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The development of radio controlled Video Submersibles and Scale Model submarines has been an interest of mine for the last 20 years, during which time I have built a number of R/C submarines and a prototype video submersible.
The vessel shown here is my second prototype design. Affectionately named "Pipe Dream" it is fully radio controlled and is capable of static diving and carries an on-board video camera, located behind the clear lexan dome, and UHF ATV transmitter, which provides the operator with the ability to view the underwater scenes unfolding as he explores the
local waterways, via a portable video receiver and LCD monitor.
The CCD video camera was purchased from Supercircuits Inc. and the transmitter was constructed from a kit purchased from North Country Radio. Since the transmitter's operating frequency is 440 MHZ, an Amateur Radio license is required for legal operation.
One of the problems I experienced was that water, even fresh water, attenuates the video RF signal so much that the signal disappears at a depth of only one foot. Because of this it was necessary to design a towed floating antenna array which the vessel pulls along with it allowing a strong signal to be transmitted.
"Pipe Dream" is constructed from standard ABS Plumbing fittings. Lower left and right tubes are made from 3" dia. ABS pipe and contain the batteries and lights. The main center hull is constructed from 4" pipe and contains all the radio control and video electronics, as well as a ballast system. Propulsion is provide by independently controlled waterproof
thrusters (bilge pumps) which can be operated independently to steer the craft. They also pivot 90 degrees to provide forward as well as vertical thrust as required.
While attending the 15th Annual International SubRegatta in Carmel Indiana July 2006, "Pipe Dream" won a 3rd place award for R/C Engineering & craftmanship.
If you are interested in seeing more photos please check ou my website at: http://www3.sympatico.ca/ted.scrivens
The vessel shown here is my second prototype design. Affectionately named "Pipe Dream" it is fully radio controlled and is capable of static diving and carries an on-board video camera, located behind the clear lexan dome, and UHF ATV transmitter, which provides the operator with the ability to view the underwater scenes unfolding as he explores the
local waterways, via a portable video receiver and LCD monitor.
The CCD video camera was purchased from Supercircuits Inc. and the transmitter was constructed from a kit purchased from North Country Radio. Since the transmitter's operating frequency is 440 MHZ, an Amateur Radio license is required for legal operation.
One of the problems I experienced was that water, even fresh water, attenuates the video RF signal so much that the signal disappears at a depth of only one foot. Because of this it was necessary to design a towed floating antenna array which the vessel pulls along with it allowing a strong signal to be transmitted.
"Pipe Dream" is constructed from standard ABS Plumbing fittings. Lower left and right tubes are made from 3" dia. ABS pipe and contain the batteries and lights. The main center hull is constructed from 4" pipe and contains all the radio control and video electronics, as well as a ballast system. Propulsion is provide by independently controlled waterproof
thrusters (bilge pumps) which can be operated independently to steer the craft. They also pivot 90 degrees to provide forward as well as vertical thrust as required.
While attending the 15th Annual International SubRegatta in Carmel Indiana July 2006, "Pipe Dream" won a 3rd place award for R/C Engineering & craftmanship.
If you are interested in seeing more photos please check ou my website at: http://www3.sympatico.ca/ted.scrivens
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