BlimpDuino code Beta1.1 released

[Chris Anderson]

Jordi's now finished the Beta release candidate of the BlimpDuino code. Lots of goodies:

• Full PID loops in both altitude hold and navigation
• Autosenses if a RC receiver is connected and switches into RC mode
• Voltage monitoring cuts off power to save LiPo when voltage is low
• Fully proportional vectoring servo control
• Goes into altitude-hold-only mode if beacon signal is not seen
• Code better commented and easier to read

The source code is now located in a proper Subversion repository on Google Code.

This version reflects the current operating instructions, both for assembly and flight (RC and autonomous). They've been updated, so if you haven't checked them out recently, please do.

[Pat]

Chris,
This is great! I really like the post about disclosing costs and allowing others to build the blimp.

This may have been covered previously, but after seeing the DIYDrones sticker on the side of the blimp, it made me think that the BlimpDuino would be a great advertising tool for companies. Have you addressed this already? I could imagine dozens of these flying around trade shows, indoor flee markets, etc.

Pat

[Chris Anderson]

These blimps are too small for arenas and other places with strong air currents. Also, the IR beacons only have a useful range of 10-20 ft. There are loads of bigger blimps you can buy or rent for advertising in such locations, but they cost thousands of dollars.

[Julian]

Whered you guys get those snazzy DIY Drones stickers from? I would definitly buy a few for my aircraft.

[Chris Anderson]

@Julian: You can print one out with this pdf.