TBS CAIPIRINHA II Mini FPV Wing

Introduction

The TBS CAIPIRINHA II is a gentle long range cruiser that transforms into a fierce mountain diver with a slight push on your pitch stick. Based on the Wipeout by HappyFlyers from Switzerland, it features a polycarbonate battery bay top, push-to-open equipment bays, a PDB with up to 3 battery inputs, and wiring channels across the entire wing. A 6mm-plywood-lined center section enhances its design. Its ultra-sleek and aerodynamic finish ensures efficiency, and a good glide slope makes thermalling or long-distance sloping enjoyable. This aircraft is positioned as the ultimate long-range cruiser in its weight class with exceptional performance.

Features

• Small, lightweight, fly anywhere design
• Ultimate in flight stability and endurance
• Virtually indestructible EPP/Plywood construction
• Pre-cut camera, servo, battery, R/C receiver, and video transmitter slots
• 2x push-to-open equipment bays for R/C and FPV electronics
• Pre-cut, sanded, and covered ultra-lightweight elevons & pushrods

Before We Begin

Thank you for purchasing a TBS product. The TBS CAIPIRINHA II is a new FPV wing from Team BlackSheep (TBS), incorporating the latest design practices for great flying duration and incredible FPV characteristics. Please read this manual carefully before assembling and flying your new TBS CAIPIRINHA. Keep this manual for future reference regarding tuning and maintenance.

Our Request to You

This aircraft is designed with advanced capabilities. It is your responsibility to use it reasonably and according to your experience level. Use common sense, fly safely, and understand that TBS has no liability for the use of this aircraft. Ensure you do not infringe on others' privacy.

Safe Flying Practices

• Locate an appropriate flying location.
• Obtain the assistance of an experienced pilot.
• Practice safe and responsible operation.
• Always be aware of the rotating propeller.
• Prevent moisture exposure.
• Keep away from heat or excessive amounts of sunlight.

Specifications

Required Tools

• Utility knife
• Storage tape (for hinges)
• Glue (Foam-safe CA, Gorilla, UHU-POR are compatible)

Part List

Before building your TBS CAIPIRINHA II, ensure the following items are included in your kit:

• 2x Wing halves and covers: The main body sections of the aircraft.
• 2x Symmetrical winglets: Triangular extensions for the wingtips.
• 1x Plastic cover and screws: A top hatch component and associated fasteners.
• 2x Plywood lightweight elevons (pre-installed on PNP kit): The movable control surfaces at the rear of the wings, made of thin plywood.
• 1x Plywood battery bay and motor mount: Laser-cut plywood pieces to construct the internal battery holder and motor mounting structure.
• 5x Glass fiber spars and ribbon: Reinforcement rods and strips for structural integrity.
• 1x Set of adhesive covers: Black adhesive stickers for covering various parts of the airframe.
• 1x Piece of cover foam: A small section of foam, likely for padding or sealing.
• 1x Push-to-open foam covers: Two foam covers designed for easy access to internal compartments.
• 2x Ø1.0mm control links and horns (pre-installed on PNP kit): Rods and control horns for connecting servos to elevons.
• 1x Power distribution board: A circuit board to manage power distribution to components.
• 1x Teaspoon of awesomeness (rarely visible but always included): A humorous inclusion, representing small but vital parts or the spirit of the build.

Required Parts

To get the aircraft airborne, the following external equipment and parts are needed for assembly:

• 1x 1000-1200kV 2200-class brushless motor: The primary propulsion motor.
• 1x 50A Speed controller: Manages power delivery to the motor.
• 1x 4S 4500mAh 20C to 4S 6600mAh 20C XT60 LiPo pack: The flight battery.
• 1x 10x6-inch folding propeller: The propeller for the motor.
• 2x Digital servos with servo arm: Actuators for controlling the elevons.
• 1x R/C receiver 3-ch or more: Receives commands from the transmitter.
• 1x R/C transmitter 4-ch or more: The remote control unit.
• 1x LiPo 4S charger: For charging the flight battery.
• 1x Headset or ground station: For FPV viewing.
• 1x Pilot camera (26x26mm): The FPV camera.
• 1x Wing layer and FPVision, or other VTX, PSU and OSD: Integrated FPV electronics module.
• 1x GoPro Hero Session HD camera: For recording high-definition footage.
• 1x Thick CA glue and kicker (accelerator) and PVA glue: Adhesives for assembly.
• 1x Two part epoxy adhesive or hot glue: Additional adhesive options.
• 1x Medium thread-lock (purple/blue): For securing screws.

Choosing the Right Setup

If you are new to the hobby, consider these suggested component lists as a starting point. Existing gear can also be utilized. These setups, excluding camera tripods, are available from Team BlackSheep. Remote controls and tripods may be sourced from local hobby shops or electronics retailers.

TBS CAIPIRINHA setup for short range flights

• Expected flight time: 40-60 min
• Approximate cost: US$ 1,350 - US$ 1,550
• Experience level: Beginner to Expert
• Ideal for: Parks, R/C clubs, front lawns

TBS CAIPIRINHA setup for long range flights

• Expected flight time: 40-60 min
• Cost range: US$ 1,700 - US$ 2,000
• Experience level: Expert
• Ideal for: Long, wide open fields, plains, coastlines and valleys or urban flying

Wing Assembly

This section provides an overview of the top and underside assembly of the wing. Key components are labeled for identification.

Top Assembly Overview

The top assembly includes components such as the left and right wing halves, wing ribbons, motor mount, LiPo battery, battery straps, R/C receiver, speed controller, power distribution board, wing layer/FPVision, servos, control links, control horns, equipment bay, bay hardcover, electronics bays, pilot camera, video transmitter antenna, unused antenna hole, and the HD recording camera.

Underside Assembly Overview

The underside assembly features main spars, wing ribbons, screw holes for TBS gear, an HD camera strap, bottom adhesive cover, left and right compartment covers, equipment bay hard cover, propeller, elevons, winglets and mount, and the center of gravity point.

Assembly Steps

Attach Underside Covers

The wing halves come with underside covers that need to be glued in place. These covers form the internal wiring channels. Custom wiring layouts can be planned at this stage.

Spars on Wing

Wing spars add strength and rigidity. There are four spars in total, two on each wing. Glue these spars into their respective cavities using CA/superglue, ensuring they are held in place until the glue sets.

Battery Bay

The battery bay is located in the middle of the wing and aids in adjusting the center of gravity. A plywood structure and support straps secure the battery. Assemble the plywood pieces carefully, avoiding overbending.

Main Wing Spar and Wood Bit

Glue the wood bit onto the exact center point of the main wing spar. Insert this assembly into the corresponding tube on the wing halves to ensure the spar is centered within the wing.

Wing Halves Assembly

Roughen the main spar with sandpaper. Apply glue to one side of the spar and insert it into the wing. Roughen and cover the surfaces of the battery bay, adjoining foam faces, and the spar on the opposing side with PU glue, using spray water to activate it. Insert the battery bay into one wing half, align the other wing half onto the spar, and press them together to form a solid wing. Use tape to hold the halves together while the glue cures.

Motor Mount

Assemble the four plywood pieces to create the motor mount. Glue this assembly into place at the rear end of the wing using CA or Epoxy. Ensure all exposed sides are adequately glued, as this is a load-stressed area. The motor can be attached after the mount is installed.

Hard Top Cover Installation

Place the hard top cover over the battery bay. Align the front screw holes with the corresponding holes on the battery bay assembly. Apply a small drop of thread lock to the screws before fastening.

Opening and Closing Hardcover

The hard cover is secured by the motor mount assembly. To open, hold the cover with two fingers on either side of the slot and one finger on the rear end. Push down on the end while lifting the middle section. Reverse the process to close. The cover is designed to flex.

Pilot Camera Installation

The pre-cut camera slot is designed for standard 26x26mm units (e.g., TBS ZeroZero V2). Use hot glue to secure the camera in place.

Install TBS Gear

The electronics bays on the wings are designed to accommodate the TBS FPVision and TBS Wing Layer. Assemble the electronics stack and secure it to the wing using the provided screw holes on the bottom. Refer to the "Electronics installation" section for more details.

R/C Receiver Installation

The R/C receiver can be installed in either electronics compartment or the transceiver bay on the underside of the wing. For optimal performance, position it as far as possible from the video transmitter (VTX). Use velcro tape to secure it within the frame.

HD Camera Installation

A GoPro Session camera can be installed in the designated slot at the front of the wing. A support strap is used to keep the camera securely in place.

Push-to-Open Bays

To provide quick access to the electronics bays, the top bays feature a retaining mechanism that can be engaged by pushing on both sides of the bay.

Adhesive Cover Pads

Once the PDB and other gear are installed in the underside bays, use the adhesive pads to cover them.

Tape Elevons

Attaching the lightweight elevons to the wing is done using flexible tape, such as 3M Blenderm Hinge Tape. Apply a long piece of tape to the inside of the elevon and attach it to the wing. Bend the elevon down to expose the topside and apply another piece of tape. Move the elevon up and down a few times to compact and soften the hinge. The inner end of the hinges should follow the arc of the frame, leaving a small gap between the winglet and elevon.

Elevon Horns and Control Link

On the elevons, cut through the yellow film to reveal the pre-routed slot for the elevon horns. Apply CA/superglue to the horn and the slot, then insert the horn, ensuring it is perpendicular to the elevon and aligned with the servo horn.

Elevon Servos

Wrap a band of masking tape or shrink tube around the servo. Attach the servo horn to the servo and connect the control link to the innermost hole for optimal mechanical range. Apply a blob of hot glue or CA glue in the corners of the servo compartment before installing the servo.

Small Foam Cover Pads

For additional protection and a finished look, separate the three foam pieces and use hot glue to attach them to the servo compartment and motor mount.

Attach Winglets

Use the supplied washer-head screws to attach the winglets to the wood frame on either side of the wing. The "deep side" of the winglet should face downwards, underneath the wing.

Electronics Installation

The TBS CAIPIRINHA II is designed for a lightweight build with any FPV equipment, powertrain, and battery system, minimizing build time with TBS-designed components. Central cable channels keep wires neatly managed. The power distribution board (PDB) is central to the powertrain, allowing quick battery connection and replacement without loose wires. Additional batteries can be connected via free XT60 footprints. When selecting equipment, prioritize lightweight and small size. The compartment layout is optimized for separation between the R/C control link and VTX video link, extending range and minimizing induced noise.

A detailed electronics installation diagram is available as an appendix to this manual.

Diagram Description: A schematic illustrating the electronic component layout. It shows connections between the R/C receiver, ESC, motor, FPVision/Wing Layer module (with VTX and OSD), pilot camera, and power distribution board (PDB). Wires are routed through central channels.

Dry-Fit and Wiring

Plan your setup and wiring in advance by drawing it out and performing a dry-fit. Test all components on a table to ensure everything functions correctly. Longer wires can reduce range in FPV systems, so keep them as short as practical. Cables longer than 10cm should be shielded (e.g., using shielded USB cables for camera and VTx) for optimal long-range performance. Connectors are common failure points. Ensure wires are not under tension during installation, leaving approximately 2cm (1 inch) of excess wire.

Power Distribution Board

The included PDB simplifies battery connection and swapping. It features two additional footprints, allowing up to three batteries to be connected in parallel.

Image Description: A close-up of the Power Distribution Board (PDB) with XT60 connectors and various solder pads. Wires are shown connected to it, illustrating its role in distributing power.

Servos

Begin by centering the servos using a servo tester or R/C receiver with zero-trim. Attach a single-armed servo horn, ensuring it is positioned perpendicular (vertical) to the servo side. Use sub-trim on the transmitter (elevator and aileron channels) if necessary to achieve perfect centering. Program the travel range (deflection) and expo (sensitivity) for the elevator and aileron channels as listed below to enhance the flying experience. Excessive deflection can cause turbulence and hinder wing lift. For easier launch, trim the elevator slightly up from neutral. Program servos with a negative (rearward-facing) 20% bias and reduce throws to 60% to prevent the pushrod from touching the servo throughout its travel.

Receiver Setup

Place the R/C receiver in the designated left electronics compartment and route all wires through one of the two channels (the rear one is recommended). Feed the antenna coax through the outlet cut and tape it in place, or use the unused antenna hole for a more rigid installation. Set up the radio for delta wing mixing. The receiver should be connected as follows on a radio outputting TAER (Throttle Aileron Elevator Rudder) channel arrangement:

On the TBS TANGO FPV remote, travel range can be adjusted using the following servo channel settings:

To make stick movements less sensitive, apply 60% aileron expo and 50% elevator expo.

TBS Equipment Integration

The electronics compartments are designed to accommodate FPVision, Wing Layer, and Core Pro boards, with space for BST- and receiver-wiring. Screw holes are provided for mounting with M3x6 screws. Installing the TBS Wing Layer and TBS FPVision is quick. Power to the ESCs can be supplied by the TBS FPVision layer or an SBEC-enabled ESC, all protected by the TBS Wing Layer.

Wing Layer, FPVision, and CrossFire Micro

This combination offers an 800mW-capable Unify Pro 5G8 with a twin camera switcher, a digital current sensor, a customizable OSD for flight status, TBS DCDC V2 for servo power, and direct servo output from the CrossFire micro receiver.

FPVision, Colibri iNav, and CrossFire Micro

An alternative setup uses the TBS Colibri flight controller with iNav firmware (http://inavflight.com), along with a non-TBS GPS puck for autonomous flight features like Return To Home (RTH), circle flight, and waypoints.

Speed Controller Setup

Install the ESC directly in the middle of the motor mount slots. Use adhesive-backed velcro to mount it. Connect the motor using bullet connectors. Connect the signal cable to the R/C receiver and route it through the rear cable channel. If the signal cable is too short, use an extension servo cable. 14 AWG rated wires are recommended for connections to the PDB or battery.

The recommended ESC settings are listed below. Refer to the ESC manual for programming instructions if settings are not pre-programmed.

Brushless Motor Installation

With the motor attached to the mount, feed the wires through the middle of the mount. If necessary, change bullet connectors to match the speed controller. Cover the wires with the provided small square foam piece. Plug the wires into the ESC and swap any two wires to change the direction of rotation if needed.

Propeller Installation

A folding propeller is recommended to reduce drag during gliding and minimize damage on landing. Install the propeller using the following sequence: prop adaptor (if used), propeller, washer, and lock-nut. Apply threadlock to a non-lock nut. Ensure the top side (with printed logo) faces the front of the wing and the propeller is oriented correctly. To change motor rotation direction, switch any two of the three cables going to the speed controller. Before installing a regular non-folding propeller, balance it to reduce vibrations to the HD recording camera.

Battery Bay and Compatibility

The battery bay includes two support straps to secure the battery and a cable exit cut-out for a flush finish. Any compatible battery can be used, but it must be smaller than W60 x H44 x L165 mm. The suggested size is W48 x H36 x L150 mm, with a maximum weight of 550 grams (or 525 grams for the suggested size). 14 AWG rated wires and XT60 connectors are recommended.

Video Transmitter (VTX) Installation

The video transmitter should preferably be installed on the right side of the wing, adjacent to the electronics bay. If the bay is too small, outline the VTX and use a utility knife to remove excess foam. Mount the VTX and support the antenna portion using hot glue to prevent dislodging the RF connector on impact. Use the supplied adhesive cover to improve aerodynamics and protect the VTX.

Pilot Camera Installation

A specially designed "pod" on the right side of the wing houses the pilot camera. Standard 26x26mm cameras (e.g., TBS ZeroZero or RunCam Swift) will fit. For the TBS69, minor cuts may be needed to remove foam or detach the heatsink. When using the stock mold, a 28mm or narrower lens is recommended for a better view, keeping the frame out of the shot.

OSD (On Screen Display)

An optional but recommended OSD add-on provides live on-screen readouts of battery voltage (V), current draw (A), total current consumption (mAh), receiver signal strength (%), and flight time (minutes:seconds). This offers an essential overview of system vitals during flight. For a basic feature set, the TBS FPVision is recommended. For full-featured GPS systems, consider the TBS CORE PRO with optional TBS GPS and TBS BLACKBOX logger.

HD Camera Setup

The TBS CAIPIRINHA II is designed to accommodate a GoPro HERO Session (any model) for recording HD footage. Runcam 3 is compatible but not recommended due to lower video quality. Mount the camera by sliding it into the designated "pod" on the left side of the wing and secure it with a velcro strap through the slots.

Vibration-Free Footage

To eliminate "jello"-effect, address the root cause: vibrations, often from an unbalanced propeller. Balancing propellers is a manageable task; TBS offers a Prop Balancer. For more details, consult the support forum at fpvlab.com. For high-quality and stable video, consider the following GoPro settings:

Center of Gravity (CG) Optimization

For perfect Center of Gravity (CG), select equipment that balances the wing around the indicated point. The CG is where the lateral and longitudinal axes balance. Place a finger on the CG point and balance the fully loaded wing. Ideally, it should remain level without dipping to either side.

Diagram Description: A top-down view of the wing shows the Center of Gravity (CG) marked by a circle with a crosshair. Dashed lines indicate the longitudinal (roll) axis running along the wing's centerline and the lateral (pitch) axis running across the wing. The CG is at their intersection.

Balance the lateral (pitch) axis within the recommended CG spot. The longitudinal (roll) axis should be balanced straight along the middle of the wing. To adjust the CG, move the battery forward or backward and re-check the balance. Use a marker to note the exact battery position for future reference.

Note: A slightly front-heavy wing will fly, while a tail-heavy wing will perform poorly or not at all.

Flight Procedures

First Flight

Ensure all controls are functioning correctly. Verify that the transmitter trim is centered (zeroed). Pulling the elevator stick back should move both elevons upward. Pushing the stick right should move the right elevon up and the left elevon down. The propeller should spin forward with the text facing forward and the leading edge cutting into the air.

Launch

Hold the wing by the nose with your palm up, thumb wrapped around the top. Take a step or two forward and throw the wing strongly into the wind. A follow-through with your fingertips can increase launch speed. Move the throttle stick fully forward once the wing is a comfortable distance from the ground. For the initial flights, seek assistance from another person, as this is a critical step for a successful launch and trim.

Trim Adjustments

If the wing turns or pitches without stick input, apply 2-3 clicks of trim in the opposite direction. If trim correction is insufficient, re-check the wing's balance around the CG spot and ensure both elevons are level in neutral position. Repeat adjustments until the wing glides straight with a slow sink rate for a stable landing.

FPV Flight

Once the wing flies straight and is properly trimmed, turn on the FPV equipment and perform a range test to confirm video link reliability. Launch the wing as normal, gain altitude while flying Line-Of-Sight (LOS), and then put on your video goggles to engage in FPV flight. If the video signal weakens (noise appears) or drops suddenly, increase altitude and return home. This typically indicates you are at the edge of the video range or flying behind obstacles.

Spare Parts

Spare parts can be purchased directly from Team BlackSheep at (https://www.team-blacksheep.com) or from authorized distributors and retailers. An extensive list of retailers is available at (https://www.team-blacksheep.com/shop).

Good Practices

This section compiles practices tried and tested by the TBS crew and experienced FPV pilots. Follow these rules for success in FPV:

• Start with essential equipment and add components incrementally, performing range and stress tests after each addition.
• Do not fly with a video system that exceeds the range capability of your R/C system.
• Avoid using an R/C frequency higher than your video frequency (e.g., 2.4GHz R/C with 900MHz video).
• Monitor your plane's vitals (R/C link and battery). Flying a digital R/C link without RSSI is dangerous.
• Do not use 2.4GHz R/C unless flying well within its range limits, in noise-free environments, and always within Line-Of-Sight (LOS). For longer-range FPV, it is recommended to avoid 2.4GHz R/C systems.
• Do not fly at the limits of your video system. If you see noise, turn back and consider a higher-gain receiver antenna.
• Use only shielded wires or twisted cables; other types can pick up RF noise and cause issues.
• When using powerful R/C transmitters, ensure your groundstation equipment is properly shielded.
• Adding Return-To-Home (RTH) to an unreliable system does not guarantee recovery. Focus on system reliability first, then add RTH as a safety measure if necessary.
• Avoid powering the VTx directly from the battery. Use a step-up or step-down converter for a constant power level, ensuring it runs until the battery is depleted.
• Do not power your camera directly unless it operates across the full battery voltage range. Use voltage regulation for a constant power supply, ensuring it runs until battery depletion.
• A single battery system is safer than two dedicated batteries for R/C and FPV. Using two batteries in parallel further mitigates failure sources.
• For maximum video range and legal compliance, use 2.4GHz video with high-gain antennas.
• When flying with others on 2.4GHz R/C or in urban areas, 2.4GHz video can be used by sticking to specific channels (CH5-CH8 for Lawmate systems) that do not interfere with R/C bands.
• Do not use diversity video receivers as a substitute for antenna pointing; diversity should mitigate polarization issues.
• Strive for maximum separation between the VTx and R/C receiver to lower RF noise floor and EMI interference.
• Avoid cheap equipment unless proven reliable. Parts falling off, frequent firmware updates, and community hacks often indicate poor quality and are unsuitable for a safe system. Conduct thorough research before flying to ensure safety for yourself and others.

Manual written and designed by ivc.no in cooperation with TBS.