KD6X Moto-Mast Version II
This is a complete redesign of the Moto-Mast motorized winch assembly and
the shack based remote control unit. Why did I do it? The
original version was a rushed design because I wanted to get an antenna in
the air. Unfortunately, it incorporated a cheap underpowered motor
that was being pushed beyond specified limits.
Every time I raised the mast, I was afraid it would fail. Plus, I had
a lot of good ideas how I could make the new version much better. This
is a picture story of the redesign process which took over a year of
part-time work. Highlights of the new design are a golf-cart sized
brushless DC motor, electronic motor control with variable speed and
soft-start, electronic reverse, and braking control.
The new controller utilizes an Arduino Mega CPU board and a completely customizable large display with soft keys for all functions.
Look through the pictures for the full story. Be sure to click the "Info" button in the lower right corner of each photo for the details.