Thought I'd start a new build thread for the new DJI F550 hex frameset, along with the new 2-axis, belt-driven gimbal and landing gear setup I'm doing with Andrey (Askman...). This setup has a WK-M installed, and the gimbal is sized to fit a Sony NEX-5N/7, a Panasonic GH-2 or a Canon 550D.

The frame went together just like the F450 quad. The lower plate also acts as a power distribution plate for the six DJI ESCs. There's plenty of room for all the WK-M bits, and I've added a CC 10A programmable BEC that will drive the gimbal servo at 7.4V. This will be run on two 4s-3300 packs in parallel. For props, I will start with the 3-bladed GWS 9x5x3s, but I might switch to Graupner 10x5s, once they are back in stock at Graupner-USA, which I think is next week.

The gimbal/LG assembly shares a lot of common parts with the GoPro "inline" gimbal we are also doing for the F450 quad. The roll assembly/battery plate is identical. The only real difference is that the yoke is larger for the NEX/GH2 version. We will also be offering an option to use the GoPro-specific yoke on this hex setup, with the integrated LG.

The gimbal implementation uses 2:1 belt drives in each axis, and each axis uses high-speed, high resolution Hyperion digital servos that have been programmed for 180 degee operation and have the deadband timing "tuned" to the WK-M/Naza gimbal outputs.

Andrey just shipped what is shown in the pics to me this morning. Hopefully I'll get it on Saturday, in which case I will have it assembled and installed with the hex setup, and hopefully flying by Sunday.

-- Gary

Gary, looks nice. I am a little concerned about the size of the landing gear and the size of the hexa. The gear seems a little undersized. I will wait until the project is completed so you can show me why I am wrong.

Originally Posted by Tahoe Ed

Gary, looks nice. I am a little concerned about the size of the landing gear and the size of the hexa. The gear seems a little undersized. I will wait until the project is completed so you can show me why I am wrong.

Hi Ed --

Actually, this interlocking design makes the LG very robust. It's one of the trademarks of Andrey's designs We weren't sure about the leg length, though, so this might change. Also, I plan on adding green and pink pool noodles to each skid, which helps with the stability.

I'm very happy with how well the vibration isolation scheme works on the F450 mount, and it is pretty much the same here. The difference is that the LG assembly is added, which mounts to the lower F550 plate.

I'll post some more pics, when I get it all together.

-- Gary

It is always easier to make it stronger at cost of weight, but not the other way . we will adjust as testing dictates

The hexa will be available for dealer shipments late next week or week after next together with F330 quad.

My is setup with Waypoint.

what is the pricing going to be on the frame sidneyw?

Originally Posted by LemaLife

what is the pricing going to be on the frame sidneyw?

I'd say about $110 don't quote me... the factory/office is close for New Year until Monday.

sweeet, that is a good price if that's where it's going to shake out.

Can I order this gimbal right now and if so please advise on price and delivery time to the US. Thanks in advance for any info.

Gary,

Looking good Gary. Tick Toc......

F550 Hexa is a very nice setup for the money. I'm have been having a blast with it.

Of course, this is a little extreme but I had it laying around.

The legs are all broken. I just wanted to see how it would "look".

Current plan is to begin sale in 2 week. that will give us time to test the LG/finalize that. The LG will have bolt on pan unit. (I am finalizing the design. have 2 different pan unit. one light weight and one heavy duty for DSLR ) 4;1 belt driven pan.

. Gimbal has been tested and pretty much finalized. I am waiting on material and will start the production next week, which should allow Gary some inventory by beginnig of sales. I am getting my 2nd CNC router back up to production ready as well this weekend (and re-organizing my shop) I will have few other offerings down the line. I will update my news on my blog here. I am sure Gary will have his website up and running soon as well. I won't have mine up until I get my full product line developed.

thanks for the interest.

Originally Posted by rerazor

Of course, this is a little extreme but I had it laying around.

The legs are all broken. I just wanted to see how it would "look".

Nice. How soon till you have the 550 in stock?

Originally Posted by GGoodrum

Thought I'd start a new build thread for the new DJI F550 hex frameset, along with the new 2-axis, belt-driven gimbal and landing gear setup I'm doing with Andrey (Askman...). This setup has a WK-M installed, and the gimbal is sized to fit a Sony NEX-5N/7, a Panasonic GH-2 or a Canon 550D.

The frame went together just like the F450 quad. The lower plate also acts as a power distribution plate for the six DJI ESCs. There's plenty of room for all the WK-M bits, and I've added a CC 10A programmable BEC that will drive the gimbal servo at 7.4V. This will be run on two 4s-3300 packs in parallel. For props, I will start with the 3-bladed GWS 9x5x3s, but I might switch to Graupner 10x5s, once they are back in stock at Graupner-USA, which I think is next week.

The gimbal/LG assembly shares a lot of common parts with the GoPro "inline" gimbal we are also doing for the F450 quad. The roll assembly/battery plate is identical. The only real difference is that the yoke is larger for the NEX/GH2 version. We will also be offering an option to use the GoPro-specific yoke on this hex setup, with the integrated LG.

The gimbal implementation uses 2:1 belt drives in each axis, and each axis uses high-speed, high resolution Hyperion digital servos that have been programmed for 180 degee operation and have the deadband timing "tuned" to the WK-M/Naza gimbal outputs.

Andrey just shipped what is shown in the pics to me this morning. Hopefully I'll get it on Saturday, in which case I will have it assembled and installed with the hex setup, and hopefully flying by Sunday.

-- Gary

Gary do you no what the max size prop that will fit on this frame and good looking build Tom

Originally Posted by askman

. Gimbal has been tested and pretty much finalized.

Do you have on board footage?