Heli RSC problem in Copter 3.4 TradHeli

ArduCopter Copter 3.4
1

Hi All,

I’m currently installing and configuring a Pixhawk to be used with a Trex 600E. I want my actual FBL controller to handle the rate control of the helicopter. This has already been done by the Canberra UAV team : http://diydrones.com/profiles/blogs/canberra-uav-demonstrates-helicopter-flight-with-downstream-fbl?id=705844%3ABlogPost%3A2210017.

Everything is fine, excepted the ESC throttle control (Heli RSC) which is not acting as expected. Here are my observations about the problem :
-> conditions : armed, H_RSC_MODE = 1, collective pitch neutral after arming, no power module connected
-> observations :

  • If RC8_FUNCTION = 31 (HeliRSC) -> CH8_out stuck to RC8_MIN, even if CH8_IN is moving

Copter 3.4 HeliRSC broken RC8 HeliRSC.JPG1362×726 164 KB

  • If RC8_FUNCTION = 1 (RC_Passthrough) -> CH8_OUT following CH8_IN

Copter 3.4 HeliRSC broken RC8 Passthrough.JPG1364×726 163 KB

  • In any case, auto disarm after delay

Of course I could set RC8 to pass through and remove the disarm delay, it will work but I don’t like to shortcut the established protections of the system.

I managed to get it work correctly with Copter 3.3.3 TradHeli. Other problems with the channel passthrough in ACRO mode (IN and OUT not matching well, escpecially for the yaw axis) lead me to use Copter 3.4. These problems are solved by 3.4 and I’m satisfied with the passthrough of CH1 to 4.

I don’t know if it’s due to a bug because of the dev version or to a mis-configuration from my side. After reviewing all the parameters, I could not find something, this is why I request your help about this.

Best regards…

2

I did not try 3.4 firmware, but in the 3.3.3 firmware, ESC control is completely normal!

3

Hi, just to make it clear, I am no longer able to support TradHeli releases starting with AC3.4. This has occurred because of 3DR discontinuing support of AC development, which has required me to devote my efforts to commercial support, which unfortunately has not included TradHeli to this point. Hopefully at some point I can find the time to focus on TradHeli again.

I’m not sure what the status of AC3.4 for TradHeli is at the moment, but am aware of several issues which could cause crashes, or even unsafe bench-testing, so please be careful. This is actually, one of those cases. I’m not sure what is broken here, but I am concerned that it could lead to an undesired motor start. Please make sure all blades are removed and keep your fingers clear of the drivetrain if you are testing.

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