OPENDRONE FRAME

OPENDRONE R2

OpenDrone started off as a project for the Connecticut Science Fair. Along with two friends, OpenDrone was created to serve as a cheap, lightweight drone payload delivery system.

The project is designed with FDM 3D printing in mind, only using additional M3 spec hardware, 18mm carbon fiber tube, and 5mm carbon fiber rod. In addition, the frame is adjustable to accommodate propellor sizes ranging from 9 to 11 inches.

  • As quadcopter drones become increasingly popular in a multitude of industries, from payload delivery and photography to search and rescue, the industry is filled with proprietary hardware. Expanding off the original scope addressing the lack of food delivery options at Westminster School by creating a drone, this research project aims to create a 3D-printable, open source, inexpensive, nine to ten-inch heavy payload quadcopter using established hardware standards, inspired by the RepRap movement for 3D printers. The frame design utilizes easy-to-access M3 hardware and allows for easily replaceable and upgradable 3D-printed parts. As part of our testing, we surveyed Westminster students about their usage of food delivery and pickup location distances in order to compile flight time data with our existing drone fleet and spec the electronics for the drone platform. Physical testing was performed on the drone frame consisting of durability and tolerance. First, the subcomponents underwent strength testing to ensure durability and to optimize weight to strength ratio using CAD and simulations. Second, all 3D printed parts were tested and updated for fitment, tolerances, and printability on a PRUSA i3 and Ultimaker 3D printer, certifying that all parts will fit together and require no support material if printed on most standard FDM printers. Overall, from our preliminary testing, we constructed a mostly printed drone frame with an estimated weight of 1300 grams and a max thrust of 13200 grams. Further testing is on the way regarding flying characteristics and the payload mounting system.

Revision 1

Revision 2

Planned Route.

OpenDrone was design to follow a planned route from the School Campus to the local bank and back.

Around the campus.

OpenDrone was designed to be able to carry a payload of 5kg (not yet tested) around the school campus.

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