RC Heli Sling Hook / Bambi Fire Fighting Bucket

[Dobbo]

So, I'm cruising around on youtube and I come across this:


so I get thinking ... I think I need one of these for my HK 600-GT but not only does it need to be able to drop the water/cargo where I want it to, it also needs to be able to drop every thing in case of an emergency... I think this guy has got it sussed:


SO, has anyone built one yet? has anyone got any plans/ideas that can help us MRCG-aholics out?

I've just ordered a couple of things from HobbyKing to get me started. I'll keep this updated as it goes ahead 

[papascotimini]

That guy did a great job.  How much payload can the HK600 carry? 

Happy Flying

Papa

[Dobbo]

I cant give you a 100% answer on this one Papa,

Although these helicopters have been know to conduct Auto-rotations whilst carrying DSLR Camera's so I guess it should be able to carry 1-1.5kg's with no real dramas in lifting but it will throw the heli around abit (especially if the load swings!). I wouldn't think you would want to approach over 600-700 ml's of water??

What are your thoughts?

[papascotimini]

I would say that 600ml seems like a good load to the HK600, Nuttcaze used his HK600 to shoot some aerial footage and it carried a  300 grams or 10 oz camera and it flew really well. In the video the guy uses a bigger nitro motor if I'm not mistaken, that's why he is using a 1 liter bottle. Anyways it looks like lots of fun.
Btw I really liked your website  

Happy Flying

Papa

[Dobbo]

So I've been playing around with some paper template, with no real luck. Didn't quite look right so no picture of those for here but, I came across quite a simple design by Diablo Helicopters/Douglas R. Peacock web: http://www.circumgyration.com/2006/CrashStories.shtml







Looks similar to a large balloon cut open with some supports and a simple valve... I like the idea that the balloon type could fold away in the tool box and not take up to much room!

Has anyone else been successful at making their own?

[Dobbo]

As discussed earlier, the sling effect from loads that are to heavy can be very dangerous to your heli and the safety of the people around you! Even know that the HK 600-GT could probably safely lift about 1.5kg's (3.3 lbs) more (depending on your configuration). A load at that weight can really muck around with your CoG. Have a look at this vid of what not to do when slinging a load...



6 pack = 2kg+
 

[papascotimini]

A 6-pack weights approx 2kg as you said. The problem here seems to be that he used a really long wire, making the pendulum effect even worse. Is that a 600 heli or 700 heli? 

Happy Flying

Papa

[Dobbo]

Don't know if its 600 or 700, just found the video on the tube...

So I've got a plan... but now to build it 


I'm finding the hardest part is the cargo hooks themselves! designing it to;

1. Hold the slung cargo
2. lift one cargo line higher and lower
3. flick of one switch to drop the hole lot!

I could place a servo on the lower part of the Bambi Bucket line and when the bucket is dropped, hope the servo extention line pulls out as well...hhmmm

I put together a design (pic 2) but I don't think it will work. This is driving me 

[Dobbo]

I've got to get the design down pat... its annoying me lol. I think if I change the design to go to one anchor point, it will make it easier to release.

It may need some sort of pusher rod to help release the servo connector at low altitude... or make up my own three wire connector that will release easier...

[papascotimini]

The second design looks better, but if you release the load, then you loose a servo?
Keep me posted  


Happy Flying

Papa

[Dobbo]

More Planning completed:

I will remove the Rxr and battery when I upgrade my Tx to an 8 channel (Spektrum - DX8)


But will it work? I'm home again in a few weeks so I will hopefully begin construction then. still need to design a way to mount to the Heli