Machine Learning on Mobile

AI/ML Creativity

Detailed Breakdown of Autonomous Home Security Micro-Drone

This document outlines the design and functionalities of an autonomous home security micro-drone system, leveraging advancements in miniaturization, sensor technology, and software.

Components

• Micro-Drone Hardware

  • Flight Components

    • Micro-drone Frame: A lightweight and durable frame, typically constructed from carbon fiber or high-strength plastics, is crucial for maneuverability and weight limitations.

    • Brushless Motors: High-efficiency brushless motors provide sufficient power for desired flight times and agile movements.

    • Battery: A lightweight, high-capacity Lithium Polymer battery offers extended flight times (around 10 minutes).

    • Power Management Unit (PMU): The PMU regulates power supply to the flight controller and other electronics, ensuring stable voltage and preventing damage.

    • Battery Monitoring IC: A dedicated integrated circuit offers real-time monitoring of battery voltage and current, essential for estimating flight time and triggering low-battery warnings for safe returns. (Not required for smartphone flight controllers)

  • Micro-Drone Surveillance System

    • Camera: A small, high-resolution camera with Wi-Fi capabilities is necessary for image capture.

    • Wi-Fi Module: Enables real-time image transmission from the camera to the control system.

    • Communication Ports: These ports allow the flight controller to communicate with other components and receive control signals. Common ports include:

      • Serial Ports (UART): Used for communication with telemetry radios, GPS modules (if applicable), and external configuration devices.

      • I2C and SPI: These internal communication buses allow the flight controller to interact with peripherals like sensors and actuators.

    • Distance Sensor: An ultrasonic sensor or LiDAR system helps the drone navigate obstacles and maintain safe flight paths.

    • Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU): The IMU is a collection of sensors that measure the drone's orientation, acceleration, and rotation. A 6-axis IMU combines a gyroscope, accelerometer, and magnetometer for comprehensive data.

      • Gyroscope: Measures the drone's rate of rotation around its roll, pitch, and yaw axes.

      • Accelerometer: Measures the drone's acceleration in all directions.

      • Magnetometer: Measures the Earth's magnetic field, aiding in compass functionality and orientation. (Smartphones typically have powerful IMUs)

    • Barometer: This sensor measures the surrounding air pressure, which helps the flight controller maintain altitude and improve flight stability, especially during indoor navigation.

    • Optional: Onboard SD Card Slot: An SD card slot allows for data logging, helpful for troubleshooting flight issues or analyzing performance.

    • Microcontroller Unit (MCU): This is the central processing unit of the flight controller. A mid-range to high-performance 32-bit MCU is recommended for autonomous tasks. Some popular options include:

      • G4: Offers a balance of processing power and efficiency.

      • F7: Enables faster processing speeds.

      • H7: Leverages even faster dual cores, ideal for complex flight algorithms and sensor fusion.

• Smartphone Flight Controller

  • A smartphone can be repurposed as the flight controller due to its processing power, sensor data, and communication capabilities. This eliminates the need for a separate flight controller.

  • Open-source autopilot software options include PX4 Autopilot and AndroCopter, which allow for using a smartphone to control the drone.

• Software and Functionality

  • Flight Planning Software: Software is required to program the drone's autonomous flight path within the home environment. This path should leverage AI/ML algorithms to ensure complete coverage and collision avoidance.

  • Image Recognition Software: Software with object recognition capabilities will analyze captured images and compare them to baseline images taken when the home is unoccupied. Significant changes, such as the presence of unauthorized objects, can trigger alerts.

  • Automatic Image Upload: The captured images will be automatically uploaded to a private YouTube channel accessible only to the homeowner.

• Base Station

  • Charging, Alarm/Alert & Data

    • An alert system will notify the homeowner via email or text message in case of significant changes detected in the images or if the drone goes missing from the charging station.

    • A dedicated charging station with a docking mechanism ensures efficient charging and secure storage of the drone between flights. The station can be equipped with sensors to detect missing drones.

  • Rust Security Server

    • A Rust server running on the base station provides functionalities like:

      • Secure storage for captured images.

      • Secure communication with the drone.

      • User authentication for access control.

Building and Programming

• Building the micro-drone involves careful assembly of hardware components, followed by configuration of the flight controller