Serac
Well-Known Member
Hi all,
After getting my L-1 last weekend (yay!), I’m already thinking about future builds and flights. I naturally start combining my other interests, one of which is FPV radio controlled the radio planes.
The ArduPilot open source code base is easily adapted for custom purposes. I see no reason why it could not be used to fire a squib, record position and velocity, transmit telemetry, and even guide the rocket.
That last bit about guiding is not trivial, and is my intent. But, that is for another thread. And honestly, I am not too concerned about that part because I do that professionally.
However, adapting an autopilot for data collection purposes and dual deployment should be very straightforward. The latest versions of ArduPilot (that do not run on Arduino) utilize full strapdown IMU GPS aided navigation.
Things possible:
1. Record data for download
2. Transmit telemetry over HAM or non-HAM frequencies and/or provide landing GPS coordinates.
3. Use the AUX ports to fire a squib for dual deployment.
All these possibilities exist in high power rocketry already. But, each of these systems is fairly expensive. And not one does all. A board capable of running ArduPilot costs less than $50.
Has anyone done this or investigated this? There is an old ArduRocket branch of ArduPilot. But, it seems to have generated little interest.
Thoughts?
After getting my L-1 last weekend (yay!), I’m already thinking about future builds and flights. I naturally start combining my other interests, one of which is FPV radio controlled the radio planes.
The ArduPilot open source code base is easily adapted for custom purposes. I see no reason why it could not be used to fire a squib, record position and velocity, transmit telemetry, and even guide the rocket.
That last bit about guiding is not trivial, and is my intent. But, that is for another thread. And honestly, I am not too concerned about that part because I do that professionally.
However, adapting an autopilot for data collection purposes and dual deployment should be very straightforward. The latest versions of ArduPilot (that do not run on Arduino) utilize full strapdown IMU GPS aided navigation.
Things possible:
1. Record data for download
2. Transmit telemetry over HAM or non-HAM frequencies and/or provide landing GPS coordinates.
3. Use the AUX ports to fire a squib for dual deployment.
All these possibilities exist in high power rocketry already. But, each of these systems is fairly expensive. And not one does all. A board capable of running ArduPilot costs less than $50.
Has anyone done this or investigated this? There is an old ArduRocket branch of ArduPilot. But, it seems to have generated little interest.
Thoughts?