RotorX Switchback Canopy with Swappable Camera Mount

thingiverse

I'm thrilled to unveil this innovative canopy for the RotorX Switchback, designed with interchangeable holders for GoPro Session cameras. This adaptable approach can be applied to various frames, eliminating the need for new GoPro holder prints. This design requires two 20mm M3 pillars that slide into the canopy and four 8mm M3 screws to secure the camera mount in place. During experimentation, I tested 15, 18, and 20 degree camera angles with a GoPro Session, and in each case, the props and motor nuts remained visible. This can be easily cropped out in post-production. By about 23-25 degrees, the motors should be completely obscured from view. The canopy also features a mount for the TBS Immortal T antenna, which should fit the FrSky R9 T antenna as well. Please note that there is a thin gap in the antenna mount that needs to be carefully broken open by hand once printed. As a RotorX Switchback owner, I was drawn to the idea of offset motors and their potential for smoother flights. The main drawback of the stock canopy with the HD camera mount is its steep angle around 40 degrees, which made flights too fast with little power remaining for acrobatic maneuvers. The offset motors lend themselves well to slower, more cinematic cruising style flying. Over several months, I experimented with various attempts to create a better camera mount and canopy, aiming for an all-in-one model. However, this proved difficult to print cleanly and utilized excessive support material. Realizing the benefits of a two-part design, I opted for modular components that can be easily swapped out depending on the flying situation. Feel free to request additional camera angles or suggest changes to enhance this design!