KronTalk

Chronos => Chronos User Discussion => Topic started by: dgerrard on July 03, 2018, 10:07:45 AM

Title: Protecting the Chronos
Post by: dgerrard on July 03, 2018, 10:07:45 AM

I use the Chronos cameras to record the liftoff of rockets so naturally the camera needs to be protected.  In one case the rocket passes just inches away from the camera so not only does the camera have to be protected from the heat and flame of the rocket motor but the protection must also allow for the camera to be cooled.   The camera must operate in environments that are dusty and at temperatures of 105F/40C for about 10 hours in the desert.

I used a Hammond enclosure 1590EE (https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/hammond-manufacturing/1590EE/HM441-ND/2627894 (https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/hammond-manufacturing/1590EE/HM441-ND/2627894)) that happens to be the perfect size for the Chronos and the camera is mounted to the lid with 25mm standoffs.  To allow for cooling, I drilled holes in one end of the enclosure and used a regular dust mask as the inlet filter.  It tuns out that the paper filers could not withstand the differential pressure and blew out so I will have to change the filter material for the next launch.  I made an exhaust duct for the fan with a 3D printer and used penetrations in the cover that allowed for external power and the trigger signal.  Although the enclosure is not sealed, I did seal up the lens opening with Silicone glue to prevent the corrosive gasses from entering the camera.  The lens was protected with a UV filter and is cleaned between launches.

I was concerned about adequate cooling but the camera never overheated or failed to record the launches and the inside of the box remained clean.

https://vimeo.com/278186933 (https://vimeo.com/278186933)
http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0676.JPG (http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0676.JPG)
http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0678.JPG (http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0678.JPG)
http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0680.JPG (http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0680.JPG)
http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0682.JPG (http://www.rocketryphotography.com/_LWR0682.JPG)

Here is footage from the Chronos used in this mount.
https://vimeo.com/276166526 (https://vimeo.com/276166526)

Doug

Title: Re: Protecting the Chronos
Post by: DDR on July 03, 2018, 06:22:22 PM

Man - I just gotta say, that's some beautiful footage! 8)