Hello ! This is my first creation here, I’m building a Zeppelin remote controled to fly over an area an take some videos.
My question is about how can I control it from my computer? I have only 4 motors to control at the same time and I’d like a light solution cause the weight is a limit here. Can You help me to fin a cheap solution to my problem?
Thank you very much.
Good idea, I’ll use this configuration. Now the main prob is to find the best tx - rx method , what about the Devantech CM02 - 900 Radio Telemetry Module?
ok , thank you very much for the tips I can’t wait to receive my orders to begin the project.
Thank you again.
The main issue is usually making sure it fits and that the weigh of the solution is within the limits. Zeppelins can usually carry alot of payload.
You could start out by evaluating a microcontroller to serve as the brain of your Zeppelin. This will ensure dispatching of commands from the PC and even as a failsafe “autopilot”. It will also assist you by allowing you to interface various parts to add functionality. You will probably require one or two motor controllers, for example.
Secondly, depending on the range you expect, select a communication technology to make the link between the Zeppelin and Computer base station. The data can be kept seperate from the video feed or sent along as data on the same channel. Having a two way data link is useful, as the Zeppelin could also send back information such as battery level, altitude, heading, etc. Might want to add sensors in that case. Mind you, some hobby grade R/C gear can go up to a mile, line of sight, if you can get a TX that allows plugging into your PC.
Experiment and have fun, cool project!
That would work well. Those modules are actually a serial cable replacement, so it is like having a long serial cable between the PC and the Zeppelin. Perhaps a RF04 (USB) on the PC side and a CM02 on the Zeppelin?
Similarly, the Active Robots telemetry modules may be a good solution if you expect to mount larger antennas on the base station for long range. They offer SMA connectors to accomplish this external antenna solution easily.
