Arduino RC Airplane Build

08/12/2023

Big Thanks

I had the privilege of immersing myself in the transformative environment of Carnegie Mellon's Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) program, dedicating the entire month of July to this remarkable experience. Beyond being an extraordinary opportunity, SAMS proved to be an exceptional program that left an indelible impact on both my academic prowess and my social connections.

Throughout the course of SAMS, I found myself engaged in a multifaceted educational journey. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Borne, I delved into the intricacies of Calculus and Analysis, unraveling the elegant complexities of mathematical theory. In the realm of urban innovation, I was under the tutelage of Dr. McElwee, exploring the fascinating landscape of Engineering in Smart Cities. Additionally, my intellectual exploration extended to the captivating intersection of physics, astrophysics, and chemistry, allowing me to deepen my understanding of the natural world.

Gratitude is due to several individuals and entities that contributed to the richness of my SAMS experience. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Shernell and Ms. Rowshan for their unwavering support and guidance. The entire Carnegie Mellon University faculty deserves commendation for their dedication to fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity and growth. Furthermore, the partnership with PNC Financial Services Group played a pivotal role in elevating SAMS to its zenith, allowing us participants to extract maximum value from this enriching endeavor. In retrospect, my time at SAMS transcended the boundaries of a mere academic undertaking; it evolved into a profound journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The memories forged and the lessons imbibed during those transformative weeks shall continue to illuminate my path as I embark on future academic and personal pursuits.

What Is An Arduino RC Plane and How Does It Work?

An Arduino-powered remote-controlled (RC) airplane stands as a diminutive marvel of aviation, maneuvering gracefully through the skies under the adept command of a ground-based operator wielding a handheld radio transmitter. The convergence of cutting-edge technology and aeronautic ingenuity gives birth to this airborne creation.

The core of this airborne enigma lies within Arduino boards, adept at deciphering a symphony of inputs meticulously programmed through coding software. These inputs, often originating from a dedicated controller, morph into tangible outputs, akin to the mesmerizing spin of the propeller. Here, the Arduino Uno emerges as the sentinel orchestrating radio communication with the aircraft's receiver, acting as the bridge between the terrestrial controller and the ethereal wings aloft.

Delving into the mechanics of control, the airplane dances to the rhythm of the Arduino's programming, translated into tangible movements by the receiver. The pivotal interface between human intent and aeronautic action, the receiver articulates the shifting of control surfaces with the finesse of a maestro wielding a baton. These dynamic responses are intricately woven, executed in harmony with the positions of joysticks on the transmitter.

In essence, the Arduino RC airplane epitomizes the fusion of coding acumen and airborne poetry. It takes flight not merely as an assemblage of circuits and servos, but as a manifestation of innovation's boundless reach. With the Arduino as its cerebral cortex and the sky as its canvas, this aerial waltz unveils a mesmerizing interplay between human intellect and the limitless expanse of the heavens.

Materials Used

Our Process

The path I ventured down guided me to the captivating world of laser cutting, where the digital designs we uncovered online materialized into tangible, three-dimensional components. Amidst a symphony of creativity, I found myself drawn to the artistry of transforming virtual blueprints into physical reality. The medium I chose to sculpt my vision was EVA foam - a pliable material celebrated for its ability to absorb impact and preserve structural integrity. To ensure not only durability but also precision in every facet of the design, I meticulously recalibrated the dimensions of our blueprint to seamlessly align with the laser cutter's meticulous craftsmanship. As anticipation peaked, the epicenter of innovation beckoned its realization within the hallowed halls of CMU's techspark center.

With the template intricately etched onto the foam, the process of metamorphosis commenced. Armed with spray paints, I embarked on a transformative journey, turning the raw, shape-shifting form into a sleek, obsidian canvas. This artistic evolution unfolded in the cozy seclusion of my dormitory, an endeavor I confess was both thrilling and discreet. Guiding this endeavor was the inspirational catalyst, SAMS '23 - a muse whose influence breathed life into the evolution of our RC plane's design. Assembling the mosaic of foam fragments came next, a puzzle-like process that saw me delving into the intricacies of the inner workings. A harmonious ensemble of potentiometers, motors, and propellers awaited orchestration.

Through lines of code, I bestowed life upon the aircraft, scripting its aerial ballet in four precise movements: up, down, left, and right. It was a digital incantation that summoned the mechanical poet - the propeller - to life. Then, presentation day arrived —the culmination of our tireless efforts. United as a formidable team of six, we stood as a testament to the unwavering dedication, the tapestry of our achievement woven from countless hours of labor. The presentation hall bore witness to our narratives, and the resounding applause affirmed that our journey had indeed resonated deeply. In that poignant moment, the trajectory of my future crystallized—engineering, in all its facets, was unequivocally my chosen odyssey.

Through Dr. McElwee's guidance, our project radiated the brilliance emblematic of engineering itself. The luminous smile adorning the face of a promising future encapsulated the essence of what engineering embodies for me.

As our creation took its final bow, its purpose transcended mere novelty. We sowed a seed of hope, aspiring for our innovation to nestle within the very fabric of burgeoning smart cities. Within these urban landscapes, our creation could serve as a sentinel - a vigilant observer gathering data on biodiversity, pollution footprints, and the ecological reverberations of human presence. With every rotation of the propeller, we whispered our dreams to the winds, in the anticipation that they would journey toward yet unseen horizons.

Thank you for coming back to Swarming Blog! Can not wait to see you in the next blog :D