Goals:-I want my UAV to be able to go from point A to point B, take a picture, go back to point A and then land safely.-My UAV should be built using the cheapest commercial available products and the total cost should not exceed 1000$.-I'm giving myself no more than a year to complete this project.List of my skills:Update: 2009-05-27: Thanks to David for pointing out the excellent article of Cory about the list of skills set which are nice to have if you want to build your own UAV.Here are the skills that I think I have.ProgrammingExperience with CAble to compile softwareCan program embedded systems - NoKnow how to find the appropriate resources for support (forums, mailing lists, wikis, etc.)Radio Control AircraftBe able to take off and land with confidence - NoBe able to fly simple patterns - NoUnderstand model aircraft setup - NoBe able to make simple repairs to model aircraft - NoBe familiar with tools and techniques used for model aircraft - NoUnderstand the care and usage of lithium polymer batteries - NoBe a member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (For access to certain flying fields) - NoElectronicFamiliar with embedded systems - NoKnow how to interface electronic components to micro controllers - NoBe able to locate, read, and understand data sheetsKnow how to troubleshoot electronic systems - NoUnderstand signal timing - NoBe able to solder small components and wiresBe able to fabricate wiring harnessBe able to read schematicsControl TheoryUnderstand PID control - NoGeneralAble to learn without guidanceStrong ability to troubleshoot systems
Read more…
