Potting a Picamera
This page outlines the process for potting a Raspberry Pi camera (see also #33). This is an attempt to take the old potting process and implement it with the Raspberry Pi Zero PiCam modules... Future edits will be required.
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Replace stock lens with Wide Angle lens
- Remove the stock lens from the PiCam (unscrewing it with a pair of needlenose pliers; it will feel bad), revealing the square image sensor underneath.
* Install the M12 lens mount over top of the image sensor, using two nylon screws, screwed in from the back.
* Screw the Wide Angle Lens into the lens holder
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Assemble camera pod
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Slide a piece heatsrink over the USB cable, and then solder wires onto required terminals (using previously potted wire/penetrator if pressure test on can has been completed)
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Apply liquid electrical tape or 5 minute epoxy over the solder joints to prevent bad things from occurring
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Route the USB cable through the pod in such a way that it isn't touching the sides of the pod and pulling on it won't pull on the connections.
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- Cut pipe (1.25" ABS) appropriately for lens cylinder
- Cut new lens on router to fit new lens cylinder
- Test & Focus camera through new solder connection and USB-Ethernet converter
- Seal around image sensor, corners of RasPi board , any holes that potting compound may leak through with 5-minute epoxy
- Let stand for at least 1 hour. Longer is better
- Seal with potting compound on reverse (not the lens) side using 835 potting compound
- Let stand for at least 24 hours without being moved
- Test to ensure focus and functionality
- Seal lens in place using 5-minute epoxy (with desiccant inside in a non-conductive, permeable bag)
- Seal front side (lens side) of camera pod using 835 potting compound
- Pot cable in an M10 (red) penetrator using 835 potting compound (If pressure test on can was not completed prior to Tuesday and a different cable was used)
- Let stand for at least 24 hours without being moved
- Test camera prior to flight