drone components

[RicardPozo]

Good morning,
I recently started a project for high school, which consists of building a quadcopter drone, and implanting LiDAR technology (distance sensors) so that it could travel through spaces avoiding common obstacles. I open this topic, in case someone could help me with the components for my drone. Since it is for a school project, I would prefer not to spend a lot of money. That's why, I'm addressing to this forum, with the aim of getting good components in terms of quality and price.

If you have any ideas that can help me, I would be delighted to hear from you.

 

[Nikita]

Good morning,
I recently started a project for high school, which consists of building a quadcopter drone, and implanting LiDAR technology (distance sensors) so that it could travel through spaces avoiding common obstacles. I open this topic, in case someone https://zumbaliciouscrew.com/en/zumba-on-demand/ could help me with the components for my drone. Since it is for a school project, I would prefer not to spend a lot of money. That's why, I'm addressing to this forum, with the aim of getting good components in terms of quality and price.

If you have any ideas that can help me, I would be delighted to hear from you.

Your high school project sounds fantastic, and I'd be happy to help you with some recommendations for building a budget-friendly quadcopter drone with LiDAR technology. Here are some components that should suit your needs in terms of quality and price:

Components for Your Quadcopter Drone​

1. Frame:
   • Recommendation: A 450mm frame is a standard size that offers good stability and is affordable.
   • Example: F450 Quadcopter Frame, which you can find for around $15-$20.
2. Motors:
   • Recommendation: Use brushless motors for better efficiency and reliability.
   • Example: A2212 1000KV Brushless Motors, typically costing about $10 each.
3. Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs):
   • Recommendation: 30A ESCs are commonly used for 450mm quadcopters.
   • Example: Simonk 30A ESCs, available for around $10 each.
4. Flight Controller:
   • Recommendation: The APM 2.8 is a good, affordable option with GPS capabilities.
   • Example: APM 2.8 Flight Controller, usually priced around $30-$40.
5. LiPo Battery:
   • Recommendation: A 3S 2200mAh 25C LiPo battery strikes a good balance between flight time and power.
   • Example: ZOP Power 3S 2200mAh LiPo Battery, typically around $20-$25.
6. Propellers:
   • Recommendation: 10x4.5 inch propellers are suitable for the 450mm frame.
   • Example: Gemfan 1045 Propellers, which you can find for about $5 per set of 4.
7. LiDAR Sensor:
   • Recommendation: The TFmini LiDAR sensor is cost-effective and suitable for obstacle avoidance.
   • Example: Benewake TFmini LiDAR (12m), generally priced around $40.
8. Power Distribution Board (PDB):
   • Recommendation: A simple PDB to distribute power from the battery to the ESCs.
   • Example: Generic Quadcopter PDB, available for about $5-$10.
9. Remote Control and Receiver:
   • Recommendation: A basic 6-channel transmitter and receiver set will suffice for control.
   • Example: Flysky FS-i6 6CH Transmitter and Receiver, costing around $40-$50.
10. Additional Accessories:
    • Battery Charger: iMAX B6 mini balance charger, priced around $20-$25.
    • Landing Gear: Basic landing gear for F450 frame, costing about $5.
    • GPS Module: For enhanced navigation with the APM 2.8 (optional), around $20.

Assembly and Programming​

1. Assembly:
   • Follow detailed tutorials on YouTube or online forums specific to your frame and flight controller.
   • Make sure all connections are secure and soldered properly.
2. Software Setup:
   • Use Mission Planner for the APM 2.8 to set up and configure your flight controller.
   • Calibrate the flight controller, ESCs, and sensors to ensure everything works smoothly.
3. LiDAR Integration:
   • Connect the TFmini LiDAR sensor to your flight controller and configure it to assist with obstacle avoidance.
   • Refer to online guides for specific integration instructions and coding.

By choosing these components, you should be able to build a functional and efficient quadcopter drone while keeping costs manageable. Good luck with your project.