RasPi camera for Tarot T2D Gimbal

thingiverse

Fly RasPi camera! Fly! This advanced yet budget-friendly solution for aerial photography incorporates the Tarot T2D gimbals, enabling innovative capture of arial imagery. The potential features are limitless, making this a constantly evolving project. As is, it has numerous operational functions focused on near-infrared photography. Equipped with an onboard battery, it offers autonomous operation. Notably, its weight is less than the GoPro at 66g versus 80g. Utilizing the Raspi video out jack for FPVing seems relatively straightforward; I have yet to test this function. My initial goal was integrating a Raspberry Pi 1 Model A+ with Noir camera into the Phantom 2 Gimbal HD3D. However, due to technical constraints related to compatibility, especially with the DJI gimbal being specifically designed for GoPro3, achieving balance proved too challenging despite a minor weight reduction. As an alternative, I opted for the IRIS equipped with the Tarot 2D gimbals and Pixhawk controller. This powerful combination of hardware features robust performance and advanced control. It's also relatively heavy, which serves as an upside when balanced against the previous limitations. The current RasPi camera configuration includes various useful functions: An onboard battery enables autonomous operation or standalone photography. One button provides an easy way to turn off power. Another switch facilitates effortless switching between timelapse autonomous shooting and single shots. A third button takes a single shot; you can also trigger it from a relay connected via Pixhawk output (check brown + yellow wires). Pressing another button shuts down the Pi safely. Key features for infrared photography are also integrated: A blue filter holder, a protective cap, An AV out is accessible for FPV and has been tested (FPV not tested yet). Furthermore, with MissionPlanner on Pixhawk's side, aerial photography planning becomes more manageable and efficient. This project utilizes: A Raspberry Pi 1 Model A+ (23.75 €) Noir Camera from the same vendor, price being around 29.99€) Adafruit PowerBoost for converting DC power into stable output A small Lithium-Ion Polymer battery providing 500mAh of energy A few basic switches including 6mm Slim Tactile Button Pack, and 20 individual packs) 1 breadboard-compatible switch Approximately $75 including taxes Feel free to Like and Share this unique, low-cost, yet feature-packed photography project.