Designing a Drone

"Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works."

— Steve Jobs

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This quote by Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple Inc., emphasizes that design is not merely about aesthetics—it's primarily about functionality. In the context of drone designing, this means a successful drone should not only look sleek or futuristic but must be aerodynamically efficient, stable, responsive, and functional in real-world environments.

Introduction

This module introduces students to the process of designing and assembling a simple drone using key components such as frame, motors, ESCs, and a flight controller. It also focuses on basic calibration and safety measures required before the first flight.

Prerequisite Knowledge

• Basic knowledge of drone parts and terminology.
•  Familiarity with drone flight movements.
•  Ability to handle small tools safely (e.g., screwdrivers, soldering iron).

Learning Objectives

• Selection of the correct drone frame(Ex- Dji Tello Drone)
• Mount motors and connect electronic speed controllers (ESCs).
• Wire components and calibrate them correctly.
• Understand and apply safety measures during drone assembly.

Tools & Materials Required

• Drone DIY Kit (including frame, motors, ESCs, flight controller, propellers, battery, transmitter)
• Soldering station
• Screwdrivers
• Cable ties and hot glue
• Multimeter for safety checks

Content

• Frame Selection and Setup: Choose a lightweight, balanced frame like Balsa wood or Dji Tello drone kit and secure the parts tightly using screws.
• Motor and ESC Wiring: Fix motors on each arm, wire each to an ESC. Ensure correct polarity and secure mounting.
• Propeller Installation: Attach propellers based on spin direction (clockwise or counterclockwise). Improper direction can cause instability.
• Battery Placement and Balancing: Place battery centrally to ensure equal weight distribution. Use velcro or straps to hold it in place.
• Flight Controller Setup: Place it at the center of the frame, connect it to ESCs, battery, and transmitter. Make sure it is level for stable flight.

                                             Fig 1. Parts of drone

What is ESC?

ESC stands for Electronic Speed Controller.

An ESC is a device that regulates the speed of the drone’s motors by converting battery power (DC) into three-phase AC power. It receives signals from the flight controller and adjusts the speed, direction, and braking of the brushless motors accordingly.

• Each motor is connected to its own ESC.
• The flight controller tells the ESCs how fast each motor should spin to maintain stability.
• It plays a critical role in controlling flight, direction, and responsiveness.

                          Fig 2.Electronic Speed Control

 Safety Measures

• Check Connections

        Use multimeter for accuracy

• Remove Propellers

        Prevent injury during assembly

• Balance Drone

        Ensure stable flight

• Battery Safety

        Avoid overcharging

• Safe Test Flights

        Fly in open, uncrowded areas

Outcome

• Students will be able to build a basic quadcopter from scratch.
• They will understand how to connect and balance drone components.
• Students will be familiar with safety and calibration steps required for flying.