The skydeck combines a ground station, rc link, and fpv system in a steam deck to create an efficient and portable way to control ardupilot drones
Files for 3D printing the backpack can be found here: https://cad.onshape.com/documents/0a85f5b80c6099a2fc1cf05d/w/0408ca52d32ec3c9c9f8f564/e/62ef1ad992c53a1e1d5da3ef?renderMode=0&uiState=656f69ab29fbb41151b55d58
I am working on a list of hardware that will be finalized once I complete a full system test. BElow is what I currently have:
- Steam Deck
- Happymodel ES24 TX
- ESP32S2 Mini
- Walksnail VRX Module
- HDMI Capture Card
RC control and mavlink are both done over a single transmitter using ExpressLRS with the rc-mavlink functionality
// add details on setup
To pair with low latency RC control, skydeck uses the Walksnail VRX for video feed. This pairs nicely with an OLED steam deck and allows for manual fpv flying
// add details
Mission planner is used as a GCS and can be installed on the steam deck using mono and following these instructions: https://aur.archlinux.org/packages/ardupilot-mission-planner
Some custom code modified from kkbin505's excellent DIY elrs transmitter code is used to send crsf packets from an ESP32 to the ELRS tx module. This is paired with a python script on the steam deck that sends deck controller output to the ESP32.
This project uses a very software heavy approach to allow RC control. As always, set a failsafe before you fly, and follow the local regulations regarding drones.