Insane Super Futuristic CopterPack First Flight
https://youtu.be/e5cgx8Hv_MQ
https://youtu.be/PZSR40Ac3-I
https://youtu.be/3BC89L3bQAM

https://copterpack.com.au/
About CopterPack

CopterPack is an electric backpack helicopter with a self-levelling
autopilot. The lightweight airframe is constructed from carbon fiber
honeycomb.

CopterPack – CONTACT contact@copterpack.com.au

Check out the CopterPack Youtube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrE4LdXIpDX8T6Hen99qIMA

© CopterPack 2021
---------------------------------------------

https://newatlas.com/aircraft/copterpack-electric-jetpack/

Aussie electric Copterpack makes sensational first manned flight
By Loz Blain
June 06, 2021

une 06, 2021

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The Copterpack is a two-prop electric manned multirotor
The Copterpack is a two-prop electric manned multirotor
Copterpack
View 6 Images

A green alternative to the humble kerosene-burning jetpack? Recently
released video shows an Australian man rising high off the ground using a
two-rotor electric personal flight device he calls the Copterpack. It's
bulky, but looks surprisingly stable and controllable.

In construction, it's closer to the New Zealand-built Martin jetpack than
the JetCat turbine-powered devices flown by the big four personal flight
pioneers – Yves Rossy, David Mayman, Franky Zapata, Richard Browning – we've
been covering closely over the last decade.

It uses just two rotors, but fairly large ones with diameters around 3 ft
(~90 cm). These connect via what appear to be carbon fiber tubes to a
rigid-framed backpack with some underslung battery packs and a pair of flat
armrests with hand controls on them.

Where drones with four or more rotors are able to self-stabilize and achieve
control authority simply by varying the speeds of their fixed rotors, this
two-rotor arrangement does it by twisting its rotors to vector the thrust.
Looking stable and controlled, the pilot takes the Copterpack up to an
impressive height
Looking stable and controlled, the pilot takes the Copterpack up to an
impressive heightCopterpack

And the arrangement here looks surprisingly friendly to fly. The pilot takes
off in a stable and controlled fashion, rises to a frankly scary height over
a beach, then demonstrates the Copterpack's forward and sideways movement
and yaw control with some mildly aggressive-looking turns before touching
down very gently.

Given the small size of the battery pack here, and the well-known energy
density issues of lithium batteries, we don't expect it stays in the air
very long at this point. This is likely the chief factor behind why it looks
so ungainly; large diameter rotors produce lift more efficiently than
smaller ones, so the Copterpack needs these big fans until energy storage
becomes a solved problem.

As to safety, well, its two-rotor setup doesn't offer anything in the way of
redundancy, the pilot is certainly betting his life on the strength of those
two carbon tubes, and his motorcycle gear is unlikely to do much in the
event of a 50-ft (15-m) drop.

Still, the whole thing looks solidly built, and the flight itself is very
impressive. We've reached out to try to connect with the Copterpack team and
talk through the design, the flight experience, and what's next, and we'll
bring you more when we can.

Check out the video below.
https://youtu.be/PRfV5TvRjEA

29 comments
Sign in to post a comment.
Please keep comments to less than 150 words. No abusive material or spam
will be published.
Towerman June 6, 2021 11:29 PM
Whooohoo ! ! Fun Fun FUN ! ! !

All we now need is an order button below the write up :D
Arcticshade June 6, 2021 11:55 PM
The Tilting mechanism is to DROOL over, it's the perfect 2 rotor flying
machine !
And like you say when battery performance increase we can make the rotors
even smaller.

OR keep the 90cm diameter motors and fly even further, i actually like the
size of the rotors.

""It's bulky, but looks surprisingly stable and controllable.""

Bulky ? Martin Jetpack is bulky, not this thing !

eirobotix June 7, 2021 12:01 AM
Nice job mate but please do your demos over water not land - nobody wants to
see you seriously injured or worse....

RIP Jetman Vincent Reffet :(
kvncloete June 7, 2021 03:59 AM
This is far to dangerous. Somebody is going to get hurt. Jet packs are
compact and robust.
Arcticshade June 7, 2021 05:04 AM
Vincent did a backflip at 800ft and could not recover quickly enough as he
was too low, that was the cause not an engine failure.

Having said that, electric motors in any case are more reliable than turbine
engines so i would say its definately safer to fly this twin motor. Yes i do
agree test over water until full certification/confidence is developed.

@KVNcloete

No you have it backwards, Turbines are less robust, moreover, they have a
lag in response time, Electric motors have instant power changes making for
precise control. These are the basics ;)
dan June 7, 2021 05:32 AM
Great! That looks simply great! love it! Finally big (efficient) rotor
diameter, ultra light/minimalistic design for a few minutes of FUN! Being so
light, I guess it classifies as sport equipment and they can skip
certification issues of other eVTOLs. Not sure if I flew with this invention
over rocky ground, maybe safer over water. And I would have to go first on a
severe diet before take-off...
Michael son of Lester June 7, 2021 06:03 AM
Very cool! I haven't been this excited about a flying machine since I
watched the first Gen H4 flight video years ago. Weight-wise, I suspect that
in the USA the Copterpack would be classed as an ultralight so no license
would be required.

Considering the quiet of the electric motors, if they could get the
endurance time sorted out these would also be natural for special forces.
Think, putting people on ships that have been hijacked or inserting special
ops teams on top of buildings or into enemy-held hard to reach areas.

So far as safety goes, I'm sure that if these come to market, it will be
after all the bugs are worked out. Otherwise, the makers would face some
serious court issues the first time a flyer came to earth the hard way.
paul314 June 7, 2021 07:41 AM
I'm not sure the safety issues can all be worked out. Those tiny shrouds
avoid the really stupid prop accidents, but they won't contain much if
something goes seriously wrong (or if the props ingest something.) But it's
really cool and I totally want one...
jerryd June 7, 2021 08:16 AM
Will need a lot of training for most people and likely still not safe and
missing a ballistic parachute.
Far better would be 2 12' diameter rotors on the same center shaft to get 4x
more lift/kw. It's also inherently stable and so efficient the Mars
Helicopter used it.
Edward Vix June 7, 2021 08:40 AM
It looks like it wouldn't be too hard to stick your hand into the
propellers. Or topple to the ground when landing and get your lower leg or a
dog into the works. Not at all practical.
Towerman June 7, 2021 09:18 AM
@paul
Its what it is, you will always have people trying to talk negative while
its actually being a huge success. This is what a compact (as much as can
be) stable 1 man flying machine looks like, you cannot add more bulky
components on it as it will take the fun out of the "naked" design
complimented by great aesthetics.

However lets compare safety if you wish, flying a gyro is a fuel bomb on a
rotor. Of all the gyro crashes i have seen a marginal of cases where the
gyrocopter did not spontaneously combust upon ground impact, scorching the
occupants to a crisp. Yet amazingly they have been certified for decades !

@jerryd
A coax is a wonderful design, in fact there was this one chinese guy that
made one with a human hanging underneath it just like this Copterpack. (if i
had the link on hand i would've posted it) Great flying machine, however it
cannot be compared to the Copterpack.

The Copterpack as a package is more technologically advanced, the software
and hardware communicate for precise control, you can dial in or out as much
stability as you wish ! This will be a boon for beginners and professionals
alike ! A counter rotator is more mechanically complicated and it will not
be as maneuverable as the Copterpack.

A counter rotator is still great and they can still make them as well with
electric motors, but cannot be compared to the superiority of new technology
such as multirotors/Copterpack with it's crisp and agile handling,
futuristic control systems which is finely in tune with all the components
used to run it (the whole system is alive)
Liviu Giurca June 7, 2021 09:38 AM
A six rotor redundant variant named Aeroteq 008 is described on
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/aerial-vtol-motorcycle-common-sense-approach-liviu-giurca/
This can use a hybrid-electric energy source.
Q June 7, 2021 10:01 AM
for safety think about BRS - or get a quick inflating airbag...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQr8YkzEEWQ&ab_channel=MCN-Motorcyclenews.com
These would be pretty cool! For redundancy - dual motor on each boom - with
counter rotating blades.
clay June 7, 2021 10:39 AM
Now all I need to do it entertain a full blown starvation protocol for a
year... to be as skinny as the jockey (er..pilot) flying it.

Larry Dighera <LDighera@att.net> writes:

> Insane Super Futuristic CopterPack First Flight
> https://youtu.be/e5cgx8Hv_MQ
> https://youtu.be/PZSR40Ac3-I
> https://youtu.be/3BC89L3bQAM
>
> https://copterpack.com.au/
> About CopterPack
>
> CopterPack is an electric backpack helicopter with a self-levelling
> autopilot. The lightweight airframe is constructed from carbon fiber
> honeycomb.
>
> CopterPack – CONTACT contact@copterpack.com.au
>
> Check out the CopterPack Youtube channel:
> https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrE4LdXIpDX8T6Hen99qIMA
>
> © CopterPack 2021
> ---------------------------------------------
>
> https://newatlas.com/aircraft/copterpack-electric-jetpack/
>
> Aussie electric Copterpack makes sensational first manned flight
> By Loz Blain
> June 06, 2021
>
> une 06, 2021
>
> Facebook
> Twitter
> Flipboard
> LinkedIn
>
> The Copterpack is a two-prop electric manned multirotor
> The Copterpack is a two-prop electric manned multirotor
> Copterpack
> View 6 Images
>
> A green alternative to the humble kerosene-burning jetpack? Recently
> released video shows an Australian man rising high off the ground using a
> two-rotor electric personal flight device he calls the Copterpack. It's
> bulky, but looks surprisingly stable and controllable.
>
> In construction, it's closer to the New Zealand-built Martin jetpack than
> the JetCat turbine-powered devices flown by the big four personal flight
> pioneers – Yves Rossy, David Mayman, Franky Zapata, Richard Browning – we've
> been covering closely over the last decade.
>
> It uses just two rotors, but fairly large ones with diameters around 3 ft
> (~90 cm). These connect via what appear to be carbon fiber tubes to a
> rigid-framed backpack with some underslung battery packs and a pair of flat
> armrests with hand controls on them.
>
> Where drones with four or more rotors are able to self-stabilize and achieve
> control authority simply by varying the speeds of their fixed rotors, this
> two-rotor arrangement does it by twisting its rotors to vector the thrust.
> Looking stable and controlled, the pilot takes the Copterpack up to an
> impressive height
> Looking stable and controlled, the pilot takes the Copterpack up to an
> impressive heightCopterpack
>
> And the arrangement here looks surprisingly friendly to fly. The pilot takes
> off in a stable and controlled fashion, rises to a frankly scary height over
> a beach, then demonstrates the Copterpack's forward and sideways movement
> and yaw control with some mildly aggressive-looking turns before touching
> down very gently.
>
> Given the small size of the battery pack here, and the well-known energy
> density issues of lithium batteries, we don't expect it stays in the air
> very long at this point. This is likely the chief factor behind why it looks
> so ungainly; large diameter rotors produce lift more efficiently than
> smaller ones, so the Copterpack needs these big fans until energy storage
> becomes a solved problem.
>
> As to safety, well, its two-rotor setup doesn't offer anything in the way of
> redundancy, the pilot is certainly betting his life on the strength of those
> two carbon tubes, and his motorcycle gear is unlikely to do much in the
> event of a 50-ft (15-m) drop.
>
> Still, the whole thing looks solidly built, and the flight itself is very
> impressive. We've reached out to try to connect with the Copterpack team and
> talk through the design, the flight experience, and what's next, and we'll
> bring you more when we can.
>
> Check out the video below.
> https://youtu.be/PRfV5TvRjEA
>
>
> 29 comments
> Sign in to post a comment.
> Please keep comments to less than 150 words. No abusive material or spam
> will be published.
> Towerman June 6, 2021 11:29 PM
> Whooohoo ! ! Fun Fun FUN ! ! !
>
> All we now need is an order button below the write up :D
> Arcticshade June 6, 2021 11:55 PM
> The Tilting mechanism is to DROOL over, it's the perfect 2 rotor flying
> machine !
> And like you say when battery performance increase we can make the rotors
> even smaller.
>
> OR keep the 90cm diameter motors and fly even further, i actually like the
> size of the rotors.
>
> ""It's bulky, but looks surprisingly stable and controllable.""
>
> Bulky ? Martin Jetpack is bulky, not this thing !
>
> eirobotix June 7, 2021 12:01 AM
> Nice job mate but please do your demos over water not land - nobody wants to
> see you seriously injured or worse....
>
> RIP Jetman Vincent Reffet :(
> kvncloete June 7, 2021 03:59 AM
> This is far to dangerous. Somebody is going to get hurt. Jet packs are
> compact and robust.
> Arcticshade June 7, 2021 05:04 AM
> Vincent did a backflip at 800ft and could not recover quickly enough as he
> was too low, that was the cause not an engine failure.
>
> Having said that, electric motors in any case are more reliable than turbine
> engines so i would say its definately safer to fly this twin motor. Yes i do
> agree test over water until full certification/confidence is developed.
>
> @KVNcloete
>
> No you have it backwards, Turbines are less robust, moreover, they have a
> lag in response time, Electric motors have instant power changes making for
> precise control. These are the basics ;)
> dan June 7, 2021 05:32 AM
> Great! That looks simply great! love it! Finally big (efficient) rotor
> diameter, ultra light/minimalistic design for a few minutes of FUN! Being so
> light, I guess it classifies as sport equipment and they can skip
> certification issues of other eVTOLs. Not sure if I flew with this invention
> over rocky ground, maybe safer over water. And I would have to go first on a
> severe diet before take-off...
> Michael son of Lester June 7, 2021 06:03 AM
> Very cool! I haven't been this excited about a flying machine since I
> watched the first Gen H4 flight video years ago. Weight-wise, I suspect that
> in the USA the Copterpack would be classed as an ultralight so no license
> would be required.
>
> Considering the quiet of the electric motors, if they could get the
> endurance time sorted out these would also be natural for special forces.
> Think, putting people on ships that have been hijacked or inserting special
> ops teams on top of buildings or into enemy-held hard to reach areas.
>
> So far as safety goes, I'm sure that if these come to market, it will be
> after all the bugs are worked out. Otherwise, the makers would face some
> serious court issues the first time a flyer came to earth the hard way.
> paul314 June 7, 2021 07:41 AM
> I'm not sure the safety issues can all be worked out. Those tiny shrouds
> avoid the really stupid prop accidents, but they won't contain much if
> something goes seriously wrong (or if the props ingest something.) But it's
> really cool and I totally want one...
> jerryd June 7, 2021 08:16 AM
> Will need a lot of training for most people and likely still not safe and
> missing a ballistic parachute.
> Far better would be 2 12' diameter rotors on the same center shaft to get 4x
> more lift/kw. It's also inherently stable and so efficient the Mars
> Helicopter used it.
> Edward Vix June 7, 2021 08:40 AM
> It looks like it wouldn't be too hard to stick your hand into the
> propellers. Or topple to the ground when landing and get your lower leg or a
> dog into the works. Not at all practical.
> Towerman June 7, 2021 09:18 AM
> @paul
> Its what it is, you will always have people trying to talk negative while
> its actually being a huge success. This is what a compact (as much as can
> be) stable 1 man flying machine looks like, you cannot add more bulky
> components on it as it will take the fun out of the "naked" design
> complimented by great aesthetics.
>
> However lets compare safety if you wish, flying a gyro is a fuel bomb on a
> rotor. Of all the gyro crashes i have seen a marginal of cases where the
> gyrocopter did not spontaneously combust upon ground impact, scorching the
> occupants to a crisp. Yet amazingly they have been certified for decades !
>
> @jerryd
> A coax is a wonderful design, in fact there was this one chinese guy that
> made one with a human hanging underneath it just like this Copterpack. (if i
> had the link on hand i would've posted it) Great flying machine, however it
> cannot be compared to the Copterpack.
>
> The Copterpack as a package is more technologically advanced, the software
> and hardware communicate for precise control, you can dial in or out as much
> stability as you wish ! This will be a boon for beginners and professionals
> alike ! A counter rotator is more mechanically complicated and it will not
> be as maneuverable as the Copterpack.
>
> A counter rotator is still great and they can still make them as well with
> electric motors, but cannot be compared to the superiority of new technology
> such as multirotors/Copterpack with it's crisp and agile handling,
> futuristic control systems which is finely in tune with all the components
> used to run it (the whole system is alive)
> Liviu Giurca June 7, 2021 09:38 AM
> A six rotor redundant variant named Aeroteq 008 is described on
> https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/aerial-vtol-motorcycle-common-sense-approach-liviu-giurca/
> This can use a hybrid-electric energy source.
> Q June 7, 2021 10:01 AM
> for safety think about BRS - or get a quick inflating airbag...
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQr8YkzEEWQ&ab_channel=MCN-Motorcyclenews.com
> These would be pretty cool! For redundancy - dual motor on each boom - with
> counter rotating blades.
> clay June 7, 2021 10:39 AM
> Now all I need to do it entertain a full blown starvation protocol for a
> year... to be as skinny as the jockey (er..pilot) flying it.
>
> That said, it is VERY cool! And, it looks completely doable.
> KaiserPingo June 7, 2021 11:49 AM
> If your troubled about safety with this, then you are weak and whining !
> Stay on the ground and do not ruin this for the rest of us.
>
> This device looks perfect !
> PC June 7, 2021 01:45 PM
> I love it. Wish we could hear it instead of anti dramatic music. Would like
> to see double the motors for redundancy and power for bigger batteries, some
> more extensive ducting with some screens, and a big air bag underneath for
> crashes.
> Coastal Ogre June 7, 2021 03:07 PM
> Take. My. Money.
>
> Seriously, does anyone remember Acroyear from the Micronauts? This totally
> takes me back to 1976 and some great Sci-Fi. Looks exactly the same!
>
> Dangerous? Heck yes, just like skydiving, driving a car on a public road
> (well here in the USA anyways...) or forgetting your anniversary. I like it
> a 'lil dangerous! I hope this thing continues to develop!
> Adrian Akau June 7, 2021 03:49 PM
> That is the right way to go.
> Smokey_Bear June 7, 2021 04:16 PM
> I'm sure they still have years of work ahead before this is commercialized,
> but good luck to em'. Looks awesome.
> nick101 June 7, 2021 06:17 PM
> A tiny gas motor running a generator would be my pick, until hippies make
> super batteries out of mango-pulp or something.
> Towerman June 7, 2021 11:07 PM
> @Livia
> The picture dictated shows it to be an 8 rotor, this is a very vague
> concept, the copters reviewed by Loz and the other editors on this site are
> high end flying machines ready for commercial flight not concepts.
>
> @Q i like the airbag idea, as well as the dual rotors for redundancy,
> however i feel that it would change the characteristics of the Copterpack
> and be heavier, what i would suggest is build
> both types, don't scrap the one for the other, because once you add more
> rotors and extra attachments. the characteristics and aesthetics completely
> changes as well as range (until we have better batteries)
> So for now advertise a 2 rotor for use only over water and a 4 rotor for use
> over land.
>
> Or test the 2 rotor design for 1000s of flights over water to see if
> anything goes wrong, if not GREAT. I just like the 2 rotor concept its a
> really "Lite" setup with practical looks and use.
>
> @PC
> Yes i want to hear the noise !
> Liviu Giurca June 8, 2021 12:28 AM
> @Towerman
> You did not read the entire article
> https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/aerial-vtol-motorcycle-common-sense-approach-liviu-giurca/
> My reference was for Aeroteq 008 from the figure 21. On the other hand, who
> says it's forbidden to compare an existing vehicle with a concept? But you,
> when you do an analysis, be more accurate.
> Albert L June 8, 2021 01:54 AM
> That's it! Computer controlled stabilization and manuverable. Just need to
> make it bigger and add a combustion engine/generator to keep the batteries
> charged for longer distances. Perhaps with the footprint of a normal sized
> car. Hey the basis for a flying car that's practical and I just thunk it up!
> Worzel June 8, 2021 05:05 AM
> Looks like people are beginning to catch up with the dandelion seed, at
> last!
> Towerman June 8, 2021 06:53 AM
> @Liviu ok i see now it can be compared to this type of evtol, but the site
> is cluttered with different concepts that's why i missed it.
>
> I have lots to say about that design but before i do, let it be built then
> we can compare, 6 rotors is going to be power hungry, but great redundancy.
> It's in a class of its own, a 6 rotor/hex category. Yes Concepts can be
> compared to anything, but practical flying comparisons is what matters most
> at the end of the day.
>
> The Copterpack is clearly made for efficiency, and practicality.
> ljaques June 8, 2021 10:47 AM
> ME WANT! Beautiful simplicity. Best of luck in the near future, Copterpack.
> Now do a video without the symphony so we can hear what the bloody thing
> sounds like.
> JeffK June 10, 2021 07:04 PM
> WRT dual counter rotating "rotors" in each shroud, are these rotors
> (rotating airfoils providing lift as in a helicopter), or are they high
> speed fan blades? In either case, would they work within a shroud or simply
> cancel each other out? Even if one or the other (or both) did work, would
> they actually provide functional redundancy? It seems to me that failure of
> one blade in a dual coaxial configuration, whether caused by FOD or
> structural failure of the blade, would almost certainly damage the other
> blade. A backup coaxial motor might be useful in the event of motor failure,
> but considering the weight penalty balanced against the reliability of the
> motors add an actual safety benefit or simply add to the load of the primary
> motor? This is a really cool machine and if I were the same age (and still
> had all OEM parts) that I was when "really cool" was actually in common
> usage, I'd be standing in line with money in hand.
> HoppyHopkins June 13, 2021 08:07 PM
> They never gave the most important information; what is the flight time for
> the set up
> Nelson Hyde Chick June 13, 2021 10:59 PM
> When, where and how much will it take to buy one?
> GET OUR NEWSLETTER
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> https://www.startupselfie.net/2021/06/14/copterpack-electric-backpack-personal-helicopter-first-manned-flight/
>
> CopterPack: Electric backpack personal helicopter makes first manned flight
> June 14, 2021
> Share
> CopterPack-Electric-Backpack-Personal-Helicopter
> CopterPack is an electric backpack helicopter with a self-leveling
> autopilot.
>
> Coming straight out of Australia, CopterPack is one of the newest personal
> gadgets that allows its rider to take flight. While jetpacks had their hot
> moment in the eighties, the CopterPack reimagines how humans can fly using a
> personal device. Let’s take a deeper look into how this backpack-style
> personal copter looks and functions.
> A reimagined design
>
> Composed of two rotors, the CopterPack is a device that is worn as a
> backpack and looks somewhat like a human drone. The Australian company of
> the same name designed the CopterPack much differently from other models in
> the past. However, there are potentially hazardous elements in this design.
>
> For example, the rotors, while protectively coiled along the edges, are open
> on the top and bottom. Although this does not pose much of a threat while
> the pilot is using the CopterPack correctly, it could become dangerous in
> the event of an accident or other unforeseen circumstance – especially as
> they operate and spin at high speeds.
> How the CopterPack flies
>
> The CopterPack is made with a lightweight, carbon fiber honeycomb design.
> Rotors on either side of the pilot allow them to fly back and forth on a
> central axle. The design of the rotors allows the pilot to have a
> significant amount of control over how they fly.
>
> In addition to what CopterPack claims is an intuitive flight experience,
> there is an auto-pilot feature that allows the rider to self-level
> automatically. The carbon fiber used to construct the CopterPack is also
> used in other aircraft and spacecraft because of its low weight and
> durability.
> Battery powered
>
> While the manufacturers do not provide much detail on the construction or
> materials used for the battery, it is safe to assume that it is small in
> size. This is made apparent by the overall size of the CopterPack. Lithium
> battery packs, like the one used on the CopterPack, are known to have poor
> energy density.
> 1 of 2
> CopterPack in flight over a beach
> CopterPacks takes to the skies
>
> Because of this, pilots likely won’t be able to spend much time in the air.
> Their weight, coupled with the power needed to propel the high-speed spin of
> the rotors, requires a great deal of energy to operate for a more
> substantial amount of time.
> The rotors
>
> The power and stability of the CopterPack are generated by its two large
> rotors. Each of the two rotors on the CopterPack reaches about three feet in
> diameter. It is assumed that each of these connects to the unit through
> carbon fiber tubes. To allow the pilot to steer, the rotors are directed by
> two hand controls on two armrests that connect to the pack. To achieve
> control and stability, the pilot can rely on the CopterPack’s ability to
> twist its rotors and vector the thrust.
> Final thoughts
>
> The CopterPack looks to be constructed with quality design and materials,
> and the flight itself is very impressive. We will update you as and when we
> get more information from CopterPack.
>
> Source: CopterPack
> EMAIL NEWSLETTER
> Get weekly updates delivered to your inbox

Daniel

The lack of redundancy is an issue, but I'd give it a try. The control
stick interface is intuitive, but I can envision dual twist-grip throttles
and independent rotor tilt controls might permit an experienced pilot to
perform with agility once on the back side of the learning curve.

Doubtless, the weight penalty of a ballistic emergency parachute system
would be prohibitive, but one of the commenters suggested an air-bag may be
a viable option. I fear flight duration may be rather short.

I see a very real market opportunity for these sort of craft. It wouldn't
take much to fund a startup as construction costs would be relatively
minimal. Liability is the real issue, but a mandatory waiver/hold-harmless
agreement as a condition of sale might overcome that.

Larry

On Wed, 23 Jun 2021 04:14:32 -0700, Daniel <me@sci.fi.dan.com> wrote:

>Larry Dighera <LDighera@att.net> writes:
>
>> Insane Super Futuristic CopterPack First Flight
>> https://youtu.be/e5cgx8Hv_MQ
>> https://youtu.be/PZSR40Ac3-I
>> https://youtu.be/3BC89L3bQAM
>>
>> https://copterpack.com.au/
>> About CopterPack
>>
>> CopterPack is an electric backpack helicopter with a self-levelling
>> autopilot. The lightweight airframe is constructed from carbon fiber
>> honeycomb.
>>
>> CopterPack – CONTACT contact@copterpack.com.au
>>
>> Check out the CopterPack Youtube channel:
>> https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrE4LdXIpDX8T6Hen99qIMA
>>
>> © CopterPack 2021
>> ---------------------------------------------
>>
>> https://newatlas.com/aircraft/copterpack-electric-jetpack/
>>
>> Aussie electric Copterpack makes sensational first manned flight
>> By Loz Blain
>> June 06, 2021
>>
>> une 06, 2021
>>
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>>
>> The Copterpack is a two-prop electric manned multirotor
>> The Copterpack is a two-prop electric manned multirotor
>> Copterpack
>> View 6 Images
>>
>> A green alternative to the humble kerosene-burning jetpack? Recently
>> released video shows an Australian man rising high off the ground using a
>> two-rotor electric personal flight device he calls the Copterpack. It's
>> bulky, but looks surprisingly stable and controllable.
>>
>> In construction, it's closer to the New Zealand-built Martin jetpack than
>> the JetCat turbine-powered devices flown by the big four personal flight
>> pioneers – Yves Rossy, David Mayman, Franky Zapata, Richard Browning – we've
>> been covering closely over the last decade.
>>
>> It uses just two rotors, but fairly large ones with diameters around 3 ft
>> (~90 cm). These connect via what appear to be carbon fiber tubes to a
>> rigid-framed backpack with some underslung battery packs and a pair of flat
>> armrests with hand controls on them.
>>
>> Where drones with four or more rotors are able to self-stabilize and achieve
>> control authority simply by varying the speeds of their fixed rotors, this
>> two-rotor arrangement does it by twisting its rotors to vector the thrust.
>> Looking stable and controlled, the pilot takes the Copterpack up to an
>> impressive height
>> Looking stable and controlled, the pilot takes the Copterpack up to an
>> impressive heightCopterpack
>>
>> And the arrangement here looks surprisingly friendly to fly. The pilot takes
>> off in a stable and controlled fashion, rises to a frankly scary height over
>> a beach, then demonstrates the Copterpack's forward and sideways movement
>> and yaw control with some mildly aggressive-looking turns before touching
>> down very gently.
>>
>> Given the small size of the battery pack here, and the well-known energy
>> density issues of lithium batteries, we don't expect it stays in the air
>> very long at this point. This is likely the chief factor behind why it looks
>> so ungainly; large diameter rotors produce lift more efficiently than
>> smaller ones, so the Copterpack needs these big fans until energy storage
>> becomes a solved problem.
>>
>> As to safety, well, its two-rotor setup doesn't offer anything in the way of
>> redundancy, the pilot is certainly betting his life on the strength of those
>> two carbon tubes, and his motorcycle gear is unlikely to do much in the
>> event of a 50-ft (15-m) drop.
>>
>> Still, the whole thing looks solidly built, and the flight itself is very
>> impressive. We've reached out to try to connect with the Copterpack team and
>> talk through the design, the flight experience, and what's next, and we'll
>> bring you more when we can.
>>
>> Check out the video below.
>> https://youtu.be/PRfV5TvRjEA
>>
>>
>> 29 comments
>> Sign in to post a comment.
>> Please keep comments to less than 150 words. No abusive material or spam
>> will be published.
>> Towerman June 6, 2021 11:29 PM
>> Whooohoo ! ! Fun Fun FUN ! ! !
>>
>> All we now need is an order button below the write up :D
>> Arcticshade June 6, 2021 11:55 PM
>> The Tilting mechanism is to DROOL over, it's the perfect 2 rotor flying
>> machine !
>> And like you say when battery performance increase we can make the rotors
>> even smaller.
>>
>> OR keep the 90cm diameter motors and fly even further, i actually like the
>> size of the rotors.
>>
>> ""It's bulky, but looks surprisingly stable and controllable.""
>>
>> Bulky ? Martin Jetpack is bulky, not this thing !
>>
>> eirobotix June 7, 2021 12:01 AM
>> Nice job mate but please do your demos over water not land - nobody wants to
>> see you seriously injured or worse....
>>
>> RIP Jetman Vincent Reffet :(
>> kvncloete June 7, 2021 03:59 AM
>> This is far to dangerous. Somebody is going to get hurt. Jet packs are
>> compact and robust.
>> Arcticshade June 7, 2021 05:04 AM
>> Vincent did a backflip at 800ft and could not recover quickly enough as he
>> was too low, that was the cause not an engine failure.
>>
>> Having said that, electric motors in any case are more reliable than turbine
>> engines so i would say its definately safer to fly this twin motor. Yes i do
>> agree test over water until full certification/confidence is developed.
>>
>> @KVNcloete
>>
>> No you have it backwards, Turbines are less robust, moreover, they have a
>> lag in response time, Electric motors have instant power changes making for
>> precise control. These are the basics ;)
>> dan June 7, 2021 05:32 AM
>> Great! That looks simply great! love it! Finally big (efficient) rotor
>> diameter, ultra light/minimalistic design for a few minutes of FUN! Being so
>> light, I guess it classifies as sport equipment and they can skip
>> certification issues of other eVTOLs. Not sure if I flew with this invention
>> over rocky ground, maybe safer over water. And I would have to go first on a
>> severe diet before take-off...
>> Michael son of Lester June 7, 2021 06:03 AM
>> Very cool! I haven't been this excited about a flying machine since I
>> watched the first Gen H4 flight video years ago. Weight-wise, I suspect that
>> in the USA the Copterpack would be classed as an ultralight so no license
>> would be required.
>>
>> Considering the quiet of the electric motors, if they could get the
>> endurance time sorted out these would also be natural for special forces.
>> Think, putting people on ships that have been hijacked or inserting special
>> ops teams on top of buildings or into enemy-held hard to reach areas.
>>
>> So far as safety goes, I'm sure that if these come to market, it will be
>> after all the bugs are worked out. Otherwise, the makers would face some
>> serious court issues the first time a flyer came to earth the hard way.
>> paul314 June 7, 2021 07:41 AM
>> I'm not sure the safety issues can all be worked out. Those tiny shrouds
>> avoid the really stupid prop accidents, but they won't contain much if
>> something goes seriously wrong (or if the props ingest something.) But it's
>> really cool and I totally want one...
>> jerryd June 7, 2021 08:16 AM
>> Will need a lot of training for most people and likely still not safe and
>> missing a ballistic parachute.
>> Far better would be 2 12' diameter rotors on the same center shaft to get 4x
>> more lift/kw. It's also inherently stable and so efficient the Mars
>> Helicopter used it.
>> Edward Vix June 7, 2021 08:40 AM
>> It looks like it wouldn't be too hard to stick your hand into the
>> propellers. Or topple to the ground when landing and get your lower leg or a
>> dog into the works. Not at all practical.
>> Towerman June 7, 2021 09:18 AM
>> @paul
>> Its what it is, you will always have people trying to talk negative while
>> its actually being a huge success. This is what a compact (as much as can
>> be) stable 1 man flying machine looks like, you cannot add more bulky
>> components on it as it will take the fun out of the "naked" design
>> complimented by great aesthetics.
>>
>> However lets compare safety if you wish, flying a gyro is a fuel bomb on a
>> rotor. Of all the gyro crashes i have seen a marginal of cases where the
>> gyrocopter did not spontaneously combust upon ground impact, scorching the
>> occupants to a crisp. Yet amazingly they have been certified for decades !
>>
>> @jerryd
>> A coax is a wonderful design, in fact there was this one chinese guy that
>> made one with a human hanging underneath it just like this Copterpack. (if i
>> had the link on hand i would've posted it) Great flying machine, however it
>> cannot be compared to the Copterpack.
>>
>> The Copterpack as a package is more technologically advanced, the software
>> and hardware communicate for precise control, you can dial in or out as much
>> stability as you wish ! This will be a boon for beginners and professionals
>> alike ! A counter rotator is more mechanically complicated and it will not
>> be as maneuverable as the Copterpack.
>>
>> A counter rotator is still great and they can still make them as well with
>> electric motors, but cannot be compared to the superiority of new technology
>> such as multirotors/Copterpack with it's crisp and agile handling,
>> futuristic control systems which is finely in tune with all the components
>> used to run it (the whole system is alive)
>> Liviu Giurca June 7, 2021 09:38 AM
>> A six rotor redundant variant named Aeroteq 008 is described on
>> https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/aerial-vtol-motorcycle-common-sense-approach-liviu-giurca/
>> This can use a hybrid-electric energy source.
>> Q June 7, 2021 10:01 AM
>> for safety think about BRS - or get a quick inflating airbag...
>> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQr8YkzEEWQ&ab_channel=MCN-Motorcyclenews.com
>> These would be pretty cool! For redundancy - dual motor on each boom - with
>> counter rotating blades.
>> clay June 7, 2021 10:39 AM
>> Now all I need to do it entertain a full blown starvation protocol for a
>> year... to be as skinny as the jockey (er..pilot) flying it.
>>
>> That said, it is VERY cool! And, it looks completely doable.
>> KaiserPingo June 7, 2021 11:49 AM
>> If your troubled about safety with this, then you are weak and whining !
>> Stay on the ground and do not ruin this for the rest of us.
>>
>> This device looks perfect !
>> PC June 7, 2021 01:45 PM
>> I love it. Wish we could hear it instead of anti dramatic music. Would like
>> to see double the motors for redundancy and power for bigger batteries, some
>> more extensive ducting with some screens, and a big air bag underneath for
>> crashes.
>> Coastal Ogre June 7, 2021 03:07 PM
>> Take. My. Money.
>>
>> Seriously, does anyone remember Acroyear from the Micronauts? This totally
>> takes me back to 1976 and some great Sci-Fi. Looks exactly the same!
>>
>> Dangerous? Heck yes, just like skydiving, driving a car on a public road
>> (well here in the USA anyways...) or forgetting your anniversary. I like it
>> a 'lil dangerous! I hope this thing continues to develop!
>> Adrian Akau June 7, 2021 03:49 PM
>> That is the right way to go.
>> Smokey_Bear June 7, 2021 04:16 PM
>> I'm sure they still have years of work ahead before this is commercialized,
>> but good luck to em'. Looks awesome.
>> nick101 June 7, 2021 06:17 PM
>> A tiny gas motor running a generator would be my pick, until hippies make
>> super batteries out of mango-pulp or something.
>> Towerman June 7, 2021 11:07 PM
>> @Livia
>> The picture dictated shows it to be an 8 rotor, this is a very vague
>> concept, the copters reviewed by Loz and the other editors on this site are
>> high end flying machines ready for commercial flight not concepts.
>>
>> @Q i like the airbag idea, as well as the dual rotors for redundancy,
>> however i feel that it would change the characteristics of the Copterpack
>> and be heavier, what i would suggest is build
>> both types, don't scrap the one for the other, because once you add more
>> rotors and extra attachments. the characteristics and aesthetics completely
>> changes as well as range (until we have better batteries)
>> So for now advertise a 2 rotor for use only over water and a 4 rotor for use
>> over land.
>>
>> Or test the 2 rotor design for 1000s of flights over water to see if
>> anything goes wrong, if not GREAT. I just like the 2 rotor concept its a
>> really "Lite" setup with practical looks and use.
>>
>> @PC
>> Yes i want to hear the noise !
>> Liviu Giurca June 8, 2021 12:28 AM
>> @Towerman
>> You did not read the entire article
>> https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/aerial-vtol-motorcycle-common-sense-approach-liviu-giurca/
>> My reference was for Aeroteq 008 from the figure 21. On the other hand, who
>> says it's forbidden to compare an existing vehicle with a concept? But you,
>> when you do an analysis, be more accurate.
>> Albert L June 8, 2021 01:54 AM
>> That's it! Computer controlled stabilization and manuverable. Just need to
>> make it bigger and add a combustion engine/generator to keep the batteries
>> charged for longer distances. Perhaps with the footprint of a normal sized
>> car. Hey the basis for a flying car that's practical and I just thunk it up!
>> Worzel June 8, 2021 05:05 AM
>> Looks like people are beginning to catch up with the dandelion seed, at
>> last!
>> Towerman June 8, 2021 06:53 AM
>> @Liviu ok i see now it can be compared to this type of evtol, but the site
>> is cluttered with different concepts that's why i missed it.
>>
>> I have lots to say about that design but before i do, let it be built then
>> we can compare, 6 rotors is going to be power hungry, but great redundancy.
>> It's in a class of its own, a 6 rotor/hex category. Yes Concepts can be
>> compared to anything, but practical flying comparisons is what matters most
>> at the end of the day.
>>
>> The Copterpack is clearly made for efficiency, and practicality.
>> ljaques June 8, 2021 10:47 AM
>> ME WANT! Beautiful simplicity. Best of luck in the near future, Copterpack.
>> Now do a video without the symphony so we can hear what the bloody thing
>> sounds like.
>> JeffK June 10, 2021 07:04 PM
>> WRT dual counter rotating "rotors" in each shroud, are these rotors
>> (rotating airfoils providing lift as in a helicopter), or are they high
>> speed fan blades? In either case, would they work within a shroud or simply
>> cancel each other out? Even if one or the other (or both) did work, would
>> they actually provide functional redundancy? It seems to me that failure of
>> one blade in a dual coaxial configuration, whether caused by FOD or
>> structural failure of the blade, would almost certainly damage the other
>> blade. A backup coaxial motor might be useful in the event of motor failure,
>> but considering the weight penalty balanced against the reliability of the
>> motors add an actual safety benefit or simply add to the load of the primary
>> motor? This is a really cool machine and if I were the same age (and still
>> had all OEM parts) that I was when "really cool" was actually in common
>> usage, I'd be standing in line with money in hand.
>> HoppyHopkins June 13, 2021 08:07 PM
>> They never gave the most important information; what is the flight time for
>> the set up
>> Nelson Hyde Chick June 13, 2021 10:59 PM
>> When, where and how much will it take to buy one?
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>>
>> https://www.startupselfie.net/2021/06/14/copterpack-electric-backpack-personal-helicopter-first-manned-flight/
>>
>> CopterPack: Electric backpack personal helicopter makes first manned flight
>> June 14, 2021
>> Share
>> CopterPack-Electric-Backpack-Personal-Helicopter
>> CopterPack is an electric backpack helicopter with a self-leveling
>> autopilot.
>>
>> Coming straight out of Australia, CopterPack is one of the newest personal
>> gadgets that allows its rider to take flight. While jetpacks had their hot
>> moment in the eighties, the CopterPack reimagines how humans can fly using a
>> personal device. Let’s take a deeper look into how this backpack-style
>> personal copter looks and functions.
>> A reimagined design
>>
>> Composed of two rotors, the CopterPack is a device that is worn as a
>> backpack and looks somewhat like a human drone. The Australian company of
>> the same name designed the CopterPack much differently from other models in
>> the past. However, there are potentially hazardous elements in this design.
>>
>> For example, the rotors, while protectively coiled along the edges, are open
>> on the top and bottom. Although this does not pose much of a threat while
>> the pilot is using the CopterPack correctly, it could become dangerous in
>> the event of an accident or other unforeseen circumstance – especially as
>> they operate and spin at high speeds.
>> How the CopterPack flies
>>
>> The CopterPack is made with a lightweight, carbon fiber honeycomb design.
>> Rotors on either side of the pilot allow them to fly back and forth on a
>> central axle. The design of the rotors allows the pilot to have a
>> significant amount of control over how they fly.
>>
>> In addition to what CopterPack claims is an intuitive flight experience,
>> there is an auto-pilot feature that allows the rider to self-level
>> automatically. The carbon fiber used to construct the CopterPack is also
>> used in other aircraft and spacecraft because of its low weight and
>> durability.
>> Battery powered
>>
>> While the manufacturers do not provide much detail on the construction or
>> materials used for the battery, it is safe to assume that it is small in
>> size. This is made apparent by the overall size of the CopterPack. Lithium
>> battery packs, like the one used on the CopterPack, are known to have poor
>> energy density.
>> 1 of 2
>> CopterPack in flight over a beach
>> CopterPacks takes to the skies
>>
>> Because of this, pilots likely won’t be able to spend much time in the air.
>> Their weight, coupled with the power needed to propel the high-speed spin of
>> the rotors, requires a great deal of energy to operate for a more
>> substantial amount of time.
>> The rotors
>>
>> The power and stability of the CopterPack are generated by its two large
>> rotors. Each of the two rotors on the CopterPack reaches about three feet in
>> diameter. It is assumed that each of these connects to the unit through
>> carbon fiber tubes. To allow the pilot to steer, the rotors are directed by
>> two hand controls on two armrests that connect to the pack. To achieve
>> control and stability, the pilot can rely on the CopterPack’s ability to
>> twist its rotors and vector the thrust.
>> Final thoughts
>>
>> The CopterPack looks to be constructed with quality design and materials,
>> and the flight itself is very impressive. We will update you as and when we
>> get more information from CopterPack.
>>
>> Source: CopterPack
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>
>Some people have all the balls. Those are insane pics though.