ABSTRACT

The motive of this project is to develop an Un-manned aerial vehicle.

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are flying machines devoid of an on-board
crew or passengers. These aircraft can function autonomously as 'drones' or
be controlled from a distance as remotely piloted vehicles (RPVs). UAVs
possess the capability to fly for prolonged periods at regulated speeds and
altitudes, contributing significantly to different facets of aviation.(1)
This thesis demonstrates the construction of RC planes, the theories behind
the flight of these miniature structures and the specifications of the
components assembled in the designed RC plane. Radio-Controlled (model
aircraft) also known as RC aircraft or RC airplane, is a small flying machine
controlled remotely by a hand-held transmitter and a receiver with in the
aircraft. The transmitter communicates with a receiver installed within the
aircraft, which in turn, controls servos responsible for moving the aircraft's
control surfaces. (2)
The first RC aircraft was created by French aviator Louis Bleriot in 1908. RC
planes have a history dating back to the early 1900s, with the initial
demonstration taking place in 1909 in Paris. However, it was not until the
1930s that these planes gained prominence, largely due to the emergence of
lightweight and dependable radio control systems. This development played a
crucial role in the widespread acceptance and popularity of radio-controlled
aircraft. The evolution of drone technology is evident in the development of
British drone weapons during 1917 and 1918, a progress that continued
through the efforts of the Royal Aircraft Establishment. This advancement
ultimately led to the creation of a fleet comprising more than 400 Queen Bee
UAV Target Aircraft in the 1930s. In World War II, both the U.S. Army and Navy
employed radio-controlled planes, referred to as Radio planes, as artillery
target drones. (3)
RC planes cover a variety of miniature models, representing planes from
different time periods. Devotees of past time find joy in making small versions
of old planes, adding detailed features like glowing navigation lights and
retractable landing gear. Powered gliders, with electric motors and special
wing designs for lift and stability, are also liked in the RC aircraft community.
Pylon racers, made to be very light, attract hobbyists who enjoy fast races
around a set track. Helicopters, having different aerodynamics and flight
paths, make up another type in RC aircraft. Helicopters are useful for
surveillance and aerial imaging since they can hover. (4)
The global popularity of engaging in RC aircraft as a hobby has been
increasing, driven by advancements like more efficient motors (both electric
and miniature internal combustion and jet engines), lighter and more
powerful batteries, and more affordable radio systems. RC aircraft find
application in experiments, collecting weather information, aerodynamic
modeling and testing, as well as serving as drones or spy planes for scientific,
government, and military organizations. The adaptability of RC planes allows
for a variety of designs tailored to specific purposes in these sectors. In
educational environments, RC planes serve as practical tools for instructing
students in the fundamental principles of aviation, aerodynamics, and remote-
control technology. By engaging with these aircraft, students gain hands-on
learning experiences that enhance their understanding of complex concepts
related to flight and technology.(5)
RC planes, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are adaptable
devices employed in a multitude of missions. They prove effective in tasks
such as surveillance, reconnaissance, search and rescue operations,
monitoring agricultural and environmental conditions, and participating in
mapping and surveying activities. RC planes also play essential roles in wildlife
conservation, law enforcement, scientific research, and military operations for
functions like surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition. Beyond
these applications, they serve as communication relay tools, contribute to film
and photography needs, and demonstrate a wide range of capabilities across
diverse fields, their flexibility and advancing technologies. (6)
The primary goal of the project is to reduce the size and weight of the aircraft
model while simultaneously increasing its lift capabilities. In the conceptual
design phase, the aim is to generate potential solutions that align with the
given design requirements. These alternatives are then evaluated and
analyzed using metrics derived from an analysis of the mission objectives,
requirements, and design constraints.

CHAPER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
A radio-controlled aircraft, commonly referred to as an Unmanned
Aerial Vehicle (UAV), is a flying apparatus directed by an operator
through a radio-transmitter. The transmitter establishes
communication with an onboard receiver, which in turn sends signals to
servo-mechanisms, governing the movement of control surfaces.
Remote-controlled aircraft is favored over drones because of its
capacity to fly at high altitudes across a wide range of speeds. Moreover,
remote-controlled aircraft outperforms drones with its simpler
construction, contributing to its increasing popularity. Recognizing
these shared capabilities, the project aims to design a surveillance
device that is self-governing, cost-effective, lightweight, and straight
forward to produce. (7)

The inception of RC planes can be traced back to the late 19th century
when miniature airships were flown for amusement in theaters,
operated through a rudimentary spark-emitted radio signal system. In
the 1930s, there was a noteworthy progress as the Royal Aircraft
Establishment engineered the Queen Bee UAV Target Aircraft, signifying
a substantial leap forward in the utilization of radio-controlled
technology. In the course of World War II, the U.S. Army and Navy made
use of radio-controlled planes, known as Radio planes, for the role of
artillery target drones.(8)

The origins of RC aircraft can be traced back to the early 20th century
when enthusiasts and inventors started experimenting with remote-
controlled flight. In 1898, Nikola Tesla showcased a radio-controlled
boat, establishing a groundwork for subsequent remote control
applications. The development of RC aircraft gained substantial
momentum during World War I and II, as military forces utilized
unmanned aircraft for various purposes. These initial prototypes laid
the foundation for further progress in RC technology. Post-war, the RC
aircraft industry experienced notable innovations. In the 1950s and
1960s, hobbyists and engineers began constructing their own RC
aircraft using lightweight materials like balsa wood. These early models
 were controlled by uncomplicated mechanical systems. Toward the end
of the 20th century, electric power systems started gaining favor in RC
aircraft. Electric motors and rechargeable batteries replaced
conventional fuel-powered engines, providing quieter operation,
cleaner energy, and enhanced flight durations. Electric RC aircraft
became more readily available and user-friendly.(9)

RC planes find application in a variety of endeavors, serving diverse

purposes. Enthusiasts partake in the widely enjoyed hobby of RC plane
racing, where these aircraft are piloted at high speeds in competitive
events. Another facet of their use involves aerobatics, with pilots
maneuvering RC planes through complex moves like loops and rolls to
showcase their agility and capabilities. Additionally, RC planes serve
practical roles such as aerial photography, providing a unique
perspective for capturing images and videos. In the realm of
filmmaking, these planes become valuable tools for filming aerial
sequences in movies and television productions. Beyond recreational
and creative pursuits, the military and law enforcement agencies
leverage RC planes for surveillance and reconnaissance, harnessing
their capabilities for strategic operations.(10)

The progression of RC remote-controlled aircraft has undergone a

remarkable journey from its modest origins to the advanced and high-
performance models prevalent today. Enthusiasts across the globe have
been captivated by the evolution of RC aircraft. As technology continues
to march forward, it promises to bring forth even more exhilarating
innovations in the realm of RC aviation. This ongoing advancement
ensures a future filled with endless excitement for pilots of all ages.(11)

1.2 SCOPE
The purpose of this project is to engineer and develop an RC plane that will be
capable of autopilotting itself from a safe distance. This initiative will involve
team members in effective design cycles that encompass expertise in aircraft
design, a deep understanding of the Aerodynamic properties of an aircraft,
understanding and working on crucial body parts that are used to make an
aircraft, with calculating and processing the perfect aspect ratio for our
aircraft so that there is less drag and more thrust produced by our own design,
learning to work on a 3D software like CAD which will help us design our
aircraft and make critical decisions regarding our designs, making use of
software like Mission Planner by Ardupilot which will be used to configure our
PixHawk which is a device that will provide us with autopilot system for our
RC Plane, we will also be learning how to fly, control and land an aircraft using
a Remote Controller and this project will also help us in project management
individually by making use of every possible and budget-friendly tool for
completing our project.
This project comprises and focuses on designing an aircraft with a minimum
budget for manufacturing, development, and using autopiloting software and
gadgets during the flight. Our goal is to develop an aircraft from scratch, learn
the process of its design, give it missions from taking off the aircraft
successfully to landing the aircraft safely and without minimum casualties to
our aircraft, and also practice team work and project management skills.

1.3: RATIONAL AND SIGNIFICANCE

The rational and significance of choosing RC (Radio Controlled) plane
as a thesis topic are multifaceted, encompassing educational, technological,
and practical aspects. This choice is not only timely but also aligns with
contemporary advancements in both education and technology. Following are
some points which highlights the rational and significance of our topic.
 Educational Value: RC planes are an excellent medium for facilitating
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
They provide a hands-on learning experience, enabling students to
directly apply and understand concepts of physics, specifically
aerodynamics, and Newton's laws of motion. For instance, building and
flying RC planes requires understanding lift, thrust, drag, and gravity,
translating theoretical knowledge into practical application. This
 approach aligns with educational theories that emphasize experiential
learning, making complex scientific principles more accessible and
engaging to students.

 Technological Advancement: The field of RC aviation has seen

significant technological advancements. Modern RC planes incorporate
sophisticated electronics, telemetry systems, and programmable
components. This evolution mirrors broader trends in automation,
robotics, and aeronautics, making RC planes a relevant subject for
exploring current and future technological trends. For example, the use
of programmable drones in educational settings illustrates how RC
technology can be integrated into learning programming and robotics.

 Innovation and Creativity: Designing and building RC planes

encourage innovation and creativity. It involves a blend of engineering
design principles and artistic creativity, providing a platform for
developing problem-solving skills. Students and hobbyists often
customize their planes, experimenting with different materials, designs,
and electronics, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous
improvement.

 Community and Collaboration: The RC plane community is a vibrant

and collaborative space, where enthusiasts share knowledge,
techniques, and experiences. This aspect of the hobby underscores the
importance of community learning and knowledge exchange, which are
key components of successful educational experiences.

 Career and Skills Development: Knowledge and skills gained from

working with RC planes are transferable to various fields, including
aviation, aerospace engineering, and even emerging sectors like drone
technology. Students who engage with RC planes develop a range of
skills, from manual dexterity to complex problem-solving, which are
highly valued in technical careers.
  Extended flight duration: RC planes boast prolonged airborne
capabilities compared to drones, as they demand less power for
sustained flight.

 Enhanced flight stability: RC planes exhibit superior stability in the air

owing to their larger wingspan, enabling them to handle increased wind
conditions adeptly.

 Expanded operational range: RC planes surpass drones in terms of

travel distance, given their independence from the limitations of remote
control range.

 Cost-effectiveness: An additional advantage of RC airplanes lies in

their affordability. Available in a spectrum ranging from basic entry-level
models to advanced versions that may carry a price tag of hundreds or
even thousands of dollars, there's an RC plane suitable for every budget.

 Beginner-friendly: RC planes, especially models like RC power gliders,

cater to beginners with their exceptional stability, offering ample time to
respond to control inputs. These aircraft are characterized by slower
speeds and forgiving traits, making them ideal for novice pilots.

 Versatility and personalization: Engaging in the construction and

piloting of RC planes provides a notable degree of flexibility and
customization. You have the freedom to select the plane type, choose
components and materials, and adapt the design to align with your
preferences.

In short the study of RC planes provides a rich, multidimensional topic for a

university thesis. It offers a unique convergence of education, technology, and
practical skills, making it not only a subject of current interest but also of
future significance in various professional fields.

1.4: OBJECTIVES
 Research Purpose: Initially introduced for research, RC planes serve as
miniature study models to understand the forces acting on newly
designed airplane models. This aids in refining designs to achieve
desired results.

 Weather Readings and Surveillance: Specially designed RC planes are

used for practical applications, such as gathering weather readings and
conducting surveillance. These remote-controlled aircraft provide a
flexible and efficient means for data collection.

 Flight Testing: RC planes are utilized for flight testing, allowing

researchers and engineers to assess the performance and characteristics
of various aircraft designs. The successful flight tests contribute to
validating the effectiveness of the designs.

 Competition Participation: Involvement in competitions like the

Boeing Aeromodelling competition at IIT Bombay demonstrates the
capability of RC planes designed by teams like Team Drishti. These
events offer a platform for showcasing innovation and skills in
aeromodelling.

 Indoor Testing Instruments: The development of indoor testing

instruments like CG (Center of Gravity) Balance setup, Thrust setup, and
3D analyzer enhances the understanding of the manufactured aircraft’s
characteristics. These tools aid in conducting thorough assessments
before actual flight tests. [9]

1.5: LIMITATIONS
 Potential For Signal Interference and Limited Range due to the
Radio Signal Range Constraints: RC planes operate within the confines
of 2.4GHz RC systems, subject to the limitations of this communication
spectrum for interactions between the transmitter and the airborne
vehicle. Adhering to their operational constraints, airborne RC vehicles,
including planes, utilize 2.4GHz radio modems for data transmission and
may incorporate 2.4GHz video transmitters within the prescribed limits
of this frequency range. Frequency hopping systems in RC planes are
employed within their prescribed limits to minimize the impact of
simultaneous transmissions on the same frequency, with the goal of
preventing interference. Concerns about interference become apparent
when RC planes approach the limits of the 2.4GHz spectrum, sharing it
with radio modems and video transmitters. This sharing may lead to
momentary data loss and delays in control signal reception. While
manufacturers test their RC systems for interference within specified
limits, comprehensive data on simultaneous testing with various 2.4GHz
devices may be limited. [1]

 Maintenance Needs: RC plane require maintenance at every flight. This

includes checking and adjusting control surfaces, ensuring the integrity
of the airframe, servos, control horns, landing gear, control surfaces and
maintaining the electronic components. [2]

 Limited Flight Times: RC Planes are powered by batteries, and their

flight time is limited by the battery capacity. Planes like Tiger Moth,
provide around 17 minutes of full-throttle flight per charge. A typical
flight duration of 7 to 10 minutes is recommended. With LiPos, targeting
a 15-minute average flight time helps maintain a reasonable discharge
rate for longevity. [3]

 Weather Dependence: Wind and adverse weather conditions can

significantly impact the flight of RC planes. Strong winds can affect
stability and control, making plane challenging to fly. [4]
  Weight and Payload Capacity: The payload capacity of an RC plane
usually falls between 2 to 20 lbs, but contingent on factors like
wingspan, surface area, thrust-to-weight ratio, construction materials,
internal space, and prevailing weather conditions. Maintaining a
balanced load is crucial for optimal performance during flight. [5][6]

 Altitude Restrictions: The maximum altitude allowed for flying RC

planes and helicopters is 400 feet above ground level in the United
States. Planes and helicopters can go much higher than that but they
would be breaking the law. Other countries may have different
restrictions, so it is always best to check regulations on RC aircraft flight
before flying your device in another country. [7]

 Regulatory Restrictions: Depending on the locations, there may be

regulations restrictions governing the use of RC plane. Compliance with
these rules is crucial, and failure to do so can result in legal
consequences. [8]
Some of the other limitations are noise levels, lack of sensory feedback, space
requirements and cost.