Project Overview
Developed a fully autonomous, extended-range Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) starting from initial component selection through to software integration and flight testing. The system was designed to leverage cellular networks for telemetry and control, effectively removing traditional radio-frequency range limitations.
Technical Architecture & Features
- Hardware Integration: Engineered a custom drone platform utilizing a Pixhawk flight controller coupled with a Raspberry Pi as the companion computer to manage high-level processing and connectivity.
- Limitless Range via 4G LTE: Conceptualised and implemented an innovative remote telemetry solution utilizing a 4G LTE modem and SSH protocol. The Raspberry Pi was configured to establish a reverse SSH tunnel to a secure home server, allowing for command and control from any laptop with internet access, effectively granting the UAV limitless operational range.
- Autonomous Navigation: Utilized Ardupilot and drone firmware to enable complex GPS waypoint navigation and execution of pre-programmed flight routes.
- End-to-End Development: Hand-selected all components, combining hardware assembly, avionics control systems, and Python scripting for integrated telemetry data management and autonomous flight execution.