Final Project Presentation - Quadcopter Spray Trigger
To build a functional quadcopter capable of autonomously flying on pre-programmed 'paint paths'. We aim to encorperate
a feedback loop positioning system capable of +-1cm resolution. We also wish to develope a flight programming method that will allow
us to pre-program flight paths and trigger signals so that the quadcopter can spray paint words, shapes pictures etc. on high surfaces.
To design and build a spray paint holder and trigger mechanism that can be integrated into the physical structure and electronics of the overall quadcopter.
Initally this aim is to build a proof-of concept design where the physical trigger and input signalling can be verified and refined.
The Quadcopter body and trigger mechanism was constructed using 4mm, 1.6mm and 1mm milled 6061 Aluminium. The Shopbot was used to achieve this and involved a large amount of trial and error as well as over 25hrs milling to achieve the final result. More details of the process, problems faced etc. will be detailed in Week 9 - Computer Controlled Machining
The Trigger mechanism is driven by a 6v DC motor with 100:1 gear head. To Drive this motor, A modified Zetex H-bridge board was used with an input pin.
Initial this input pin was used only for a button to confirm the concept and code is correct. This input will subsequently be replaced by the output signal from the Arduino (or similar) that will be driven by the 'paint path code' - as such initialising the spray at exactly the correct moment.
As a further proof of concept the Nordic Transciever modules will be coupled with a Fabduino to emulate the radio signal that will be used when flying the copter.
In order to power these a 3.3v supply is needed. A Fabduino was Modified to include a Voltage regulator to achieve this.
Arduino Environment was used to program the Zetex H-bride board with an original code that triggers the motor in the correct (clockwise) direction when the input is recieved
Mechanism
Test Spray
Night-Paint Test