53 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display 5.2.1 Telemetry and airframe data display

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Date and time

Aircraft Battery Status Ground Station Battery Number of GPS satellites acquired

Recording

Activated system functions AirRobot Status GPS coordinates Distance to Home Point

Altitude Payload

used Ground Speed (not Airspeed) Elapsed Flight Time Heading54 Activated airframe functions Recording

(–) ( blinking ) = Recorder initialized, preparing recording

– = Recorder ready R = Recording on USB (R) ( blinking ) = Video file is being saved

(H) (blinking) = Home on lost link engaged

– = Home on lost link disengaged G = GPS auto positioning and assisted tele op activated O = OPS auto positioning activated

– = No GPS or OPS assistance system activated B = Geo fence activated

– = Geo fence deactivated Shows the status of the digital media recorder in the ground station. The recorder is activated with powering on the ground station. When a USB stick is connected to the ground station it is ready to record the video displayed coming from the payloads. (→ „Start video recording (on USB stick)“, P 49).

Provides information about activated functions of the airframe 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng55 AirRobot Status

O = OPS-system within working range

– = OPS-system out of working range Displays status of aircraft functions based on feedback from the aircraft

G = Airframe flies in auto home mode H = Automated Flight to „Home Position‘ is executed W = Waypoint mission plan is executed or Fly to last mission position is executed

– = No GPS availability
R = Remote uplink is up H = Auto home on lost link is being executed L = Emergency landing is in progress

– = Remote uplink is lost 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng56 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng GPS Reception

Date and Time

GPS Position Coordinates Displays date and time. Time and date are generated from GPS satellite data and updated. If there is a lack of GPS link or lost video data downlink date and time are buffered in the ground station. Available display formats are (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/data display“, P 60) :

• dd.mm.yy hh:mm
• mm-dd-yy hh:mm
• DTG (Example on the left)

Displays GPS coordinates of the flight platform. Selectable display formats (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/ data display“, P 60)

• Longitude - Latitude
• MGRS-Format with 10m Grid Day
Month Time zone Year
Time Shows number of satellites acquired. For sufficient GPS lock (displayed with a „G“ in the AirRobot Status bar) and effective use of GPS auto positioning and navigation a minimum of 6 satellites is required.

Format DTG 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller57 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Ground Station Battery Status

Flight Platform Battery Status Displays the remaining capacity of the aircraft battery. 5 bars indicate full capacity. With one bar left the flight time is between 3 to 8 minutes. Distance to Home Point Distance to Home Point Displays the distance of the aircraft to the set “home point”. Home point should be set prior to starting the mission. (→ „Auto navigation controls“, P 39). Selectable units are meter and feet. (→ „Settings“, P 18)

Note: The remaining battery capacity is only be dis played on the video and data display. There are no acoustical warnings alerting the operator of depleted batteries. The system should always be flown through the video in the first person shooter perspective and not line of site to the aircraft. This ensures that status of flight battery, ground stati on battery and GPS availability always remain in plain sight to the operator. Displays the remaining capacity of the ground station battery

Note: When the last bar is blinking flight time will be less then 2 minutes and emergency landing will be initiated within this time. When blinking look for suitable unobstructed landing place. Emergency landing on depleted battery can only safely perfor med from altitudes < 60 ft. REDUCE ALTITUDE WHEN BATTERY IS LOW58 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Flight Direction (Heading by way of compass) Elapsed Flight Time Displays elapsed flight time in minutes.

Flight Speed Displays the ground speed of the aircraft. (not the airspeed) Selectable units are Kilometer/Stunde (kmh) or Miles/hour (mph) (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/data display“, P 60)

Displays the heading by way of compass in degrees. North heading equals value 0 degrees, increasing angle is clockwise: 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller59 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display Altitude

Payload Shows altitude of airframe relative to take off point based on barometric sensor. Selectable units are m and ft

Note: Displays the relative altitude to the take off point and NOT the ground clearance. Always keep video display in sight and watch for appropriate ground clearance independent from reading.

Displays activated payload. Only applies to aircraft with multiple payload bays (AR200 and AR180)60 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 5.2.2 Notifications in Video and Data Display Warning messages - „threshold altitude exceeded“ and „threshold distance exceeded“ The video/data display can show warning messages when maximum threshold altitude is reached (if activated by operator) or when maximum threshold distance from Home Point is reached. (if activated by operator). Activation and setting of threshold values is done through the menu of the video/data display. (Settings: → „5.2.3 Menu video/data display“, P 62)

Warning message „altitude exceeded“ (Message blinks)

Warning message „distance exceeded“ (Message blinks) 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller

Maximum threshold altitude exceeded: The current altitude exceeds the pre set maximum value Warning Altitude Exceeded (blinking)

Maximum threshold distance exceeded: The current distance of the flight platform from the home point exceeds the pre set maximum value Warning Altitude Exceeded (blinking)61 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display Warning NO GPS: If GPS reception (→ „GPS satellite reception“, P 56) is insufficient for stable reliable operation under GPS the warning is displayed.

General Error Messages: Before a take off and after each engine start the system performs an internal pre flight check. If malfunctions are detected an error message will be displayed on screen. In addition the airframe will not take off. → „8.2 Error Codes“, P 9862 5.2.3 Menu video/data display The home menu for the video and data display can be called up with the »Enter«-Button» in the but ton field »Menu Navigation» (→ „Menu navigation“, P 45) A slight movement of Joystick 2 will close all menus immediate. Settings not stored prior to closing the menu will not be saved and applied. Menu displays on the video and data display are only shown on screen and not recorded in the video file which is saved on the USB stick. The arrow buttons are used to navigate in the menu. Menu items are selected using the »Enter». Main menu of the video/data display

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller

Menu structure and settings accessible through the video/data display of the hancontroller63 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display Menu navigation

»Menu-Navigation«- Button field • Move cursor up
• Press once - Change value up by 1 unit
• Press consistently - Running number value

change up

• Display menu
• Open or confirm selected menu item

• Store changed value

• Move cursor down
• Press once = Change value down by 1 unit
• Press consistently = Running number value

change down

Note: Before the first flight mission make yourself sufficiently familiar with the different menus and functions accessible. Always consider that when menus are displayed, the live video feed from the airframe is not displayed resulting in limited situational awareness for the operator. The three buttons of the menu navigation field are used to navigate in between menu lines and to select and confirm menu items to change settings or store position data.64 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller Submenu connections

Submenu „Link“ Submenu “Connections protocol”: Determines the communication protocol between the ground control station and the flight platform:
• binary (Default)
• ascii

Important: Changes of the communication settings (Protocol, Drone ID, Channel) on the ground station will result in an immediate loss of communication between ground station and airframe. DO NOT MAKE CHANGES while airframe is in flight. Only make changes when airframe is on the ground and engines are off! Drone ID (only available if connection protocol is set to „binary“): To enable secure point to point connection in between flight platform and ground control station, both components need to be set to identical drone IDs. The drone ID of the flight platform is pre pro grammed by the manufacturer and by default is the serial number of the aircraft. To pair different airframes with a ground station the drone ID in the ground station has to be set to the drone ID of the flight platform. Channel: Flight platform and ground control station must be set to the same radio communication channel. By default there are 16 channel combinations pre programmed into the flight platform and ground control station. The corresponding up and downlink frequency combinations are displayed in the video and data display.65 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display

Channel selection on video/data display Channel Selection in the ground station and on the flight platform. (black area = switch ON) To set the flight platform and the ground control station to the same channel proceed as follows: ► Turn off flight platform and remove flight battery ► Select the desired channel in the video and data display of the hand controller. ► Select channel on flight platform: Adjust DIP switch according to the schematics displayed on the video and data display (see example) ► Insert flight battery, power on flight platform Example: The following images show examples for various channel settings in the ground control station and the corresponding DIP configurations on the flight platform. (DIP switch number 1 is not relevant for channel switching):66 Submenu Data Embedding

Submenu „Data embedding“ Date/Time: Determines the format in which date and time are displayed. (→ „Date and Time“, P 56) The format can be changed using the Enter Button of the menu navigation button field. Coordinates: Sets the format of the coordinates displayed embedded in the video screen. (→ „GPS position coordinates“, P 56) The format can be changed using the Enter Button of the menu navigation button field. Units: Sets the measurement units in which the di stance and the ground speed are displayed.The format can be changed using the Enter Button of the menu navigation button field.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Video and Data Display Hand Controller

Submenu „Messages“ Submenu Warning Messages and Settings Maximum threshold altitude ON/OFF : Activates and deactivates the warning messages when maximum threshold altitude from home point is reached. By default this warning message is activated. Maximum threshold altitude (Altitude Value): Sets the value of the maximum threshold altitude. If this value is exceeded during flight a warning message will be displayed on the video and data display. The value can be set between 0 and 65535 m. By default this value is set to 150 ft. Maximum threshold distance ON/OFF: Activates and deactivates the warning messages when maximum threshold distance from home point is reached. By default this warning message is activated. Maximum threshold distance (Distance Value): Sets the value of the maximum threshold distance If this value is exceeded during flight a warning message will be displayed on the video and data display. The value can be set between 0 and 65535 m. By default this value is set to 1050m67 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Hand Controller Video and Data Display Submenu system information

Submenu System Information Version: Version of the ground control station software

Language Settings Under the menu item language the language in which the menu items and the warning messages are displayed can be selected. Languages are selected using the enter button of the menu navigation button field. The following languages are selectable:

• German
• English Temperature: Inside temperature of the BKS Box of the ground control station RX Packets: Number of received data packets from downlink since the ground control station was turned on RX Faults: Number of faulty received data packets from downlink since the ground control station was turned on68 

### 6.1 Connectors 

## 6 Ground Control Station Box (BKS) Ground Control Box (BKS)

1 BKS power supply cable (Batt) 5 Connector video goggles (V-Brille) 8 Connector video/data rec antenna (VIDEO-ANT-RX) 2 Plug for 12/24V adapter power supply cable (12/24V) 6 USB connector for CPU (PC) 9 Connector fiber optic link (LWL) 3 Analog video out (V-OUT) 7 Connector for hand controller (HBT) 10 Connector CC uplink antenna (COMMAND-ANT-TX) 4 USB connector for recording (MEMO)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Connectors

6 7

8 9 10 1 2 3 4 51 3 2 1

2

Vehicle adapter cable

69 

### Connectors Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng BKS power supply cable To power the BKS box connect the power cable (1) with the ground station battery (2) : → „6.2.2 GCS power supply with battery“, P 77

Note: To avoid accidental disconnection of the power cable it should be secured with the attached Velcro tape (3) BKS 12/24V adapter cable To power the BKS box using a 12V or 24 V DC power source with a cigarette lighter connection use the vehicle adapter cable → „6.2.1 GCS power supply with 12/24 Vvehicle adapter cable“, P 763

4

70 

### Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng This connector is used to plug in a video stick to record the video sent from the airframe. (→ „start video recording to USB stick“, P 51). It is recommended to use the short USB stick, which is part of the delivery. USB plug for memory stick

Note: It is recommended to use short USB sticks to avoid mechanical damage due to accidental breaking off the stick. Use only high quality USB sticks with fast write times. The USB stick should be plugged into the ground station before the ground station is turned on to en sure readiness for recording. Videos are saved in H.264 format and can be played with any suitable media player. USB-stick The analog video output can be used to connect external monitors or recording devices. Analog video out
The adapter cable has 3 RCA plugs in two different colors, red and yellow:

• Yellow - video display without data written in
• Red - video display with embedded data in video

(→ „5.2 Video and data display“, P 52) Video adapter cable 

### Connectors5

6

71 

### Connectors Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng The connector for the video goggles allows for access to the video stream without data written in. Connector video goggles

USB connector for computer The USB connection on the ground station box allows for accessing the video as a digital MPEG2 video stream. It can be displayed or recorded on a computer. (→ „USB-connection to PC (PC)“, P 69) In addition telemetry and payload data can be accessed and displayed with the appropriate software. The USB connector is also used to connect to the optional AirRobot Mission Manager software to sent waypoint missions to the airframe and inter face with the software’s video and telemetry dis play. USB-cabel Video goggles7

8

72 Connecting the hand controller The hand controller is connected to the BKS box using the cable attached to it. 

### Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Connectors

AConnecting the video/data downlink receiving antenna The antenna is connected to the rectangular plug marked (VI- DEO-ANT-RX) on the BKS ground station box: → „Connect/Disconnect video/data downlink receiving antenna“, P 75 Hand controller

Video/data downlink receiving antenna Extension cord and base for video/data downlink receiving antenna10 9

73 Connector fiber optic link The fiber optic connector is used with the optional AirRobot fiber optic link. The fiber optic link allows for radio silent operation of the system. All video and data signals are transmitted through the fiber optic and the radio transmitters are deactivated. In case the fiber optic link is interrupted, the system reverts back to radio link within 2 seconds. 

### Connectors Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Connector CC uplink antenna The CC uplink antenna is either mounted to the connector marked Connector CC uplink antenna marked (COMMAND ANT TX) or using the extension cord: → „connecting the CC uplink antenna “, P 75

Optional base and extension for CC uplink antenna CC uplink antenna1 2

3 4 5

74 

### 6.2 Assembly

Attention: To ensure solid radio communication antennas should be off the ground in an elevated positions and unobstructed by objects or people. 

### Ground Control Box (BKS) Assembly and Set Up

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Ground Control Station (GCS) completely set up and assembled Below image of ground station completely set up with all essential connections in place BKS power supply cable connected to battery (4) Connector for hand controller (3) connected to BKS Box (5) Connector video/data RX antenna (1) connected to BKS Box antenna connector Connector CC uplink TX antenna (2) connected to BKS Box antenna connector Always connect antennas first! Never power up the ground control station when the antennas are not connected. This can cause damage to the transmitters due to transmitter burn.1 2 3

4 5

5 2

75 ► Plug the video/data downlink receiving antenna into the base socket with the extension cord (1) . The clamps of the connector (2) lock solid into the slots (3) onto the socket. To remove the antenna, press the clamps (2) towards each other and pull the plug out of the socket (3) . ► Note: the receiving antenna is a directional antenna and has a front and a backside. The front always has to face into the direction of the flight operation to ensure optimal signal reception. Connect and disconnect the video/data downlink receiving antenna

► Connect the plug of the antenna extension cord (4) to socket on the BKS box (5) .

► The clamps of the connector (2) lock solid into the slots on the socket ( 5) . To remove the antenna, press the clamps (2) towards each other and pull the plug out of the socket (5) .

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Ground Control Box (BKS) Assembly and Set Up8 7

10 9

11 12

76 Connecting the hand controller ► Connect the plug of the antenna extension to the socket on the BKS box marked (COM MAND-ANT-TX). As with the antenna the plug should solidly screwed into the socket. ► Screw the CC uplink transmitting antenna onto the connector on the base with the antenna extension cord.

► The hand controller is connected via a mil spec connector (11) . Line up the connector (12) with the socket using the markings on the outside of the connector and socket. Push the connector into the socket and turn the outside ring 45 degrees till it locks in. Connecting the CC uplink transmitting antenna

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Ground Control Box (BKS) Assembly and Set Up1

2

77 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Power Supply Ground Control Box (BKS) 6.3 Power supply BKS ground station box

The power to the BKS ground station can be supplied using the ground station battery or a 12/24V adapter cable.

BKS battery 12/24V vehicle adapter cable 6.3.1 Power supplied through vehicle adapter cable ► Connect the adapter cable (2) to the plug on the BKS box (1) and the plug for the cigarette lighter to the 12/24 V power outlet of the vehicle. Always connect antennas first! Never power up the ground control station when the antennas are not connected. This can cause damage to the transmitters due to transmitter burn.1 3 2

78 

### Power Supply Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 6.3.2 Power supplied through the ground station battery ► To power the BKS box connect the power cable (1) with the ground station battery (2)

Hinweis: To avoid accidental disconnection of the power cable it can be secured with the attached Velcro tape (3)1 2

3

3

79 

### Power Supply Ground Control Box (BKS)

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 6.3.3 Charging the ground station battery

Status-LED Bedeutung Green (continuous) Battery is fully charged Yellow (slow blinking) Charger in stand by mode Yellow (fast blinking) Battery is precharging Yellow (continuous) Battery is charging Red (continuous) Error, Battery is not charging The ground station battery is charged with the battery charger. Charging can take up to 6 hours. Charging level of the battery is displayed on top of the battery with a bar gauge. 0 Bars = Battery depleted; 5 Bars = Battery fully charged ► Connect the charger to a power outlet und plug the connector (1) of the charger onto the batte ry(2).

The charger has LEDs as status display (3) : After the plug sits correctly in place the status LED (3) shows the status of the charging.80 

### Operating the System System Check 

## 7 Operation 7.1 Pre flight check Before and after each operation the system should be completely checked to ensure safe and reliable operation: ► Check all components of the system for possible damages or damages:
• Airframe – all locks of the engine arms
• Airframe - battery properly in place and cable solidly attached
• Airframe – engines, rotate by hand, no friction or scrabbing noise should be present
• Airframe – rotor safety clips
• Airframe – RX and TX antennas in place an properly mounted
• Airframe – payload attachment
• BKS ground station – antennas in place and properly connected
• BKS ground station – battery cable in place and secured
• BKS ground station – battery fully charged
Attention: The system is not flight ready when Rotors are damaged. Even small damage results in an imbalance, which can have an effect on the attitude and flight stabilization sensors Engines are damaged and have dented engine housings. The engines should turn freely and not create and scrubbing noise. Damage to the outer structure or the engine arms of the system are visible. Antennas are bend or snapped off Water has penetrated the housing Batteries are undercooled or not fully charged.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng81 

### Flight Preparations Operating the System 7.2 Flight preparation set up

a) Airframe ► Unfold the airframe and mount rotors, rotor clips and antennas: → „4.1 Handling“, P 12 ► Insert the flight battery: → „4.2 Power Supply“, P 27 ► Attach the payload: → „4.1.6 Payload“, P 22 Note: Always ensure that the flight battery is fully charged.
Note Troubleshooting: When ground station components and airframes are interchanged, Drone ID settings and Communication channel settings have to be checked and matched. In case settings of the airframe do not match up with the ground station the airframe will no link up or respond to the ground station and no video signal will be displayed: To check these settings refer to „Submenu Connections“

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng82 1 

### Flight Preparations

► Set up the ground control station (→ „6.2 Assembly“, P 74) ► Turn the video/data antenna with the front towards the flight direction (1) b) Ground control station 

### Operating the System

Attention: To ensure solid radio communication antennas should be off the ground in an elevated positions and unobstructed by objects or people.

Important Note! The radio signal should not be obstructed or masked by buildings, trees or structures:

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng83 

### 7.3 Take off

► Bring the flight platform to the take off spot. Bear in mind the flight direction of the airframe. 

### Operating the System Take Off

Flight direction of airframe (red arrow) Attention: When positioning the airframe for take off take off the flight direction of the aircraft and the wind regime has to be taken into consideration. A minimum distance of 60 feet around the airframe is required for all persons. Note: NOTE: This chapter does not constitute a flight-training manual. It does not replace flight training. Only qualified and trained operators should pilot the aerial system.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng84 2 

### 1 ► Press the on/off button (1) for 3 seconds till you hear a beep.

Beep signal Meaning No beep The flight platform has a remote uplink connection, GPS reception and is flight ready Delayed inconsistent cheep No GPS signal or CC remote uplink signal. Check channel and Drone ID settings Consistent fast beep Battery is depleted Power on the ground station: ► Press the on off button (2) for 3 seconds With the ground station powered on video transmission will start and the status display for the remote uplink should show the letter R (→ „5.2 Video and data display“, P 52). The beeping signals of the flight platform can vary depending on system status:

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Operating the System Take Off85 3 To start the engines: ► Pull down Joystick 1 all the way (3) . Hold – engines will start slowly. After approximately 5 seconds the flight platform will cheep once. This is an indication that the pre flight check has been completed. The flight platform is now ready for take off! Attention: Be aware that the airframe will take of even if the Joystick 1 is released only up to its center position!

Attention: Perform a short test flight first. Take off to a low altitude (30 – 50 ft). During initial phase climb swiftly, do not loiter too close to ground At low altitude check response to Joystick commands for yaw, forward and sideways flight With the Joystick 1 in neutral position check that the system maintains its altitude Touch down again The preflight has been completed and the system is ready for a m ission flight. Note: If the Joystick is pulled up before the cheep confirming the completion of the pre flight check is heard the engines will shut down and the system will not take of f.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Operating the System Take Off86 

### 7.4 Controlling the airframe The flight platform should always be flown through the video in the first person shooter perspective and not line of site to the aircraft. (except otherwi se required by regulations) This way operation is similar to driving a car. There are no reversals of directions; each stick input translates into the exact movement on the screen regardless of the position of the airframe in relation to the operator. Control of the airframe can be achieved intuitively almost like a video game. In addition this operation mode ensures that status of flight battery, ground station battery and GPS availability always remains in plain sight to the operator. 

### Control Operating the System

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng87 Landing in line of sight of the operator: ► Bring the airframe close to the landing area ► Turn the airframe so that the back is facing towards you; this way Joystick input will be proportional to observed aircraft movement. As an example, pushing Joystick 2 to the left results in movement of the aircraft to the left from the perspective of the operator looking at it. ► Decent slowly by pulling down Joystick 1. Ensure that the pull is straight down to avoid turn of the aircraft. ► When the airframe has reached the ground, pull the Joystick all the way down (as for engine start on take off) ► The airframe will remain on the ground. 

### 7.5 Landing Operating the System Landing

Landing through camera view: ► Bring the airframe close to the landing area ► Tilt the camera down (70 to 80 degrees) so that you can see the ground towards the direction of the landing area. ► Fly slowly towards the landing area while descending. Use features on the ground as reference points. ► When the flight platform is close to ground stop forward flight and descent slowly till the airframe is on the ground. ► When the airframe has reached the ground, pull the Joystick all the way down (as for engine start on take off) The airframe will remain on the ground.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng88 3

4 

### 1 Landing Operating the System

► Remove the flight battery and charge for subsequent missions or storage: → „4.2.1 Insert and removal of the flight battery“, P 28. → „4.2.2 Charging the flight battery“, P 31. Powering off the airframe: ► Press the ON/OFF button (5) for 3 seconds. Disarm engines after landing: ► Hold down Joystick 1 (3) all the way as during final stage of landing. While holding down the Joystick simultaneously press the engine off button (4) on the hand controller for 2 seconds. The engines will stop. Release the Joystick 1 into the middle position after the engines have stopped.

Note: Restart of the engines can only be performed after the Joystick 1 has been in the middle/neutral position once.

Note: Always store and transport batteries in climate-controlled environment. Undercooled batteries loose capacity and do not perform well. Once the battery is inserted into the flight platform and the flight is in progress the batteries warm up and the outside temperature does not have the same effect.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng89 

### 7.6 Fail safe functions Operating the System

The approach position function of the hand controller allows to command the airframe to re turn to the home position automatically: → „Approach position“, P 45 The “home position” is by default the coordinate on which the system first received GPS after been powered on. For safety reasons the home position should be manually changed by the operator. When the auto home function is active, in lost link the airframe flies a straight path towards the home point. While it is in flight, heading and altitude can be changed using Joystick 1 (al titude and heading control) without canceling the automated flight path. Any movement of Joystick 2 (position control) will immediately cancel the automated flight. The airframe goes into auto hover or can manually be controlled. It is imperative that even during automated flight the operator at all times pays close attention to the video display to avoid obstacles and watch for any hazards. 7.6.1 Auto home operator initiated

7.6.2 Finding a lost airframe
► Turn off engines (→ „Turn off engines“, P 48) ► Turn on GPS (→ „GPS Activation/Deactivation)“, P 37). ► Press button “approach position” and hold down The flight platform will now make a cheeping noise. 

### Fail Safe Functions

After landing in an area with low visibility an acoustical signal can be used to locate the airframe:

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Attention: The auto home function initiated through the approach position menu and button should not be mistaken for the auto home on lost link!90 1

2 

### Operating the System During a regular landing the engine speed is reduced to idle speed when the aircraft sets down on the ground. At this point the operator can disarm the engines. In case of a crash landing or a collision the system is not aware of it’ s flight status. In this case the engines can be turned off by the operator if the system is at an attitude exceeding 60 degrees: 7.6.3 Emergency engine shut down / flight termination 

### Fail Safe Functions

► Hold down Joystick 1 (1) all the way as during final stage of landing. While holding down the Joystick simultaneously press the engine off button ( 2) on the hand controller for 2 seconds. The engines will stop. Release the Joystick 1 into the middle position after the engines have stopped.
If the system for any reason exceeds an attitude of 160 degrees the engines will automatically shut down and if the system is in flight the flight will be terminated immediately. This avoids any uncontrolled spinning of the aircraft in case a rotor or engine is lost in midair.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng91 Lost Link

no

no yes

yes W ait 15 sec

Home on lost Link Engaged? GPS available

Emergency Landing Automated fly to home position

91 

### 7.7 Loss of CC uplink Fault tree for lost link When command control radio communication is lost the system responds as follows: 

### Loss of CC uplink Operating the System

Note: The waiting time of 15 seconds is default factory setting and can only be changed by the manufacturer.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng92 

### Loss of CC uplink Operating the System 7.7.1 Home on lost link The function “Auto Home on Lost Link” initiates an automated flight to the home position when command control uplink is lost.

The function is activated with the Auto Home on Lost Link button on the hand controller (→ Auto-Home on Lost Link“ (On/Off)“, P 46). A blinking H in the video/data display indicates the function is being executed. The sequenze under GPS when CC link is lost is as follows: 1 – Wait for 15 seconds in auto positioning mode 2 – Climb to highest altitude reached during flight 3 – Head towards home point 4 – Fly straight path towards home point 5 – When home point is reached auto land Important: Safe use of this feature requires that a straight flight path back to the home point from any position during the mission can be flown without colliding with obstacles. The system will not backtrack the previous flight path. As a result there is a risk of collision with structures during the straight return to home flight. There might be obstructions in this flight path of which the operator is unaware. As a countermeasure the airframe in lost link mode will climb to the highest alti tude it has reached during the mission flight to this point. If the mission requires low flying or flying around obstacles (buildings, trees or powerlines) rather then overflying them it is advisable to climb at least once during the mission to a high altitude, which is in excess of all obstacles in the mission area. As a result in the event of lost link the airframe will climb to this altitude and maintain it on the way to the home point. The function should NOT be used when flights underneath structures or obstacles are part of the mission. During these mission parts the function should be deacti vated to avoid the airframe from climbing into an obstacle.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng93 

### Loss of CC uplink

7.7.2 Auto Landing in lost link mode If GPS signal is available auto landing will be initiated 15 seconds after the airframe has reached the home position. The descent rate is electronically set to 0.5 m/s. When CC uplink is lost and no GPS signal is available, the airframe initiates auto landing immediately to avoid drift away. The descent rate is electronically set to 0.5 m/s. In addition to lost link mode auto landing is performed when the battery of the aircraft is depleted. 

### Operating the System

Attention: Auto landing on depleted battery can only safely be performed from flight altitudes lower then 60 ft above ground. Always monitor the battery indicator. When the last bar is blinking adjust altitude to below 60 feet to ensure safe landing. After auto landing there is a likelihood of a restart of the engines. Keep a distance of at least 60 feet from the airframe till all engines have completely stopped.

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Note: Lost link sequence is cancelled by the airframe if signal is reestablished for 10% of the waiting time. With the factory default settings of 15 seconds the lost link sequence will be cancelled if signal is present for 1.5 seconds.94 

### Troubleshooting Operating the System
Some mechanical damage can be repaired by replacing parts. Certain parts like rotors, lan ding gear and similar are user replaceable. In case other parts show damage or malfunction factory maintenance will be required . 

### 8.1 Malfunctions of airframe, ground control station and payload

8.1.1 Malfunctions of the airframe 

## 8 Troubleshooting

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Malfunction Possible reason

Airframe does not respond to CC input CC uplink receiving antenna on airframe not working, not present or not properly installed. ► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna. CC uplink transmitting antenna on the ground station not working, not present or not properly installed. ► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna. CC uplink radio communication range exceeded. ► If in flight, move closer to flight platform. ► If in flight, wait till lost link mode is initiated and airframe returns to home. Radio interference due to other radio emitters in the vicinity. ► Change channel of the airframe and ground station (→ „ submenu connections“, P 62). The radio channels of the airframe and the ground station are different. ► Check channel settings of airframe and ground station and when necessary change settings (→ „ submenu connections“, P 62). Drone ID of airframe and ground station are not a match. ► Match up drone ID of the ground station and airframe. When necessary change settings (→ „ submenu connections“, P 62). The communication protocol in the ground station has been changed. ► Change setting of the protocol on the ground station (→ „ submenu connections“, S. 62).95 

### Operating the System Troubleshooting

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Malfunction Possible reason The airframe spins when GPS is activated and does not hold steady position Parameters of the magnetometer are faulty. ► Deactivate GPS and land immediately FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED No GPS The flight platform is in an unsuited location with no unobstructed view of the sky or buildings or structures mask the GPS signal. ► Move the airframe to a different take off location
Engine start is aborted by the airframe Flight platform stands inclined. ► Place flight platform on a horizontal landing spot. Joystick 1 was not pulled down long enough. ► Repeat engine start and hold Joystick 1 all the way down till beep Malfunction of the internal sensors. ► FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED96 

### Operating the System

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

### Troubleshooting 8.1.2 Malfunctions of the ground control station

Malfunction Possible reason

No video transmission The airframe is not powered on. ► Power on airframe. Malfunction of the video/data receiving antenna on the ground control station. ► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna. Malfunction of the video/data transmitting antenna on the airframe. ► Check antenna and when necessary replace antenna. The antenna plugs on the ground station are defective. ►Check the connections for proper seating, bends or damages to the cables. The set video norm does not match the signal from the camera. ►Check video norm settings and when necessary change setting using DIP switch on the airframe. DThe video antenna on the ground station faces into the wrong direction. ► Check orientation (always towards flight direction) and correct.97 

### Troubleshooting

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 8.1.3 Malfunctions of the payload

Malfunction Possible reason

No Video Image The flight platform is powered off. ► Power on flight platform. Fehler an der Videoempfangsantenne der Bodenkontrollstation. ► Prüfen und ersetzen Sie ggf. die Videoempfangsantenne der Bodenkontrollstation. Is payload properly seated and bayonet connector fully turned in? Payload does not receive power. ► Try to tilt payload remote controlled, if not possible check power supply to payload. Contact pins of payload connector are soiled. ► Carefully clean contacts. Damage to cables or connectors of the payload. ► Check cable and plugs for damages or exposed wires. No remote controlled tilt of payload Contact pins of payload connector are soiled. ► Carefully clean contacts. Servomotors are defective. ► Check servos and transmission belts. 

### Operating the System98 

### Malfunctions Error Codes

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng With each engine start the systems performs a full check of engines and flight management. In case malfunctions are detected the hand controller will display the following error messa ges and codes: 

### 8.2 Error codes airframe
Displayed Error Codes

Malfunction Possible reason 0x11 (Acceleration sensor) 0x12 (Acceleration sensor) 0x13 (Gyro) 0x14 (Gyro) Movements of the airframe caused by external forces affect the sensors during start up and system check. ► Ensure that the airframe stands on solid ground and is not expose to high winds while on the ground. Restart engines again If the error code persists, there might be a decalibration or defect of the sensors FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED. 0x15 (Barometric Sensor) 0x16 (Magnetometer) Barometric sensor or magnetometer did not initialize during start up ► Power airframe of and on. Retry. If the error code persists, there might be malfunction of the magnetometer or barometric sensor FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED. 0x21 (Throttle) Joystick 1 was not fully pulled down to end position during take off ► Restart engines and retry pulling joystick 1 down to end position till beep can be heard. If the error code persists, check for quality of CC uplink radio communication or interference. 0x22 (Sensors) Movements of the airframe caused by external forces affect the sensors during start up and system check. ► Ensure that the airframe stands on solid ground and is not expose to high winds while on the ground. Restart engines again. If the error code persists, there might be a decalibration or defect of the sensors FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED .99 

### Malfunctions Error Codes

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng

Malfunction Possible reason 0x23 (Engines) Communication to engines is disrupted. ► Power off airframe and power on again. Retry. If the error code persists, there is a defect on one or more engines. FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED . 0x24 (Engine launch failure) 0x25 (Engine launch failure) 0x26 (Engine launch failure) Engine launch failure Engine speed to low at start up, possible cause high gusty winds effecting props ► Reposition airframe to wind protected take off area. If the error code persists, there is a defect on one or more engines. FACTORY MAINTENANCE REQUIRED 0x31 (Flight termination) Airframe has collided or crashed. Airframe is flipped, engines are shut down and power cut off for safety reasons.100 

### 9.1 Batteries 

## 9 Appendix Appendix Battery Handling

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Achtung: The flight batteries contain lithium ion cells. Because of the high energy density these cells have a risk to inflame or explode: When extremely overcharged When overloaded When deep discharge occurs When overheating occurs As a result for mechanical damage, piercing As a result of a short circuit
Countermeasures in case of battery fire

• Always extinguish a burning battery with suitable extinguishing agent.
• If there is no suitable extinguishing agent let the battery burn out
• Do not breath in any vapors resulting from a burning battery
• NEVER EXTINGUISH A BURNING BATTERY WITH WATER, DANGER

OF EXPLOSION!101 

### Appendix Battery Handling

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng General instructions for handling the battery
• The AR180 is solely for use with the AR180 airframe, it may not be used with

any other device.
• The BKS battery is solely for use with the ground station.
• Always fully charge batteries prior to use. ONLY use dedicated AirRobot AR180

charger!
• No fire or open flames close to batteries.

• Avoid contact of the batteries with any liquids.
• Never disassemble a battery. Do not modify or make any changes to the

battery. Disassembling a battery can cause short circuits with discharge of gases, fire, explosions and the discharge of harmful liquids.

• Do not drop battery. Avoid any kind of mechanical damage to the battery. Do not

use a battery that shows signs of mechanical damage.
• In case a battery becomes damage due to airframe crash or drop, store battery

in a non-flammable and non conductive container on non-flammable ground. Monitor battery for at least 30 minutes after damage occurred. There is still a risk of ignition during this time period.
• Electrolytes used in the battery are harmful. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
• If skin comes into contact with electrolytes wash with plenty of water and consult

a physician.
• If skin comes into contact with electrolytes wash with plenty of water and consult

a physician.
• Gases and vapors discharged by defective batteries are harmful. Do not

breathe in.
• Do not use batteries with a surface temperature of < 50 or > 140. Do not

store batteries in vehicles or in direct sunlight.
• Avoid short circuit of the contacts with metal objects like keys or knifes.
• Check the battery after each flight for mechanical damage, bloating, corrosion,

smell and extensive heat. Do not use the battery if you find any of the above listed.
• The batteries are rechargeable, but still have a limited life span. Replace

batteries when their performance starts to degrade.102 

### Appendix Battery use for flight operations:
• Use only fully charged batteries with sufficient capacity for the flight mission.

• Never use a battery if the charger or the battery tester displayed “error” when

connecting the battery
• The optimal operating temperature is within the range of 68 to 104 degrees.

Batteries which are cold (< 37) degrees have higher inner resistance and lower capacity.
• After flight the battery temperature should not exceed 140 degrees. Allow the

battery to cool down to room temperature before charging. Do not store discharged batteries.
• Never use a battery which shows signs of damage, bloating, corrosion, smell

and extensive heat. Do not use the battery if you find any of the above listed.
**• In case a battery becomes damage due to airframe crash or drop, store** 

**battery in a non-flammable and non conductive container on non flammable ground. Monitor battery for at least 30 minutes after damage**  **occurred. There is still a risk of ignition during this time period.** 

### Battery Handling

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Note: To get optimal results from the batteries they should be used on a regular basis. Record all flights with a battery including flight time for a better assessment of the condition of the battery.103 

### Appendix Battery Handling

AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng Charging batteries:
• Only use dedicated AirRobot battery chargers.
• Never use a battery if the charger or the battery tester displayed “error” when

connecting the battery
• Never charge batteries unattended
• Always put batteries on non flammable and non conductive surfaces

• Do not charge batteries in areas with the presence of flammable objects, heat

sources or in a car exposed to sunlight.
• Do not charge batteries in car while driving.
• Do not charge batteries in areas with strong electro static fields or strong electro

magnetic emitters like remote controls, cellular phones, electrical motors.
• The battery should not heat up during charging. If the battery heats up while

charging is in progress, disconnect immediately.
Storage and transport of batteries:
• When storing the battery for extended period of time charge only to 70%

charging level. Fully charged batteries age faster when stored. Do not store discharged batteries, this will significantly shorten the lifetime of the battery . • Optimal storage temperature is 59 to 68 degrees.
• Store batteries on non flammable and non conductive surfaces.

• Store the battery in dry area.
• Remove all connections to the airframe or ground station from the batteries.
• Always transport in the appropriate transport case.104 AirRobot AR180 Manual Version 1.0.4 eng 

## Notes