Just a theoretical thought...or..

[Photo]

If one need to stay in the air hoovering on almost the same spot for a longer period would it then be helpfull to put a helium toy balloon on the top of the H to support the lift power and increase flight time? I know it will drain the batteries more when you descend but you can (easily) let the the balloon fly away from the H with help from the landing gear movement - in some way..

 

[Eagle's Eye Video]

Right up until the wind pulls the balloon (and string holding the balloon) into the path of one of the propellers... not a good way to test 5-motor mode, me thinks... the work being done by Ralphy on a tethered H solution seems to be the more logical path.

 

[FlushVision]

Right up until the wind pulls the balloon (and string holding the balloon) into the path of one of the propellers... not a good way to test 5-motor mode, me thinks... the work being done by Ralphy on a tethered H solution seems to be the more logical path.

I agree with Eagle. To make any real difference to the flight time the balloon would need to be on the large side and so would inevitably create a significant drag in the wind: If you manage not to get the string (or whatever is used) tangled in the props then any benefits to the lift will be offset by the H fighting the wind drag.

A nice thought, though, but I think impracticable. A powered tether is the answer.

 

[Steve Carr]

You guys think to small. Use a BIG balloon and no props.

 

[wings]

Good one Steve

 

[FlushVision]

You guys think to small. Use a BIG balloon and no props.

Indeed.
It's like those instances where people use a sUAS for doing low level flights in tight areas when a mast mounted camera would do the job far better.