Technical Seminar (20CSC32)
DRONE TECHNOLOGY
By
P. Sai Karthik Reddy
160121733190
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List of Contents
• Abstract
• Introduction
• Literature Survey
• Architecture
• Evolution of drones
• Challenges
• Applications
• Conclusion
• References
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Abstract
Drone technology, encompassing Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs),
has emerged as a transformative force across multiple industries,
enhancing operational efficiency and accessibility. Drones are equipped
with advanced sensors, cameras, and autonomous navigation systems
that enable a wide range of applications, including aerial photography,
agricultural monitoring, logistics, and disaster response. Additionally,
advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are
enabling drones to operate with greater autonomy and intelligence. As
their usage grows, important considerations regarding safety, privacy,
and regulatory compliance also come to the forefront. Overall, drone
technology is reshaping how we approach various challenges, making it
a critical component of modern technological infrastructure.
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Introduction
• Initially, drones were restricted to military applications, which limited their
scalability and versatility in other sectors.
• Early UAVs faced significant challenges, including limited automation and
high operational costs, hindering their broader adoption and effectiveness.
• Advances in technology, such as the incorporation of sophisticated sensors,
GPS, and artificial intelligence, have revolutionized drone capabilities.
• Modern drones can autonomously navigate and analyze data in real-time,
allowing them to perform complex tasks efficiently in remote or hazardous
environments.
• This evolution has positioned drones as vital tools across various industries,
from agriculture and logistics to disaster response, significantly improving
productivity and addressing complex challenges.
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Literature Survey
Sno. Title Year of Observations
Publication
1 Autonomous Drone for Defense The study examines an autonomous
Surveillance 2023 quadcopter utilizing deep learning for
improved surveillance and data security in
defense applications.
2 Drone Design for first aid kit delivery in .This paper presents efficient drone system
emergency situations 2020 capable of delivering first aid kits quickly and
accurately to emergency sites, particularly in
hard-to-reach or disaster-affected areas.
3 Surveillance drones for landmine detection This paper presents a Surveillance drones
2015 equipped with advanced sensors, including
ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and
electromagnetic induction systems, can
significantly improve the detection of
landmines compared to traditional methods.
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Architecture
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Architecture
1. Parts of the Drone
Each drone has its own “superpowers” or special parts that help it fly,
navigate, and complete tasks:
Battery : This is like the drone’s energy pack. It keeps the drone
powered up and ready to go!
Flight Control : Think of this as the drone’s brain, which helps it decide
how to move.
GPS : This tells the drone where it is in the world, just like a map app in
the phone.
Power Management : This part makes sure the drone uses its energy
wisely so it doesn’t run out of power mid-flight.
Motor and Propellers : The motor spins the propellers, which lift the
drone into the air and keep it zooming around.
Sensors : These are like the drone’s eyes and ears, helping it sense
obstacles or detect weather changes so it can stay safe.
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Architecture
2. Communication and Control
These drones don’t fly on their own—they stay connected to the team on the
ground and to each other.
GPS Satellite : This sends location information to the drones, helping them
know exactly where they are.
ADS-B Station : This is like an air traffic controller for drones. It keeps track
of where each drone is to prevent collisions.
Ground Control Station (GCS) : This is the main “controller” for all the
drones. It’s on the ground, like the command center, where a person can
monitor and guide the drones through their tasks.
Inter-Drone Communication : The drones can “talk” to each other, sharing
information to work together better, like teammates.
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Architecture
3. How They Work Together (System Layers)
When a drone has a job to do, it goes through a series of steps to make sure it
gets done right:
Mission Layer: First, a mission or goal is chosen—like delivering a package or
taking photos.
Planning Layer: This layer plans the best route or path for the mission,
making sure the drone knows where to go.
Flight Management Layer: As the drone flies, this layer checks if it’s sticking
to the plan and adjusting if needed.
Control Layer: This sends instructions to the drone to keep it flying smoothly,
like speed adjustments or turns.
Sensors and Actuators: Finally, the sensors gather information from the
outside world (like weather or position), and the drone acts based on that data
to stay on course.
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Architecture
System Flow
The diagram illustrates a bidirectional flow of information between these
layers and the real-world environment. Commands flow from the higher-level
Planning Layer down to the Sensors and Actuators, while status updates and
telemetry return to the upper layers. This structured hierarchy ensures that
the drone can effectively translate broad mission goals into specific,
executable tasks while maintaining awareness of its operational context.
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EVOLUTION OF DRONES :-
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1)World War I:-
Era: Early 20th century (1914-1918).
Technology: The first concept of drones emerged, though very
rudimentary. These early drones, or "aerial torpedoes," were essentially
pilotless aircraft used for basic reconnaissance and practice target
purposes. They were not widely successful or widely deployed but
represented the initial attempts to create an unmanned flying device.
Purpose: Primarily used for training and limited reconnaissance.
2)World War II:-
Era: 1939-1945.
Technology: Drones became more advanced, with developments like
the Radioplane OQ-2, the first mass-produced unmanned aircraft.
These drones were used mainly for military target practice and testing
anti-aircraft artillery. They were radio-controlled and offered basic
surveillance capabilities.
Purpose: Used for training anti-aircraft gunners, providing an aerial
target to practice shooting, and for reconnaissance and intelligence
gathering.
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3)Vietnam War :-
Era:1955-1975
Technology: Drones like the Ryan Model 147 ("Lightning Bug") were upgraded to fly
longer distances and higher altitudes. They could follow set routes and had cameras to
gather information.
Purpose: Mainly used to safely watch enemy activity in dangerous areas.
4)1970s-1990s:-
Technology: The MQ-1 Predator drone was a big leap forward, able to send live
video, gather detailed data, and even carry weapons.
Purpose: Used for spying, gathering intelligence, and carrying out precise attacks,
making drones valuable for both watching and targeting..
5) Commercial Drones (Early 21st Century):
Technology: With advances in miniaturization and affordability, drones entered the
consumer market. Companies like DJI made drones popular for photography,
videography, and hobby use. Major companies also began testing drones for tasks
like package delivery and inventory management.
Purpose: Used in various civilian and commercial fields, including aerial
photography, filmmaking, surveying, agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and
disaster response. Drone Technology 13
6) Drones Today (Present Day):
Technology: Modern drones are equipped with GPS, autonomous
flying, high-resolution cameras, and advanced sensors. In the military,
drones like the MQ-9 Reaper provide long-range strike abilities, while
smaller drones aid in reconnaissance. Civilian drones are constantly
evolving to serve diverse roles.
Purpose: Drones are now essential across many industries, serving in
areas like security, agriculture, firefighting, search and rescue,
environmental monitoring, and delivery, demonstrating their versatility
and adaptability.
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Challenges
1. Technical Challenges: Reliability and Durability. Drones need to be sturdy enough
to work in various weather and terrain conditions without breaking down.
2. Operational Challenges: Integration with Existing Systems. Drones must fit well
into current military or civilian operations, requiring teamwork with manned systems.
3. Regulatory and Ethical Challenges: Legal and Regulatory Framework. There’s a
lack of clear laws governing drone use, leading to potential misuse and confusion.
4. Strategic and Tactical Challenges: Changing Warfare Paradigms. The rise of
drones changes traditional military strategies, requiring new tactics and training for
soldiers.
5. Economic Challenges: High Development Costs. Developing advanced drones is
expensive, which can limit access for smaller countries or organizations..
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Applications
1. Surveillance and Security
Drones are used for monitoring and securing large areas, such as borders, critical
infrastructure, and public events.
2. Agriculture
Drones assist in crop monitoring, precision agriculture, and pest control, helping
farmers optimize yields and reduce waste.
3. Delivery Services
Companies are exploring drone delivery systems for transporting goods quickly
and efficiently, especially in urban areas.
4. Infrastructure Inspection
Drones are employed to inspect bridges, power lines, and pipelines, providing a
safe and cost-effective means to assess structural integrity.
5. Search and Rescue Operations
Drones are invaluable in search and rescue missions, providing aerial views and assisting
in locating missing persons in challenging terrains.
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Applications
6. Environmental Monitoring
Drones help monitor wildlife, track deforestation, and assess environmental
changes, contributing to conservation efforts.
7. Mapping and Surveying
Drones are used for creating high-resolution maps and 3D models, facilitating
land surveys and urban planning.
8. Medical Supply Delivery
In remote areas, drones can deliver medical supplies and vaccines, improving
access to healthcare.
9. Film and Photography
Drones capture stunning aerial footage for films, advertisements, and real estate
marketing, providing unique perspectives.
10. Military Applications
Drones are utilized for reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeted strikes in
military operations, enhancing operational effectiveness.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, drone technology has emerged as a transformative
force across various sectors, revolutionizing the way we
approach tasks from surveillance to agriculture. By combining
advanced automation, aerial capabilities, and data collection,
drones enhance efficiency and precision in operations. As we
continue to innovate and refine drone applications, the
technology holds immense potential to address complex
challenges, improve safety, and drive sustainable practices in
industries such as logistics, environmental monitoring, and
disaster response. The ongoing development of regulatory
frameworks and technological advancements will further
empower drones to become integral tools in our everyday lives,
paving the way for a future where aerial robotics significantly
contribute to economic growth and societal well-being.
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References
1. Aoyama, Hajime, et al. "Development of Mine Detection Robot System."
Fuji Heavy Industries Co. Ltd, 2023.
2. Ismail, Ahmed, Elmogy, Mohammed, and ElBakry, Hazem. "Landmines
Detection Using Autonomous Robots: A Survey." International Journal of
Emerging Trends & Technology in Computer Science (IJETTCS) 3.4 (2022):
184-187.
3. Pajaziti, Arbnor, Cheok, Ka C., and Bajrami, Xhevahir. "Autonomous Mobile
Robot for Mine Detection." International Journal of Emerging Trends &
Technology in Computer Science 3.4 (2022): 200-205.
4. Hanafi, Dirman, et al. "Simple GUI Wireless Controller of Quadcopter."
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Colorado State
University, 2022.
5. Robledo, L., Carrasco, M., and Mery, D. "A survey of land mine detection
technology." International Journal of Remote Sensing 30.9 (2009): 2139-
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Thank you
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