How to Create a Test Stand for a Radio Controlled VTOL Capable Vehicle.

The purpose of this instructable is to go over the basic outline of building a test bed for a radio controlled VTOL capable vehicle.
This is important because there is a growing popularity in R/C controlled VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) scale model vehicles. I.E. Helicopters and Quad-Copters.
The models are all built to various standards and build qualities, and as such may exhibit unpredictable flight characteristics including unpredictable handling following by loss of control at a high rate of speed.

Step 1: Source a R/C/ Vehicle

First, you must have a vehicle in which you plan to build off of, or at the very least have the general dimensions for it.
Source a suitable material to construct the test platform off of. It must be of suitable grade to withstand the expected pressures that will be encountered during testing.

Step 2: Measure the General Dimensions.

After picking a suitable material, measure the general dimensions of the vehicle.
In this case, a simple piece of 1/8 inch particle board was selected for this general build.
A double stacked set-up was utilized, with sliders attached between to two boards to allow for storage of spare parts or future modifications to the aircraft landing pad.

Step 3: Cut the Material to Size.

Once the general dimensions are measured, cut the material to size.
In this case, I had to go a little old school and cut the material with a hand saw.
A good recommendation is to cut pieces to fit a 24" by 18" inch Epilog Laser.

Step 4: Apply Markings

Every good landing spot needs applicable markings.
In this example, an Epilog Laser 60w is used to raster (etch) the landing pad markings into the test bed.

Step 5: Apply Hardware

Most important is to apply tie downs. These are crucial for securing the aircraft to the test bed, but should leave enough slack for the aircraft to hover and be able to exhibit satisfactory flight characteristics.

Step 6: Test!

Once everything is in order and the aircraft is secured, the next plan is to test and make sure the vehicle works!
The attached video shows the test platform in action.