ELECTRIC COUNTER-ROTATING TAIL-SITTER - 1:8 SCALE - CHALLENGING
VTOL - HOVERING CAPABLE - TRANSITION FLIGHT
Model data:
Type: Giant-Scale RC Model based on the XFY1 Pogo Scale: ~1:8 Length: 1.65 m ( 5.41 feet) Wingspan: 1.13 m (3.70 feet) Weight: 14 lbs / 6.35 Kg Engine: 2 x Electric powered. Suggested pair of T-Motor AT7215 (170KV) Propeller: 2 X 3-blade, 24" (counter rotating) at approximately 4000-6000 rpm Electric system (simulated): 2 × 10S 8,000-10,000 mAh LiPo in parallel. Two T-Motor AT7215 KV170 counter-rotating motors operating at 37V nominal, ~65A per motor at operational power, ~130A total system draw, ~4,800W combined output. Peak system draw at full power: ~170A / ~6,290W. Combined battery capacity: ~666 Wh. Full-power endurance: approximately 6 minutes at the limit. Max battery temp ceiling: 80°C. Real-world numbers will depend on how hard you push it. Performance/Limitations: Maximum speed: 70 knots / 81 mph / 130 km/h (sea level, full power, straight and level). Vne: 90 knots / 104 mph / 167 km/h. Note: top speed is limited by prop pitch selection - the fixed-pitch propellers in the RC model are optimized for low-speed thrust and VTOL transition performance rather than forward flight efficiency, reflecting the primary mission of the model.
Channels:
Throttle
Rudder
Elevator
Ailerons
Control modes (Full, Dual-Rates/Expo) - Recommended full mode at all times.
Pilot Notes:
The XFY-1X is an experimental, exotic tail-sitter that pushes real-time aerodynamic simulation to the extreme. Counter-rotating propellers, a delta wing, and flying surfaces sitting directly in the propwash combine to create a fascinating flying laboratory that explores the boundaries of what X-Plane's physics engine can simulate. There is nothing else like it in the RCE fleet.
Vertical Takeoff and Hover
The model is designed for vertical takeoff and can hover across all control axes (pitch, roll, and yaw). Control in hover is challenging, orientation wise, especially because it is controllable in all 3 axes. The gyro correction system was deliberately kept modest, replicating the plausible control systems of a home or scratch-built model of this configuration.
Transition to Forward Flight
Acceleration and manual transition to forward flight is straightforward in principle, but do not rush it. Attempting transition too early, at high AOA and low speed, risks an abrupt departure and loss of control. Let the aircraft accelerate fully and establish itself before committing to the transition.
In forward flight the XFY-1X carries high wing loading and loses speed and lift quickly without power or in steep turns. Gliding capability is minimal. This aircraft must be flown with power at all times. Not necessarily at full throttle, but power-off flight is not a practical option.
Transition Back to Hover
This is the most demanding phase of flight. Slow down gradually at low altitude, maintaining positive power throughout to preserve controllability and lift. Gently pull up toward vertical while adding power. Once stabilized on the vertical axis, ease the throttle and descend calmly in hover. The primary challenge at this point is spatial orientation; the perspective shift from horizontal to vertical flight especially if transition was made at a higher altitude requires concentration. Once back at low hover altitude, tail-landing is straightforward.
Controls: Full control mode is mandatory for takeoff, transitions, and landing. Dual rates or expo may be used during high speed forward flight, though not recommended.
Real world reference model:
*The following product link shows a real-world reference of similar real-world product. It is provided for informational purpose onle. It is not produced by or affiliated with VSKYLABS. Various design features and other characteristics may vary, when compared to the VSKYLABS model in X-Plane.
*The following video shows a real-world reference for the model. It is provided for informational purposes only. It is not produced by or affiliated with VSKYLABS. All credits belong to the original content creators. Various design features and other characteristics may vary, when compared to the VSKYLABS model in X-Plane.
VSKYLABS RC Elements Vol. 1 screenshots - X-Plane 12:
