XPANDER - 180mm foldable compact FPV racing drone

thingiverse

This is a portable FPV multirotor flight platform, the XL-RCM 28.0 XPANDER, with a rigid and compact design that sets it apart in its category. The design was inspired by my previous foldable quadcopter frame, the XL-RCM 8.0 XYPHER, but with a slightly larger airframe to accommodate 180mm multirotor parts and 1806 type motors. I aimed to create a compact size racer that can be easily transported in small containers, boxes, or medium-sized pockets. The XPANDER frame's innovative design and aerodynamic look make it stand out. Although the project started late 2015 and was completed by February 2016, the electronics installation never progressed due to budget constraints and time limitations. I had to prioritize other hobbies that require my attention. On the XL-RCM 28.0 XPANDER chassis: All rotors are fully foldable, with the front pair of rotor arms featuring a higher offset motor mount for compact folding. The front of the frame has a special 1/4 size lens mounting area to secure an FPV CMOS camera module. The mid-frame includes a cavity that can fit various electronics boards used in multirotors, such as small receivers, flight controllers (CC3D, SP RACING, NAZE32), and extra space for mini 5.8 GHz video transmitters (25~600mw). Rotor arms have placeholders for 180~200 racer size ESCs (Simonk/BLheli) and motor mounting screws that fit any 1806 motor type from the 180mm size racer category. Each rotor arm is held by M4 type long screw shafts and bolts. Batteries are to be mounted below the belly using DIY straps or velcro, as there is no proper battery bay due to the various shapes and sizes of drone racer batteries. For more information, setup instructions, and build parts, please visit my webpage at https://www.supermotoxl.com/real-object-design-for-hobby-models/596--xl-rcm-280-xpander-180mm-foldable-compact-fpv-racing-drone.