FPV Payload
FPV Assembly
Objectives
- Provide first person view of the parachute
- Provide video at long ranges 10+ Miles
- Allow for adjustable rigged weight for testing of the vehicle 1.5 – 8lb
- Simple attachment to the vehicle system
- Keep system cost low for easy replacement in event of crashes
Process
- Brainstorm potential designs
- Work with Electrical Engineer to discuss the effects of EM interference with weights and other onboard avionics
- Go through an iterative design process with the system to ensure lack of range issues
- Build and test a prototype
- Build multiple prototypes for field testing
- Modify the system based on field test results
Results
- Initial results showed range of 2.5 Miles on ground leading to an expected ~10 miles in the air
- A switch would have been a nice touch to cover battery and was added in an updated design
- Weighting system was modular and easy enough to change in the field
- Cost per system was low
- Initial attachment points sheared off at the epoxy, but remained intact due to secondary zip tie fasteners, this was updated with more surface area on an updated design (left)