Wildcat 8

   

    In the past this plane had been used as the club trainer as it is
a very stable plane that is extremely easy to fly and has a decent amount
of maneuverability. For the IARC 2008 Competition it has taken on the role
of the primary uav performing reconnaissance. Guidance, navigation and
control of Wildcat 8 is performed by the Piccolo Plus autopilot system from
Cloud Cap Technologies. The Piccolo Plus is installed internally in the
UAV with its principle axes in line with those of the aircraft. The unit is
self contained and houses all the necessary components for stable autonomous
flight. At its heart is an MPC555 micro-controller whose design is based on
the PowerPc architecture. Stabilization is achieved with three Tokin CG-16D
gyros and two dual-axis ADXL210e accelerometers. These provide for smooth
and level operations under most operating conditions regardless of the weather.
A Motorola M12 GPS receiver is used to determine ground speed and position for
navigation purposes. Piccolo also uses pressure port inputs for total (Pitot)
and static pressure.



Engine: Saito 100 Golden Knight motor (.91 size)
Wing Span: 75 inches
Length: 48 inches
Weight: 8 lbs
Fuel Tank: 16 oz
Estimated Flight Time: 15 minutes
Autopilot: Piccolo Plus
Air speed: 40-67 mph