What is a quadcopter, what does it look like and what is it intended for?

Quadcopter - This is an interesting type of aircraft, which, according to its principle of operation, resembles a helicopter. Consists of 4 screws rotating in different directions. Thanks to this, the device can not only take off or land, but also move at a certain height and even hover in the air. The article describes in detail what a quadcopter is, how it works, as well as what types of devices are most common today.

Description and purpose of the device

We can say that a quadcopter is an unmanned aerial vehicle that is controlled by 4 rotors. Each of them rotates diagonally in opposite directions. Thanks to this, the device maneuvers well and remains stable during takeoff, flight and landing.

Moreover, there is a broader concept: a copter is an aircraft with a different number of propellers:

• 3 – tricopter;
• 4 – quadcopter;
• 6 – hexacopter;
• 8 – octocopter.

There are other variants of copters, but they are less common. The main purpose of the device is to take photos and videos in different modes (including panoramic) at a certain height. It can be carried out for both professional and amateur purposes:

• capture the landscape of a beautiful area;
• photoshoot;
• shooting a video clip;
• shooting a film, broadcast;
• photograph a family celebration, such as a wedding, as a souvenir (flight of pigeons, fireworks, etc.).

We can also say about a quadcopter that it is a device that can be used for gaming purposes. Although it is also used for professional tasks, for example, when searching for people and specific objects. This can only be accomplished with the help of expensive models equipped with a high-resolution camera. It allows you to carry out detailed surveys of the area and detect even relatively small objects.

Sometimes the devices are used for practical jokes and funny performances. But do not forget that a quadcopter is an aircraft. Therefore, if you plan to fly at an altitude of 50 m or more, you will need to coordinate it in advance with the Federal Air Transport Agency (Federal Air Transport Agency), having received the appropriate permission.

The principle of operation of a quadcopter

Now it’s clear what a copter is, all that remains is to figure out exactly how it flies. Flight is achieved by simultaneous rotation of 4 propellers under different diagonals. The principle of operation is quite simple:

• when all the propellers pick up speed, the apparatus begins to rise, similar to a helicopter taking off;
• accordingly, a gradual decrease in the speed of all propellers leads to a decrease in height and landing;
• if 2 propellers increase speed and 2 others decrease, the device flies in the direction of decrease;
• As the speed increases, the screws simultaneously rotate diagonally and rotate in the desired direction.

All possible combinations of screw rotation are shown in the diagram. It also gives an idea of ​​what a quadcopter looks like.

What is the device equipped with?

Considering what a quadcopter is needed for, manufacturers equip it with different sensors and devices:

1. All processes are controlled flight controller. Essentially, it is a microprocessor, that is, a microcircuit that is installed directly in the case.
2. Gyroscope – a special sensor that stabilizes the position in space along all axes.
3. Accelerometer – a sensor that sets the aircraft in a position strictly parallel to the ground (for stability during flight).
4. Barometer – a sensor that allows the copter to hover stably at a certain height, that is, to remain motionless for a certain time.
5. Sonar – a sensor that detects the presence of obstacles along the flight path and ensures their safe avoidance.
6. GPS – a navigation module that allows you to fly along a pre-planned trajectory, and, if necessary, make an emergency landing (for example, when the battery charge is low).
7. Battery – an element that provides power to electronics and sensors maintains a charge for a certain time (from several minutes to several hours).

Types of quadcopters

We can say about a copter that it is a device for flying over any terrain. The device almost always has a camera installed that takes both photos and videos. Today there are several types of devices, the main classification is related to their dimensions:

1. Mini - the smallest copters that can be called gaming. They fly only indoors or in a small yard, and can deviate only a few meters from the control panel.
2. Little ones – also suitable as a toy, differs from mini ones in having a slightly larger range of action.
3. Average - more massive aircraft that can withstand moderate winds and maintain contact at a distance of tens of meters.
4. Heavy Available in a durable metal case. Using the example of such models, it becomes clear what a quadcopter is and its purpose. They can fly over large areas, maintain communication even at a distance of several kilometers, and withstand strong gusts of wind and precipitation.

It is clear that a copter is an aircraft that can be used for a variety of purposes. Most often it is used for photos and videos from above, and also as a toy. Although some quadcopters have even been adapted for delivering food and other cargo. These are professional models that cost much more than amateur ones.