Embarking on the journey of building your very own tiny Arduino FPV drone promises an exploration into both creativity and technology. Imagine crafting a small yet powerful quadcopter using everyday materials like popsicle sticks, and integrating it with cutting-edge Arduino and MultiWii software to achieve dynamic flight control. This adventure not only invites you to indulge in the exhilarating experience of piloting a mini drone but also enhances your understanding of DIY tech projects.
Through this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn to design, assemble, and possibly take flight with your bespoke drone. You’ll explore the necessary components from motors to cameras, ensuring each piece fits perfectly into your creation. Whether you’re zipping through the air indoors or navigating the great outdoors, this project opens the door to endless possibilities and personalized innovation. Get ready to fuel your imagination, curiosity, and technical skills all in one thrilling endeavor.
Shop for your project’s parts at DFRobot.com: https://www.dfrobot.com
Gochifix Scope & Meter – Code: 25Imagine: https://amzn.to/3Jtk9uy
Learn more about the Arduino Drone on the Elektor Labs blog post: https://www.elektormagazine.com/labs/…
Learn electronics and get inspired with Elektor Magazine—enjoy 50% off today! https://www.elektormagazine.com/maxim…
In this exciting tutorial, you create a tiny, brushed Arduino FPV (First Person View) drone from popsicle sticks. Learn how to configure your mini quadcopter using Arduino code and MultiWii software for customizable flight control. Experience the thrill of high-speed, agile flights both indoors and outdoors!
PROJECT RESOURCES:
Project Files:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folder…
Drone Frame 3D model: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/game/…
Transmitter Build Video: • How to make an Arduino-based Transmitter
Build my older transmitter (Also works): • Build an Arduino Radio Transmitter \u0026 …
Troubleshoot issues with your drone: http://www.multiwii.com/forum/
Modified Code Credits – / @electronoobs
See the Arduino drone by Electronoobs – • Brushed Arduino Drone – Final Version…
Original Drone Code Credits-
@iforce2d
🔩🚁 Materials and parts required for Drone:
🔌(x1) Arduino Pro Mini (5V 16mHz) – https://amzn.to/4gsP09r
🔌(x1) MPU6050 Sensor – https://amzn.to/4aG87dm / https://www.dfrobot.com/product-880.h…
🔌(x1) NRF24L01 Transceiver – https://amzn.to/3w2Zpqw
🔌(x1) Lilypad 5V Buzzer – https://amzn.to/47fdiQs / https://www.dfrobot.com/product-855.h…
🔌(x1) FPV Camera – https://amzn.to/49Mskgn / https://amzn.to/3XgANEl
🔌(x4) Coreless Motors (6mm) – https://amzn.to/3xL0dkg / https://www.dfrobot.com/product-2308….
✂️(x4) Propellers – https://amzn.to/3W2VqEU / https://amzn.to/3UppsBn
🔌(x4) SMD MOSFET (SI2300) – https://amzn.to/49QQgPn
🔌(x4) SMD Resistor (10K) – https://amzn.to/4aIgaGw
🔌(x4) SMD Diode (1N4148) – https://amzn.to/3PhsmoD
🔋 (x1) Lipo Battery (3.7V 220mAh) – https://amzn.to/3QaLtkR
🔌(x1) JST Connector – (Salvage from old electronics (e.g 1-cell Li-Po battery)
🔌 Wire (24AWG) – https://amzn.to/3TZDate
🔌 Thin wires (30AWG) – https://amzn.to/3UrSdxA
✂️(x1) Perforated Board – https://amzn.to/3W8cSYx
✂️(x1) Copper Sheet (30x18mm) – https://amzn.to/3w8M6of
✂️(x4) Popsicle Sticks – https://amzn.to/3UrahHW
✂️(x1) Rubber Band – https://amzn.to/4aXRB8N
✂️(x4) Zip Ties – https://amzn.to/49PKsFU
✂️ Bicycle Tube Rubber
Other Equipment Used With Drone:
👁️ FPV Goggles – https://amzn.to/3QbucrO
🔌 FTDI Converter – https://amzn.to/3Qg5c2H
🔌 Pin Headers for FTDI Connecting cable (use 24AWG wire for cable) – https://amzn.to/3JsoWfL
🔩📡 Materials and parts required for Transmitter:
🔌(x1) Arduino Nano – https://amzn.to/4d6qae3
🔌(x1) NRF24L01 (Long Antenna) Transceiver – https://amzn.to/4aIzRxI
🔌(x1) 16×2 LCD With I2C – https://amzn.to/3Qcvweh
🕹️(x2) Joystick Module – https://amzn.to/3vZFwAC
🔌(x2) Switch (3-pin) – https://amzn.to/3W5n6cc
🔌(x1) Potentiometer (100K-Ohm) – https://amzn.to/3W8MHBg (Optional)
🔌(x1) Power Switch – https://amzn.to/3Qc9oAz
🔌(x1) Battery (7.4V 2S) – https://amzn.to/3xF4pSq
🔌(x1) Power Connector – https://amzn.to/4d7fig7
🔌(x1) Charging connector – https://amzn.to/447L08U
🔌 Wire (24AWG) – https://amzn.to/3Wdn9D3
🧵 Matte PLA (BLACK) 3D Printer Filament – https://amzn.to/3Q8fhyE
🧵 Matte PLA (DARK GREY) 3D Printer Filament – https://amzn.to/446MXT4
🔩 (x5) M3 Bolts – https://amzn.to/3xH2BbH
🔩 (x5) M3 Threaded Inserts – https://amzn.to/3Ub1p87
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases with no added cost to you.
👕 Grab my exclusive Merch here! – https://max-imagination-merch.printif…
👉 Tools/equipment I use: https://sites.google.com/view/maximag…
☕ Support my work: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/MaxImagi…
Instagram: @max.imagination – https://www.instagram.com/max.imagina…
Instructables: https://www.instructables.com/member/…
Choosing the Right Components
Arduino Board Selection: Why Arduino Pro Mini?
When you’re setting out to build your tiny Arduino FPV drone, selecting the right Arduino board is crucial. The Arduino Pro Mini emerges as an excellent choice, primarily due to its compact size and lightweight design. This board is inexpensive and boasts a low power consumption, making it perfect for a mini drone where every gram matters. Its 3.3V version pairs well with many drone components, including various sensors and radio modules, providing a seamless connection environment for your project.
Motors and Propellers: Choosing the Brushed Motors
In the realm of small drones, brushed motors often outshine their brushless counterparts. Brushed motors are more budget-friendly and straightforward to use, making them an ideal choice for beginners creating a tiny drone. They are lightweight and easily compatible with smaller propellers needed for a tiny drone. These motors deliver sufficient thrust to lift a lightweight frame, ensuring agile and responsive flight. Pairing them with the right propellers will ensure optimal performance and stability for your mini quadcopter.
FPV Camera Options: Affordable Choices for Beginners
Integrating a camera on your drone adds to the fun, bringing an immersive experience through first-person view (FPV) flight. For beginners, opting for an affordable camera is key. Look for small, lightweight FPV cameras that don’t break the bank. Many budget-friendly options come equipped with integrated transmitters, simplifying the setup process. These cameras are effective in capturing decent image quality suitable for learning and becoming familiar with FPV flying.
Power Source: Selecting an Appropriate LiPo Battery
The power source you choose for your drone is critical. LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries are preferred due to their high energy density and discharge rates. For a tiny drone, a 1-cell LiPo battery is sufficient. It’s important to select a battery that balances weight and capacity, as heavier batteries can affect the drone’s flight characteristics. Aim for a lightweight battery with a capacity that provides a reasonable flight time, allowing you to enjoy your drone without frequent recharges.
Designing the Drone Frame
Using Popsicle Sticks: A Lightweight Framework
Building the frame of your drone from popsicle sticks may sound unconventional, but it’s a lightweight and cost-effective method. Popsicle sticks are sturdy yet light, making them an excellent choice for the tiny structure required for a mini drone. By cutting and gluing these sticks, you can create a simple, functional frame. This material allows for easy adjustments and repairs, making it a practical choice for beginners who might make a mistake or want to refine their design.
3D Printing Alternatives: When to Opt for PLA
If you have access to a 3D printer, designing your drone frame in PLA (Polylactic Acid) is another great option. PLA is easy to print and provides more complex shapes and refined finishes than popsicle sticks. Opt for PLA when you prefer a structured and visually appealing design or need to incorporate specific features into your frame. 3D printing allows for precise parameter adjustments, beneficial when aiming for perfect weight distribution and aerodynamic efficiency.
Reinforcing the Frame: Incorporating Rubber Tubing
One way to enhance the durability of your drone frame is by adding rubber tubing. Strips made from bicycle tube rubber can serve as shock absorbers, providing some protection against impacts during hard landings or minor crashes. Affixing these to your frame can help extend the lifespan of your drone by safeguarding its most vulnerable parts. This reinforcement doesn’t add much weight, ensuring that flight performance isn’t compromised while providing additional durability.
Sizing Considerations: Balancing Weight and Strength
When building your drone frame, finding the right balance between weight and strength is key. The frame must be robust enough to withstand the rigors of flight and inevitable crashes, yet light enough not to burden the motors. Consider the size and shape that will fit your components snugly without excess material. Use only what’s necessary for strength, as trimming down unnecessary material can save weight and improve flight agility.
Electronics Assembly
Soldering Basics: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Soldering is a skill that plays a pivotal role in assembling your drone’s electronics. Start with understanding the basic soldering techniques: use a well-heated soldering iron, quality soldering wire, and apply the correct amount of solder. Avoid common pitfalls like using too much solder, causing bridges between connections, or applying insufficient heat, leading to weak joints. Practice soldering on spare components to refine your technique before assembling your drone.
Installing the Flight Controller: Integrating the MPU6050
The flight controller is the brain of your drone, and integrating the MPU6050 sensor is essential for stability. The MPU6050 combines a gyroscope and accelerometer, providing the necessary data for stable flight and control. Mount the sensor firmly on your Arduino Pro Mini, ensuring it’s oriented correctly to gather accurate data. Its integration allows your flight controller to process real-time information, helping keep your drone level and responsive to control inputs.
Connecting Motors to the Control Board
Properly connecting your motors to the control board is vital for efficient power transmission. Follow the wiring diagram precisely, ensuring each motor connects to its designated port. Utilize high-quality wires and ensure connections are tight to prevent any power loss or signal interference. Double-check polarity to avoid any reverse motion issues with your motors. Secure your connections with solder for durability, especially in the vibration-prone environment of a flying drone.
Preventing Short Circuits: Using Insulation Techniques
Insulating your drone’s wiring is necessary to prevent short circuits that can occur during flight. Use heat shrink tubing or electrical tape to cover exposed wires and solder joints carefully. This not only protects the wires from shorting but also provides strain relief. Ensure that wires are neatly arranged and secured away from moving parts such as motors and propellers. Proper insulation contributes to the reliability and safety of your drone’s electrical system.
Programming the Flight System
Introduction to MultiWii Software
MultiWii software offers a customizable platform to control your drone. It’s especially popular for DIY drone projects due to its adaptability and support for various hardware configurations. MultiWii allows you to calibrate sensors, configure flight parameters, and adjust settings for optimal flyability. Familiarize yourself with its interface and the basic settings it offers to tailor your drone’s programming to your specific needs and preferences.
Uploading Arduino Code
Once your configuration is ready, you’ll need to upload the Arduino code to your Pro Mini. This code contains the instructions that guide every aspect of your drone’s flight and control. Open the Arduino IDE, select the appropriate board settings, and load the prepared code onto your Pro Mini. Ensure cables and pins are correctly connected to avoid upload errors. A successful code upload is the bridge between your hardware and its ability to execute planned functions.
Configuring Sensors for Stability
Stability is a crucial aspect of drone flight, largely governed by how your sensors are configured. MultiWii allows you to calibrate the MPU6050, ensuring the gyroscope and accelerometer data is accurate. Proper configuration aids in leveling the drone, handling wind resistance, and maintaining steady flight paths. Spend time making precise adjustments, as these settings significantly influence how well your drone performs in the air.
Calibrating the Flight Controller
After setting up your sensors, calibrating the flight controller is the next step in ensuring your drone’s flight capability. This process involves setting the base level, calibrating the throttle range, and adjusting the stick endpoints. Calibration allows your inputs to match the physical movement accurately, ensuring your drone responds predictably to your controls. Regular calibration checks keep your drone’s performance consistent and reliable.
Transmitter and Receiver Setup
Building an Arduino-Based Transmitter
Constructing an Arduino-based transmitter is both a fun and educational task. This custom transmitter will communicate with your drone, sending control signals via radio waves. Assemble it using an Arduino board, potentiometers, and switches for input controls. Program the Arduino with code that translates physical movements into electronic signals, allowing seamless interaction with the drone. Building your transmitter empowers you to tailor its functionality to your flying style.
Selecting the NRF24 Module
For wireless communication between your transmitter and drone, the NRF24 radio module is an excellent choice due to its affordability and performance. It operates in the 2.4GHz band, providing reliable connectivity and a decent range for your FPV drone. When selecting the NRF24, consider both the module’s range and data rate, balancing these factors against power consumption and your specific needs. This module streamlines communication, making it a staple in DIY projects.
Pairing Transmitter with Drone
With both your transmitter and drone built, pairing them is the final step in establishing control. Connect the NRF24 to your Arduino systems on both sides and ensure they share the same frequency channel and data rate settings. Initiate pairing by powering both systems and execute a connection test to confirm responsiveness. Successful pairing will enable you to transmit control commands from your transmitter to your drone seamlessly.
Ensuring Reliable Communication
Reliable communication is crucial for controlling your drone safely. Avoid potential interference by testing the signal in different environments, adjusting power settings, and ensuring a clear line of sight between the transmitter and receiver. Fine-tune the NRF24 settings to enhance stability, and maintain proper antenna placement on both systems for optimal signal transmission. Troubleshoot any connectivity issues promptly to ensure dependable communication while flying.
FPV Camera Integration
Mounting the Camera on the Frame
Mounting your FPV camera correctly is key to ensuring a stable and clear video feed. Attach the camera securely to a strategic point on your drone’s frame, ideally with a slight upward angle to provide a better view while flying. Use small brackets or custom-designed mounts to ensure the camera stays in place during flight vibrations. Properly mounting the camera minimizes jitter and enhances your viewing experience.
Connecting the Camera to the Power Source
Your FPV camera needs a steady power supply, typically from the drone’s power system. Connect it using lightweight wires, ensuring the power leads are correctly soldered and insulated. Verify that the camera receives the appropriate voltage; mismatched power can damage sensitive components. Proper power connection ensures your camera operates consistently, providing a reliable feed throughout your flights.
Testing Camera Feed and Quality
Before taking your drone for a spin, test the camera feed thoroughly. Connect the FPV video receiver to a monitor or goggles and assess the video quality. Check for any interference, signal loss, or poor image clarity, as these issues can diminish the FPV experience. Adjust settings and antenna positioning if necessary to ensure you receive a clean, uninterrupted feed while flying.
Adjusting Camera Angles for Optimal View
Finding the right camera angle can greatly enhance your FPV experience. Adjust the tilt to balance between forward view and upward perspective, considering the typical altitude and speed of your flights. Experiment with placements until you achieve the desired field of view, enabling you to navigate your drone confidently and appreciate the journey from a pilot’s perspective.
Ensuring Flight Readiness
Conducting Initial Flight Tests
Before heading for extended flights, perform initial tests to validate your setup. Start with short, controlled tests in a safe environment to evaluate the drone’s response and performance. Check all functions, such as thrust, stability, and control, ensuring each component is working as intended. Initial testing helps identify potential issues before they become problematic during an actual flight.
Evaluating Stability and Control
A stable and controllable drone is more enjoyable to fly. During your tests, pay attention to how easily you can maintain hover, execute turns, and manage acceleration. Adjust sensor configurations, PID settings, or recalibrate if you encounter instability. Fine-tuning these aspects will enhance your drone’s handling, making it more responsive and predictable in different flight situations.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Should you encounter problems such as oscillations, drifting, or poor signal reception, a methodical approach to troubleshooting is necessary. Revisit configuration settings, inspect hardware connections, and ensure your coding matches your hardware’s specifications. Systematically address and test each issue, ensuring consistent checks and improvements are made to achieve optimal flight performance.
Enhancing Flight Performance
Continuous improvement is part of the DIY spirit. Observe your drone’s performance and seek ways to refine its capabilities. Consider upgrading components, optimizing configurations, or exploring different flight modes in your software. Iterative enhancement not only improves performance but also enriches your knowledge and skills in building and maintaining drones.
Safety Precautions
Handling LiPo Batteries Safely
LiPo batteries are powerful but require careful handling. Store them in fireproof containers and never puncture or short them out. Always charge them using a balance charger, and never leave them unattended during charging. Implement a regular inspection routine to detect any signs of damage or swelling, ensuring you maintain a safe battery health during drone operations.
Avoiding Radio Frequency Interference
Radio frequency interference can disrupt your drone’s communication signals. Maintain a safe distance from other RF-emitting devices and avoid flying in crowded RF environments. Consider using different frequency channels if interference persists. Keeping your equipment properly calibrated and checking surroundings help mitigate risks from signal disruption.
Protecting Components during Flight
Preservation of your drone’s components during flight involves both careful piloting and durable construction. Strengthening vulnerable areas with reinforcement materials helps shield electronics and mechanical parts from damage. Fly cautiously, especially in areas with obstacles, and always perform pre-flight checks on all components to ensure they function correctly before taking off.
Understanding Drone Regulations
Compliance with drone regulations is essential for safe and authorized flying. Familiarize yourself with local and national laws concerning drone operations, including restrictions on altitude, vicinity to airports, and privacy concerns. Register your drone if required and respect no-fly zones to ensure your flights are legal and conflict-free.
Future Improvements
Upgrading to Brushless Motors
Consider upgrading to brushless motors for more power and efficiency. While they are slightly more complex to configure, their increased lifespan and performance significantly enhance your drone’s capability. This improvement allows your drone to tackle more challenging flights and carry heavier payloads, such as advanced cameras or sensors.
Integrating More Advanced Sensors
Incorporating advanced sensors can elevate your drone’s capabilities. GPS modules allow for navigation, object tracking, and automated path-following features. Additional sensors, like barometers and ultrasonic modules, enhance course stability and provide valuable altitude data, adding new dimensions to your flying experience.
Expanding Flight Range
To achieve longer flight ranges, consider upgrading your battery, radio transmitter, and receiver systems. Better quality and higher capacity components support extended flight durations and distances. Research and integration of these new components will unlock greater exploration opportunities and improved drone performance.
Improving Drone Durability
Enhanced durability can make a significant difference in your drone’s operational lifespan and resilience. Explore using stronger materials for your frame, upgrading protective covers, and using more robust adhesives. These enhancements help your drone withstand harsher conditions and minor accidents without compromising performance.
Conclusion
Reflecting on the Build Process
Building your own tiny Arduino FPV drone can be a rewarding and captivating experience. Every step provides learning opportunities, and the satisfaction of seeing your creation take to the skies is unparalleled. The process fosters a deeper understanding of electronics, programming, and aerodynamics, making each flight a testament to your skills and efforts.
Assessing the Drone’s Flight Capabilities
Once completed, your drone should exhibit responsive controls, stable hover, and effective FPV integration. Evaluating these capabilities ensures your build meets its intended purpose—offering agile indoor and outdoor flight experiences. Continuous assessment and tweaking improve its performance, reliability, and versatility.
Learning Outcomes from the Project
Beyond the technical skills, this project instills problem-solving abilities, patience, and innovative thinking. Dealing with challenges and uncovering solutions enhances your capability to tackle other complex projects, cultivating a maker mindset. The knowledge gained is transferable to more ambitious engineering endeavors.
Inspiring Future DIY Drone Projects
The successful completion of your tiny Arduino FPV drone is just the beginning. This project lays a foundation for exploring more advanced DIY drone builds, from racing quads to autonomous drones with sophisticated functionalities. Let your creativity and curiosity guide you toward future projects, indulging in the endless possibilities of drone technology.