SOLAR Plane V3 Long Duration Test Flight - RCTESTFLIGHT

[@timcuatt1640]

If you fly at night you can avoid having the thermals affect the test results.

[@Olly.]

But then there no SUN and what do you need for solar power? Yes! Sun!

[@moali4085]

@Oliver Bunting, He was joking.

[@FavioredValkyrie]

Tim Cuatt defeating the purpose of a solar powered plane its powered by the suns light idiot.

[@FavioredValkyrie]

Tim Cuatt hes going for sustained flight powered by solar panels.

[@DivergencesofHistory]

smh so toxic you didnt realize he was joking

[@thejesuschrist]

very cool!!!!

[@AndyLeeVlogs]

How has no one seen this comment by a popular KZbinr?

[@forloop7713]

@@AndyLeeVlogs they changed something in the algorithm recently I just dont know what

[@AndyLeeVlogs]

@@forloop7713 hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, we need to investigate

[@forloop7713]

@@AndyLeeVlogs basically I recently started to see a lot of comments by big channels with not many likes and replies

[@AndyLeeVlogs]

@@forloop7713 I hate to say it but it seems to favor the smaller KZbinrs, this is what we kinda need

[@Fluburtur]

I was most worried about the batteries of your FPV goggles and radio

[@InfinitExpanse]

4 hours my biggest concern would be having a port-a-john nearby!

[@normcaissie5598]

lol fly and $hit at the same time.

[@noahhefner9447]

same

[@camaro92026]

+InfinitExpanse that's what the depends diapers are for

[@jordanrerrie8652]

Fluburtur me 2

[@mawuenahafeh7753]

I'm so impressed by this.. and more impressed by the maturity of the comments here... Always a place to learn.... I'm hooked man

[@briangillespie4160]

Didn't crash..., Boeing needs you!

[@redemwale6557]

I knew someone would talk about Boeing ..hahaha ..BOEING THE KILLER

[@rajsahoo5145]

Boeing next project is 737 SOLAR MAX

[@briangillespie4160]

@@rajsahoo5145 LOL

[@KoAkhusaNjeX]

@@rajsahoo5145 Nice joke :D

[@benh6566]

Boeing has left the chat

[@Kevin-xy2tu]

You need to get long range trancevers and do cross country with the plane :D

[@bexterollie]

yes

[@masterpieceproduction5247]

Good idea

[@orangecayman520]

or just the Grand Canyon

[@carrboro_chapelhillfpv2442]

@@Anomoomin I have that setup too, but, I messed up and have to get a different modem. I use Verizon unlimited.

[@brandonhoffman4712]

@Kevin because that doesn't break FAA regulations

[@elliot6758]

Thermals are solar powered

[@rudolf-blue]

IQ=10000%

[@source139]

"%"

[@MetricEmu]

lets hope this is a joke. if it is it's funny.

[@debonairrose]

@@source139 " " % " "

[@goldendemise3165]

@@MetricEmu dude it's true

[@wizardcat0926]

I'm more impressed by your patience than your build

[@gregoryashton]

What does his physique have to do with it? Lol.

[@benhardwiesner6963]

What does his physique have to do with this comment? Lol.

[@gregoryashton]

Benhard Wiesner Well, if you’re serious, it was a play on the word “build”, which also means physique. So it was a joke.

[@benhardwiesner6963]

Gregory Ashton Oh okay... Npt my motherlanguage, sorry fpr destroying the joke ^^

[@kyanovp1915]

Gregory Ashton you dumbfuck

[@dustinevans2877]

Instead of a current sensor on the solar panels, a voltage sensor would give you a better idea of what they are doing. The voltage of solar panels decreases under load if they don’t provide enough current to power the circuit.

[@Warbear]

This is really impressive, nice one

[@junuhunuproductions]

I am very impressed by your work! Please keep on doing it!!!

[@MrB1923]

Hello Korea!

[@satikass]

Kim?

[@Lanzbik]

North Korean nuclear missile concept

[@oscarzt1652]

4 hours what the hell

[@fqidz]

Oscar Thorpe spoiler!!

[@nicewhenearnedrudemostlyel489]

good spoiler. this guy takes forever to get to the point, and while the fill is also nice, it's not worth delaying that gratification. =p

[@kokoyansui3339]

This guy has nothing to do on that day

[@mr.anonymous3103]

yeah, i can barely get 15 min out of my phantom 3

[@ChadDidNothingWrong]

Yeah why'd he give up so soon?!

[@MrDivision89]

How about if you used 2 smaller batteries, and built a circuitry to charge one and fly from one, and switch mid flight?

[@sourjyanaskar6092]

Jussi Hirvonen practical and efficient

[@kinkunkankun]

Jussi Hirvonen omg suomi

[@timmorel79]

Jussi Hirvonen 100% agree with you two smaller 5 cell batteries that equals the same weight of the battery he was using on this flight multi switches between solar cells and batteries to go back and forth definitely should be able to stay up at 9 in the morning or 9 in the evening

[@adrianjohnson555]

I don't think this makes sense, what's wrong with charging one battery pack and using it at the same time?

[@lightdark00]

One battery should be sufficient providing he has something smarter managing the power and charging. That would void any benefits of a stable charge cycle with a twin battery setup.

[@Axiomatic75]

Smaller battery to reduce weight? Lower kv motor with a bigger prop could help as well. Very cool project, thanks for the vid

[@errecappa]

Nice, now go spy Area51 thanks!

[@ananda9793]

I want give my brain for you

[@FinnJohnson]

He’d get blasted out of the sky so fast😂

[@m1ckyg21]

they might have signal jammers in that area specifically for that reason

[@peterzingler6221]

@@m1ckyg21 well I don't think they jam the most common wifi signal

[@kyanovp1915]

MrScrubNuggetz wow, you managed to spell illegal wrong 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@wendtb]

Don't forget that thermals are actually quite relevant for a "solar plane", after all thermals are from solar energy and will likely occur when your plane is going to be flying as full sun is likely going to be a good time to use it. Might be worth having a look into some 18650 cells for their high capacity and light weight (considering the low current requirements) and using an MPPT controller alongside such a battery.

[@jetison333]

wendtb exactly this!

[@ElizabethGreene]

Most RC aircraft use special Lithium Polymer batteries instead of metal cells like the 18650. For the same amount of mass the RC packs have much higher capacity and discharge rate.

[@alasdair4161]

Excellent stuff Daniel. One thing you should (may have) check is the solar cell temperatures, they lose efficiency the hotter they get, and under the film in that wing, it could be working like a solar water heater. Ideal wing would have the cell underside exposed to the under wing airflow to keep them cool. Still, you're getting close. One other thing, I have run tonnes of props on a dyno to plot efficiency in static and airflow, and the worst across the board were CF props, by a massive margin, not one brand CF has come anywhere near plastic. Anyway, thanks again for another great vid.

[@Ender_Wiggin]

could i get that data of from the test you have done?

[@Ender_Wiggin]

i will even compile it for you, just need the raw numbers

[@alasdair4161]

enderw1g1n, I need to dig it up, it was several years ago that I did the testing when I was building quads, and pre digital interface. I will search though. I still have the dyno test rig, may be time to dust it off for the multitudes of props gathered since. I did publish it on DIY drones back then, but I've since unsubscribed a couple of years back so it's likely gone.

[@christi_L]

Alasdair McC man I love the internet, and people like you. Fascinating insights, especially regarding plastic vs CF props.

[@liamburgo23]

i agree i was thinking the same thing however it looks like there are air vents at the side of the wings

[@Tsnafu]

Good work Daniel. There are numerous places you could reduce drag (and therefore amp draw) i.e. a folding prop / spinner, close any gaps, smooth and refine trailing edges, servo covers etc. Look at the lengths dynamic soarers go to, to reduce drag to get a glider over 500mph. Not suggesting you go to those extremes but reducing drag would be better than fancier electronics.

[@chrispychickin]

I've been posting this since the start of this series... That and building up a lighter wing with balsa or foam core/sheeting would probably help take this project from marginal to fully sustained solar flight.

[@TihomirBozic69]

I am not sure. Drag at such slow speed is not an issue, lets say 2 or 3 % of ideal aerodinamic system. He can lose up to 20% on battery management.

[@chrispychickin]

Prop efficiency is hurt a lot by drag directly in it's airflow. The big square nose and lack of spinner is likely doing more than 2 or 3 percent on it's own. Along with things like square wingtips, no airfoil on the stabilizers, square fuselage shape, sag of the covering between the ribs (from the lack of forming spars on the leading edge like you see on traditional built up wings- i forget the exact name), it all adds up very quickly, on an efficiency focused design. Obviously, electronics need to be addressed too, but starting with a solid, efficient platform means you can get more out of the power system if you improve it.

[@TihomirBozic69]

agree, but this plane is flying at 10, 20 miles per hour tops... it adds up quickly on 50-100 mph... if you put your hand out of the car at 10 mph you don't even feel the wind... but at 50-100 mph drag is obvious... of course, I agree on the fact that it is the factor...

[@billwest257]

Long time viewer, first time commenter, seal the wing roots! With the gap there it's almost like a biplane, i.e. Four places for induced drag. Also, I think you will reach your goal when you bite the bullet and get all of the solar power using mppt. Keep up the good work!

[@NSB25445]

If you want to move fast, you need small wings, if you want the batteries to charge, you need big wings to put the solar panels on. So, unless passengers want to travel at the speed of a train, this type of transport will not happen. That of course, is assuming that crazy efficient solar panels aren't going to be invented, but even with 100 percent efficiency, I think it wouldn't be possible to travel at useful speeds (I haven't done any math though, but 100 percent efficiency is impossible). As a model airplane, this is an awesome build. You have a great channel.

[@L0615T1C]

i recommend you to get a bulk converter so you can step-up voltage while limiting maximum amperage so you always run the panels at maximum efficiency.

[@jimmyttptran847]

you re right good idea thanks

[@nopeahuoli]

otherwise known as mppt controller

[@lucaspanu533]

You should think about building some winglets. They reduce drag and improve lift, by reducing the vortex at the end of the wing.

[@Shredxcam22]

Luca Spanu iirc they are more efficient on wings with more sweep and a straight wing doesn't have much to gain from them.

[@mozismobile]

why, he can just have longer wings to make up for it. The reason winglets are used is mostly airport parking space, with a secondary benefit of reducing mach problems at high altitude. Neither apply here, and the benefit of two extra solar cells at the end of each wing probably outweighs the extra surface drag. You'd need actual measurements or CFD modelling to know, I think.

[@guimblon]

Winglets doesn't reduce any compression issues, and this plane could benefit from the reduced vortex a lot, since it doesn't have a tapered wing.

[@christianm1532]

mozismobile 1. Winglets a used to make planes more efficient by reducing the vortex on the wingtip. (because under the wing the air has a higher preassure than above the wing, and the hifh preassure air flows to the low preassure air and generates a vortex. This is stopped by using winglets. 2. You dont have mach Problems if you fly under mach 1.

[@mozismobile]

christian mühl: as I said, winglets reduce vortices and make the effective wing longer. But if you want long wings anyway, that doesn't matter. He'd also want drop winglets to avoid cell shading. Regularly losing 10% of your solar output to the winglet would make any aerodynamic benefit irrelevant. 2: that's flatly wrong. You probably won't have mach problems if you fly under .95 mach in a straight line with no turbulence. But as soon as part of the wing goes fast enough to experience mach turbulence (about .98, depending), you start to have problems. The cliche example is the U2, which flew high enough that stall speed, plane speed and mach speed were all about the same. When it turned the inner tip would stall while the outer tip hit mach turbulence. It literally could not turn at maximum altitude (in practice they flew lower than that, for that reason).

[@ChipZilla69]

I think any employer would love to have this guy on staff.

[@nationalisticguy4867]

He is an entrepreneur

[@mikeburch2998]

I think so as well. He would contribute a lot to a company.

[@PetrincicBrosRC]

Just amazing. I love it. Big salute from Slovenia, Pilot Robert

[@bilke6303]

Salute, CAPTAIN Robert!

[@bilke6303]

ey!

[@insanity54]

Just look at that solar plane, wow! I have been following this channel for several years, and I must say that your worksmanship has really improved. That plane looks so sleek and professional!

[@ChristopherGaul]

Really cool project. Very nice, clean build on the plane too. Re the charging, I'm certainly no expert but I agree that you need to look into MPPT charging instead of your existing setup. If your panels put out voltages consistently higher than your batteries' fully charged voltage, MPPT lets you beat utilize that extra power under the curve. You might also look into lighter, more energy dense batteries. Eg if you're using Lithium Ion, move to Lithium Polymer. Looking forward to more of this project.

[@sinstik]

Hey, I'm a electrical engineering student and I love your project! Also, I'd love to help you with the circuit. I think there is a lot of potential for optimizing the powerconsuption / generating / storing. First thing I would do is: put sensors for voltage and current to the solarcells, battery and motor. Also, if possible a airflow meter. That helps you to test only at normal conditions, not to get confused by wrong datasets. Contact me, I will help you =)

[@paranutaus]

Use ultra caps instead of batteries. Quicker charge time, higher discharge and lighter.

[@ytcsabidealer8387]

Wow a lot of electrical engineers

[@myme5615]

Im not an electical engineer, but its simple math, and not about volts but amps. More amps=quicker charge. Work out total amout of amp hours used by the motor servos whatever, then work out how many amps you need in solar pannles to cover the energy drawn, add a couple more amps/pannels on top to sustain charge then add another 3rd to sustain power on a dull day or in this case under clouds. A solar regulater/charge controller between the batteries and pannles will take care of the rest

[@randomisedrandomness]

Hey guys I dropped out of electrical engineering after a semester. I think it's a pretty cool plane. Thanks.

[@kimyoungjin8293]

NSA: I’m coming for you * underground facility building high tech* * classified * 😂

[@adrianjohnson555]

Honestly I doubt you'll get much more efficiency than you already have, lots of complicated suggestions in the comments, some worthwhile, some a bit silly. I'd argue the sensible option is as follows: 1. In good sunlight measure the current of the solar array in a dead short with your multimeter (make sure your meter can handle it first...). 2. In good sunlight measure the open circuit voltage of the solar array You want the open circuit voltage to be at or higher than the maximum voltage your battery pack (number of cells * 4.2), if it isn't then reduce number of cells in battery pack or add more solar cells (I appreciate this would probably mean a re-design of the plane). 3. Connect a buck converter to the solar array, you want one that can handle something like 1.25 to 2 times the dead short current, the more current it can handle, the heavier it will be 4. Set the output of the buck converter to the maximum battery pack voltage (again, number of cells * 4.2) 5. Connect the battery pack and test In this situation, if the solar array can provide an excess amount of power it won't overcharge the battery pack(s), if it can't provide enough power to charge at number of cells * 4.2, the buck converter will allow the solar array voltage to drop the level of the battery pack(s) and as much power as possible will be extracted from the solar array as possible. Keep in mind that any amount of conversion, step-up, step-down, both, will add inefficiency to some degree. I doubt MPPT will give you much more for the weight used, if anything. Regarding measuring the current in flight, in theory you only need two points of measurement, if you know how much is coming out of the solar array and how much is going into / out of the battery pack then calculating current for the electronics / motor should be a matter of addition / subtraction, how you display this on the OSD is another matter... As always great video, thanks for taking the time.

[@adrianjohnson555]

You could also play with different battery capacities, larger means you can make more use of the solar array but then your plane is heavier (with obvious consequences), smaller means lighter, but you may be wasting available solar power if it becomes fully charged...

[@thextremeking]

I feel the same way, no need to make it complicated! But possible there is an even more simple solution. Match the pv-panels and batteries voltage in a way that the MPP of the panels is close to the batteries voltage when they are full. Connect them directly (with a diode to prevent backfeed to the panels) together. Now the panels will be operating very close to the MPP point. Sure the efficiency will go down if the battery voltage drops below MPP of the panels but it won't be that much. A MPP-tracker also uses up a bit of energy itself this will be avoided. Only problem is that the panels will overcharge the batteries so they need to be switched off at battery full voltage. The diode can also be left out (typical diode drop voltage = 0,6V) by switching the panels of if the current reverses, switch them back on again if voltage panels > voltage batteries. This is basicly how the system works now (manual switching) only I doubt if he tested the MPP voltage of the panels. So testing is needed at ground level where power (current*voltage) is measured comming from the panels while attached to a variable resistor. Highest value = MPP point of the panels. Maybe he is done this already it would be nice to see a video about it :)

[@Kwadzy]

I'm pretty sure Daniel has done this. Watch all of the solar plane vids. They rock.

[@selflesspsychopath940]

Why do you feel the need to speak as if you know something? Your overcomplicated suggestion makes your primitive hobbyist level of electrical engineering skill painfully obvious. Power point tracking weighs less than the panel or battery and can significantly improve efficiency, and charging by voltage is not just considered a bad practice, it's entirely unnecessary here as you're already invoking current mode power conversion. You have fun playing in your garage, but stop pretending you have the ability to give good advice. It's bad for humanity.

[@davewreski6900]

Adrian, You are SPOT on. You do not get something for nothing. Something adds weight and conversion loss.

[@chevc321]

Try using a capacitor bank on the solar panels and a regulator before the battery system. This will allow the solar panels to run at their peak potential and supply a constant power to the charging circuit.

[@booger37391]

I was impressed after 1 hr!!! awesome plane -use it for land sales.. show all neighbors ..ect…

[@JordanEngel]

I would make it autonomous add GPS tracker and send it to Europe. The logic should *also* turn off the motor when it can just like you did. Terrific project!

[@realfusiontv4888]

GREAT IDEA

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

yes that would be amazing I hope he does this

[@amosvrana6326]

Clouds; rain; thunderstorms; wind. Aren't these major problems?

[@vinhto4375]

Also, when the sun goes down, that plane's gonna go down too. Imagine landing this thing in the middle of the ocean.

[@christianm1532]

Maybe if you use a smaller battery, you can "fly forever". Maybe try it with a 2000mah battery

[@TihomirBozic69]

Agree, big battery is just pulling the plane down for no reason.

[@iBeast_M0de]

But you do need enough to still get back when a strong wind current comes in or clouds come in

[@vaporcobra]

A smaller battery produces a smaller maximum voltage, and the engine likely needs a certain amount of voltage to be able to fly.

[@GaryVolts]

Smaller battery capacity, not smaller voltage.

[@jessem8928]

Tomás Arturo Herrera Castro that chart is for single cell lead acid, not multi cell lithium ion.

[@theairaccumulator7144]

KZbin in 2017: lest save this for a little longer KZbin in 2019: Yes

[@bomdiacolega3081]

you should coat the wings with anti-reflection to avoid losing solar power.

[@pfendi]

marthale7 I believe he is referring to an anti reflective coating, to decrease the amount of sunlight reflection off of the wings, which would increase the amount sunlight absorbed by the solar cells, increasing efficiency.

[@BlackRNGesus]

Modern solar cells use a reflective coating at the base... So they can use the sun twice

[@salmanrashid]

Then the coating will absorb the energy, making the cells produce less power.

[@MmeHyraelle]

Tedlar is most commonly use for solar backing.

[@sampledude8846]

Sooo cool! It's people like you who make me hopeful for the future!

[@G4VRX]

Very good . 1. Waypoint fight plan , large circles or figures of 8 , should allow you not be plugged in and have to be so personally engaged the whole time. Flying in endless ridge lift and you will stay up all day with no power input . So make huge GPS waypoints file. 2 Your main anxiety then would be low battery voltage , so set an alarm to alert you at a certain voltage threshold. 3. More cells could be mounted on the tail plane , along the fuselage pole . As you realise you are depending on sunlight availablity and quality. The fact is it does significantly add to flight time makes this project a complete success already.

[@JaredVititoe]

Do some passenger airlines for ants!!

[@ByKareem]

I think he should just yolo it and strap a kitten to it

[@GhaziJaafarplays]

ants 🤣

[@vulcanproto]

fuck yea that would be amazing

[@brokensworld5581]

Reminds me of when I was a kids putting ants in pill casings and putting them in model rockets.

[@thomaspayne6866]

Cool idea. Need windows!

[@jamesparker1185]

Dc to DC Boost converter between cells and the battery then set the converter to the ideal charge voltage. It should fix these issues all together

[@TihomirBozic69]

agree, I believe the setup is not optimised for solar flight.

[@BladeScraper]

yup

[@origamihawk]

I don't know if it would be worth the weight gain and extra loss of the converter though

[@halcyonmje]

Super definitely agree. This needs a maximum power point tracker (MPPT) chip and no question that it would be worth the 20-40g weight.

[@palkaivanov2840]

His genasuns gv-10 weighs 160ish grams if he uses it.

[@thom1218]

That's about 100 watts of solar on those wings... how is that alone not able maintain flight and altitude? Ditch the heavy batteries and lighten that thing up - 100 watts should keep that in the air, you said 20 volts @ 3 amps.

[@williamgong2351]

thom1218 at some points he was drawing more than 100 watts total, so it would be safer with batteries

[@a.ndy.nonymous]

Maybe a smaller battery or maybe two in total, very small batteries to always have one charge whilst depleting another??

[@a.ndy.nonymous]

@@oj5190 Very true.

[@williamgong2351]

@@a.ndy.nonymous hmm, yeah I guess that would work. Smaller batteries when the weather holds

[@a.ndy.nonymous]

@@williamgong2351 Maybe some really great capacitors? Just like Tesla Motors. Batteries for the grind, caps for pure power when needed. And two batteries

[@en8718]

Congratulations and well done !! This was an incredible watch end to end !

[@winstonsmith6708]

People like you will save the world.

[@mtbevins]

Do you get any grief from the FAA for the altitude and flying out of the line of sight without a spotter? I have seen other YoutTubers get letters from the FAA. I know FAR part 107 is thought of as a drone regulation but wondered if the FAA had turned their sights on other RC aircraft operations. Thanks for making the videos I really like what you do.

[@darkshadowsx5949]

I think having FPV should count as a line of site. some of the FAA rules are older than FPV flight and dont account for it.

[@noname-wo9yy]

What do you mean he clearly had people spotting it ;) where is the proof he didn't

[@SkodaOctaviaTour2]

Hi @rctestflight, great video. Can you write what hardware you're using or point me to the video with your flight controller, transmitter, receiver etc. configuration?

[@LuideMulumba]

Been following this series religiously, great work!

[@thomasroeleveld2141]

I Iove that you make the video straight to the point! Not a lot of youtube channels have that nowadays. Great videos! Keep up the amazing work and good luck with your project man!👌🏻👍🏻

[@covercalls88]

Interesting project. Nice job. As RC flier, I can appreciate the effort it takes to fly a RC aircraft for over several hours in one flight. My longest flight was a bit over 3 hours, my motor powered glider has a WS 120 inches and all flying was done by line of sight. As a suggestion when flying at higher attitude, fly up wind so if your radio range becomes a problem the glider will be blown your direction.

[@efes8649]

Hello from Moscow! You can fly with portable router with usb 4g modem and ip camera. Use cloud service to see fpv. Your aircraft is amazing efficiency!

[@hippopotamus86]

Just have a video Rx on the ground connected to a USB video adapter and stream that way.

[@gonun69]

yes I've thought about this too, like that you could get almost unlimited range

[@JingleBop]

Would have too much latency. Plus a good bit of weight

[@GaryVolts]

Too much for interactive control but not too much to send commands to an autopilot. The idea of unlimited range is intriguing.

[@honkhonk8009]

thats russia for ya

[@nickobee1936]

Put some winglets on your aircraft which should reduce induced drag and Improve aerodynamic performance

[@claytonreed5153]

Do you have schematics for your design?:)

[@dwatson4]

with a 16 foot wing span (8 per wing)you could put a 10 meter dipole antenna on the leading edges of the wings and use a 10meter transciever for remote control. This could easily get your range to 20-30 miles. Transmissions in the 28.000-28.300 MHz portion of the band are for data. You can even encode the signal because it’s for use in remote control of aircraft. All you need is a technicians amateur radio license.

[@nickeltokyo5869]

My dude stayed over 4 hours flying it props to you bro You just earned a subscriber

[@zacjohnson8404]

16:19 why do you switch the solar cells off, land and then say it couldn't sustain flight because turbulence caused you to draw more power.

[@mariobastidas3102]

He wanted to see how long he could fly with solar power WITHOUT taking advantage of thermal winds!

[@NeuralEngin33r]

Would be worth looking into a power optimizer circuit. Great project, thanks for posting.

[@genepezzulo]

Hello, nice project, I think you should use an MPPT controller as other control methods cannot extract all the available solar power.

[@michaela.660]

Your solar panels are your + constant, your + constant depends on the input from the sun and their max ability to recharge the battery. The battery is the intermediary or neutral +/- between the S panels and the motor The motor is the - constant drain depending on the amount of work you want it to do/ or needs to do. The numbers are there on your HUD you do not need the "Sensors" to monitor what is already there in front of you. You have done a very good job finding the best balance of power need to the amount of work to be done under optimal conditions and the thermals are and much wanted free plus on all factors. Up scale the system and start selling them to glider owners as retro fit back up thrust to get home via ducted fan motor(s). 10 minutes of additional flight is critical for them and 15 minutes is a blessing.

[@Mithranos]

Love this video. The data on screen is awesome. I was glued to the battery level and it was impressive.

[@mmikrik]

Чувак молодец. Четыре часа непрерывного испытания это пиздец как утомительно. За терпение тебе лайк!

[@NileSuperRiver]

Does the thin film of wing covering over the solar panels not decrease the panel output greatly?

[@TrishaXuk]

Depends on what the coating is made of, and the thickness + refractive index may come into it if the sun isn't high in the sky (near to midday)? If the coating is thin and a good, low absorption material; then it can be down to only about 3-5% loss, I think. There are some very capable engineers/scientists here; who could say more accurately.

[@Kerbin-kb7nj]

Well.... I think it has something to do with the circumstances of the diameter of the photosynthetic power modulator that effects the output of the vehicleular airlock.

[@kingkrimson8198]

This is my first video that I saw from you and already I love it and subscribing keep it up

[@cherar]

Awesome Daniel! Good job!

[@eldencw]

Awesome! FYI: Flying in large circles is generally more efficient than flying in a strait line and turning 180 degrees all at once. And for my vote, using the thermals is a valid use of solar power.

[@DamienFitzgerald]

Eject the battery once you get to sustained flight. That would be interesting.

[@mike_oe]

I think that I can safely predict a major CoG problem :) And I think Daniel already went down that road by reducing the size of the battery substantially.

[@GaryVolts]

A battery is needed to stabilize the power system and provide for the temporary intervals when the consumption exceeds the solar array output.

[@darrendix5163]

Jetison! would need a small parachute for safety, but it could work, as long as he hasn't pissed off the FAA enough already as it is. Also would need to make sure that wouldn't change the center of gravity in an adverse way. It's cheating, though!

[@SeeOurWrecks]

No... three words: Long, long long long long extension cord :P

[@darkshadowsx5949]

that was 7 words. each long is counted as its own word. and the plane would need to be able to lift said cord. no way it would lift 2 ton 5000ft cord.

[@phoeij]

Great to see the plane is still improving. Good work on the video edit. Must have been a hell of a job with a 4 hour video!

[@Kassem_Bagher]

2:27 one hour and it’s time for a snack! Damn it...hardgainers!

[@VivekGangwar02]

hahahahahha

[@JonB55198]

Awesome! I had wanted to do this back in 1998, without the cam, display and instrumentation. but, brushless motors were $$$ and lithium ion wasn't available yet. This is a really cool plane!

[@Bizzzmoney]

This seems like a revolutionary design and I've never seen anything like it. i might just not have heard of this kind of stuff but its a 10/10 from me!

[@janaebert3059]

Don't know how I got here, but this was very interesting!

[@TrishaXuk]

I know the feeling! 😂

[@HIndiLookup]

4 more hours successfully added in to your flight career :P

[@andyward8336]

What about extra solar panels on the tail roof and nose .

[@recklessroges]

The tail seems like an obvious area to add solar panels.

[@youtubeguy3544]

I think too heavy but I’m certainly not any expert he needs to do a QandA

[@nuarius]

That would require rebuilding sections of the plane to counterbalance, weight has more impact the further it is from CoM (think a sea saw) and adding them to the absolute farthest part of the aircraft is going to drasticlly change the CoM and flight characteristics. depending on the weight of the panels and how they attach to that bar it could also potentially create some wobble/flex. the second point is purely speculative though since i have no idea what the build is like exc.

[@acadman4322]

You are absolutely correct to stick to this airframe and do further testing and advance modifications. This airframe and electrical works! Now for the improvements. More efficient prop would be my first change. Then go for 'lightening', reduce the weight where ever possible saving even a gram or two can improve the flight characteristics- nothing is too small or insignificant to improve. I like the shape and aspect ratio of your wing. If I were going for a new airframe, I might increase the span, going for ultra glider shapes, very high aspect ratio. But, the strength to carry the load has to be there, so this is fraught with challenges. Excellent job just maintaining altitude on solar alone. In fact, outstanding! Congratulations!

[@wa4aos]

As an RF engineer, may I suggest you remote your antenna next to your brain.. A small tripod configuration will allow you to get the antenna higher, more range, and get the RF away from your brain...

[@lawrencedangel215]

This man is smart. He is cool, he will go far.

[@truantray]

...except in politics.

[@DucViper]

Fantastic job love your work. However you need to do some work on the aerodynamics you would get more efficiency for sure.

[@nicke.3536]

What kind of solar panels did u use? "Solar Film"?

[@MmeHyraelle]

Looks like pretty standards cells to me.

[@СергейЛарионов-у8в]

When flying with the engine off, be sure to stop the rotation of the propeller. This greatly reduces air resistance. This mode is configured in ESC .

[@TheDrakenZ]

I absolutely agree with Jussi Hirvonens comment about 2 batteries (one for flight, one for charge and switching mid-flight), especially when he specifies that when the motor is turned off it charges faster because the motor usage is causing a solar panel voltage drop. This would entirely eliminate the problem.

[@billyproctor9714]

Another great video Daniel, I appreciate you sharing your flight info with us as you go, it's nice to hear your thoughts. Have you given any thought to switching your electronics so you could selectively draw from batteries or panels? keep the videos comin, Billy

[@prestontoborg4149]

Bigger prop might help as well. That is a pretty tiny one compared to the size of the plane

[@a.ndy.nonymous]

Agreed. maybe a longer width as well.

[@nscriven28]

If you came to Alaska during the summer time I bet you could do it cuz it's only one hr darkness in Alaska

[@GhaziJaafarplays]

DO IT WITH NATE isnt cold in alaska

[@tusharbansode2210]

Well I can see that you are putting in a lot of efforts for this project. All the best for developing it further.

[@youxian8839]

I'm so impressed by your work, it worked so long

[@aquarium3931]

when your project done make it fly to anthor contry

[@MrB1923]

aquarium ! When your project is finished. You can try to fly the plane to another country.

[@aquarium3931]

MrB1923 thx man

[@justinc2633]

When your project is finished, fly it to another country.

[@gamestelo]

I don't think that is legal haha

[@jacobsomething6959]

Cross wind would be a problem since the plane is small

[@safir2241]

What if you flew it in a way that you could keep seeing the sun forever?

[@FlyLeah]

then you need to fly fast enough to battle the earth's rotation

[@safir2241]

LeahXX3 Well yeah

[@kveeder3224]

What if you flew it North-South?

[@woke72]

@@FlyLeah the plane is not rotating with the earth

[@lostname605]

@@woke72 No, it is rotating with the earth. If our atmosphere did not rotate in sync with the earth, There would be an INSANE Storm on the earth's surface. And because the plane is flying through our atmosphere, it is also rotating with the earth.

[@BikeRaceOnly]

Seal up those wings and fill them with helium 😂😂😂

[@udojuergens7973]

Vacuum would be better

[@eklhaft4531]

every gram counts :D

[@corey938]

@@udojuergens7973 how

[@knowurself4999]

Just WoW, amazing comment

[@raysonyoung2050]

Wow, I've never seen so many solar engineers,battery professionals , theoretical physicist,and Mensa members in one place. Your comment section is where all the you tube geniuses hang out.

[@thomaswells474]

Impressive!!! Great job. Keep us posted on your progress.

[@mutantyengecedits251]

Just a question - how does the FAA allow you to fly this high even if you let them know that you are going to fly it? The regulations really suck but I guess you WILL interfere with air traffic without helping it. Isn't it a risk for trainer aircrafts? Oh and nice video

[@cathallawlor989]

Mutant Yengeç Edits the plane may be over the weight so he registered it and then some agreement with a licence to do so? I'm just speculating but it's not the worst

[@sheldonaubut]

I'm a bit worried for Daniel as the FAA has been watching KZbin videos and then clamping down on those who flagrantly violate their rules. He could end up on a heap of hurt if they see this, or some "anti-drone" fanatic does and forwards a complaint. He should either not have altitude shown on the screen or fly below the 400 foot limit. Love this stuff though and have been following Daniel for some years now.

[@mutantyengecedits251]

Sheldon Aubut 400 feet is fucking crazy

[@JingleBop]

Guys. Y'all gotta understand. The faa has no laws on model airplanes under 55 lbs (think that's the weight). They did have that bill pass a while back but it was overturned because it violated the 2012 faa modernization act.

[@budmartin8297]

well, 400 ft is the rule that allows us to keep doing this hobby. Those that don't abide by the rules threaten the hobby for all of us.

[@testero1598]

+10 style points for the catch at the end

[@flightline1739]

I could build you a telemetry system using 433mhz or 915 mhz to send back voltage and current readings, etc. Arduino+INA3221+3dr telemetry radio (+ground station) :)

[@JingleBop]

FlightLine he already has all that on the osd

[@flightline1739]

Not separate current readings for Solar, Battery and Load (Motor)

[@JingleBop]

Ah ok. Think that'd be useful. The main problem I can see would be weight tho.

[@flightline1739]

Yes, weight will become an issue, at some point. A 3 channel current sensor+3dr telemetry radio won't be too heavy. However, there will be more drag when adding the telemetry antenna - lots of factors

[@flightline1739]

Yes, weight will become a factor, at some point. A 3 channel current sensor and a 3DR telemetry radio won't add much weight...However, the antenna will add more drag. Lots of factors to weigh

[@forloop7713]

These suburbs are to nice. Where is this?

[@marco_the_maker]

Your patience is impressive, nice work.

[@lorenzballenweg390]

I wouldnt use the voltage booster, since energy is lost. i would put the solar cells in series, and also use lithium Ion 18650 batteries.

[@rpkr5543]

I wanted to ask if you are going to make a vid to explain to us FPV a bit more (stuff like how you connect them the indications on your screen) would help us a lot ^^

[@jm32145]

RUSKY BIAS He’s using an Eagle Tree Vector

[@thedemonfighter8035]

I’m better

[@probablynotabigtoe9407]

California droughts.... city/county/state waters the grass at high noon... slow clap 👏

[@66tbird1]

Nice start on your goal. Your assumption for the most part are correct. Cleaning the plane up aerodynamically will go a long way in achieving your goal. i.e. folding prop. I say that from 40 years of RC sailplane activities. Go mppt for sure, motor spec it to the solar load voltage and let the balancing weight determine your battery config. Leave room for ballast.There are times when a clean heavy glider will do better than the same glider lightly loaded. Your wind battle is the example. I've subscribed, A+

[@Roensmusic]

awesome build!

[@kwible3682]

Sooo if you increase the size of this by like 3000, does that mean that the plane would be able to fly 12,000 hours?🤔

[@ralarc6552]

Non solar powered batteries: “Am I a joke to you?”

[@PISQUEFrancis]

what if you REDUCED the battery ampreage to get a much lighter battery could a much lighter weight battery(or maybe no battery ... per se') actually get you closer to solar flying?

[@randomhubhd]

amazing

[@JohnSmith-iz8wg]

This might sound dumb, but I would connect the solar cells directly to the battery (keep the remote disconnect) 23 volts seems high but the current draw of the motot will pull the voltage down.