Use an Arduino to make an afforable drone.

Projects General Guidance
1

Hi there :slight_smile: ,

Right now, I am busy on a project, called "The HoboDrone" to make a cheap ass drone.
It is my intention to make a DIY guide for everyone.

The next problem that need to be solved right now in my project, is to process all information that comes and goes through this drone, through the Arduino.

My question is if it's possible that an Arduino handles next tasks/can deliver enough CPU-power for:

  • Reading the sensors
  • Run the code to stabilize the drone
  • Control the electromotors (output from stabilizing code)
  • Get input through RC-signals and control the electomotors

I did not start writing the code for stabilizing the drone, but there are plenty of examples out there, like the bluecopter: GitHub - baselsw/BlueCopter: Arduino Quadcopter firmware
(This code doesn't deal with RC-input from a controller on the ground)

I have read a similar DIY project which used a Raspberry Pi, which took care of a part of the code.
(http://www.instructables.com/id/The-Drone-Pi/)

Is it possible to only use an Arduino in a Drone, or should I work in the direction of a coöperation between an Arduino and Raspberry Pi ?

Thanks in advance!

2

Hi Hobo,

Arduinos excel at reading sensors and controlling actuators and motors. You'd have to provide a little more information on what sensors you plan to use.

It's a little more difficult to determine if it has the horsepower to run your control code. Can you provide more information on that?

Pat.

3

Look up "Arducopter".

And if you plan to make such a thing, you need to go and buy one ready assembled or a complete kit in order to learn how to do it. Starting from scratch will be completely disappointing.