Solar powered Quadcopter

In recent years, technological advancements have played a crucial role in the process of globalization, with drones emerging as a versatile tool across various sectors, including agriculture. This paper presents a project developed at Mbarara University of Science and Technology aimed at addressing the need for affordable and efficient drone technology tailored for agricultural applications.
The project involved the implementation of a solar-powered quadcopter drone, also known as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), equipped with hybrid aerodynamic systems for navigation and data collection. Employing agile techniques, the project emphasized iterative development, teamwork, and adaptability to evolving requirements.
A generic drone architecture was developed based on open-source hardware platforms, specifically the CC3D atom and Arduino Uno. The software stack utilized LibrePilot, an open-source suite for multicopter control, extended to support the designed architecture, along with Arduino IDE for additional functionality.
Controlled via a 2.4GHz wireless transmitter and receiver through a graphical user interface (GUI), the quadcopter implemented a PID control system to enhance stability and performance during flight. Processing signals through powerful high-speed programmable CC3D and Arduino Uno controller boards further optimized efficiency and effectiveness.
The resulting system integrated software control and navigation algorithms with hardware features, including brushless motors, solar power, and image systems. This combination provided farmers with valuable insights into crop health and environmental conditions through image capturing and transmission capabilities.
In conclusion, the project yielded a flexible drone solution capable of fulfilling diverse agricultural requirements, thereby empowering farmers with actionable data for informed decision-making.
NAMAKULA JANET
OKOCI SAMUEL PETER