Application-Based Drone Development

Earlier in this book, we learned about the different types of drones and the basic components that are required to build one. We also learned about the basic physics of a drone and how to achieve stable flight with the help of engineering and physics. Drone technology continues to evolve, creating boundless opportunities across various industries. Advancements in drones enable enhanced capabilities, from increased flight efficiency to better data collection and analysis. Upgrading and feature development drive innovation, fostering safer, more precise, and versatile drones. Learning about drone technology opens doors to numerous career paths, from aerial photography and cinematography to agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and environmental monitoring. Understanding drone advancements empowers individuals to harness these tools effectively, contributing to improved efficiency, data accuracy, and problem-solving in diverse fields, ultimately shaping...

Technical requirements

The basic technical requirement for this chapter is a complete understanding of drone anatomy, as well as physics and flight time requirements. You should also have a clear understanding of the range, altitude, and flight operation environment.

Furthermore, you must have a solid understanding of the flight controller pins and outputs, alongside the usage of the various peripherals in synchronous. Finally, you must understand the ports and protocols that are required, as well as the configuration parameters, since these are equally important.

Survey-based drones

Survey-based drones are lightweight drones with high-resolution cameras as their basic payload. They are compatible with a variety of payload options. These drones are used to take images of the surface of the Earth and gather their geo-coordinates for proper mapping and processing. These images are then used to create a map, which is used by different stakeholders. The following figure provides an example of a survey drone:

Figure 11.1 – Example of a survey drone

Aerial surveying involves collecting geospatial data from above the Earth’s surface using aerial platforms such as airplanes, helicopters, or, more commonly nowadays, drones. This method is utilized across various industries for mapping, surveillance, research, and analysis purposes.

Why aerial surveying is required

Aerial surveys have helped surveyors record accurate geospatial data efficiently. This saves them time and effort, which ultimately reduces...

Agricultural spraying drones

Agricultural spraying drones are specialized Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) that are designed to apply fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other agricultural inputs to crops in a precise and targeted manner. These drones have specific payloads and spraying systems that are optimized for efficient and controlled application:

Figure 11.5 – Example of an agriculture drone

Let’s take a brief look at payloads and spraying systems:

• Spraying mechanisms: Agricultural spraying drones are equipped with spraying systems that include pumps, nozzles, and tanks that are capable of carrying liquid payloads. These systems ensure controlled and even distribution of agricultural inputs over the crops.
• Variable Rate Technology (VRT): Advanced spraying drones incorporate VRT, enabling spray rates to be adjusted based on crop conditions, allowing for targeted application, and minimizing input waste.
• Payload capacity...

Aerial delivery drones

Drone deliveries represent an innovative approach to transportation that involves using UAVs or drones to deliver goods, packages, or items from one location to another. This method of delivery offers various advantages, including speed, accessibility, and the ability to reach remote or difficult-to-access areas. The basic features of a delivery drone are as follows:

• Delivery-specific: Aerial delivery drones are specialized for transporting goods, packages, or cargo from one point to another. Their design is more specific to the task of delivering items.
• Enhanced payload capacity: They are engineered to carry larger payloads, usually with a secure payload compartment or attachment mechanisms for transporting packages safely during flight.
• Payload release mechanism: These drones incorporate mechanisms to securely hold packages during flight and release them at specified locations. This involves payload release mechanisms or systems for controlled...

System redundancy

Redundancy in drones involves incorporating backup systems or duplicate components to ensure continued operation and mitigate the impact of failures in critical systems. This redundancy is crucial for enhancing safety, reliability, and fault tolerance, especially in scenarios where system failures can lead to catastrophic consequences. Here’s an overview of various redundant components in a drone, particularly within the Pixhawk flight controller:

• Redundant sensors:
  • GPS redundancy: Pixhawk flight controllers often support redundant GPS modules. Utilizing two GPS modules from different manufacturers provides backup positioning information in case of GPS signal loss or failure in one module.
  • IMU redundancy: In Pixhawk, redundancy can be achieved with multiple IMUs. Dual or triple IMUs provide backup attitude and orientation data, ensuring stability and accurate flight control, even if one sensor fails.
  • Barometer redundancy: Some Pixhawk-compatible drones...

Summary

In this chapter, we considered the development of drones for agriculture, aerial surveys, and aerial deliveries. This has showcased their immense potential to revolutionize various industries. Drones equipped with specialized payloads have enhanced crop monitoring, mapping, and data collection in agriculture, optimizing yields and resource management. In aerial surveys, these UAVs have enabled efficient and detailed mapping for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure assessment. Moreover, aerial deliveries have introduced new possibilities for logistics and emergency response, offering swift and efficient transport solutions.

Moving forward, the next steps involve refining drone technologies and applications. This includes making further advancements in sensor technologies, payload capabilities, and autonomous navigation systems. Enhancing safety measures, such as anti-collision systems and secure communication, will be crucial for broader drone adoption...