Effect of the opto-sensor
33
Position mode works entirely without a visible horizon; that is why it also
operates properly close to trees etc. If you are a beginner to helicopters it is
best to restrict your ying to normal ground surfaces (grass, gravel etc.) This
should ensure that maximum stabilising effect is always available.
In darkness, or when overying
optically smooth surfaces
(water, snow, car roofs, smooth unpatterned indoor oors etc.)
In such cases, i.e. when the optical ground sensor cannot detect sufcient con-
trast, only horizontal mode will be active even when the unit is set to “green”
(position) mode. Brief contrast interruptions are bridged by the intelligent
software, and will not be noticed by the pilot. However, if the contrast remains
too low for a long period, the remaining instruments automatically take the
stabilising role; if this should happen, you will need to keep an eye on the
helicopter’s position and, if necessary, correct it with slight stick deections.
If you have to y under the conditions stated above, for safety’s sake you
should select “yellow” horizontal mode beforehand. If you are unsure, check the
contrast as described below.
Indoor ying
Use “yellow” mode. “Green” mode is taboo unless you check the oor
contrast from different distances (see below) and limit yourself to normal ight
attitude (in “green” position mode don’t y inverted indoors - even with the
HeliCommand 3D !).
Checking the contrast
In the “green” position mode the LED will icker to warn you that the contrast or
brightness is not sufcient; this means that the HeliCommand has automatically
switched to “yellow” horizontal mode. You can check this close to the ground
and at various distances above ground.
Also, the sensor’s response can be watched, by setting “green” position mode
and moving your hand under the HeliCommand at a distance of about 30 cm.
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