Unmanned Helicopter Programming

Abstract

A thermopile is a horizon sensor that works by detecting thermal infrared radiation, or radiated heat. Several autopilots and FPV (First Person View) -assist systems have been based on this type of sensor, as it is practical for a fixed-wing plane without using GPS or expensive drift-prone IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units). They range from sophisticated surveillance drones that detect threats in an environment, to backyard remote helicopters for recreation and practice. The basic design for any remote vehicle includes the guidance systems, power source, control systems, flight surfaces, and if needed, an autopilot program. I intend to learn more about designing and fabricating remote helicopter so that I may design and fabricate my own radio controlled helicopter. The most common power source of radio control helicopters are Lithium Polymer batteries. A thermopile is a horizon sensor that works by detecting thermal infrared radiation, or radiated heat. First Person View (FPV), also known as Remote Person View (RPV) or Video Piloting, is a method used to control a radio controlled model vehicle from the driver or pilot's view point. Digital servos are more effective but use more power in their outputs. The main difference is that digital servos use electronic circuits to utilize more power for greater control. The key to any radio control helicopter is a dedicated autopilot system. An innovative do-it-yourself autopilot is the Arduino Uno autopilot, to which you can build circuits, programs, etc. to perform certain actions and tasks.

Introduction

UAV’s, or unmanned aerial vehicles, are the ultimate form of remote control vehicles. They range from sophisticated surveillance drones that detect threats in an environment, to backyard remote helicopters for recreation and practice. The basic design for any remote vehicle includes the guidance systems, power source, control systems, flight surfaces, and if needed, an autopilot program. Remote...