The Drone-Based Postal Delivery System is an innovative project designed to automate lightweight package deliveries using a quadcopter. By leveraging modern microcontrollers, GPS technology, and communication modules, the drone can autonomously transport goods with minimal human intervention. This project aims to enhance transportation management by reducing delivery time, fuel costs, and human labor.
The primary goal of this project is to develop a drone-based delivery system capable of:
- Autonomous flight for delivering lightweight packages.
- Remote-controlled operation for precise navigation.
- Payload handling via a servo-controlled delivery mechanism.
- Live location tracking with GPS integration.
The project incorporates multiple technologies and hardware components:
- Microcontrollers: Arduino UNO
- Flight Controller: Pixhawk 2.4.8
- Programming Languages: C/C++ (for microcontroller programming)
- Communication Protocols: GSM module for remote control, MAVLink for telemetry
- Ground Station Software: QGroundControl
| Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Drone Frame | 450mm frame |
| Motors | Avionics 2836 (880 RPM/Volt) |
| Propellers | 10cm length, 4.5cm pitch |
| Battery | 4-cell, 3300mAh |
| Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) | 40A |
| GPS Module | For live tracking |
| Radio Transmitter | For remote control |
| Payload Box | Sunmica board (10mm thickness) |
| Servo Motor | For door mechanism |
| GSM Module | For payload communication |
The project relies on several fundamental physics principles:
- Aerodynamics: Lift is generated using four propellers arranged in a quadcopter formation.
- Newton’s Third Law: Propellers push air downwards, creating an upward lift force.
- Torque & Stability: Controlled via differential motor speeds.
- Energy Management: Efficient power distribution from the battery via ESCs.
- Wireless Communication: MAVLink protocol enables drone-ground station connectivity.
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Frame | $30 |
| Motors (x4) | $80 |
| Propellers | $15 |
| Flight Controller (Pixhawk 2.4.8) | $100 |
| Battery | $40 |
| ESCs (x4) | $60 |
| GPS Module | $50 |
| Arduino UNO | $25 |
| GSM Module | $20 |
| Servo Motor | $10 |
| Payload Box | $15 |
| Radio Transmitter | $80 |
| Total Cost | $525 |
-
Drone Assembly
- Assemble motors, ESCs, propellers, and frame.
- Connect the power distribution board.
- Integrate the flight controller (Pixhawk 2.4.8).
-
Payload Design
- Build the payload box using a Sunmica board.
- Install the servo motor for package handling.
- Integrate Arduino and GSM module for communication.
-
Autonomous Test
- Connect Mavlink for drone telemetry.
- Configure waypoints and autonomous flight paths.
- Test GPS connectivity and mission execution.
-
Final Integration & Testing
- Attach the payload to the drone.
- Test remote opening/closing of the payload using GSM commands.
- Conduct live package delivery trials.
| Flight Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Drone Assembly |  |
| Payload Integration |  |
| Autonomous Flight Testing |  |
| Final Package Delivery |  |
- Perform pre-arm safety checks before takeoff.
- Verify GPS lock for accurate navigation.
- Ensure battery health before every flight.
- Follow local drone regulations to avoid legal issues.
- Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering, Mysuru, Karnataka, 570016