Remote-controlled flying vehicles have been a popular hobby for many years. However, with the development of autonomous flight technology, RC flying has become more advanced, safer, and easier to control. One of the most popular autonomous flight systems is the ArduPilot software, which can be easily flashed on Pixhawk flight controllers (It can be flashed on other F722 based flight controllers as well but it best works with APM and Pixhawk). This blog will explain the components used in autonomous RC flying and how additional components can enhance the system.
Components Used in Autonomous RC Flying
FLIGHT CONTROLLER : A flight controller is an essential component used in autonomous RC flying, as it is responsible for controlling the flight of the aircraft. It is a small computer that contains sensors, such as gyroscopes, barometer and accelerometers, which measure the aircraft's altitude , orientation and movement.
One of the most popular flight controllers used in autonomous RC flying is the APM2.8. The APM2.8 is an open-source flight controller based on the Arduino platform, which means that it can be programmed and customized by users. It contains a 32-bit processor, along with sensors for measuring altitude, GPS location, and orientation.
The APM2.8 flight controller is compatible with the ArduPilot software, which is a powerful autopilot system for RC aircraft. The ArduPilot software provides advanced features, such as autonomous flight, mission planning, and telemetry data transmission. With the APM2.8 and ArduPilot software, users can program their RC aircraft to fly autonomously, follow a pre-defined flight path, and perform complex aerial maneuvers.
GPS MODULE - A Global Positioning System (GPS) is used to determine the location of the RC aircraft. This information is critical for autonomous flight, as it enables the system to maintain its position and follow a predetermined flight path.
BLDC MOTOR AND ESC - Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) motors are used to power the propellers on the RC aircraft, while Electronic Speed Controllers (ESC) regulate the speed of the motors. The ArduPilot software uses the ESC to control the speed of the motors and adjust the aircraft's altitude.
SERVO MOTOR(S) - Servo motors are used to control the movement of the control surfaces on the RC aircraft, such as the rudder, elevator, and ailerons. The ArduPilot software uses these motors to control the aircraft's movements and keep it on course.
RECEIVER TRANSMITTER - The receiver and transmitter are used to send and receive signals between the RC aircraft and the ground station. The transmitter sends commands to the aircraft, while the receiver receives signals from the GPS and other sensors.
Additional Components to Enhance the System
TELEMETRY MODULE - A telemetry module can be used to transmit data between the RC aircraft and the ground station. This data can include information about the aircraft's location, altitude, speed, and battery life. With telemetry, the operator can monitor the aircraft's performance and make adjustments if necessary.
POWER METER - A power meter can be used to measure the current and voltage of the battery powering the RC aircraft. This information can be used to monitor the battery's health and ensure that it has enough power to complete the flight.
FPV SYSTEM - A First Person View (FPV) system can be used to provide live video feed from the RC aircraft's camera to the ground station. This allows the operator to see what the aircraft is seeing and make adjustments to the flight path if necessary.
Following is a diagram of the system :
Conclusion
Autonomous RC flying with ArduPilot software flashed on Pixhawk flight controllers has revolutionized the hobby by making it easier to control and safer to fly. With the right components, the system can be enhanced to provide even more functionality and performance. GPS, servo motors, receiver transmitters, BLDC motors, and ESC are the essential components used in autonomous RC flying, while telemetry modules, power meters, and FPV systems can be used to enhance the system. With these components, operators can enjoy more immersive and safer flying experiences.