"Jorge R. Frank" wrote:

It is also worth pointing out that Gary Hudson had always intended to add
an autopilot to the final Roton C-9, but did not develop it for the ATV
because his initial funding and schedule were too tight and it was more
important to simply prove that ATV could fly.

Based on his posting at the time, using the ATV as a 'touchy feely'
proof of existence to his investors was even more important than
flight testing. He complained several times that the pilot(s) were
unable to use the ATV for training (the computer had a simulation
mode) because of his need to conduct tours for potential investors.

It is however, arguable that his approach was correct as without money
the company was as doomed as it would have been by a flight failure.

D.
--
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Corrections, comments, and additions should be
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