Connex Prosight Antenna Frame Replacement

thingiverse

UPDATE REV5: I crafted this custom design specifically for my X frame, but I believe it can also benefit other X frames with the antenna bottom mounted. This updated version includes a few improvements tailored for X frames: Cable guide from the left top directs the cable away from potential prop damage and acts as a bumper in case the antenna brushes against the prop. Right side bumper enhances antenna survivability by absorbing impact when it's pushed into the right side prop, which can hit the antenna from above. 2cm extended base moves the top bar of the "T" shape further away to prevent it from sliding between the two props. This is a common issue for X frames, and without this feature, the antenna seems destined for destruction when pulled backwards. 13 deg forward tilted base keeps the antenna higher and safer from prop damage as it needs to be pulled harder to reach prop level. It also makes the antenna pads stick further away from the frame and reduces shadowing by the back arms, potentially improving signal reception. In addition to these enhancements, I made minor adjustments to the model and improved its fit, which resolved bumps and creases in the final printed part. UPDATE REV4: After reverting to this form factor from the v-shape due to issues with low-mounted v-shapes on compact X-quad builds getting antenna pads too close to props, I uploaded a revised version that is sturdier, requires no clipping of parts, has a slightly curvier and appealing design, bridges better during unsupported prints, and needs less hot glue to secure the pads. This design was born from my original, which broke on its first flight and had its antenna cable chopped up by the props. I measured everything with a caliper and created an alternative inspired by the original but not identical. The new design has a lower, narrower profile than the original and has withstood crashes much harder than what it took to break the original. It features a cable channel through the side of the top frame part, keeping the cable safer from prop damage. Print Settings: Printer Brand: Robo 3D Printer Model: R1 ABS + PLA Model Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.2mm Infill: 100% Notes: This design was intended to be printed without supports, assuming good bridging capabilities from your printer and filament of choice. I used FormFutura's CarbonFil, which is extremely stiff. Printing settings include: Speed: 40 mm/s Nozzle: 0.4mm Walls: 5 (Bridging works better with more walls) Slicer: Cura For the first three layers of top bridging, I reduced printing speed to 50% using the "change at Z height" plugin. Rev4 was printed with FormFutura's TitanX, which is very impact resistant but less stiff than carbonfil. It has properties that are a better fit for this application and was printed with a 0.6mm nozzle at 40-50 mm/s and 50% infill. Post-Printing Installation: Update: For rev4, simply clip off any loose bits preventing the pad from sliding easily into place. Ensure the antenna pad can slide through the top side of each slit holding the antenna opposite to the wire connection. Use a sharp knife to make them big enough to slide through otherwise. This version requires you to slide in each antenna pad through the center section of each fixture. Apply moderate pressure on the pads to slide them from the center through the slit, and then back down to the base. Use hot glue to secure the top pad's cable to the channel at the side of the top fixture. After printing, clean any loose bits and strings from the area where the antenna patches need to slide into. Then: (with a wire cutter) Clip off the part supporting the bit that slides into the rubber mount. Clip off the two supporting pillars across each antenna patch fitting but leave about 2mm at both sides (for better securing the patches when they slide in). (with a sharp knife) Trim and finish any bits securing the patches in place, allowing just enough room for easy sliding.