a.k.a Drones- PART I
This hovering piece of technology is as cool as it appears and sounds. Masked by its shiny plastic armor, it has a lot going on in the insides and has a broad functionality base.
Drones undoubtedly have a sophisticated with all their colored-wire connections, tiny hardware components, and high RPM motors. And they’re probably considered rightly so. But learning about its functioning doesn't have to be looked upon wildly. Let’s get a start on it, Shall we?
Quadcopters, Hexacopters, Octocopters, Tricopters, Multirotors, and DJI Phantoms are some of its many variations. The components present in drones include:
- Brushless/ Brushtype DC Motors. Brushless motors are used on larger models and brush-type motors are their smaller variations. These motors have small permanent magnets made up of an iron and cobalt alloy which make them resistant to greater forces, lighter, and smaller in size. It’s a win-win.
- Propellers. Attached to the motors, these propellers provide lift to an “air vehicle” by generating airflow that ultimately creates a pressure difference between the surfaces thus achieving its desired effect.
- Battery Source. Lithium Polymer batteries or Lithium-ion batteries are highly preferred due to their higher voltage per cell presence. A drone can be fueled in this fashion with fewer cells and less weight, making it more efficient and effective.
- Sensors. GPS sensors connect to various satellites in space to pinpoint their precise location which may be helpful in returning home without manual interference. Distance sensors help drones navigate obstacles and are commonly used in drones employed for filmmaking or documenting events. Tilt sensors, gyros, and accelerometers provide data to ensure a stabilized flight. Current sensors monitor the power consumption and optimize the power drain. Barometric/altitude sensors help in stabilizing altitude by detecting pressure and height changes.
- Flight Controller(FC). The vehicle’s “brain” is outfitted with a variety of sensors and hardware components to process information continually and issue commands. Its job is classified into sensing, controlling, and communicating.
- Transmitter & Reciever. Essential parts of the drone that facilitate communication. The transmitter transmits radio signals from the controller to the drone which is picked up by the receiver to issue commands regarding flight and its maneuvering.
- Cameras. Optical imaging is used for aerial photography or surveillance and is even present in HD quality nowadays.
Stay tuned for Part II.
