Micasense RedEdge-M Standalone Mounting System

thingiverse

RedEdge-M Standalone Mounting System Created by Alex McLemore # Project Description ## Objective Create a mounting system for the MicaSense RedEdge-M that connects to UAVs and other systems using a standard mounting connection, complete with self-contained design so camera can be removed without disconnecting wires. ## Solution • Attach to UAV with GoPro-style mount, including power source on the mount; attach additional components (GPS and DLS) to mount connected with independent movable mount. • Frame of mounting system can be 3D printed, all other components accessible and affordable. ## Components ### 3D Printed Parts #### Frame • Camera mount with two GoPro attachments - Filename: 'camera mount for battery and mast.stl' • Battery case1 - Filename: 'battery case.stl' • Battery case cover - Filename: 'battery case cover.stl' • Downwelling Light Sensor and GPS mast - Filename: 'DLS-GPS mast.stl' #### Extras • Low profile GoPro mount for 3DR Solo - Filename: '3DR Solo GoPro mount.stl' • Camera only mount - Filename: 'camera only mount.stl' • RedEdge-M lens cover (https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2842241) ## Design All parts designed in Fusion 360; design files included in .f3d and .step format. ^{1} Battery case is a work in progress, works but not without tweaking; RedEdge-M periodically losing power during flights due to batteries bounding off springs; stuffed small pieces of plastic between springs to eliminate gaps, been flying this way for 3 months without issues, better battery case would be much better fix. ## Power (Batteries) 1. Melted springs from a 18650 holder into printed battery case. 2. Route positive side of battery spring to switch. 3. Connect negative side of batteries to negative wire on RedEdge-M power cable. 4. Connect positive end of RedEdge-M power cable to switch. 5. Switch should press fit into notch in battery case; use some glue if loose. 6. Protected 18650 batteries recommended to prevent battery damage; camera will automatically shut down once voltage gets too low, but better safe than sorry; smaller battery case needed if non-protected batteries used. ## Usage Configurations Mounting system designed to work in multiple configurations: ### 3DR Solo Configuration Assembly as seen in photos: 1. Attached RedEdge-M to camera mount using screws provided with camera. 2. Attached battery case to back with three small coarse screws. 3. Attached mast to end GoPro mount. 4. Secure GPS unit and DLS to mast with double-sided adhesive. 5. Route wires from GPS and DLS down back of mast and through center of camera mount; connect them to camera. 6. Attached optional 3DR Solo GoPro mount to 3DR Solo with four bolts and washers. 7. Insert batteries and install cover; taped cover because fit is not great. 8. Attached mounting system to 3DR Solo at middle GoPro mount location. # Project Webpage More information about project can be found [here](https://sites.google.com/view/drmclemore/researchprojects).