Well, I finally finished the first prototype for my "GunnerView" project (just the viewing system)

And, what the heck is that?

It's pretty simple. Our hobby is based on battling our tanks remotely. That's the "remote control" part (duh).
It's my intent to change that by builidng a simple to use and inexpensive FPV (First Person View) system for RC tanking.
Finally, we will be part of the battle as we will be able to directly view the engage enemy, site the cannon and fire! We will be the commander fighting for the life of our tank and crew.

The key elements are the viewing system (see attached photos), the camera and TX, the IR Apple and the heart of the system; the GunnerView OSD and it's sensors.

Let me break it down:

Viewing System: based on a TFT 8" screen mounted to a 9 channel TX with secondary 11.7 lipo battery system - the viewing system is designed for immediate view (look down and see what is happening) and for complete video immersion by using light blocking googles along with a sound system (now-you can really hear when you throw a tread). The 5.8Ghz RX outputs two video signals along with sound (non-stereo at this time).

Camera/IR System: uses an enlarged IR apple (standard sensors and LED's) along with a camera and minature TX system. This "GunnerView Apple" provides the platform for viewing the front of the tank and terrain along with video overlay that the OSD produces.

OSD: is the heart and brains behind the GunnerView system. This device overlays data into the screen along with a gunner reticle that is tied to the barrel (gyro) to provide elevation readouts. Secondary sensor information includes complete GPS (heading, speed, etc) along with battery condition, temperature, "home" and other information. As part of the OSD data, I'm hoping to be able to program a tank and turret rotation symbol along with other advancements.

With the Video TX, the GunnerView IR Apple and the OSD system, we will be able to finally and directly particpate first hand in our battles. I believe it has the capability of completely changing RC Tanking.

But - baby steps first. The Video TX works well. It was a lot of trial and error, but no burned out screens and all systems worked as they should have (yes - thanks to everyone here - I've learned alot this past year! I even configured the LED's by using a LED calculator and the right resitors...).

I should have the first GunnerView/IR Apple ready for our next DAK battle next month. Once it works well, I'll start on the programming of the OSD system (I have the parts on order - it's a little complicated..../first I have to have the circuit boards printed and components placed and soldered).

If all goes well, I'm hoping to have a professional system ready by summer and I can have a couple of the DAK guys (and girls!) test it out in the heat of battle.

I'll keep everyone posted!
tjsull