For posterity’s sake, here is the initial plan we wrote up for Tech Challenge:
For Tech Challenge 2009, we have decided to solve the problem using RC blimps. RC blimps are stable, easy to control in restricting areas, and have sufficient lifting capacity.
As such, we set out to design an RC blimp. Due to weight constraints and strategy we have decided to fly two RC blimps, each splitting the payload. We will construct both RC blimps with carbon fiber frames. The helium envelopes will total 14 cubic feet, and made of Mylar. Two RC transmitters will handle controls, both using 2.4GHz technology to avoid interference on competition day. Ducted fans will provide propulsion, controlled by servo controller boards modified to be electronic speed controllers. We will power the whole device with LiPo batteries.One blimp will carry 4 payloads and need 5 channels. 1 for the Vertical axis, 1 for the Forward and Backward control, 1 for the rotation of the blimp, and one to “strafe”. The controls will be set up to be helicopter style, cyclic and collective. It will also use one servo as a payload release servo.
The second blimp will use 7 channels. Again, the movement controls are the same. There will also still be a release servo. The remaining two channels will serve as a pan and tilt control for a micro camera, which we will use to provide a closer view for the release, so that we will avoid depth perception problems.We will have two blimp pilots, each flying one of the blimps. Another two team members will be visual spotters, guiding the pilots for controls and taking over if anything goes awry. The final member serves as a TV spotter, covering the 2.4GHz camera.
