Drones

Drones were once mostly toys for kids or toys for enthusiasts. They were either very inexpensive Christmas presents or expensive camera systems for well-healed enthusiasts. Today they are used across many industries as well as indispensable on the battlefield. A Fortune* article forecasts the worldwide drone market to grow from USD $10.98 billion in 2023 to USD $54.81 billion by 2030.

 

Modern drones are intricate machines with a combination of hardware and software systems working in unison to enable flight, control, and various autonomous features. The key parts we usually research include motors, ESCs, flight controller, GPS, and battery, as well as various sensors and communication systems that enhance flight capabilities. Most of these components can be examined, tested, and documented in our lab. A few of them require highly specialized tools and equipment.

​

A breakdown of the technical areas we have experience with:​

​

1.) Flight Controller (FC)

The flight controller is the “brain” of the drone, responsible for interpreting sensor data, stabilizing the drone, and executing commands. It processes inputs from the pilot (via remote control) and from the drone’s sensors to ensure smooth flight.

• Purpose: Stabilizes the drone and manages flight dynamics, translating pilot inputs into motor commands.

• Components: Includes a microprocessor, gyroscope, accelerometer, magnetometer, and sometimes a barometer.

​

2.) Battery

The battery is the power source for the drone. Most drones use LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries because they are lightweight, provide high discharge rates, and have a relatively high energy density.

• Purpose: Supplies power to all electrical components, including motors, sensors, and the flight controller.

• Voltage: Common drone battery voltages include 3S (11.1V), 4S (14.8V), 6S (22.2V), etc., which refers to the number of cells in the battery.

​

3.) GPS Module

The GPS (Global Positioning System) module enables the drone to know its location in space, allowing it to fly autonomously, hold a steady position, and follow predefined waypoints.

• Purpose: Provides position data to enable features like GPS hold, waypoint navigation, and autonomous flight.

• Location: Typically located on top of the drone to reduce interference from metal parts.​

​

4.) Camera

Many drones, especially consumer-grade and professional ones, come with integrated cameras for video recording, still photography, or live streaming.

• Purpose: Captures high-resolution photos and videos from the air.

• Features: Some drones offer gimbals for stabilized footage, high-definition (4K or better) cameras, and live streaming capabilities.​

​

5.) Radio Transmitter and Receiver

The radio transmitter (usually handheld by the pilot) sends control signals to the drone, while the receiver (mounted on the drone) receives these signals and translates them into motor or flight control commands.

• Purpose: Allows the pilot to control the drone remotely.

• Frequency: Common frequencies include 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz, depending on the drone’s system and intended use.​​

​

6.) Power Distribution Board (PDB)

The PDB distributes power from the battery to various components, including the ESCs and flight controller. In some drones, the PDB is integrated with the flight controller.

• Purpose: Ensures each component receives the correct voltage and current.

• Location: Typically located near the center of the drone's frame.​​​