Sentera PHX Pilot Operating Handbook

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Pilot’s Operating Handbook

PHX

Unmanned Aircraft

Version 1.2

Sentera, LLC

6636 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55423, USA

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REVISION HISTORY

Version

Description

Date

0.1

DRAFT - Initial Release

14 July, 2017

0.2

DRAFT - Release

03 August, 2017

0.3

DRAFT - Release

12 September, 2017

0.4

DRAFT – Release

11 January, 2018

0.5

DRAFT – Release

18 January, 2018

0.6

DRAFT – Release

09 March, 2018

1.0

Official – Release

13 August, 2018

1.1

Official - Release

16 August, 2018

1.2

Official – Release

13 September, 2018

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CONTENTS

SECTION 1: GENERAL .................................................................................................................... 1-1

INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 1-1

3-VIEW DRAWING ............................................................................................................................. 1-1

ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, SYMBOLS, AND TERMINOLOGY ..................................... 1-2

UAS TERMS: ................................................................................................................................... 1-2

AIRCRAFT TERMS: ....................................................................................................................... 1-2

AVIATION TERMS: ......................................................................................................................... 1-2

USER INTERFACE TERMS:......................................................................................................... 1-3

SECTION 2: LIMITATIONS .............................................................................................................. 2-1

SECTION 3: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ................................................................................. 3-1

LOSS OF PROPULSION .................................................................................................................. 3-1

GCS SOFTWARE CRASH OR LOCK-UP ..................................................................................... 3-1

LOST LINK .......................................................................................................................................... 3-1

Aircraft autonomous behavior during lost link ..................................................................... 3-2

Aircraft autonomous behavior during lost GPS: .................................................................. 3-2

SECTION 4: NORMAL PROCEDURES ......................................................................................... 4-1

FLIGHT PLANNING IN SENTERA GROUND CONTROL SOFTWARE .................................. 4-1

PRE-FLIGHT ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................................ 4-7

AIRSPEED CALIBRATION .............................................................................................................. 4-8

MAGNETIC COMPASS CALIBRATION ........................................................................................ 4-9

CHECKLISTS .................................................................................................................................... 4-10

EXAMPLE PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST ..................................................................................... 4-11

DURING FLIGHT AIRCRAFT STATUS SCAN ....................................................................... 4-12

LANDING PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................. 4-12

LAUNCH TECHNIQUE .................................................................................................................... 4-12

LANDING TECHNIQUE ................................................................................................................... 4-14

ADVANCED PLANNING FOR LANDING PATTERNS .............................................................. 4-14

SECTION 5: PERFORMANCE ...................................................................................................... 5-15

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS ....................................................................................... 5-15

SECTION 6: WEIGHT AND BALANCE ......................................................................................... 6-1

WEIGHT ............................................................................................................................................... 6-1

CENTER OF GRAVITY ...................................................................................................................... 6-1

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SECTION 7: SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ........................................................................................... 7-1

AIRCRAFT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................... 7-1

AIRCRAFT SENSORS ...................................................................................................................... 7-2

LIST OF EQUIPMENT ....................................................................................................................... 7-2

FIELD SUPPORT KIT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................ 7-3

SECTION 8: HANDLING, SERVICE, AND MAINTENANCE ..................................................... 8-1

BATTERY CHARGING ...................................................................................................................... 8-1

ASSEMBLY: AIR VEHICLE .............................................................................................................. 8-3

ASSEMBLY: COMMS BOX .............................................................................................................. 8-4

DISASSEMBLY AND PACKING: AIR VEHICLE .......................................................................... 8-5

STORAGE ............................................................................................................................................ 8-5

Battery Maintenance and Storage: ................................................................................................... 8-5

Battery Disposal: ................................................................................................................................. 8-5

Battery transportation: .................................................................................................................... 8-6

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE ...................................................................................................... 8-6

PROPELLER REPLACEMENT .................................................................................................... 8-6

PITOT-STATIC TUBE REPLACEMENT ..................................................................................... 8-6

MINOR STRUCTURAL REPAIR .................................................................................................. 8-7

SPINNER REPLACEMENT .......................................................................................................... 8-8

AIR SPEED SENSOR REPLACEMENT ..................................................................................... 8-8

MOTOR REPLACEMENT ............................................................................................................. 8-8

PROPULSION WIRE HARNESS REPLACEMENT .................................................................. 8-9

PHX MAINTENANCE FORM ...................................................................................................... 8-10

SECTION 9: SUPPLEMENTS .......................................................................................................... 9-1

CONNECTING TO THE COMMS BOX ........................................................................................... 9-1

SENTERA DOUBLE 4K, AG AND MAPPING PAYLOAD .......................................................... 9-1

OFFLINE MAPS .................................................................................................................................. 9-3

SECTION 10: SAFETY TIPS ........................................................................................................ 10-1

BATTERY USE - PRECAUTIONS ................................................................................................. 10-1

PROHIBITED MANEUVERS .......................................................................................................... 10-1

PROPELLER SAFETY - PRECAUTIONS .................................................................................... 10-1

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SECTION 1: GENERAL

INTRODUCTION

This Pilot’s Operating Handbook is for the PHX fixed wing unmanned aircraft system (UAS).

The PHX UAS is a nominally 4 pound (2 kg), hand launched, electric powered, autopilot controlled aircraft that is remotely operated using a tablet or laptop computer with a digital wireless data-link. The PHX UAS can be fitted with a number of sensor payloads for precision agriculture, survey and mapping, and public safety applications.

3-VIEW DRAWING

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ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, SYMBOLS, AND TERMINOLOGY

UAS TERMS:

UAS – unmanned aircraft system GCS – ground control station UA – unmanned aircraft UAV – unmanned aerial vehicle

AIRCRAFT TERMS: Pitot tube – Device that measures the speed of the air passing by/over the air vehicle.

Control Surfaces (Elevons) – Flaps on the trailing edge of wings that control aircraft orientation.

Fuselage – Primary enclosure that houses the autopilot, sensor, and other essential electronics.

Payload/Sensor – Camera unit installed into the UAV to capture mission imagery.

Servos – Geared electronic motors that operate control surfaces via commands from the autopilot.

Magnetometers – Electronic sensors that measure the magnetic orientation of aircraft (e.g. N,S,E,W).

C.G. – center of gravity

AVIATION TERMS: Winds aloft – Speed and direction of winds at flight altitude.

Ground speed – Speed of the aircraft over the ground. Airspeed – Speed of the relative wind over the aircraft and

conversely, the speed of the aircraft relative to the air mass. GPS Altitude – Altitude of an aircraft determined by readings from the

GPS unit.

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Barometric Altitude – (a.k.a. Baro Altitude) Altitude of aircraft determined by readings from the barometric altimeter.

MSL – Altitude of an aircraft as measured above the average sea level, calculated as a weighted average from the baro and GPS measurements.

Pitch, Roll, and Yaw (Aircraft Attitude) – Pitch: nose up or down, Roll: banking of wings, Yaw: left or right lateral motion of the aircraft nose.

USER INTERFACE TERMS: Takeoff waypoint – Waypoint that aircraft will fly to after takeoff.

Land Waypoint – Waypoint that aircraft will touch down at when landing.

Survey Waypoint Pattern – Waypoint pattern that outlines image capture area and dictates where photos are taken.

Loiter Waypoint – Waypoint in which aircraft will circle indefinitely at a predetermined altitude.

Artificial Horizon – Shows aircraft yaw, pitch, roll, and telemetry. Failsafes – Time and altitude limits that an aircraft will adhere to in

case of lost link, lost GPS, and low battery.

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SECTION 2: LIMITATIONS

The operator must ensure the system is operated within limits. The autopilot and ground control station software have some built-in checks that aid the operator, but ultimately the operator is responsible for keeping the system within all limits.

SPEED LIMITS

The autopilot in the PHX UAS automatically maintains airspeed based on the Pitot-static pressure measurements:

Vstall: 22 mph (19 kts, 10 m/s), standard sea level conditions

Vmin: 30 mph (26 kts, 13 m/s), autopilot limited

Vcruise: 35 mph (30 kts, 16 m/s), autopilot default Vmax: 45 mph (40 kts, 20 m/s)

ALTITUDE LIMITS

The PHX UAS autopilot automatically maintains commanded altitude based on the onboard barometric and GPS altitude sensors:

Minimum recommended cruise altitude: 150 ft. (46 m) AGL Maximum density altitude: 14,000 ft. (4300 m) MSL (mean sea level) Maximum altitude above ground: flight operations must remain

below the maximum altitude allowed by local regulations or local airspace authority. Often this means below 400 ft. (120 m) AGL (height above ground).

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WIND LIMITS

Maximum winds aloft = 28 mph (24 kts, 12 m/s)

Maximum crosswind takeoff = 5 mph (4 kts, 2 m/s) crosswind component

Maximum crosswind landing = 15 mph (13 kts, 7 m/s) crosswind component

PRECIPITATION AND MOISTURE LIMITS

Do not fly in precipitation, fog, mist, or clouds.

GPS LIMITS

Minimum 10 GPS satellite fix recommended.

TEMPERATURE LIMITS

Operational temperature limits

Minimum = 14 F (-10 C) Maximum = 120 F (50 C)

Storage temperature limits

Minimum = -10 F (-23 C) Maximum = 120 F (50 C)

BATTERY LEVEL LIMITS

Maximum voltage: 12.6 volts Nominal voltage: 11.1 volts Minimum voltage: 9.0 volts

Warning: battery will be damaged if discharged below 9.0 volts during operation or if left in storage for a long time. Check battery level every 3 months when storing and recharge to 50% storage level as needed.

Tip: Never go below 10% battery level during flight. Never go below 6% battery level during ground handling.

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TAKE-OFF AND LANDING AREA LIMITS

The launch and recovery area must be free of obstructions within an area measuring 50 meters wide and 100 meters long, as shown below. This area should also be kept free of persons during launch and landing, other than the operator that is doing the launching.

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SECTION 3: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

The following are emergency procedures for the operator and autonomous failsafe behaviors of the UAV.

LOSS OF PROPULSION

If propulsion power is lost the aircraft will automatically continue to fly the pre-planned waypoints while gliding to the ground.

• Maintain visual contact with the aircraft.

• Avoid obstacles along the path using the normal waypoint and flight

mode commands to change the aircraft’s gliding direction (e.g. GoTo location).

GCS SOFTWARE CRASH OR LOCK-UP

If the GCS software crashes or locks up:

• Force the software application to close.

• Re-launch the GCS software.

• Reconnect to the UAV in the normal way.

If the UAV does not receive communication from the GCS software within the Lost Link time out period, the automatic Lost Link procedure will begin.

LOST LINK

If lost link occurs attempt troubleshoot and re-establish communications with the aircraft:

• Maintain visual contact with the aircraft.

• Check antenna placement for RF line-of-sight.

• Check that the ground radio is powered

• Check cable or wireless connections between CommsBox and

computer.

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Aircraft autonomous behavior during lost link

If communications are not re-established within the time out period (typically 30 seconds) the aircraft will automatically Return to Land (RTL).

If communications are regained, the operator may command the aircraft back onto the flight plan or proceed to land the aircraft.

LOST GPS

If the aircraft loses GPS the operator should:

• Maintain visual contact with the aircraft.

Aircraft autonomous behavior during lost GPS:

If the aircraft loses GPS lock and it is not regained within a short period the autopilot will cease flying the pre-programmed waypoints and will begin slowly descending in a spiral circle pattern while it waits to regain GPS lock or lands on the ground.

OTHER

For other emergencies the operator may:

• immediately press RTL to return to the landing location.

• put the aircraft in “Pause” or “Hold” mode and click “GoTo” locations

on the map to move the aircraft around.

• command the aircraft to glide to the ground at any time (if in communications with the aircraft) by disarming the motor and confirming “Emergency Stop” command.

MEDICAL

If there is a medical emergency with any involved personnel, flight operations should cease and emergency responders should be contacted.

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REPORTING

Incident reports should be logged and applicable authorities notified as required.

Any incidents pertaining to the performance of the aircraft or other parts of the system should be reported to the manufacturer. Telemetry logs files from the Ground station, payload, and aircraft may be required to send to the manufacturer.

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SECTION 4: NORMAL PROCEDURES

FLIGHT PLANNING IN SENTERA GROUND CONTROL SOFTWARE

Sentera Ground Control is the software used to plan missions and control the aircraft.

The data links should automatically connect once both the aircraft and GCS are powered, the laptop is connected to the comms box (via cable or wirelessly), and the software is running.

To create a flight plan in Sentera Ground Control:

1. Click on the Plan view icon.

2. Remove the existing mission from the aircraft by pressing File and the Clear Vehicle Mission buttons.

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3. Create a Takeoff waypoint: Place the first waypoint by clicking on the Waypoint icon and clicking a location on the map. By default the

first waypoint becomes your “Takeoff” waypoint which is where the

aircraft will fly to after launch.

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4. Adjust the altitude of the Takeoff waypoint in the mission list on the right hand side using the boxes to the right or left of the highlighted box (Warning: do not adjust the Pitch value, leave at the default which should be 15 degrees).

5. Place additional waypoints as needed.

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6. Create a Survey Pattern: to map an area with the camera payload click on Pattern and then Survey to create the default Survey pattern.

Adjust the settings in the Survey edit box on the right.

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Click and drag corner dots, click the + dots, and drag the center dot to

adjust the size and shape of the survey.

Tip: If possible try to plan the survey perpendicular to the wind direction

with the aircraft starting downwind and working its way upwind. This

method may allow you to reduce the turnaround distance and optimize

flight performance.

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7. Plan a Landing Pattern: Click Pattern and then Fixed Wing Landing.

Click a location on the map for the landing point. Adjust the landing

direction by dragging the Loiter point. Adjust other landing values in the

Landing Pattern edit box on the right.

Tip: PHX recommended landing approach distance is 1300 ft. To

shorten this approach you will need to reduce the loiter altitude in the

Landing Pattern edit box.

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8. Upload Your Mission: Press the upload mission button in the upper right-hand corner and ensure the mission uploads with no errors.

PRE-FLIGHT ACTIVITIES

Switch to the Fly view screen for pre-flight by clicking on the airplane button at the top of the screen.

If connected to an aircraft, you will see all the important status information at the top of the screen and in the right-hand artificial horizon and telemetry indicators.

If all systems show correct you are ready to begin pre-flight activities which may involve compass and/or airspeed calibration and will involve the preflight checklist.

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AIRSPEED CALIBRATION

The airspeed sensor is sensitive to air temperature. Verify it reads between +/- 5 mph while blocking the pitot tube from wind. If it reads outside of +/- 5 mph, re-calibrate.

The airspeed measurement is sensitive to leaks in the tubing. Check that the tubing holds pressure by pressing your finger over the end of the pitot tube and verify airspeed reads positive > 20 mph (> 10 m/s) and holds >20 mph for 3 seconds. If airspeed is negative or does not hold > 20 mph for 3 seconds, repair or replace the pitot or tubing.

Only recalibrate if needed! To re-calibrate the airspeed sensor do the following while connected to the

aircraft in Sentera Ground Control:

1. Click the Gears button at the top of the screen.

2. Click on Sensors

3. Click on Airspeed

4. Follow the onscreen instructions about blocking the pitot-static tube from all wind without touching the holes.

5. Press the “OKAY” button in the upper right to start.

6. The on-screen directions will eventually instruct the you to blow across the pitot tube to create pressure. DO NOT blow into the pitot tube. Instead press the pad of your finger against the end of the tube to create pressure.

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MAGNETIC COMPASS CALIBRATION

If during the pre-flight checks the magnetic compass is off by more than 510 degrees in any of the north (0/360), east (90), south (180), west (270) directions you should perform a compass calibration. Stand at least 30 ft (10 m) away from any metal when checking and re-calibrate only if any direction reads greater than 5-10 degrees from truth.

Only recalibrate if needed! To re-calibrate the magnetic compass do the following while connected to

the aircraft in Sentera Ground Control:

1. Click the Gears button at the top of the screen.

2. Click on Sensors

3. Click on Compass

4. Press the “OKAY” button in the upper right and follow the onscreen steps.

5. After the calibration process is complete the autopilot will automatically self-reboot. A series of beeps will indicate this process.

6. After the autopilot self-reboots power cycle the aircraft by removing the battery then re-inserting it.

7. After rebooting and reconnecting to aircraft, verify north, east, south, west directions.

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CHECKLISTS

To avoid missing important steps, always use the appropriate checklists. Consistent adherence to approved checklists is a sign of a disciplined and competent pilot.

Included in this handbook are:

• Pre-Flight Checklist

• During flight status scan

• Landing Procedure

NOTE: Proper following and proper technique of ALL steps on the PreFlight checklist is CRITICAL to flight safety and avoiding potential damage to your aircraft and payload.

Additional checklists and procedures for different payloads should be followed as appropriate.

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EXAMPLE PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST

Revision Date: 13 July 2018

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DURING FLIGHT AIRCRAFT STATUS SCAN

__Maintain visual contact with aircraft __Check aircraft location and heading on the map __Check all status indicators at the top of the screen __Check altitude and airspeed __Check message window __Check status of payload __Maintain visual contact with aircraft

LANDING PROCEDURE

__Maintain visual contact with aircraft __Check landing area is clear __Check wind direction and speed __ (If needed, adjust landing approach and re-upload) __Press [RTL] button if not already heading to landing pattern __Verify aircraft enters final approach by seeing the Abort! slider

appear __ (if needed, abort the landing by sliding the Abort slider) __After landing, disarm the motor __Verify no damage to aircraft __Remove battery from aircraft

LAUNCH TECHNIQUE

Always launch into the wind. Only a slight cross wind component is allowed. Hold the aircraft wings level above your head. Point the nose straight toward or just above the horizon. Shake the aircraft forward once to start the motor. Take 1 step forward to gain momentum and then firmly push the aircraft straight forward without stopping. Push harder than the propeller is pulling. If the aircraft does not detect flight after 2 seconds the

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motor will stop so push the aircraft to launch it immediately after motor start. In zero wind a more vigorous push or jog will be necessary to gain enough airspeed. Always launch with a >95% full battery for maximum launch thrust.

PROPELLER WARNING: Be sure to keep hands and other body parts away from the propeller at all times. Do not pull the propeller back near your face or any other part of your body.

PHX HAND LAUNCH SUMMARY:

• Shake once to start motor

• Step forward and push immediately after motor start

• Push harder than the propeller is pulling

• Always into the wind

• Wings level with the horizon

• Nose slightly up

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LANDING TECHNIQUE

Prior to landing check the wind direction and make adjustments as necessary to the flight plan. Upload any changes to the flight plan prior to landing.

Use the Abort! slider if a go-around is necessary. The aircraft will abort to a loiter above the landing waypoint. To re-start the landing switch back to Mission mode or press RTL.

Tip: landing on soft surfaces such as grass will prolong the life of your PHX UAV. When landing on hard surfaces such as asphalt or gravel use a few pieces of tape on the bottom contact points and well as the underside of the wing tips to protect the aircraft from excessive scratching.

ADVANCED PLANNING FOR LANDING PATTERNS

Occasionally the default landing pattern will not work for certain flying locations. This may be due to trees, power lines, wind conditions, or other reasons. In these cases it may be possible to manually plan a box pattern style landing that will avoid obstructions.

(1) Place a normal waypoint somewhere on the map near the end

of your planned mission. Change it to a “Land Start” waypoint by editing it in the right hand waypoint list.

(2) Begin placing waypoints in the shape of your desired custom

landing pattern. A traditional cross-wind, down-wind, base leg, and final approach pattern works well in many situations.

(3) Finally place a waypoint at your desired landing location and

change it to a “Land” waypoint. Verify altitude = 0 for your Land waypoint.

(4) Adjust the altitude of each of your waypoints between the “Land

Start” and the “Land” waypoints to step down the flight path.

You must be careful not to place waypoints too close or have too large of a drop in altitude, otherwise the aircraft may take unexpected turns to try to achieve the tight waypoints which is undesirable.

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SECTION 5: PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS

Cruise speed

35 mph

Stall speed

23 mph

Max speed

45 mph

Climb rate

800 ft./min

Decent rate

400 ft./min

Turn rate

10 deg./sec

Turn radius

200 ft.

Typical operating altitude

< 400 ft. AGL

Maximum operating altitude

12000 ft. MSL

Max endurance (depending on payload)

up to 60 min

Max control range (RF line-of-sight)

1 miles

Typical visual line-of-sight range (dependent on weather conditions)

Up to 1 mile Motor RPM (MAX)

7000 (typical)

Motor Power (MAX)

600 (watts)

Maximum load factor

10 G’s Bank angle (autopilot limited)

37 (degrees)

Pitch angle (autopilot limited)

50 (degrees)

Best Glide Ratio

10 to 1

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SECTION 6: WEIGHT AND BALANCE

WEIGHT

PHX is battery powered. Its weight does not change during flight.

Weight (pounds)

Maximum Weight

5.6

Nominal Weight

4.4

CENTER OF GRAVITY

PHX is battery powered therefor C.G. does not change during the course of the flight. C.G. is measured from the front point of the fuselage where the motor mount attaches.

Forward Limit

Nominal

Aft Limit

Center of Gravity (in)

10.5

10.7

10.8

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SECTION 7: SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

The PHX UAS is comprised of an unmanned aircraft, a ground control station, a data-link communications system, and maintenance and support equipment. The aircraft typically carries a camera payload.

AIRCRAFT DESCRIPTION

The PHX unmanned aircraft is a hand-launched electric aircraft constructed of rugged materials. The wings and battery assemble to the fuselage without requiring the use of tools.

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AIRCRAFT SENSORS

The aircraft has many sensors onboard that help it fly. Proper sensor operation is critical to safe flight. The datalink antenna is near the back of the tail. The accelerometers, gyroscopes, and barometer are located under the tail. The GPS is in the left wing. Power sensors are in the battery bay. The airspeed sensor and compass are located in the right wing.

LIST OF EQUIPMENT

• CommsBox (Flight critical)

• Tripod

• Battery x2 (Flight critical)

• FSK

• Ethernet cable

• Payload

• CommsBox charger

• PHX charger

• USB thumb drive

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FIELD SUPPORT KIT DESCRIPTION

The PHX comes with a field support kit that contains a few basic hand tools and spare parts for common wear items that require regular maintenance (e.g. propellers, wing spar, and pitot-static tube).

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SECTION 8: HANDLING, SERVICE, AND

MAINTENANCE

BATTERY CHARGING

The PHX aircraft is powered by a lithium polymer battery with a built-in smart battery fuel gauge.

The battery level indicator lights can be displayed at any time by pressing the button on the battery.

Air Vehicle Battery Indicators (when pressed or charging)

Indicator State

Status

Battery State of Charge

1 LED On

Constant current charging

0-25 % charged

2 LEDs On

Constant current charging

25-50 % charged

3 LEDs On

Constant current charging

50-75 % charged

4 LEDs On

Constant voltage charging

75-97 % charged

5 LEDs On

Battery charged

> 97 % Charged

The PHX smart battery automatically maintains balance between the cells without the need for an external balancing charger.

The battery charger supplied with the system ensures safe charging of the PHX batteries and is the only charger that should be used.

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To charge a battery:

1. Plug the charger into AC wall power. Verify Blue - White alternating blink on the charger indicating it is ready.

2. Connect a battery to the charge paddle. Charging should start automatically.

3. Verify the charge cycle starts indicated by a beep sound and Green White alternating blink.

4. The charger will beep when complete. The charger LED will show solid Green.

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The battery level indicator lights on the battery light up while charging to provide an indication of charge level.

ASSEMBLY: AIR VEHICLE

1. Open transport case.

2. Remove left wing, fuselage, and right wing, inspect for damage.

3. Insert wing spar into the fuselage, verify it protrudes evenly from

both sides of the fuselage.

4. Grip the wing by the leading edge close to the wing tip and slide

the wings onto the spar and press into the fuselage’s wing pockets verify they snap in place and are secure.

5. Verify the Pitot-static tube is straight and secure.

6. When ready to begin preflight, insert a fully charged battery into

the fuselage under the top hatch.

7. Verify top hatch is secure.

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ASSEMBLY: COMMS BOX

1. Open transport case.

2. Remove tripod and extend legs.

3. Attach the Comms Box to the tripod

4. Connect the battery to the Comms box using the provided cable.

5. Verify that the fan is on.

6. Charging: remove the AC adapter from the transport case and

plug into an outlet as shown

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DISASSEMBLY AND PACKING: AIR VEHICLE

1. Remove battery

2. Grip the wing in the same location as assembly and pull away from

the fuselage

3. Remove wing spar

4. Verify the components are placed correctly into the transport case.

STORAGE

The system should be stored in a dry location within the storage temperature limits listed in Section 2 of this handbook.

Battery Maintenance and Storage: If not used for long periods of time, air vehicle batteries should be stored at 40-60% charge capacity. Batteries should be periodically checked for remaining capacity every three months. If necessary, batteries in storage should be charged back to the 40-60% charge capacity.

Battery Disposal: At the end of their usable life the AV and GCS batteries should be disposed of properly in accordance with local regulations.

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TRANSPORTATION

The system should be transported in its packed away configuration. Use soft packing material inside the case to ensure components to not move during shipping.

Battery transportation:

Lithium batteries must be shipped in accordance with local regulations. The PHX batteries are lithium polymer and typically must be shipped via a ground carrier.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

Most simple repairs of “wear” items or minor damage can be done in the field using tools and spare items included in the FSK.

PROPELLER REPLACEMENT

Inspect both propellers for damage including chips, broken tips, or other damage prior to flight. In the case of a damaged propeller, unscrew the broken or damaged propeller by loosening the #1 Phillips screw. Install a new propeller and replace the screw. Tighten the screw so that there is light friction on the folding propeller.

PITOT-STATIC TUBE REPLACEMENT

The pitot-static tube may need to be replaced if damaged or if the aircraft is not properly sensing airspeed. For a video tutorial visit our support site: https://sentera.freshdesk.com/support/home

Remove the pitot-static tube by:

1) Press the pitot backwards into the spring (the clear plastic sleeve provides friction) until it is free and loose inside the spring.

2) Unscrew or slide the spring from the foam wing until it is out of the wing. Avoid twisting the pitot-static tube and hoses.

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3) Slide clear pneumatic tubing off the rear barbs and re-install the clear tubing onto the same rear barbs on the new pitot-static tube.

4) Screw or slide the spring back into the foam wing with the pitotstatic tube loose inside the spring. Avoid twisting the pitot-static tube and hoses.

5) Pull the pitot-static tube back out straight into the spring. Ensure the clear plastic tube is fully engaged by friction with the spring.

6) You may need to remove the servo cover on the bottom of the wing to pull extra slack in the air hoses and ensure there is no kinks. Replace the cover when done.

MINOR STRUCTURAL REPAIR

Minor structural damage can be repaired using JB Weld Plastic Bonder or “gaffer’s”

tape. Be sure not to add too much weight or unbalance the aircraft when repairing. For a video tutorial visit our support site: https://sentera.freshdesk.com/support/home

Item

Description

Repair Method

Foam

Cosmetic non-structural

blemish

Use RTV silicone to fill in the damage

Damage between a

plastic and a foam

component

Use JB weld plastic bonder to repair

Cracked foam

Use UHU POR EPP glue or JB weld plastic bonder to repair

Fully separated foam

Use JB weld plastic bonder to repair

Non-flight critical

missing section

Use a piece(s) of gaffer tape to cover the missing section

Use RTV silicone or JB weld plastic bonder to fill in the missing section

Polycarbonate

Dented or heavily

damaged

Remove the damaged polycarbonate from the foam. Repair any structural foam damage. Use UHU POR EPP glue to bond the new polycarbonate piece to foam

Plastic

components

Broken or cracked

Remove and replace with new components if available

Remove broken component and use JB weld plastic bonder to repair.

Spar Joiner

Retaining ring

separation

Use JB weld plastic bonder to repair

Broken carbon

Replace the spar joiner

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SPINNER REPLACEMENT

If the spinner becomes damaged, unscrew and remove the spinner cone. While holding the propeller stationary, use the hex driver to loosen the screw holding the collet and yoke onto the motor shaft. Replace spinner assembly and tighten screw tight as possible using hex driver in the FSK. Ensure the collet is all the way pressed onto the shaft and that the motor/propeller spins freely with no rubbing.

AIR SPEED SENSOR REPLACEMENT

If the air speed sensor (air data module) needs replacement, remove the cover from the servo bay, carefully remove the air speed sensor using the #1 Philips screwdriver with tubes and wires attached. Remove the electrical cable and the pneumatic tubes. Trim the used ends of the pneumatic tubing off. Plug the electrical cable and pneumatic tubes into the replacement air speed sensor into the same ports. Re-install the assembly into the wing. Ensure the pneumatic tubes are not pinched. Re-calibrate BOTH airspeed and magnetic compass as described in this document.

MOTOR REPLACEMENT

The motor should be replaced if any damage is suspected or when it starts to make louder than usual noises (sign of the bearings wearing out). A well cared for motor will last well over 100 hours of operation.

Remove the motor assembly by first removing the spinner cone screw and spinner cone. Next, remove the motor assembly from the fuselage by removing 4 screws. Before the motor can be pulled out of the fuselage, the 3 phase wires must be un-screwed from the clamp underneath the foam block inside the battery bay. Then, unplug the

motor’s 3 bullet connectors from the propulsion wire harness.

Plug the new motor’s three bullet connectors into the propulsion wire

harness. Match the colors used on the old motor. Install the motor screws and mount plate. Re-install the spinner and propeller. If the new motor spins backwards then swap any 2 of the bullet connectors.

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PROPULSION WIRE HARNESS REPLACEMENT

The propulsion assembly may need to be replaced if it becomes damaged or if the air vehicle motor will not function properly. Remove the propulsion wire harness by removing carefully prying it off the Velcro fasteners, unplug the various cables, and replace.

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PHX MAINTENANCE FORM

Worker 1: ______________________________ Worker 2: ______________________________

Date: _________________________________

Maintenance Performed:

_____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________

Notes:

Signature:_____________________________________________________________________________

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SECTION 9: SUPPLEMENTS

CONNECTING TO THE COMMS BOX

The PHX CommsBox is Wi-Fi and Ethernet cable compatible. The easiest way to connect to the comms box is to use an Ethernet cable like the one provided with the system.

An alternate way to connect a laptop or tablet to the CommsBox is to connect to its local Wi-Fi network which should be visible in your device’s list of Wi-Fi access points.

The CommsBox will broadcast a Wi-Fi network typically named “PhoenixCommsBox_XXXX” where the XXXX is the 4 digit serial number of the CommsBox. The password for this network is an 8-digit password comprised of the 4-digit serial number twice.

Example:

Wi-Fi SSID: PhoenixCommsBox_1234 Password: 12341234

DHCP should be enabled on your laptop. If you have problems connecting to the CommsBox’s Wi-Fi or Ethernet please ask your laptop’s tech support for help or contact Sentera customer service.

SENTERA DOUBLE 4K, AG AND MAPPING PAYLOAD

Sentera Double 4K Ag and Mapping Payload

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Install the Sentera Double 4K payload by snapping it into the PHX plugand-play payload bay. Ensure all 4 mounting posts are securely inserted. Remove any lens caps before flight. Check the lenses for dirt or contaminants and clean as needed before flight.

The Sentera Double 4K payload will automatically turn on when the aircraft battery is installed. Once a GPS location is established, the payload will begin streaming video and is ready to use.

The Sentera Double 4K mapping payload stores high resolution images and metadata on the SD card inside the camera. The pictures and metadata can easily be copied off the payload and imported into Sentera AgVault or OnTop.

To copy the pictures and metadata to your computer you can either pull the SDcard or you can download them wirelessly while you are still connected to the PHX by pointing your Windows file explorer to:

\\192.168.143.141\SDcard\snapshots

Type the above address into the address bar, browse to the files, and copy the pictures and metadata to your computer. Note: your web browser will probably not work for this, you need to use the file explorer window.

The Sentera Double 4K hosts a webpage that displays more information about the camera and its operation. While connected to the PHX open a web browser and type the address (below) into the address bar

http://192.168.143.141:8080

From this webpage you can see your GPS, attitude, camera, and storage information. You can also use the webpage to browse the SD card.

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OFFLINE MAPS

Map streaming in Sentera Ground Control works best over a good internet connection. Where internet connections may be unreliable/unavailable, it is recommended to pre-load maps before heading out to the field using the "Offline Maps" screen.

Downloading, saving, and deleting locally saved maps is done in the Offline Maps tab under the App Settings screen.

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BATTERY SWAP PROCEDURE

To perform a battery swap with the PHX the following steps need to occur as stated.

1. The aircraft MUST land via Return mode (RTL). The flight mode can either be triggered by the

low battery failsafe or commanded manually by the user.

2. When the aircraft lands the wings must remain fully seated.

3. Disarm the aircraft.

4. Leave the mission on the vehicle when prompted during the disarm sequence.

5. Remove the battery and replace with a new battery.

6. Allow the aircraft to connect to the CommsBox/Sentera Ground Control

7. The resume mission slider will appear on the fly screen with text dialog that asks if you would

like to re-plan the mission starting at the last waypoint flown. Slide to confirm and the mission will regenerate with the updated waypoint info.

8. Perform the preflight checklist.

9. Launch.

If the wings come disconnected from the fuselage during landing the following process can be performed to perform a battery swap.

1. Make note of last flown waypoint. This will be used later to determine where to send the

aircraft to after changing batteries.

2. Land the aircraft.

3. Disarm the aircraft.

4. Leave the mission on the vehicle.

5. Remove the battery and install the new one.

6. Connect to the CommsBox/Sentera Ground Control. The mission that was just flown should

appear.

7. Perform the pre-flight checklist.

8. The resume mission slider may appear. Close the slider box if this is the case.

9. Press the action button and select start mission.

10. Start the mission as normal.

11. Allow the aircraft to tag the first waypoint and ensure the camera is triggering.

12. Select the last waypoint you noted in step 1. a. NOTE: ensure the waypoint you select will cover the rest of the survey area from where

the aircraft left off to ensure there are no missing photos.

13. Set that waypoint as the active waypoint.

14. Finish the mission.

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SECTION 10: SAFETY TIPS

BATTERY USE - PRECAUTIONS

!! WARNING !!

Lithium polymer cells and battery packs may get hot, explode or ignite and cause serious injury if not properly handled:

1. Do not place the battery in or near fire or heat the battery.

2. Do not reverse polarity on any wires connecting to the battery.

3. Do not connect the positive terminal and negative terminal of the battery to each other with any metal or conductive object. Do not attempt to remove the debris from the battery connector with a conductive object.

4. Do not pierce the battery with nails, strike the battery with a hammer, or otherwise subject it to strong impacts or shocks.

5. Do not expose the battery to water or salt water.

6. Do not disassemble or modify the battery.

7. Do not place or store the battery inside cars in hot weather.

8. Immediately discontinue use of the battery if, while using, charging or storing the battery, the battery emits an unusual smell, feels hot, changes color or shape, or appears abnormal in any other way.

9. In the event the battery leaks and the fluid gets into one’s eye, do not rub the eye. Rinse well with water and immediately seek medical care. If left untreated, the battery fluid could cause damage to the eye.

10. Use only the battery charger provided with the PHX.

11. Do not attach the battery directly to any other power source.

!! WARNING !!

PROHIBITED MANEUVERS

The PHX autopilot system will not allow users to perform any maneuvers outside of its flight envelope during normal operation.

PROPELLER SAFETY - PRECAUTIONS

WARNING: use caution around the propeller whenever the UAV is not “Disarmed”. Wear eye protection during hand launch to avoid dust blowing into your eyes.

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