FPV HUB

Back in August 2012 over the Bank Holiday Weekend, I attended the annual BMFA Nationals event at Barkston Heath in Lincolnshire UK. Having been a relatively frequent user of FPVHub.com forum (previously FPVUK.org) over the past twelve months, I posted a message on the forum to see whether any other like-minded FPV enthusiasts would be attending the event, with the view of meeting up for a beer and a chat in the Hanger on the Saturday evening.  I received a couple of responses and made arrangements to meet.

The event came and on the Saturday evening I duly got a call from John to meet up with his companion Rob. It transpires Rob and his colleague John were actually from FlyingWings.co.uk and they were eager to discuss and show off their new prototype flying wing. At this stage they had the 'Sports' version and had actually been flying it in the evening flying session at Barkston.  What they were excited about however was the FPV version with a specially adapted centre section along with their special GoPro and FPV Camera box for the front of the centre section.  Conversation around this new wing naturally progressed and my flying buddy Steve and I volunteered to do an FPV build and test this new bird out.

Two or three weeks later and as promised, a largish box containing the Venturi FPV arrived in the post containing all the bits in the kit:

(http://s11.postimage.org/7e45e16zz/P1050440.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/7e45e16zz/)

As can be seen from the above pictures, the kit contains two EPP wings, centre section, GoPro/FPV camera FPV box, motor mount, elevons, spar (glass fibre), wing tips, fittings and instructions showing the Centre of Gravity CoG.

A closer look at the impressive Garalite G10 based GoPro/FPV Camera box:

(http://s12.postimage.org/nys0ojcw9/P1050444.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/nys0ojcw9/)

Motor mount and fittings:

(http://s13.postimage.org/ioe8juhub/P1050443.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/ioe8juhub/)

Given I'd previously built a Ritewing Zephyr II; I wanted to base this build of the Venturi FPV around a similar configuration using two 4S Lipo batteries, albeit 2200mAh's as opposed to 3300mAh's I had used on the ZII.  The next decision was whether to use the centre bay for the batteries, or whether to go with the two batteries either side of the centre bay in the wings. Given I was going to use the Eagle Tree FPV gear, OSD, elogger, GPS and Guardian Stabiliser, I knew space would be tight, so elected for the battery bays to go into the wings. These were cut out using a hot wire bent specifically to the shape and size of the GenAce 4S 2200mAh 25C batteries which I elected to base the build on.  Before the bays were cut however, the wings and centre bay were glued together using Scotch Weld P90 glue. A minor change from the standard kit was to reinforce the front of the centre bay running into both wings with a ply plate as can be seen below.  All equipment was first loosely located to attain the correct CoG against the included plan.

(http://s17.postimage.org/buq2zk9nf/P1050461.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/buq2zk9nf/)

In terms of other electronic equipment, I opted for the following:

• Hitec 645MG High Torque Metal Gear Servos (probably overkill, but given this bird can fly over 100mhp, I wanted something which wasn't going to give up after 10 flights)
  60amp speed controller  Black Mantis 60amp esc speedcontroller from Giant Shark (http://www.giantshark.co.uk/black-mantis-60amp-speedcontroller-p-402907.html (http://www.giantshark.co.uk/black-mantis-60amp-speedcontroller-p-402907.html))
  NTM Prop Drive Series 35-36A 1400Kv / 550W  Motor from Hobby King UK (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=28673 (http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/store/uh_viewItem.asp?idProduct=28673))

(http://s7.postimage.org/q9xzwqbtz/motor_ESC.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/q9xzwqbtz/)

The motor mount plate and ply skid section protecting the bottom of the centre bay were again glued with the P90 Scotch weld as shown below: The leading and trailing edges were reinforced with clear weave packing tape secured with super glue to help it stick better the EPP.

(http://s12.postimage.org/s5qn93gnd/2012_10_21_20_34_15.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/s5qn93gnd/)

The elevons were covered using red solar film. Given I was going to base my covering on carbon effect vinyl; I wanted a striking contrast and opted for the red elevons.

(http://s7.postimage.org/inpmll4dj/2012_10_08_20_43_55.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/inpmll4dj/)

To tidy up the two battery bays and make these more secure; 2mm Correx was used to form a lid which would be secured with a servo arm to keep the battery lids down.  The servo slots were also cut out and GoPro/FPV camera box secured with super glue and epoxy. The centre bay hatch also secured with a servo arm screwed into a small ply plate.

(http://s11.postimage.org/gwd35k7fz/2012_10_21_20_41_12.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/gwd35k7fz/)


Each wing side was then covered bottom then top with the Carbon vinyl covering:

(http://s11.postimage.org/3ypt9pdwv/2012_10_21_21_48_13.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/3ypt9pdwv/)

The centre bay was finally covered using red vinyl before being covered in clear weave packing tape to help make sticking the vinyl easier. The covered elevons were secured in place with clear packing tape and the servos were secured in place with plastic covers glued with hot glue. The ImmersionRC Video transmitter was also cut into the rear section of the centre bay as shown and secured down with some velcro:

(http://s12.postimage.org/5z1734e89/P1050499.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/5z1734e89/)

The final touch of the build was to apply the wing tips. From experience of ripping off my ZII wing tips on several occasions, thus rendering the end of the flying session on that day; I elected to apply a thin piece of ply to each wing edge with the view of using Velcro to secure the wing tips. Ultimately if they come off on a heavy landing, then they can easily be reapplied without the need for glue!

This is the finished Venturi FPV Wing from flyingwings.co.uk

(http://s10.postimage.org/s3ipltlbp/P1050509.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/s3ipltlbp/)

(http://s7.postimage.org/jc7nw0huv/P1050510.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/jc7nw0huv/)

Review

As can hopefully be seen from the above build log; the Venturi FPV build is straight forward to put together. Yes we probably could have put it together a lot quicker without using some of the touches I have outlined above and some of the electronics I have chosen maybe a little over the top. That said, I didn't want to skimp on the build and ultimately if everything worked out once completed and tested, then I'd have a very good wing to add to my RC FPV hanger.  The quality of the included materials is good, I would argue that maybe the motor plate and mount could be a bit thicker, but other than that, everything was as I'd anticipated and went together easily.   The first question a builder needs to ask themselves is what power setup you're going to base the wing on.  I opted for a 4S configuration with batteries in the wings, but with a bit of careful planning, the centre bay could be used for battery/batteries as well a radio and FPV gear.

At approx £79.95 for the Venturi FPV version (including GoPro/FPV Camera box) and £69.95 for the Venturi Sport version, it's a lot cheaper than a UK purchased Ritewing Zephyr II at £129.99. Yes you could probably get a ZII cheaper from the USA, but once you have paid shipping and potential import duty, you're not going to see this cost reduced significantly.   If you want the ZII option to take their GoPro mount (which incidentally is just a Correx box) you're looking at an additional £30!!!  Comparing the ZII Correx box with the FlyingWings GoPro/FPV box is like comparing a Robin Reliant (ZII Correx) to a Bugatti Veyron (FlyingWings GoPro/FPV box) at a third of the price!!

So how does it fly?

Well don't take my word for it, have a look at the following YouTube flight video which shows some GoPro and OSD video footage from my third flight (second FPV flight) with the Venturi.

http://youtu.be/FhBUWX8MzJE (http://youtu.be/FhBUWX8MzJE)

The above Venturi FPV flight was flown in approximately 10-15mph winds on the day.  Having owned a Zephyr II, I was a big fan of how they fly (not including the launch!). Having flown three flights with the Venturi (1 Line of site and 2 FPV); I'm honestly pushed to say which one is better than the other. They're both very precise and don't tend to pitch up significantly when you increase the throttle in flight.  Where the Venturi wins hands down and as I have alluded to above, is in the launch!  My Zephyr II was a nightmare to get away compared to the Venturi FPV. This maybe in part down to the power setup I have gone with on the Venturi, but I have seen other ZII owners struggle with the launch and some have had to go to the measure of using bungees to launch the ZII.

Verdict

It's obviously early days for my Venturi FPV; but is the Ritewing Zephyr II a better wing at £60 more (nearly double the cost of the Venturi FPV)?  Hand on heart, a unanimous NO!  There is nothing to separate them in terms of flying once in the air. The Venturi wins hands down on ease of launch.  Given the Venturi is a couple of inches smaller, it's more manageable and means I don't have to take out one of the back seats of my car to get it in!

I would also argue that the EPP employed on the Venturi is going to be more durable than the none EPP material of the ZII, laminating may help out here, but this is not cheap.  The GoPro/FPV camera box supplied as part of the £79.95 Venturi FPV kit is streets ahead of the Ritewing Correx box and the Team Black Sheep offering and can be used with the FPV Manuals layer lens kit which will provide a bit more protection to the GoPro lens. I feel I'm qualified to state this, given I purchased the above two options for my ZII, but in the end went for a homemade alternative!  These two GoPro Box options alone cost me the same as what I could have purchased a new Venturi FPV kit for!

Yes I was supplied with the Venturi FPV kit free of charge (albeit I purchased all electronics and power system), but I have no vested interest in FlyingWings.co.uk.  Prior to the death of my ZII and excluding the fact it was a pain to launch, I loved my Zephyr II. Three flights in however on the Venturi, I feel the guys at FlyingWings have a worthy and dare I say better value for money alternative to the Ritewing Zephyr II. Furthermore, it's British and will be readily available very soon. Subscribe to my YouTube channel and I will try to keep you updated with future flights of the Venturi.

A big thanks for Steve my FPV flying buddy for his assistance on the build and the guys at FlyingWings (Rob & John) for providing the prototype Venturi FPV which I hope to get many hours of enjoyment flying.  On the first flight, I managed a top speed of 108mph as recorded on my OSD. As you can see from the video link above, I notched up a top speed is 89mph here (I wasn't pushing it either given I was flying at my local club among other RC flyers), so this bird doesn't hang around! Duration wise, I can get 14 minutes flight easily and could maybe extend this if I ease off on the power a bit more and reduce the prop down from the 9*6 APC which I have flown the first few flights on.

If you're in the market for a Wing or even and FPV wing, you should seriously consider this wing from FlyingWings.co.uk. The Venturi FPV will be listed for sale very soon.

Thanks for reading! Drop me a personal message or reply to this thread if you need further advice on the above.

Looks good, with an attractive price....

....Can it really contend with or even beat a ZII????


We need a HEAD2HEAD!!!

Quote from: Flyn on November 14, 2012, 12:26:53 AM

We need a HEAD2HEAD!!!

Mines faster than yours!!!!  As they say on Top Gear, it's time for a drag race!!

I look forward to some formation flying Rory! It would be great to meet up again with Simon and Jules flying their wings.

Lol, Wonna bet....? ;)

Yeah mate would be good to get some formation flying going, let's play follow the leader.

This does look like a serious contender to the Zeph, the price puts it in a very competitive position

Sure does, might be a good one to watch, I'll see if I can meet up with Matt maybe do a comparison review type thing.

That would be good :)

I'm in the market for an FPV wing capable of carrying a gopro. I've currently got flyingwings slipstream, which has been great. Thus new wing is tempting.
Do you think the gopro mount would hold it while in its waterproof case? What's its low speed handling like?

Looks great.

What is the spar arrangement? How far does the spar go out on the wing and what is the spar material?

regards
Andy

Thanks for the initial feedback guys.  I'm hoping to get out with the wing again over the weekend for some more testing.   I'll also do a side by side photo with a Zephyr so you can compare the size of the two. We'll fix something up Rory for sure.

Brucey - I don't think the GoPro mount from Flyingwings would house the GoPro waterproof case as it stands currently. I can have a word with Rob and John from Flyingwings to see if they can adapt a different version to house this; that said GoPro have just made the new Hero 3 waterproof case a lot smaller, so it's where you draw the line moving forward. If you want to use the GoPro case then you'd probably looking to adapt a different camera box for the wing.  My take on it as long as the lens is protected (layer lens from FPV manuals) then hopefully it should survive and nose in crash.     In terms of low speed handling, I haven't fully tested this yet, all I can say is that on the approach to landing, she slows down nicely and doesn't unduly dip a wing either side.  I will do some more testing on the next few flights and add some YouTube videos.

(http://s18.postimage.org/42tyzvoc5/P1050495.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/42tyzvoc5/)

Skyscraper - The spar material is a glass fiber material and it extends out to about an inch short of each wingtip. The channel for this is pre-formed, so it's just a case of threading this in ans securing with glue.

Rob from FlyingWings contacted me yesterday and said the Venturi FPV's will be going on sale on their site on Monday next week where there will be limited number available initially. More will follow from December once they get more EPP block.

Look forward to hearing more about it.
The reason for the waterproof case is a buddy of mine wants me to film him sailing at a large lake, so lots of flying over water, eek! I'm sure the plane will float.

Hi mate
Did you get round to putting this on the scales yet? will be interesting to see what the all up weight came out at.
Guess the motor choice was spot on judging how this thing just flys out of your hand on launch and the climb  looks  like it will just keep going nearly vertical.
Would be really interesting to fly this along side my z11...Just need to find a grown up to launch mine if its a nil wind day lol  ;D

Real easy to use the GoPro with the case on this wing, leave out the box and there is a nice foam plywood self under the box for the GoPro to sit on, On my z11 i use a bit of velcro on the back to keep it secured.
You might need to use a smaller FPV cam as the board cam does take up a bit more room

Cool, makes this wing very tempting.

Here is the comparison alongside the ZII

(http://s18.postimage.org/527ggqhgl/P1050513.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/527ggqhgl/)

All up weight is 2kg with batteries and GoPro without protective case.

Rob at FlyingWings.co.uk has listed them on his site now and I see he's used the picture of mine  ;D  I think they will be going on sale Monday, but already he's had a few inquiries.

I've also applied the included sticker now.

(http://s14.postimage.org/70gtz0j7x/P1050526.jpg) (http://postimage.org/image/70gtz0j7x/)

Off for a bit more testing and tweaking today.

This looks very interesting indeed! Would this run on 3s as well, or is it just much better to go with 4s?
Reason I ask is that I have everything else on 3s, it would make financial sense to go that route.
Also, would you recommend the gopro version even if you have a Sony action cam, which has a totally different shape, or go with the sports version?

Thanks,

Wiek

Hi Wiek. 

It will run on 3S no problems, I just wanted that extra bit of power. Guys run 3S on the Z2 too. It's just down to preference.

If you don't intend to use a GoPro then the sports one will be fine. The only difference is the center bay and the extra space if gives you for FPV gear etc.

I got three more great flights in with her today. I'll be uploading these over the next couple of days!

Best of luck with whatever you choose and if I can answer any questions then I'll do my best to help.

Cheers
Matt

Here are a couple more videos of further FPV test flying of the new Venturi FPV from flyingwings.co.uk

There was a lot less wind this weekend which made it a lot more enjoyable. A very stable wing and a joy to fly.

First video is a full length uncut version of the flight captured with a GoPro Hero 2

http://youtu.be/M4j7c115DQ0 (http://youtu.be/M4j7c115DQ0)

Second video is the same flight, but from the Eagle Tree OSD perspective.

http://youtu.be/cDGeRMq1Nt0 (http://youtu.be/cDGeRMq1Nt0)


All comments welcome. Enjoy!

I have had a Buzz II, Raven and 2 Slipstreams from FlyingWings.
The foam and really durable and handles crashes well. I use a dremel with a tile cutting attachment to cut out compartments.
I,m looking forward to the Venturi.
Hopefully it will eventually be available with this colour scheme.
http://www.flyingwingsmedia.co.uk/opencart/image/cache/data/Raven1_500-300x300.jpg (http://www.flyingwingsmedia.co.uk/opencart/image/cache/data/Raven1_500-300x300.jpg)

What are the suppliers for laminate in the UK?
I have read that laminate does not shrink, I have used monokote in the past and its very easy to distort the wing as the temp where glue takes and where monokote starts to shrink is very close.

Anyone know who  they use for delivery of their Kits ? have one on order but no info on the delivery or time scale to when I'm liable to receive it.

Cheers :)

Antizen: You can get the laminating film from Simon at DesireRC.
http://www.desirerc.co.uk/index.php?option=com_jcommerce&pgn=product_info&cPath=1_27&products_id=34 (http://www.desirerc.co.uk/index.php?option=com_jcommerce&pgn=product_info&cPath=1_27&products_id=34)

Xup:  I can't remember the name of the courier which delivered my Venturi.  I will mail Rob at Flyingwings for you and see if I can get you more info. I hope you get it soon and hope the above info will come in handy in this thread.  I'll look forward to see your progress.

Quote from: mjc1970 on November 21, 2012, 10:59:15 PM
Antizen: You can get the laminating film from Simon at DesireRC.
http://www.desirerc.co.uk/index.php?option=com_jcommerce&pgn=product_info&cPath=1_27&products_id=34 (http://www.desirerc.co.uk/index.php?option=com_jcommerce&pgn=product_info&cPath=1_27&products_id=34)

Xup:  I can't remember the name of the courier which delivered my Venturi.  I will mail Rob at Flyingwings for you and see if I can get you more info. I hope you get it soon and hope the above info will come in handy in this thread.  I'll look forward to see your progress.

Cheers,... it was ordered and paid for Sunday  ,...had a email early Monday morning saying order Processing, ... have emailed them asking for info on delivery as it is listed as in stock,
but they are not replying/replied!.
Just like to be informed/updated.

Look forward to it arriving :)

I've mailed Rob at Flyingwings for you Xup and will let you know if I get an update on orders.  I know there was only a limited stock to start with, but you should be fine given the acknowledgement.

Here is another video from the weekend testing on the Venturi showing the excellent climb out performance on less than half throttle. As can be seen in this LOS test flight, she climbs to 900 feet with ease reducing the power off during the climb. At 45 amps she is 3/4 throttle so there is still plenty of spare power!  She will virtually lift out of your hands on launch and go vertical!

http://youtu.be/PAl3bdx_9-A (http://youtu.be/PAl3bdx_9-A)

Hi Xup, Your new venturi FPV left on Monday via Royal Mail Standard Parcel service, it can take up to 5 days, but normally 3-4 days.

Your email came in at 4.30pm, we pack up at 2pm (being light weights).

Thanks for your order, more products in the pipeline.

Rob
Flyingwings

Thanks for the update guys, appreciated and I'm sure it will be with me soon.

Build will be with the same motor as in the one reviewed, but running on 3S and a 9X6 prop, I'll post up the results in here.

TY for the review and help mjc, have a Karma on me :)

Thanks
Martin

Hey rob, what new stuff is coming?

Ordered mine Monday morning still not got it either. :-(

Just to update, Wing arrived with a very wet posty lol, this afternoon,

Wingtip design has changed from the one at the start of thread.

Weighed the parts to get a ballpark figure.

All the hardware, wood, wingtips, gf spar, engine mount ect,  came to 208 grams.
The EPP foam parts only 264 grams
Total of 472 grams, but this is with the FG spar and thick metal pushrods,
be easy to get it sub 450 grams with the carbon spar, and carbon pushrods.

Nice kit, cover on manual, states " Power system deal 3536 outrunner and 60-70 amp ESC"
so it looks like there will be a powered kit version available soon.

:)

Antizen:  I will have 125micron laminate , its 455mm wide and will be sold by the metre, available tomorrow (Fri).

Brucey: Im working on a slightly bigger Raven with a central pod, early days tho, still on the computer at this stage.
Will be a fast build FPV ship, for a lighter setup.

Yes there will be a power system very soon, and the Venturi Sport which is basically the FPV model without the centre section, mines awesome on a 3000mah 4S setup
with 3536 1450kv out runner and JP 70A ESC, limitless vertical and sooo stable.

And.. The Ninja Slope Glider which has the same footprint but a thinner wing section in black foam, can't wait for the combat on this one totally evil.




Cheers Rob
Flyingwings

Sounds good, I've got a slipstream and its been great. Think I'll be ordering a Venturi soon

Quote from: Xup on November 22, 2012, 11:39:58 AM

TY for the review and help mjc, have a Karma on me :)

Thanks
Martin

Many thanks for the Karma Martin.

I'll measure the control throws which I have setup on mine. Like the Z2, you don't need a lot of throw on this bird!  Hopefully this will mean a stress free maiden flight for those of you who get this Wing.

Nice to see your input on this thread Rob and I look forward to see the new developments come to life soon.

If you need any advice regarding the build/setup just let me know guys. I look forward to hear updates soon!

Hi guys ,you are not comparing apples to apples here.
An EPP hotwire cut wing is a much more involved build then the molded ZII , you can only carry 1/2 the capacity in batteries in the Venturi.
I saw somewhere it was said the ZII has a hard time ballancing on 3s .
It really does not if you get the rite size 3s,4s lipos . 4S was its original plan for ballance.
This makes more power and longer flight times.
It is nice to see that I make the plane you feel you need to measure up too.

My soon to be new molded EPP 50''Coyote would most likely be the one you will need to measure apples to apples too.

Nice wing guys , I do find it  odd that you use my ZII to promote this wing, why not just make a good wing and let it sell itself ?? :-*

Quote from: Ritewing on November 23, 2012, 02:23:27 AM
Hi guys ,you are not comparing apples to apples here.
An EPP hotwire cut wing is a much more involved build then the molded ZII , you can only carry 1/2 the capacity in batteries in the Venturi.
I saw somewhere it was said the ZII has a hard time ballancing on 3s .
It really does not if you get the rite size 3s,4s lipos . 4S was its original plan for ballance.
This makes more power and longer flight times.
It is nice to see that I make the plane you feel you need to measure up too.

My soon to be new molded EPP 50''Coyote would most likely be the one you will need to measure apples to apples too.

Nice wing guys , I do find it  odd that you use my ZII to promote this wing, why not just make a good wing and let it sell itself ?? :-*

Ritewing (Chris I assume?), like Aitch has said it's nice to have you here and total respect to you man! Despite my slant on this thread, I'm still a ZII fan and enjoyed the time I had with mine before I stupidly flew it behind a mountain, lost video signal and the RTH failed to kick in!

The comparison was made as undoubtedly the Ritewing Zephyr II holds the crown for being one of the best (if not the best?) FPV Wings out there.  You only have to see the number of forum threads and YouTube videos available, so people will invariably will make comparisons and ask whether it is as good. It's no different to comparing two mobile phones, two mobile phone operating system, two similar category cars etc. Over the past year the ZII has been the 'defacto' FPV wing and it's World wide success is testament to that.  I'm sure you have done very well from it and my hat goes off to you for that!

In my ZII I ran two 4S 3000's and like the Venturi build, opted for the battery placement in the wings to the sides of the centre bay where I wanted to reserve for the FPV and RC gear for. Without being argumentative, the Venturi could easily accommodate two 4S 3000's, but I have opted for two 4S 2200's in an attempt to keep the wing lighter than my ZII was. The reason for this was the ZII was a nightmare to launch. Even with somebody helping me to launch it, I had about 5 hard nose in's failed launches which didn't do it's appearance any good before it had even climbed 30 feet into the air!

I really look forward to see your EPP 50" Coyote come to life Ritewing and I wish you continued success with the ZII too!   Comparisons are inevitable and the word choice within the thread title maybe a little harsh. The ZII won't be killed off as a result of this wing; but in the Venturi there is a worthy contender which I stand by my conclusions and verdict. 

To conclude here's one of my favorite ZII videos/flights from earlier this year which is another reason why I feel I'm qualified to make the comparison between the two wings:

http://youtu.be/qVNa2y-wAjo (http://youtu.be/qVNa2y-wAjo)

mjc1970, nice place to fly! Was it windy? The footage seems quite shaky. I am curious because I am considering upgrading from my twinstar to one of the bigger wings, hoping to get more stable footage.

Quote from: Kiwi123 on November 23, 2012, 11:17:00 AM
mjc1970, nice place to fly! Was it windy? The footage seems quite shaky. I am curious because I am considering upgrading from my twinstar to one of the bigger wings, hoping to get more stable footage.

It was very windy yes (20mph gusts I'd say), you can tell that by how the wing kept getting pushed around.  Great fun nonetheless and it made the launch somewhat easier launching into a stiff wind!  Good luck with your wing whichever route you go.

Ordered Venturi, cant wait, will be using laminate for first time so should be interesting.
I plan to use a short sleeve over carbon fiber rod in middle and then drill it to allow for cable to be run to wingtips in tube, what is the inside diameter of the tube, will cat6 fit?

Quote from: AntiZen on November 23, 2012, 01:11:41 PM
Ordered Venturi, cant wait, will be using laminate for first time so should be interesting.
I plan to use a short sleeve over carbon fiber rod in middle and then drill it to allow for cable to be run to wingtips in tube, what is the inside diameter of the tube, will cat6 fit?

Inside diamiter is 5.7mm, outside is 8mm for the GF spar.

That's a Great Video, I love you guys in the UK , you are always so nice  and genuine .
Your country is so beautiful , hope to visit in the future.

Now fly that new wing like this, the ZII is a crazy precise flyer.
Not many wings can hold lines like this, I was just having fun here.
Ritewing ZII Geared setup speed passes (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_kmatKYHwg#)

Ck

Cool man, you gotta fly a Zeph here!

A short vid of the day a few mates & I visited:

http://youtu.be/zKQ9nCidW6k (http://youtu.be/zKQ9nCidW6k)

Sweet vid, love the green country side .
It looks like some sweet hills and mountains to fly around.
Makes think about sloping.

alright so ..which one is better choice for FPV
Venturi = Zephyr II ?
+positives    -negatives....etc:. ??

I just bought the Venturi kit from Flyingwings, I would just like to know if Gorilla Glue is good to use to assemble this wing?

I've just got mine too!

Yep it is. Just be careful with it. Make sure you have a wet cloth to wipe off the excess that will ooze out. It is VERY strong glue so make sure you have stuff exactly where you want it. Once glued it is stuck good and proper!!

Glad to hear that there are going to be a few more Venturi's flying around in the not too distant future.  I look forward to see some pictures/videos.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for some better weather over the Christmas period so that I can get out with mine and do some more FPV flying! At the minute it's not looking very promising however!

Good luck with the build guys and if I can help at all let me know.

Can't wait to get mine delivered from Flyingwings.co.uk:) Just received a response from Rob of Flyingwings.co.uk and he said mine will be delivered after new year  :D  So Just bought some parts off Hobbyking and my setup will be like this:

1x Turnigy Aerodrive SK3 - 3536-1400kv Brushless Outrunner Motor
1x Master Airscrew propeller 8.5x6 (Pusher)
1x Red Brick 60A ESC
2x Turnigy Nano-tech 2200mah 4S 35~70C Lipo Pack
2x BMS-621DMG+HS High Speed Digital Servo (MG) 7.2kg / .10sec / 46.5g

other parts on hand:
from BEVRC.com:
1x TeleFlyOSD/GPS + 5.8G Foxtech 500mW Transmitter
1x 690TVL HD Ultra WDR Pixim SEAWOLF Board Camera ( Similar spec to the one being sold by    TeamBlacksheep model : TBS 69 FPV CAMERA ) Bought from Ebay for £55 only

Hope this setup will Fly well :o

****mcj1970 my only concern is that instead of buying your recommended motor in your build tread -NTM Prop Drive Series 35-36A 1400Kv / 550W.... I made a mistake of buying the Turnigy Aerodrive SK3 - 3536-1400kv, when compared it has some slight difference in specs, weight and dimensions....i just hope it won't affect the way it will fly....

Quote from: krizmyk on December 27, 2012, 11:04:03 AM

****mcj1970 my only concern is that instead of buying your recommended motor in your build tread -NTM Prop Drive Series 35-36A 1400Kv / 550W.... I made a mistake of buying the Turnigy Aerodrive SK3 - 3536-1400kv, when compared it has some slight difference in specs, weight and dimensions....i just hope it won't affect the way it will fly....

Chris, good luck with the build of your Venturi. I've had a look at the spec of the motor which you've gone for and it looks very similar. It's just rated to 40amps, so the 60amp speed controller which you've gone with maybe a little overkill. That said, there is nothing stopping you adding in the same motor which I went for if the one you've chosen initially doesn't give you enough power. The one I have gone for is probably a little overkill in any case and you should get a bit more endurance.  Keep me posted on how you get on and good luck.  You should enjoy it.

Cheers
Matt

Thanks Matt :) I will try first the motor i bought and then if i'm not satisfied with its performance then i'll get the one you recommended, i just hope it will not go out of stock soon.
kind regards,
Chris

Quote from: Teamftp on December 20, 2012, 08:35:40 AM
Yep it is. Just be careful with it. Make sure you have a wet cloth to wipe off the excess that will ooze out. It is VERY strong glue so make sure you have stuff exactly where you want it. Once glued it is stuck good and proper!!

and you also need a lot less of it than you might think!!

Hi can you help what did you set your control surface at thank you .

Hi guys

Just ordered one of these today - having read the thread i found a link to the laminate but its not the carbon effect stuff. Where can i get that from as its cool !

Also i have a DOSD lying around - i should be able to use it on a wing right ? I believe RTL needs some trial and error tuning . Can anyone give me their starting points.

Cheers

Ant

Sorry, just seen the previous questions on this thread and haven't been on the forum much over the past week.


I'll let you know the control throws and how I have my radio programmed later Geordie boy.  Like the ZII, you don't need a lot of throw believe me!

Ant, you can get the carbon vinyl from justcarbon.co.uk  The last lot I ordered took a couple of weeks to be delivered, so it's worth getting our order in sooner rather than later if you're just starting the build!

I'm not familiar with the DOSD, but I'm sure someone will be able to help you on this and configuring.

Good luck.

I've not flown my Venturi since November and really craving some better weather to get out with it.

Cheers mate - I'm on their site now - how much will i need to cover one wing. Width x length wise ?

Thanks for the help

Just checked my order Ant and this is what I ordered.

Carbon Colour - Black
Vinyl Width - 600mm
Vinyl Length 600mm - 3000mm
Slide - 3000mm

I had some spare and it came to about £19.69.  Not cheap, but looks the part!

Good man - I will get it ordered !

Thanks

Matt

One last question !? Does the vinyl just stick on or do you use a modelling iron?

Also do you need to apply crossweave tape or adhesive spray to strengthen the model before applying the vinyl?

Sorry mate- im just getting carried away that ive got a new plane coming ! Sorry if i missed it in the thread!

Ant

Just done some measuring and with the lighter GoPro 3 now and two 2200 4S, my CoG is about 190mm back from the nose of the wing.

Elevator I have just less than 10mm throw up & down measured at the wingtips.
Elevons I have 14mm throw up & down measured at the wingtips.

I've set this by restricting the throws down to about 40% on my 9c radio and have added about 25% expo on both channels

I have about 3mm of up reflex.

My eagle tree gear is set to elevons and I can provide the settings for that if anyone wants those?

Hope that helps. 

Good luck!

Ant, just spotted your addition question. I applied cross weave tape glued down with CA first before covering across the spares and leading & trailing edges.

You'll find the vinyl very sticky, but rubbing a modelling iron on a low heat will help tack it down better In the more fiddly places.

I noticed when applying it to my Z2, on hot days it would start to lift in places, but rubbing over again with you hand or warm iron will help.

Look forward to see some pictures Ant!

Buy some 3m 77 spray glue - will cure that ;)

Thanks for the measurements. I'll hopefully get some more done this weekend as the weather is rubbish

Hi guys

I cant seem to get hold of the Scotch Weld. Can i use the imapct adhesive that you get it B&Q ? or should i stick to Uhu Por or ever Gorrilla Glue.

Advice on which glue to use would be great.

Ant

3m90 scotch weld:  http://www.vikingtapes.co.uk/p-751-3m-scotch-weld-90.aspx (http://www.vikingtapes.co.uk/p-751-3m-scotch-weld-90.aspx)




Disclaimer: i dont have a venturi.  :D

I used uhu por on mine

I ordered two of these wings based on the review and what I read in this thread :) Looking forward to get it.

Quiet here on the Venturi thread :)

My models should be on the way now. Anyone else who would like to share how they have configured their Venturi? pictures etc?

Anyway, this is what I plan to use in mine:

-4s lipo 4500 lipo
-FY31 w/ Hornet OSD
-Telefly card for MFD
-Sunnysky X2820 1100kv or Hacker A30 10L 1180kv motor
-Castle Creations ESC
-Sony 600tvl camera + GoPro2
-Fitting metal gear servos from the drawer
-Rangelink LRS
-Sunsky 800mw or 400mw 1,3ghz Vtx

Still building mine. I'll be running 3s, 2.4g video and ezOSD and ezUHF. Here's the latest pic, still need to cut the slots for the battery and set the CoG. Its getting there.

looking good :)

I was thinking of widening the front part of the center equipment bay to make room for the single 4s 4500 pack and then make a new coroplast hatch to cover it. I might also close off, or bridge the area aft of the lipo, to have a separate compartment for the equipment. The plan is to fit the Vtx out in one wing half and the Rangelink RX in the other.

In any case I think I need to get the model on my workbench and lay out all the equipment to see how and if it will fit :)

Thanks, yeah I had to lay it all out several times and ended up having to put the esc in the hatch right at the front otherwise it would be miles to tail heavy. Hope it don't overheat.
I won't be having any cooling ducts as I plan to use it over water a lot.

Looking good Brucey, can't be long before you're maindening her now?  :)

Roll on the better weather and I'll be back out with mine.

Thanks mate, if it wasn't for work getting in the way it would finished by now!
Next I have to check the video quality for inference, cut battery slots, lam, control surfaces. I just want to fly the dam thing!

Mine is coming on now but I've hit a snag !! My 4 cell batteries seem to be as deep as the wing even at its thickest section !! Thinking of swapping to 2 no 2200 three cells as I'm not too worried about fast performance but will I still get a decent duration ??

What make are your 4S batteries Ant?  Mine are GenAce 4S 2200 and they go in with room to spare.  I think you'll be fine with the 3S duration wise, see how you go.

Looking good though!

They are the standard Zippy flight max cheep ones that I use in another plane. I have a nanotech that seems to fit better but I reckon I will go down the 3 cell route and see how that works out with a 9 x 6 apc. Cheers

Damn it - it's been over three weeks now and my vinyl hasn't arrived yet. I have had to open a PayPal dispute. Is there any other decent supplier that people have used. Perhaps I should use laminate instead???

Mines lam'd and vinyl'd. Just a few finishing touches to go!

Quote from: Brucey on March 02, 2013, 11:14:29 PM
Mines lam'd and vinyl'd. Just a few finishing touches to go!

Looking nice. Will be interesting to see how it goes!

regards
Andy

Where did you get the lam and vinyl Brucey?

Got the lam from flyingwings.co.uk and the vinyl from this shop on Ebay http://myworld.ebay.co.uk/carcarstyleonline?_trksid=p2047675.l2559 (http://myworld.ebay.co.uk/carcarstyleonline?_trksid=p2047675.l2559)

Thanks Andy, hopefully the maiden goes ok after all the build time its taken!

Quote from: Brucey on March 02, 2013, 11:14:29 PM
Mines lam'd and vinyl'd. Just a few finishing touches to go!

Looks just like mine Brucey!  Very nice :)

My last batch of Carbon took about three weeks to come as I recall. It seems like the service at JustCarbon.co.uk has gone down hill!

It's time to dust off my Venturi I think and return her to the skies very soon.  I've just got to install the layer lens cover for the GoPro Hero 3 now.

I realise that now! They must be twins separated at birth!
Bit more progress tonight, cameras mounted and clear winglet's attached.
Just have to attach a UHF dipole and set the CoG. Whoop!

So today I finally finished. The UHF aerial came out good, used some fuel tubing to make the bottom element bendy.
Its the CoG that is concerning me, is still tail heavy :(
Doubt I'll get to maiden it this weekend with the poor weather forecast.

Triplets then !!

Ha!

So how are you guys attaching the winglets? permaglued in place or removeable (velcro/magnets etc)

Quote from: chrisbrit81 on March 13, 2013, 10:39:22 PM
So how are you guys attaching the winglets? permaglued in place or removeable (velcro/magnets etc)

Velcro for me.

so, just a strip of opposing velcro on the winglet and the edge of the wing? or some kind of velcro strapping through slits in the winglet?

I was thinking about a combination of the two.

2 small, velcro width wide slits in the winglet, in line with the top and the bottom of the wing at the tip, thread velcro through it and have 2 x opposite velcro patches stuck to the top and bottom of the wing

I'm also hoping to laminate rather than use tape and vinyl (although the carbon effect looks awesome), I've got enough lam to do like 4 of these wings lol

would it be better to have any designs such as stickers/decals/graphics under the lam, or apply after the lamination?

Also, I have the 1400kv 35-30A NTM motor already and was wondering if there's a massive difference between that and the 35-36... other than the size of course.

the motor I have is much shorter than the 3536... but strangely enough is quoted on the HK site as being more powerful.

I attached my winglets with a couple of nylon bolts with the nuts sunk and glued into the end of the wing

How thick is the foam in the centre section?

I have lots of 4S packs around 3300,3700,4000. I'd love to be able to use one of those in there instead of two parallel packs.

Dogzilla, the centre section isn't very thick at all, I think you will struggle getting a 4S lipo of that size in the bay.

I've finally finished my wing, I just have to maiden it now. Fully loaded, with 2x 3S 3300 lipos, 600 TVL camera, GoPro 2, Ardupilot 2.5 with GPS and MinimOSD and IRC VTx. Its powered by a N3536/5 1400kv motor and 80A Hobbywing ESC; it's all in weight comes in at 2050 grams. I think that's a tad on the heavy side but I'm hoping it should still be ok.

Lookin good mate. Why does everybody do the same colour scheme though??

2050 grams is light. Think Brucy said his was 2.4Kg. My last Zed was 2.7Kg so you're well in. Should fly great as long as your CG and throws are right.

Lol I've no idea. Seemed like a good idea at the time. I might add a bit of white to make it a bit different.

Looking good mate. Hope your maiden goes ok.
Yeah mine is heavier, dunno why, you'll be fine.

What are you using to cover the wings? Is it the vinyl that they use to cover cars?

Yes it is, but with a laminate put on underneath first

Hi everyone, curious what kind of flight times you get with your venturi's. I'm hauling two zippy flight max 3000mah batteries 4s and I seem to get maybe 20min admittedly I'm not delicate with the throttle but I was hoping for a bit longer.

I've seen zephyrs with a pair of 4s 3300 with claims of 40min flight times

that depends entirely on your throttle management.
20 minutes is not too shabby really.

I get 15minutes out of my Zeph, but I fly it fast. If I really look out for it I'd prolly get around 25 minutes out of it. Doubt I have the patience for that though.
Imo there are way more efficient airframes than the Z2 and the Venturi when you want longer flight times.

So my flight times are fair,