BATTLE UPDATE FOR FPV:

Yesterday was a warm and bright day at the DAK Phoenix tank battle (actually started out as overcast, but warmed up). Temperatures on the field were 90+- and it was a challenging test to determine the battleworthiness of fighting with a FPV system such as I had built.

So... Here's the scoop:

By using a FPV system to navigate and for target acquisition and firing is unbelievable. It IS ABSOLUTELY THE COOLEST THING I HAVE DONE IN RC!

However, I need to make some significant design changes.

The primary issue is glare on the LCD screen. As I figured, it was not effective to be in the midst of a battle, look down at the screen, try to shield it from glare and fire. I did manage to knock out a couple of allied tanks with the FPV system, but overall I found it too complex to use in the heat of battle.

The second issue is reception on the 5.8 ghz system. Once the tank goes behind a build, static builds up and it's hard to see. This is somewhat remedied by using a different "cloverleaf" antennae on the TX/RX. Just a little more cost $$$.

The LCD screen is great to run around the house or the backyard in the shade, but not in battle.

I believe the answer is more money.....

Actually, it's a monocular Head Mounted Display system that is needed.

By using an optical visor with a small, high resolution LCD screen mounted where the image can be projected into a Fresnal lense, you can design and build an efficient Monocular HMD that won't break the bank. To build the system, I'll need a 3D printer. It's a good excuse to pull the plug on one.

Epson also makes a very interesting pair of semi-transparent HUD glasses called the MOVERIO. Although it's Android based, you can hack a video signal into it. The MOVERIO is interesting because it allows the veiwer to see the FPV view along with normal viewing. At -+$500 per pair, I think I'll experiment with the LCD/Fresnal setup.

Of course, there's always Google Glass. But, at a projected cost of over $1,000 per, I'll pass.

I'll keep reporting on my progress. We're moving next month, so I'll be setting aside everything for several months - but it's a great excuse to build a better workshop.

Thanks,
tsull

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