[FrancisMcN]

MW,

have you looked at the Action kits range at http://www.actionkit.co.uk/ ?
I haven't used them myselves but thy sem to do a good range of speed controllers and mixers forboats.

Francis Macnaughton

[middle_watch]

Thanks for the link, there is an interesting range, and radar drives, will need one soon (I hope!).

[Kiwimedic]

middlewatch

These things can be done very easily.
If you have a good computer type Transmitter you can mix the channels to achieve your aims.
If you have the transmitter that is up to the task all you need is

Propeller steering with two or more props needs port and starboard speed controllers. (Channel 1 and 2.)
I would leave the rudder in its own channel.
You then have engine control as well as independant rudder control.
When doing this set the Transmitter in "ACRO" and scroll through the P/Mix until you get to Elev/Ail mix. Activate these and set them up at approx 50% each. You now have proportional prop control.

Is this helping?

Regards
Phil

[middle_watch]

It is yes, I will pick up a second ESC and try it out, I am sure I can find a use for the ESC even if I cannot get it to work. Thank you.