Introduction
In modern FPV (First Person View) drone flying, the application of positioning technology has become increasingly important. Not only does it reduce the likelihood of losing the drone, but it also provides a stable flying experience in complex environments. This tutorial will detail how to modify the GEPRC CineBot 30 frame to equip it with indoor and outdoor positioning capabilities, bringing the following benefits to all types of flyers:
- Beginner-Friendly: Lowers the learning curve, making it easier to get started with flying.
- Flight Safety: Significantly reduces the chances of accidental crashes, lowering the risk of equipment loss.
-Environmental Adaptability: Provides reliable flight positioning support in environments with strong electromagnetic interference.
-Cost-Effective: Utilizes existing FPV drone platforms to achieve high-end drone positioning features without the need for expensive new equipment.
-Enhanced Experience: Stable positioning capabilities make for a smoother flying experience, especially during videography.
Materials and Tools Required：
To complete this modification, you will need the following materials and tools:
- A 3D printer for crafting sensor mounting brackets.
- A GPS module for outdoor positioning.
- Laser ranging and optical flow modules for indoor positioning and low-altitude flight.
Reasons for Choosing the GEPRC CineBot 30 Frame
The reasons for selecting the GEPRC CineBot 30 for modification include:
- Appropriate Size: The 3-inch size is similar to the DJI Avata, facilitating the simulation of Avata's positioning effects.
- Popularity: The widespread use of the GEPRC CineBot 30 means that this modification can assist a larger number of flyers.
Hardware Solution Choice：
The modification uses a full set of Mico Air hardware solutions, chosen for the following reasons:
-Optimized Design: The flight controller and sensors are optimized for positioning and point-holding functions from the outset.
-Hardware Filtering: Filtering optimization in the hardware design reduces interference.
- Sensor Selection: Careful selection of critical sensors such as the IMU to ensure positioning accuracy.
Finished Product Display
Let's first take a look at the finished product after modification:
Modification Parts and Their Functions：
The main modifications involved the mounting bracket for the MTF-01 sensor module and the GPS and receiver mounting brackets, with the following specific functions:
1. Provides an installation platform for the MTF01 ranging and optical flow sensors, and serves a protective function;
2. The increased height of the bracket ensures enough vertical space for the sensors without encroaching on the interior of the body, thereby not disturbing the existing hardware layout;
3. The optimized hollow design not only improves the cooling effect but also maintains the overall aesthetic design;
4. The bracket is compatible with the original screw holes of the body, allowing for rapid assembly without changing the body structure;
5. Since the replaced part of the body's original carbon fiber board is thin, this modification does not significantly affect the strength of the body;
6. The installation position of the GPS module has been carefully calculated to minimize body interference with the signal.
The modification steps are divided into the following stages:
1. Remove the original carbon fiber bottom plate of the body;
2. Install the MTF01 sensor on the specially designed 3D printed bottom plate, ensuring the data line is connected correctly before installation;
3. Ensure that the data line of the sensor is connected to a free serial port of the flight controller. For the Mico Air 405 flight controller, no additional configuration is needed; for other flight controllers, it can be connected via soldering to any available serial port;
4. Use M2 screws and nuts to ensure the sensor is securely fixed;
5. Reattach the modified bottom plate to the body with the original screws, while carefully organizing the internal wiring to avoid clutter;
6. The installation of the GPS module should refer to Images Four and Five, using 3M brand double-sided tape to ensure stability.
After completing the above hardware modifications, you can perform software settings according to the video tutorials linked below:
- INAV Flight Controller Configuration: [INAV Flight Controller Setup Tutorial](https://youtu.be/bEKm-PGRnks?feature=shared)
- Ardupilot PX4 Flight Controller Configuration: [Ardupilot PX4 Flight Controller Setup Tutorial](https://youtu.be/D-ooFHEtQoo?feature=shared)
These videos provide detailed software configuration steps, ensuring that you can fully utilize the advanced positioning capabilities of the modified hardware.