IROS 2013

[Rob]

A new kind of quad.
http://spectrum.ieee.org/automaton/robo ... ign=112613

[JohnOSullivan]

A new break through or just the incorporation of added helicopter complexity to the simple multicopter planform which already works so well??
The aerobatics shown in the heli clip are impressive, but the general use of multicopters is geared towards aerial still and video recording, which the Heli demo would only produce nausea in the viewer, The are two diverse approaches to flying, each with their own applications.

[MarkL]

In my mind the attempts to add CP elements to a multicopter is a step backwards and adds unneeded complexity and increases the cost and repair issues.

[Rob]

I think the big advantage, if they become mainstream and mass produced, is the increase in flight time. 15% increase is significant particularly when as you stated, the idea is to hover and film.

[JohnOSullivan]

15% increase in duration is Diddly, compared to the added risk, cost and complexity of installing the big rotor. The aerobatics in the video were by a true helicopter and not a hybrid Multicopter/Heli. No video was shown of the hybrid. A video of the hybrid in flight (if it flies) might be revealing.
Let's face it the true multicopter is a well stabilized, low vibration machine which is well suited to stable flight and a good photo or video platform and much simpler and reliable to use then a straight Heli or hybrid. These do have their uses, but suck wind when it comes to stable, vibration free and reliable photo platforms.
My Hex regularly flies 10 minutes and probably do13 minutes with my current batteries and can accept a 50% larger battery without a whimper. On a typical photo mission this should cover 90% of duration needs and battery changes take only seconds.

[RocketManRC]

I guess you guys won't be too keen on this:

http://www.espritmodel.com/curtis-young ... ngray.aspx

I can't imagine it will be a big seller at $600 to $800!

[MarkL]

The Youngblood quad is really meant for 3d and little more. As a platform it doesn't give any advantage for dealing with ap/av or carrying payloads. More points of failure, more vibration, etc. belts, gears, linkages. Complexity.