PROJECTS / FIELD NOTES

Printed FPV Camera Nose for a Flying Wing

I printed a removable nose for the FPV camera on this wing. The lens sits low in the shell, with vents above it and the antenna stalk exiting through the top.

How the nose seats

Detached black printed camera nose with perforations and antenna stalk
The detached shell exposes its shape and the placement of the camera and antenna, May 16, 2024.

The shell comes off with the camera. The rear edge seats against the foam and locates the lens relative to the airframe.

The installed photo shows tape across part of that joint.

Lens and vent clearance

Printed nose fitted to black foam flying wing with camera lens and perforated shell
The printed nose fitted to the aircraft, May 17, 2024.

The openings give the electronics a path to outside air. I’d check temperature with the nose installed both on the bench and in flight. The airflow through the vents will be different.

The lens projects past the print. That leaves the camera exposed, but a deeper lip would risk showing up in the wide angle image.

The antenna exit

Front view of printed camera nose showing vent openings and antenna exit
Front view of the fitted nose, May 17, 2024.

I routed the antenna stalk through the top behind the vents. The coax needs enough movement to let the nose come off without pulling on the connector.

The avionics bay is covered separately.