Introduction
Using similar equipment and
techniques, this lab is designed to both further our understanding of
grassroots aerial mapping using a digital camera mounted on a ground tethered
helium filled balloon, and also the design and prep to get a high altitude
balloon launch (HABL) mission ready.
Methods and Discussion of Preliminary
Prototype Rig Design
Balloon mapping- Using a hybrid construction of
methods found in a dated online instruction manual and the addition of our own
design features, we set out to create the mapping platform. Aside from a
mid-level quality 8 megapixel digital camera, the materials used to create our
own map were relatively inexpensive, common items consisting of: a weather
balloon, 500 feet of parachute cord, and a platform for the camera to be
mounted on. The balloon itself is a reusable rubber weather balloon with a two
lb. lifting capacity. For the aerial mapping task, lifting strength was
considered, but it was not entirely crucial due to the fact that all the
balloon would have to suspend and support is a small digital camera. It was
decided that images of the AOI would be taken continuously with the camera by
simply setting it to continuous shoot mode, and then modifying the camera with
a rubber band and rubber stopper to press and hold the button on the camera to
always be taking pictures while it was turned on.
HABL- Compared to the balloon
mapping project, I considered the HABL to be much more of a complicated task
due to the fact that all aspects of the project need to be perfectly executed
on the first attempt for the mission to be considered a success because we will
only get one chance to send the balloon to nearly 100,000 ft. Much like the
Balloon mapping project, our starting point in designing the rig started with
the analysis of some very poor diagrams and schematic drawings. Once the basics
of HABL were understood, collaboration as a class began. Aside from working out
the kinks on rig construction our biggest challenge seemed to be the cumulative
weight of the entire device compared to the lifting strength of our balloon. As
seen in the attached image outlining all materials used and their specific weights,
we initially overshot the lifting strength of our balloon on the first run at
rig construction. With the general design of the rig drawn, our next task is to
whittle down all materials to the bear minimum to shave off as much excess
weight as possible which will take place in subsequent testing of each design
feature, and also with the final stages of complete rig construction.
Conclusion
As you can see in the images section
of my blog, much headway was made on this project. In just one class period
alone, we compiled the necessary materials, designed a few prototype models,
and even did some preliminary testing of the strength and functionality of
them. However, we are far from done. To achieve success in sending a camera to
the outer reaches of the earth’s atmosphere is going to take much more time
than just a few hours inside of class. I have no doubt that this is achievable,
it is just that we do not have the rig complete and launch ready, but will
follow this post with a secondary report of the final rig when that is the
case.
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