Develop standard, re-usable inexpensive solutions for IP-enabled always-on UAVs over cellular IP networks such as GPRS, 3G, 4G etc.
Primary goal: Telemetry over low cost cellular [achieved in testing]
Secondary goal: Bi-directional GCS/Telemetry over cellular IP [achieved in testing]
Tertiary goal: High speed IP for streaming IP video over cellular 3G/4G
STATUS: Bi-directional telemetry over cellular IP (UDP or TCP) is now working. It has been flown successfully while logging live telemetry to a GCS at home, several miles away [distance is really unlimited]. Currently working on improving code, more testing and broader hardware support.
Comments
That thought cossed my mind as well :)
Isn't the 4G coverage over the Atlantic a bit weak? :)
Turbine
Ellis, what is the machine powered by? Trans-Atlantic flight sounds rather industrial.
4G modem tests have proved very successful. Exceeded all my expectations with just under 500ms lag.
The problem with Skype, Teamviewer, and com0com (besides the considerable lag), is that the telemetry data and video feed are not synchronized. Teamviewer itself is too laggy to do any more than double-click, let alone view video.
My system consists of a powerful, light, compact onboard computer and 4G modem. The bandwith and latency is more than capable of streaming full HD video and transmitting telemetry both ways.
Currently my system consumes less than 10W total and weighs less than 200g. Together with Cameron Lattz, we have developed a ground control station, along with a 3G/4G communication program that streams HD video from a GoPro and 2-way telemetry over the internet. Also a Digi M10 satellite modem is used for redundant back-up telemetry communication via the onboard computer.
The custom programming allows both the APM and the onboard computer to restart each other in case of a freeze, with a redundant multiplexer to control both of those in case they both freeze. The onboard computer is set-up to restart automatically and resume video stream and telemetry communications. There is not much more to do to make this more redundant.
Plans are underway to carry out a trans-Atlantic flight this year. We are waiting on our COA from the FAA.
We plan to release our system and program in late July to the public.
Skype is an alternative yes. I haven't tried the GoPro over 3g yet. I'm waiting for my Cotton Candy :)
I tried compiling the v0.5 code onto an APM1 2560, but keep getting the error in Arducopter.cpp on line 1072 could not convert 'navigate()' to 'bool'. There are also a bunch of errors related to led's. Has anyone else experienced the same problems or have any suggestions, please?
Tommy,
Have you tested the VLC stream using a GoPro over 3g connection before? I understand you are downgrading the quality in an effort to decrease required bandwidth. How could I perform a test such as this myself on the ground?
I've flown a Wi-fi cam connected to a small 3G wifi router before. This could be viewed from anywhere, but the refresh rate and resolution was terrible. My next plan will be to use a smartphone that can be sacrificed with the Bambuser app installed. On ground it streams video quite OK to PC. If you have PC on board you could also consider just using Teamviewer or why not even Skype?
Hi Geir
I havent got mu Cotton Candy yet, but i got an email says during this month. So it should be close :)
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