Picture yourself exploring the exhilarating world of drone building with Mr. ShutterBug’s video on creating the world’s lightest 3-inch FPV drone. This featherweight marvel, weighing just 33 grams, has captured the hearts of backyard and park flyers alike. Known as a 3-inch toothpick, this drone promises top-notch performance while being crafted with high-quality materials like titanium for weight reduction. You’ll find a comprehensive parts list and tuning details below the video, ensuring you have everything needed to replicate this impressive build.
The drone’s design, featuring the Kabab FPV “baby tooth” frame, utilizes a combination of FPV Cycle motors and Jem Fan props. With advanced specs like a 20AWG power lead, 1S batteries with BT 2.0 connectors, and JESC 48kHz v2.3 ESC firmware, it offers a seamless and thrilling flight experience. Mr. ShutterBug provides insights into battery mounting techniques and potential future enhancements, offering a unique blend of agility, acrobatics, and efficiency. Perfect for tight spaces, this lightweight wonder has set a benchmark for drone enthusiasts seeking unparalleled maneuverability.
A 33g 3-inch toothpick? Oh yeah! This thing is incredible! It’s quickly become one of your favorites for zooming around your backyard and local parks. You gotta check this out! Full parts list and tune below…
There’s no bind-n-fly drone like this at the moment, but all the parts are listed below. If you want to skip the build, then you might consider this 2.5-inch drone: http://bit.ly/2OmkbHw. It’s also pretty remarkable and has a similar lightweight feel.
Parts:
BabyTooth Frame (1.5mm thick version): http://bit.ly/babytooth_3in_frame
FPVCYCLE 1202.5 Motors: http://bit.ly/2U1YUHj
BetaFPV F4 AIO w/ VTX (you might use the older FC without VTX, though it seems discontinued): https://bit.ly/360DJtO
BeeBrain v2 Canopy: http://bit.ly/3a12kjb
RunCam Nano 3 Camera: http://bit.ly/39w6QFK
Gemfan 3018 2-blade props w/ 2mm shaft, as shown: http://bit.ly/2t3Ee6Y
Gemfan 3016 3-blade props w/ 2mm shaft are another excellent option: http://bit.ly/2tM6NWN
RENY screws on the canopy: https://bit.ly/3au3KD5
Custom Rx and VTX antennas made by cutting these cables: https://amzn.to/2UoTOFg
M2x3 motor screws (titanium if you can find them).
Cloth tape for motor wires: https://amzn.to/2GUm5PD
2mm zip ties for antennas (Cheap option: https://amzn.to/3bSgBAu, better option: https://bit.ly/2DVSsfF)
No prop screws (they are already tight enough with the 2mm shaft)
20AWG power lead
Batteries:
GNB 450mAh HV 80C 1S: https://amzn.to/2Rh9ojz
GNB 520mAh HV 80C 1S: https://amzn.to/2QV5AF6
BT2.0 connectors: http://bit.ly/33XOhHW
Watch this video to see how you change the battery connectors: • Replacing Battery Connectors The SAFE…
Tune:
JESC 48kHz v2.3 (this free ESC firmware makes the drone much smoother and more efficient)
Betaflight 4.1.1 with RPM filtering turned OFF
Thanks to FaebuFPV for providing this tune: https://bit.ly/2Jkzrme
Flight footage recorded with the PowerPlay DVR:
Music:
“Accidents Will Happen” by Silent Partner
Understanding the Concept of a 3-Inch FPV Drone
Definition and purpose of FPV drones
FPV (First-Person View) drones are revolutionizing how you experience flying. With a camera positioned at the front, you get a bird’s-eye view, as if you were piloting the drone yourself. This immersive experience is not just entertaining; it’s a game-changer for videographers, hobbyists, and racers alike. FPV drones can navigate through tight spaces, perform intricate maneuvers, and capture unique vantage points, allowing you to enjoy a thrilling adventure or execute critical tasks with precision.
Why choose a 3-inch category
In the world of FPV drones, size matters, and the 3-inch category strikes the perfect balance. Larger than micro drones but smaller than their full-size counterparts, 3-inch FPV drones offer agility and speed without the bulk. They are easier to transport and manage, making them ideal for backyard fun or park flying. Plus, the 3-inch size allows for superior aerodynamics, providing a perfect platform for performing dynamic aerial acrobatics, which makes them incredibly popular among drone enthusiasts.
Benefits of lightweight drones for FPV flying
Choosing a lightweight FPV drone unlocks a host of benefits. These drones are inherently more maneuverable, empowering you to navigate through complex courses with ease. Lightweight models tend to have longer flight times, as they require less energy to stay airborne. This efficiency leads to extended sessions of flying fun or increased productivity during tasks that benefit from prolonged airtime. Additionally, a lighter drone poses less risk of damage in the event of a crash, which is a significant advantage for those still mastering their piloting skills.
Introduction to the World’s Lightest 3-Inch FPV Drone
Mr. ShutterBug’s vision and goals
Mr. ShutterBug, a passionate drone enthusiast and builder, set out with a clear vision: to create the world’s lightest 3-inch FPV drone. His goals were not just about setting a record but also about enhancing the performance and experience of drone flying. He wanted to build a model that was not only feather-light but also offered superior agility, exceptional durability, and incredible flight efficiency. By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in drone design, Mr. ShutterBug aimed to inspire others in the FPV community to explore and innovate.
Overview of the design and specifications
The result of Mr. ShutterBug’s vision is a marvel of engineering: a 3-inch FPV drone weighing in at an astonishing 33 grams. This minimal weight is achieved without compromising on the drone’s capabilities. The drone features a unique “baby tooth” frame designed by Kabab FPV, which focuses on strength while reducing excess material. Precision-engineered components, such as titanium and Reni screws, contribute to the lightweight design. This drone is adept at navigating tight spaces with three-inch props that enhance aerodynamic efficiency and responsiveness.
Performance highlights and flying experience
Flying the world’s lightest 3-inch FPV drone is an exhilarating experience. Its lightweight design provides extraordinary maneuverability, allowing swift turns and precise control in flight. This drone excels in both speed and agility, making it a perfect companion for backyard flying or adrenaline-pumping races in community parks. It maintains excellent stability, even in windy conditions, offering a smooth flying experience. Additionally, its quiet operation means you can enjoy flying without disturbing the tranquility of your surroundings.
Components and Parts Used in the Build
Detailing the parts list
Building the world’s lightest 3-inch FPV drone requires a meticulous selection of components. The parts list includes lightweight motors, a carefully chosen flight controller, and a high-performance camera. Mr. ShutterBug opted for FPV Cycle motors known for their efficiency and power-to-weight ratio, paired with Jem Fan props for their lightweight and unobtrusive sound. The chosen flight controller is a beta FPV F4 1S board, ensuring precise control and stability during flights.
Importance of using titanium screws
Titanium screws play a crucial role in the construction of this lightweight drone. Compared to standard steel screws, titanium screws offer a weight advantage without sacrificing strength. They contribute to the overall reduction in weight, enhancing the drone’s agility and performance. Additionally, titanium’s resistance to corrosion extends the longevity of the drone, making it a valuable choice for an outdoor hobby.
Role of prop screws and power leads in the drone’s construction
Properly tightened prop screws are essential for maintaining flight integrity, especially when performing high-speed maneuvers. For Mr. ShutterBug’s build, prop screws work efficiently with a 2mm shaft, ensuring secure attachment of the props without unnecessary weight. The use of a 20AWG power lead is another critical component, balancing weight with the necessary electrical conductivity to power the drone effectively and efficiently.
Battery and Firmware Setup
Specifications of the 1S batteries and BT 2.0 connectors
The choice of power systems plays a significant role in a drone’s performance. The drone operates on 1S batteries paired with BT 2.0 connectors, which were selected for their compact size and robust connection. These batteries deliver the necessary thrust and power while maintaining a light weight, allowing the drone to achieve its extended flight times of up to six minutes.
Configuration of Betaflight firmware
To deliver a seamless flying experience, the drone runs on Betaflight 4.1.1 firmware. This ensures responsive controls and customizable flight characteristics, allowing you to tailor the drone’s performance to your preferences. With features like RPM filtering disabled, the setup is designed to enhance motor efficiency and reduce latency, providing an intuitive piloting experience.
Advantages of disabling RPM filtering and using JESC 48kHz firmware
The JESC 48kHz firmware provides smoother motor performance, essential for a drone that prioritizes lightweight efficiency. By disabling RPM filtering, the drone minimizes unnecessary processing delays, enhancing responsiveness. This configuration leads to a quieter and more efficient flight, maximizing battery life and offering an unparalleled flying experience.
Lightweight Design and Build Techniques
Exploring the ‘baby tooth’ frame by Kabab FPV
Central to the drone’s design is the ‘baby tooth’ frame by Kabab FPV. This innovative frame manages to reduce weight significantly while maintaining the necessary structural integrity. With carefully crafted geometry, it optimizes the distribution of forces, ensuring durability despite the minimal material used. This frame is a testament to innovation in drone design, balancing the demands of light weight and strength.
Innovative weight reduction strategies
Achieving a groundbreaking weight of 33 grams involved a variety of weight reduction strategies. This included selecting lighter components, minimizing excess material, and utilizing custom parts. Techniques like opting for thinner frame plates and using micro-sized electronic components played a pivotal role. Each piece was scrutinized for its weight-to-performance ratio, ensuring that every gram served a purpose.
Use of titanium and Reni screws, and motor modifications
Titanium and Reni screws further contributed to the reduction in weight, providing strength without the typical bulk. Additionally, motor modifications were implemented to trim excess material and enhance performance, such as using a motor with a 2mm shaft, which allowed the use of lighter, more aerodynamic propellers.
Motor and Propeller Choices
Selecting FPV Cycle motors for optimal performance
FPV Cycle motors were selected for their exceptional balance of power, efficiency, and weight. These motors boast an 11,500 KV rating along with a 2mm shaft, providing the necessary torque and speed for dynamic flight, all while maintaining a light footprint. Their reliable performance ensures the drone can perform high-speed maneuvers and quick directional changes with ease.
Options for Jem Fan props focusing on light weight and quietness
Jem Fan propellers were chosen for their ability to deliver quiet, efficient performance. Available in options that prioritize light weight, these propellers complement the drone’s overall design ethos. They are engineered for minimal noise without compromising on thrust, enhancing the quiet flying characteristic that Mr. ShutterBug aimed to achieve.
Impact on flight efficiency and maneuverability
The combination of FPV Cycle motors and Jem Fan props significantly enhances the drone’s flight efficiency and maneuverability. Lightweight motors and propellers allow for quick acceleration and sharp turns, providing a responsive flying experience. This setup contributes to prolonged battery life by requiring less power to maintain lift and speed, optimizing overall flight efficiency.
Battery Mounting Solutions
Utilizing rubber bands for stable mounting
A simple yet effective solution for battery mounting comes in the form of strategically placed rubber bands. These provide a secure grip on the battery, ensuring it remains stable during aggressive flying maneuvers. The elasticity allows for a snug fit, accommodating batteries of varying sizes while keeping the weight addition minimal.
Potential integration of a sticky pad
For added security, the integration of a sticky pad is a potential future enhancement. A sticky pad would offer an extra layer of adherence, preventing any unwanted battery movement during flight. This could be particularly beneficial during fast flying or sudden directional changes, ensuring that the drone’s balance remains uninterrupted.
Effect on flight stability and balance
The choice of battery mounting solution directly affects the drone’s flight stability and balance. By securing the battery with minimal components, you maintain the drone’s low weight, ensuring that it can perform its best. A secure battery means predictable handling and a consistent center of gravity, crucial for executing complex maneuvers and achieving precise flight control.
Comparative Analysis with Other Drones
Comparison with Beta FPV HX100 SE
When compared to the Beta FPV HX100 SE, Mr. ShutterBug’s drone stands out, not just in weight but also in versatility. While the HX100 SE is a formidable 1S drone weighing 29 grams, the lightweight 3-inch model presents an appealing alternative with broader props and enhanced flight capabilities. The additional size of the props in Mr. ShutterBug’s build yields increased efficiency and control, offering an edge in maneuverability.
Strengths against Shutterbug 85
Against the Shutterbug 85, another popular model, the world’s lightest 3-inch FPV drone offers improved speed and agility. The Shutterbug 85, while efficient, cannot match the aerodynamic and structural advantages provided by the well thought-out design of Mr. ShutterBug’s creation. The larger prop size and lighter frame of the latter enhance its ability to perform intricate aerial stunts, making it a leader in its class.
Evaluation of light weight, maneuverability, and efficiency
The lightweight 3-inch FPV drone excels in maneuverability, allowing swift turns and high-speed runs, setting it apart from other models. Its lightweight design translates directly into higher efficiency, offering longer flight times on a single charge. This focus on efficiency and design ensures that the drone not only competes effectively but often outperforms its peers in terms of overall flight dynamics.
Receiver and Antenna Customization
Designing custom control and video antennas
Customizing the control and video antennas ensures a robust connection, reducing dropouts and enhancing signal clarity. Custom antennas are designed to be lightweight and efficient, catering specifically to the needs of a lightweight 3-inch build. These antennas optimize range and performance, allowing seamless transmission of control inputs and video feeds even in challenging environments.
Choices between onboard and external receivers
The choice between onboard and external receivers impacts weight and installation flexibility. Onboard receivers streamline the build and reduce weight further. However, external receivers might offer extended range or advanced features depending on the chosen model. Each option provides specific advantages, and your choice depends on the type of flying and environmental conditions you typically encounter.
How antenna choices affect drone performance
Antenna choices significantly impact overall drone performance, influencing range, signal reliability, and flight autonomy. Efficient antennas provide a stable connection, ensuring consistent control and high-quality video transmission. This directly affects your flying experience, allowing for precise maneuvering and reduced interference, even in signal-dense environments.
Conclusion
Summary of the drone’s design and performance
Mr. ShutterBug’s lightweight 3-inch FPV drone represents a triumph in engineering and design. With a total weight of only 33 grams and exceptional performance characteristics, it flies with agility, offers impressive efficiency, and performs acrobatic flights with remarkable ease. It serves as a demonstration of meticulous engineering, maximized efficiency, and the potential of lightweight drone technology.
The impact of lightweight FPV drones on hobbyists and enthusiasts
This innovative design impacts hobbyists and enthusiasts by expanding the possibilities of FPV flying. With a drone this light and agile, you can experience enhanced flight dynamics and explore new flying environments with confidence. It empowers drone builders and pilots to refocus on high-performance designs that prioritize weight reduction without sacrificing functionality.
Future trends and innovations in FPV drone technology
Looking forward, FPV drone technology will continue to advance toward lighter, more efficient designs. Innovations may include more advanced materials, further miniaturization of electronic components, and the integration of smarter, adaptive firmware. These trends will enable FPV drones to reach higher standards of performance and versatility, benefiting both recreational users and professional operators. This ongoing evolution will almost certainly lead to even more impressive builds and an ever-growing community passionate about the art of flight.