The design, construction and implementation of an autonomous outdoor quadcopter using an RPi microcomputer and a MultiWii flight controller

Abstract

The purpose of the present study was to design and construct an outdoor aerial vehicle, called a quadcopter, with autonomous flight functions, and to install within the vehicle a video streaming system. The thesis also includes a research study on a number of practical applications of such a working model. Throughout the project, the principal method of study relied upon has been independent research. Pertinent data were collected in the Lappeenranta Academic Library and from sources on the Internet. The study was carried out at the Saimaa University of Applied Sciences in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Production Technology. Additional practical data for the thesis were gathered from technical literature and Internet sources, with advice and recommendations from Saimaa University lecturers. The construction phase of the study resulted in the creation of an operational quadcopter which achieved autonomous flight. Further research led to an examination of some of the ways in which such a low-budget quadcopter could be put to use. An additional study will be required to increase the quadcopter’s flying time and range. Eventually, such a model-sized, working aerial vehicle could be utilized by individuals, organisations and governmental agencies.