Building your own Raspberry Pi drone with a Pixhawk flight controller opens up a world of creativity and innovation. This engaging tutorial will guide you through every step of the process, from setting up the hardware and flashing firmware to writing simple Python scripts for drone control. You’ll discover why the Pixhawk is lauded for its affordability and reliability, especially when compared to the more expensive Navio2 controller. Plus, there’s a tempting promotional offer you might want to catch—a $100 discount with the code “4G,” though stock is limited!
Equipped with advanced features, these drones can be customized for unique applications like fishing and delivery missions. You’ll learn how to connect your Raspberry Pi to the Pixhawk using UART, set up the necessary software and dependencies, and even 3D-print parts to reduce vibrations and improve stability. The tutorial not only shows you how to configure the RPI OS and install essential packages but also takes you through testing connections and scripting with Dronekit for autonomous control. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional drone ready for exciting adventures, all put together in just 36 minutes!
Raspberry Pi drones are a fantastic platform for creators like you who want to bring their ideas to life. However, you’ll need a flight controller to make them operational.
In this video, we’ll guide you through setting up a drone using the immensely popular Pixhawk flight controller! These compact boards, despite being slightly dated, are inexpensive, still sophisticated, and highly dependable (even more reliable than Navio2 Raspberry Pi drones).
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Here, we’ll show you how to:
Set up the Raspberry Pi+Pixhawk hardware
Wire the RPI and Pixhawk together via a UART connection
Flash ArduPilot firmware to the Pixhawk
Set up the RPI SD card and dependencies
Set up RPI OS to allow communication via UART
Control the Pixhawk drone from the Raspberry Pi with MAVProxy AND a simple Dronekit Python script
3D Printable Parts Referenced in the Video:
Vibration Plates:
https://github.com/emlid/hardware/blo…
https://github.com/emlid/hardware/blo…
RPI Pixhawk Platform: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1N8qF…
Materials Needed
List of Required Components
To embark on creating your own Raspberry Pi drone with a Pixhawk flight controller, you’ll need an array of components. These include a Raspberry Pi board (preferably a 3B+ or 4 for better processing power), the Pixhawk flight controller itself, and various corresponding sensors and modules such as the GPS module, power management board, and telemetry radios. Also on the list are vibration dampening plates for securing both the Raspberry Pi and the Pixhawk, as well as a host of smaller components like wires, connectors, and spacers necessary for assembly. Screws, screwdrivers, and other basic tools are also essential.
Link to Purchase Parts
While this guide won’t provide direct links to purchase parts, these components are widely available from many online electronics retailers and stores specializing in drone and robotics parts. Their availability depends on your region, so ensure you look for sellers with positive ratings to ensure component quality.
Compatibility Considerations
Compatibility is a crucial factor when selecting components. Ensure that your Raspberry Pi version is supported by the various software and configuration tools you’ll use. Moreover, verify that your chosen components like the GPS module and telemetry radios are compatible with the Pixhawk and Raspberry Pi you have. Making sure your Pixhawk board supports the latest firmware updates is also a consideration that can impact the success of your build.
Introduction to the Pixhawk and Raspberry Pi
Benefits of Using Pixhawk
Pixhawk flight controllers are celebrated for their affordability and feature richness. In comparison to alternative systems, such as Navio, Pixhawk shines by offering reliable performance due to its microcontroller-based design. This design ensures that your drone remains stable even in complex flight conditions. The extensive community support and regular firmware updates provided for Pixhawk make it a go-to choice for both novices and advanced users.
Comparing Pixhawk with Navio
When it comes to flight controllers, both Pixhawk and Navio offer unique benefits, yet Pixhawk often edges out in terms of cost-effectiveness and reliability. While Navio is a Linux-based controller, which can be limiting in terms of processing dependability, Pixhawk’s microcontroller-based design provides a more stable platform. Also, Pixhawk’s large user base means comprehensive documentation is readily at hand, giving you an edge when troubleshooting issues that might arise during your build.
Overview of Raspberry Pi Capabilities in Drones
Raspberry Pi’s role in a drone setup is primarily centered on its power to run complex computations and autonomous control scripts, especially using Python. With its WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities, Raspberry Pi allows for flexible control and programming interfacing, essential for modern drone applications. Its small form factor also makes it convenient to mount on drones without adding significant weight.
Setting Up the Hardware
Connecting Raspberry Pi to Pixhawk Using UART
The first step in setting up the hardware involves connecting the Raspberry Pi to the Pixhawk through the Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter (UART) protocol. This involves connecting specific pins on the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO header to the corresponding connections on the Pixhawk. Care must be taken to ensure that the correct pins are connected to avoid any potential damage to the components.
Installing Vibration Dampening Plates
Vibration dampening is vital for sensitive electronics. You’ll use vibration dampening plates, typically attached with rubber absorbers, to secure your Raspberry Pi and Pixhawk. These plates are mounted on your drone’s frame and help minimize the impact of vibrations, ensuring that your sensors and modules can deliver accurate readings even under flight conditions.
Securing Components for Flight
Once you’ve connected your components, it’s imperative to secure them properly for flight stability and safety. Use small spacers and screws to bolt your Raspberry Pi and Pixhawk onto their respective mounts. Ensure that all connections are secure but not overly tightened to avoid damaging any component housings.
Flashing Pixhawk Firmware
Downloading and Installing ArduPilot Firmware
The Pixhawk requires ArduPilot firmware, which is a widely respected open-source solution used for controlling drones. You can download this firmware from the official ArduPilot website. Using a USB cable, connect the Pixhawk to your computer and flash the firmware using a program like Mission Planner.
Configuring Mission Planner
After flashing, configuring the Mission Planner is essential. This involves setting essential parameters such as the frame type, selecting the appropriate vehicle, and defining the telemetry systems you plan to use. Mission Planner acts as the interface for calibration and adjustments.
Ensuring Correct Firmware Settings
Double-check all firmware settings to ensure everything is configured correctly. Incorrect settings can lead to errors that may hamper your drone’s performance. Pay attention to specifics such as compass orientation, flight modes, and failsafes to ensure you’re ready for safe flight operations.
Preparing Raspberry Pi
Flashing Raspberry Pi OS
Your next task is to prepare your Raspberry Pi by installing its operating system. Raspberry Pi OS is the recommended choice, given its vast support community. You’ll need to flash your microSD card with this OS using tools like Raspberry Pi Imager or Balena Etcher.
Setting Up WiFi and SSH Access
After loading the operating system, configure the Raspberry Pi to connect to your local WiFi network. Setting up SSH access allows you to remotely control and manage your Raspberry Pi, making it a convenient feature when your Raspberry Pi is mounted on the drone.
Configuring for UART Communication
Modification of the configuration files on the Raspberry Pi is necessary to ensure seamless communication over the UART. This involves editing files in the Raspberry Pi’s boot configuration to disable onboard Bluetooth, thereby freeing up the UART interfaces for your usage.
Installing Software and Dependencies
Using Pip to Install Necessary Python Packages
To enable control scripting, you’ll need several Python packages on your Raspberry Pi. Using pip, a package manager for Python, install libraries such as future, pyserial for serial communications, Dronekit, and MAVProxy. These packages are foundational for interaction and control via Python.
Setting Up MAVProxy and Dronekit
MAVProxy acts as a versatile ground control software, and Dronekit is essential for Python-based scripting. Configure these tools to establish a reliable control link between your Raspberry Pi and the Pixhawk, enabling advanced scripting and automation functionalities.
Modifying Configuration Files for UART
Adjust the Raspberry Pi’s configuration files appropriately to establish smooth UART communication. By editing cmdline.txt and config.txt, you ensure that the serial interface correctly communicates with the Pixhawk, setting up mechanisms for continuous data flow.
Connecting Pixhawk and Raspberry Pi
Testing the Connection with MAVProxy
Establishing and testing the connection between the Raspberry Pi and Pixhawk with MAVProxy is a critical step. Ensure proper communication by running some basic commands and confirming the successful exchange of data packets.
Verifying Communication Between Components
With initial operations achieved, verify the connection’s stability by monitoring communication. Look for consistent responsiveness from the Pixhawk and the Raspberry Pi in your MAVProxy console. Ensure that flight mode and telemetry data are accurate.
Troubleshooting Common Connectivity Issues
Be prepared to troubleshoot common connectivity issues, such as incorrect pin configurations or software misconfigurations. Utilize logs and error outputs to determine if any adjustments need to be made either in your wiring or your software setup.
Drone Control with Python Scripting
Introduction to Dronekit Scripting
With everything set up, you’re ready to explore drone control using Python scripting. Dronekit is a library that enables such control, allowing you to write scripts that can handle the complexity of drone operations.
Writing a Basic Script for Drone Control
Begin with a simple script to establish communication with your drone, check system parameters, and arm the motors. Ensure your script is prepared for real-time interactions, such as commanding takeoff or landing sequences safely.
Executing Scripts and Ensuring Safety Precautions
Execute the scripts while adhering to safety protocols, ensuring your experimental environment is secure. Always have a failsafe enable in case of unexpected behavior. Testing should begin at low power levels and advance once confidence in the setup is achieved.
Exploring Advanced Drone Features
Autonomous Mission Programming
With a solid foundation developed, delve into programming autonomous missions. Utilize the full suite of Dronekit’s capabilities to instruct your drone on complex tasks such as waypoint flights, automated deliveries, or photogrammetry missions.
Testimonial on Applications Like Drone Fishing
Drones can be personalized for unique applications, like drone fishing, which harnesses their lift capabilities to cast fishing lines further. Enthusiastic builders have applied similar systems for delivery missions and environmental monitoring, demonstrating the versatility of DIY drones.
Discussion on Future Project Possibilities
The possibilities for future projects are extensive, ranging from advanced aerial mapping systems to swarming drones. Use your setup as a testing bed for such innovations, continuously exploring new technological boundaries.
Conclusion
Summary of the Building Process
Building a drone with Raspberry Pi and Pixhawk opens the door to hands-on learning and experimentation. This guide has walked you through setting up hardware, flashing essential firmware, configuring both the Pixhawk and Raspberry Pi, and scripting control programs.
Benefits of Creating a DIY Drone
The benefits of creating a DIY drone are vast, from cost savings to customizable features and the educational satisfaction that accompanies the process. Such projects also offer a platform for testing new technologies and capabilities.
Encouragement to Explore and Expand Capabilities
With your foundational knowledge in place, continue to explore the vast possibilities of drone advancement. Push the limits of your creations by integrating new sensors, experimenting with AI, or developing more sophisticated control algorithms. Your journey has just begun.