Project Overview
This project is an experimental FPV-capable autonomous multirotor designed as a self-directed engineering challenge. The objective was to design and integrate a complete system from first principles, without relying on build guides or tutorials, using manufacturer datasheets and specifications as primary references.
The platform is based on ArduPilot and Mission Planner, providing full autonomous capability (GPS, barometer, IMU, compass) while retaining manual and acro flight modes. It features a custom-built 12S LiPo power system, low-KV motors driving 15-inch carbon fiber propellers, DroneCAN ESCs, and extensive custom mechanical integration.
All CAD, 3D-printed components, wiring layouts, battery construction, and mechanical modifications were designed and fabricated in-house. The aircraft is currently in a pre-flight integration phase, with bench power-up and motor spin validation underway.
Motivation & Approach
- Challenge to design and integrate a UAV entirely independently, without tutorials or step-by-step guides.
- Hands-on learning of high-power electrical systems, avionics, and UAV flight stack integration.
- Practical experience with CAD, 3D printing, mechanical modification, and custom fabrication.
- Incremental, disciplined testing to validate each subsystem before flight.
System Architecture
- Frame: Carbon fiber, home-fitted components, size optimized for integration.
- Power System: Custom 12S 10000mAh LiPo configuration, 120C rating, 10AWG wiring.
- Motors & Propellers: 235KV motors, 15-inch carbon fiber props, 7.5 pitch.
- ESCs: DroneCAN controlled, 120A rated, custom mounts.
- Flight Controller: Matek Slim V4 running ArduPilot (replacement underway following rework).
- Receiver: IBUS for initial testing; full integration pending.
- VTX & Camera: Analog 1W VTX with stock antenna; camera selected for FPV integration.
- Logging: MicroSD blackbox logging; full telemetry pending flight.
Current Status
- Bench power-up and motor spin validation in progress (propellers removed).
- Flight controller replacement required due to rework incident; integration will resume once installed.
- System has not yet flown; landing gear and full outdoor testing remain to be completed.
Next Steps
- Install replacement flight controller and validate DroneCAN communication.
- Complete bench motor testing with low-throttle verification and temperature checks.
- Attach landing gear and prepare for first outdoor hover test.
- Perform full flight testing, logging, and data analysis.
Notes & Lessons Learned
- Incremental testing is critical for high-power UAV builds.
- Hands-on fabrication and integration improve understanding of system-level dependencies.
- Bench validation and proper labeling of system status help prevent misinterpretation of project readiness.