A flight data recorder for radio-controlled model aircraft

摘要

Pilots of model aircraft face numerous challenges in their endeavour to enjoy their hobby and sport. Some of these challenges include the loss of model aircraft when they are pushed beyond the limit of radiofrequency communication, and the unexpected ground collisions which occur due to a lack of knowledge regarding battery and fuel levels, altitude and speed. Judging model aircraft competitions also are limited to the best estimate of ground officials, who often rely solely on visible observation. The purpose of this paper is to attempt to resolve some of these challenges through the design and develop of a flight data recorder for radio-controlled model aircraft. This device will retrieve GPS co-ordinates from the aircraft and relay them to the pilot on the ground. In the event of a distant ground collision, the pilot can retrieve the last GPS co-ordinates and then proceed to the location to collect the aircraft. Telemetry relating to the measurement and transmission of battery and fuel levels, altitude, orientation, acceleration and ground speed are also included in the design.