Professional Documents
Culture Documents
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
Keeping grasses trimmed at lowest level possible in the environment remains the ideal
responsibility of home owners, recreational park keepers, golf course, highways, hotels, stadia
and other public and private establishment everywhere around the world. The task of clearing
grasses in a field or a compound may take a day or more depending on the size and topography of
the area to be cleared. The serenity and beauty of these environment may never be appreciated
when the grasses are overgrown. The activities for each venue may be hampered by the presence
of untrimmed grasses. For instance, a golf tournament may not hold in an area overgrown with
grasses. Similarly, a football competition may only be scheduled to a field that is well trimmed.
Hence the invention of the lawn mower for grass trimming operation becomes a welcome
development and since most of the machines are to be operated by man, human labor is also
employed.
The deployment of machines for mowing operation, is more effective and time management is
better compare to human manual labor which is time consuming and exhaustive on the laborer.
Lawn seed germinate between five and ten days and the growth rate is about two-third a
centimeter per week [1]. Generally, lawn is expected to be mowed once a week or once in two
weeks depending on the growth rate of the lawn [2]. Due to the growth rate of grasses on federal
roads, the national government budgeted 1billion naira for grass cutting in the Ministry of works
[3]. In the year 2023 a household spends about $50 to $100 per hour for a lawn mowing operation
in the United States of America [4].
The lawn around the home are of different variety or specie; the type of lawn found or the choice
of the lawn to be planted in a particular location determines the cost of mowing. While some
location has existing lawn, others does not have. So the home owner makes a choice of lawn for
the area. Lawn belongs to a family of plants referred to as poaceae and there are about 11,000
different species However for the purpose of design or yard identification; grasses are grouped
into two, which are warm season grasses and cool season grasses. The warm season grasses grow
well in warm climatic conditions while the cool season grasses grow well in cool climatic
condition. These grasses have been identified as they are commonly used in the United States.
There are about 10 types of lawn namely; Bent grass, Bermuda, Bluegrass, Centipede, Dichondra
grass, Fine fescue, Floratam, Ryegrass, Tall fescue, and Zoysia [5].
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The grasses common in Nigeria includes; guinea grass, napier grass, elephant grass, spear grass,
needle grass, thread grass, carpet grass, crab grass, Bahamas grass, Devil’s grass, and also
Bermuda grass. These grasses are found in farmlands, highways, golf course, open field. Planting
of grasses may not be a popular culture in Nigeria because the climatic conditions favors the
growth of green field of grasses, especially from the middle belt across to the western, eastern and
southern (Niger Delta) part of Nigeria. Figure 1.1 shows the grass life cycle; grass germinates at
80C and maintains a green healthy presentation on the availability of water and nutrients but
during draught the water supply is limited that leads to discoloration and eventually dry off of the
grass.
In order to maintain a healthy and well-trimmed lawn, the lawn mower was first invented and
patented in the year 1830 by Edwin Budding outside Gloucestershire in England. The first lawn
mower was mainly designed to cut grass on sporting arena, cemeteries and recreational parks or
gardens [6]. The lawn mower which was made of wrought iron with machine size 19 inches wide
was designed in such a way that mobility for the machine’s cutting operation was achieved
through pushing it from behind with the handle as shown in figure 1.2.
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Figure 1.2: First lawn mower 1830 (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lawn_mower)
The invention of the first lawn mower in 1830 was closely followed; about a decade later with
the animal push-pull mower in the year 1945 by John Deere, Case, Oliver, David Bradly and
McCormick Deering International mowers. The horse drawn sickle-bar mower came into popular
use shortly after the United States Civil war in 1860 [7]. The first gas powered Lawn mower was
produced by Ransomes of Ipswich in the year 1902; an English company which made the lawn
mower, whose source of power was internal combustion gas engine [8].
After the design and production of the first gas powered lawn mower in England, closely
followed were similar productions in the United states in the year 1919 and the innovations
continued till 1969 when robotics was introduced to the designs of lawn mower. By the year
2005, robotic lawn mowers had already represented the second largest class of domestic robots.
Currently lawn mowers are so design such that it can be controlled using phones, or remote
control. There is also diversification of designs base on power source. The designs started with
fossil fuel and now renewable such as solar energy and a combination with chemical energy of
battery cells.
The hand held lawn trimming machine is powered by petrol with rotary blades for grass clearing
operation as shown in figure 1.3. The materials for the design of the machine were sourced
locally. The design process also considered the mechanical properties of the material and flight
factors such as strength, durability, light weight, ease of coupling and decoupling. The device
comes with advantages which include the saving of both energy and time, compare with the
manual or push able lawn mowers, thereby providing greater and flexible mobility. From the
detailed design of the machine and performance test result shows that proper grass trimming is
achieved in a comparatively shorter time with 67 percent process efficiency [9].
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Figure 1.3: Hand held lawn mower (https://www.ciampelli.com/brushcutters-fs-131pr232.php)
The Worx Landroid is an example of a mechatronic lawn mower, see figure 1.4. It is a pre-
programmable robotic mower that is flexible and allow easy customization of daily mowing
schedules with capacity to operate every day a week and giving the lawn a continuous trimmed
look on a routine basis as opposed to traditional mowers that take off substantial amounts of
grass on a less frequent basis. Among its many features, Landroid navigates narrow passages,
cuts with precision on slopes angling up to 20 degrees and does it all with zero emissions [10].
4
The first heavier-than-air aerodyne to take off vertically was a four-rotor helicopter designed
by Louis Breguet as can be seen in figure 1.5. It was tested only in tethered flight and to an
altitude of a few feet. In 1908 it was reported as having flown 'several times', although details are
sparse [11].
Around 1907 Jacques and Louis Breguet, French brothers, built and tested Gyroplane No 1, a
quadcopter. They managed take-off, although the design proved to be very unstable and hence
impractical. In 1924 French engineer Étienne Oehmichen flew his quadcopter a distance of 360m
(1,181ft) setting a world record [12].
For small drones, quadcopters are cheaper and more durable than conventional helicopters due to
their mechanical simplicity [13]. Their smaller blades are also advantageous because they
possess less kinetic energy, reducing their ability to cause damage. For small-scale quadcopters,
this makes the vehicles safer for close interaction. It is also possible to fit quadcopters with
guards that enclose the rotors, further reducing the potential for damage [14].
5
Figure 1.6: Modern quadcopter (https://5050cam.com)
The features of the lawn mower we are proposing is first of all air base, the quadcopter design
integrates a motor where blades for mowing operation will be fitted. This device is expected to
utilize the aerodynamics principles for lift, torque and thrust. The facility can be controlled using
a phone or remote control. The power source for the mechatronic device will be an energy
conversion from chemical energy to electrical and mechanical energy system.
Since the invention of the Lawn mower by Edwin Beard Budding of Stroud, Gloucester shire,
England in the year 1830, the machine has gone through various phase of modifications by
different individuals with the aim of ensuring improved service of the machine to users. Hence
my interest to research in this direction. There is scarcely an environment on planet earth without
the need for lawn mower to keep the environment neat by clearing the grasses routinely.
This research will provide further alternative for users to have their environment neatly tidy
effortlessly. This research covers areas of interest and by the completion of the work, knowledge
gained will appropriately provide the desired advantage needed to update academic and research
experience in the field of mechanical, automation and robotics engineering. It will also provide
the desired fun in keeping the environment in the right order and thus, adding more value to the
world of engineering. Carrying out studies or research on a self-propelling and maneuvering
grass cutting machine will at completion of the work eliminate many undesirable health and
economic factors associated with the ones available.
This is a Mechatronics research work that utilizes the application interdisciplinary fields of
mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer, machine language and artificial
intelligence to design a machine that is capable of lawn mowing operation through phones or
remote control. Research or project scope is to achieve cutting of grasses on a football pitch and
similar environment. Maximum height of flight may not exceed 2 feet except to escape from
obstacle. The device is not to be operated under the rain. Drone like design that integrates a grass
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cutting function is the research focus. Data gathering, analysis, implementing the design,
simulations and test running and then documentation of reports.
Since the year 1830 when the first lawn mower was invented till now, there have been
observable increase in innovations to find a more economic, ecofriendly and stress-free mower.
So, much is expended from private to public budget locally and internationally, annually for
grass trimming that runs into billions of naira and other currencies. The most unfortunate part of
the situation is the health hazards the gardener that uses the various lawn mower is exposed to,
such as noise, standing or working under the sun all day while mowing the lawn.
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1.8 Scope of Research Project
The scope helps us to define clearly the various steps necessary for a successful research work.
These steps are not limited to the following: Material gathering such as literature collections, a
survey on practical components and software, a supervisor and a technical support team,
developing mathematical models, Engineering drawings, Modelling and simulation, Prototype,
Design and Fabrication, Test running, Evaluation and Reports. The research work is to be carried
out within the stipulated period allowable by the institution, although a minimum of four
semesters should be enough to conclude the research work.
The research idea is to combine the battery powered dc electric motor for grass cutting and
unmanned aerial vehicle for mobility. The design will consider the downward thrust force for the
grass cutting, computational fluid dynamics, the vibration and stability of the Automated self-
propelling mower.
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
Study shows that there are about 15 types of lawn mower [15], which includes; Ride-on mowers,
Lawn tractor, Zero-turn mower, Rear engine riding mower, Walk mower, Cylinder mowers,
Rotary mower, Push mower, Self-propelled mower, Hover mower, Power types, Manual powered
mower, Electric powered mower, Gas-powered mower, Batter-power mower, Rear wheel drive,
Front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive. In all the lawn mower types, it is only the hover mower that
has few similar features like the proposed Automated Self Lifting Mower.
Of all the 15 various lawn mowers above; lawn mowers are further categories into 3 categories
which depends on its power source and size of work area to be covered. Push mowers are only
viable for small lawns of up to about ⅓ or ½ an acre. 1 to 2-acre lawns likely require a gas,
electric, or battery-powered mower. Riding mowers like lawn tractors and zero-turn mowers are
best for large properties. Robotic lawn mowers are the most versatile for lawns of any size[16].
The global robotic lawn mower market is estimated to grow from $1.48 billion in 2021 to about
$4.04 billion in 2028 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 15.5% in forecast period, 2021 to
2028 period. [17]
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From this literature review it can be seen that robotic lawn mowers have advantage over others.
Hence statistics shows that there are Automated Earth Moving Grass Cutting Machine (Lawn
Mowers) readily available in different specifications while Automated Self Lifting Mower that
airlift itself up to about 2feet above the ground there about; hovering and carrying out the grass
cutting operation are areas yet to be developed. Considering the advantage of having a mower
that can fly a little above the ground while sustaining grass cutting process; there is need to
explore available resources to make it a reality.
The review of the work of A. O. Akinyemi etal [18] shows that they had worked on Solar
powered mower and others with similar research interest worked on mechanical mower, ac and
dc electric motor powered mower. Robotics or Automated self-propelled mowers are already
available in the market globally [19].
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Figure 2.3 Hand held mower (https://images.app.goo.gl/Hj2rsE8rFo2TYibSA)
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2.3 Components of a lawn mower
A lawn mowing equipment consists of interlinking components for optimal performance of the
machine. The parts of the lawn mower have varying functions, but are related in operation to
each other, including the features of the push lawn mower machine. Below are components of a
push lawn mower machine.
2.3.2 Carburetor
This component is responsible for supplying air and fuel to the combustion chamber.
2.3.5 Clutch
The clutch functions to disengage and engage the engine rotation to the application shaft.
2.3.7 Flywheel
The flywheel works as a balancer for the engine and a place for the magnet to attach. In
addition, the flywheel has a fan that functions as an engine cooler. Therefore, the flywheel plays
a significant role when the grass cutter machine turns on.
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2.3.8Crankcase Engine
Combustion usually occurs on the crankcase component. This component contains spark plug
holes, valves, rocker arms, lifter arms, and camshafts.
2.3.11Oil Seal
In a 4-stroke grass cutter machine, this oil seal is a barrier to prevent oil from leaking out of the
engine compartment.
2.3.12Clutch Housing
The clutch housing component functions as a cover and connector between the engine and the
application shaft of the grass cutter machine.
2.3.14Flexible Shaft
The function of the flexible shaft is to connect the engine rotation with the grass-cutting blade.
This component makes it easy to move in any direction as needed.
2.3.15Blade Housing
The blade housing functions as a base for the blade to rotate. It locates at the end of the shaft.
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2.3.17 Fuel Valve
This component opens and closes the fuel flow from the fuel tank to the carburetor. The fuel
valve must be in the ON position when you are using the lawn mower machine. Conversely,
the fuel valve must be in the OFF position when you are not using it.
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2.4.1 Design of a manual mobility solar powered lawn mower
15
where W is weight of the cutter, R is the distance from the center of the hub to the end of the
cutter and T represents Torque
M δb E
= = (5)
I y R
δb × I
Therefore M =
y
where M is moment, I is moment of inertia, δb is bending stress, E is young modulus R is radius
of curvature and y is distance of element from central axis.
4
πD F
But I = ∧δb=¿ , where D is diameter, F is force and A is area.
64 A
16
8 WD F max
τmax = 3 (7)
πd
where W, represents wahl’s factor, D and d, are the mean coil diameter and wire diameter
respectively, Na represents the number of active coils in this spring and Fmax represents the axial
force.
4 C −1 0.615 D
But W ¿ +¿ , where C = spring index ( )
4C−4 C d
viii. Battery life is the amount of time the device runs before it needs to be charged and it can
be calculated with (9), where C represents battery capacity, p is power, I is current and V is
voltage.
C ×60 × P
Battery life = (9)
I×V
¿
x. Machine efficiency = Areaof grass mowed ¿ desired ℎeigℎt Total area of grass x 100
(11)
2.5 Quadcopter
Wikipedia defines quadcopter or quadrotor as a type of helicopter or multi-copter with four
rotors. An aircraft or a device flying without a human pilot; such a machine is referred to as an
unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The quadrotor may be operated autonomously or by a human
operator through remote embedded computers and robotic control systems. The propellers or
rotors push air downwards, this gives rise to an opposite reaction known as thrust which acts
against gravity and pushes the quad-copter upwards [20].
The application of quadcopter is widely utilized in defense globally as part of national military
intelligence surveillance, and security information gathering. Quadcopter also called drones are
used in the agricultural sector by farmers to gather accurate and precise information on their
crops, such as health of plants, the growth rates, nutrient deficiencies, pest, and disease affecting
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the farm [21]. The device is employed in the media and entertainment industry; in photography
and filming of movies [22]. It is also used in the oil and gas industry for inspection of oil rigs,
pipelines, derricks, and other installations [23].
The courier company also engages the services of drones for delivery of parcels to customers.
Drones are also useful in survey, emergency response or distress call, disaster relief and
geographic information system. This device can go where humans may not go.
The quadcopter comes in various shapes and sizes but the frame determines the class, as there are
two classes of quadcopter; the fixed-wing and the rotary-wing [24]. The following are the
components responsible for the optimum functionality of the quadcopter; the frame, battery,
motors, propellers, remote controller, electronic speed controller, propeller guard, flight
controller, camera, radio transmitter and receiver, GPS module, and integrated remote ID.
2.6.1 Frame
The frame of a quadcopter is the housing or casement with provisions for four to six rotors and
all other components of the drone. Although the commonly available drone or quadcopter design
carries four rotors. There are provisions for all other components of the quadcopter.
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internal components of the main body are not expose to water or moist. The careful landing of
the machine is a design consideration, because a crash landing even though body parts are not
broken, other internal components of the drone may be affected, and shock could damage the
internal drone components in the main body.
2.6.3 Battery
Battery is a chemical source of power supply for the operation of the quadcopter. The chemical
energy is converted to electrical and mechanical energy in the process during operation of the
device. The lithium-polymer battery is always the preferred choice of power supply for the
machine as it is easily rechargeable on solar and other power source with excellent battery life
and durability. Lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries offer the best combination of energy density,
power density, and lifetime on the market. On usage, it’s a great idea to have a back-up battery,
proper charging and storage of battery enhances long lasting performance of the machine. It is a
good practice to ensure the battery does not overheat. All batteries are dangerous when
physically damaged so, we have to avoid using a damaged or compromised battery.
Remote control is a system of controlling a machine or a vehicle from a distance by using radio
or electronic signals [25].
This is a handheld device equipped with joysticks for sending precise commands to the drone. It
is through the remote controller that the command to various direction of flight is initiated.
A remote control (RC) is a small, usually hand-held, electronic device for controlling another
device, such as a television, radio or audio/video recording device. Remote controls commonly
operates via infrared signals but sometimes by radio frequency signals. The remote control may
control a variety of functions such as volume, channel, track number and other functions.
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Modern remote control devices often have more controlling functions than are found on the
device itself, which may have only a few primary essential controls [26].
Most remote control of electronic appliances is done by infrared signals using an infrared diode
that emits an invisible beam of light, typically a 940 nanometer wavelength LED. Multichannel
remote controls use sophisticated technology to modulate carrier signals, demodulate the
received signals, and use a variety of frequency filters to separate signals for various remote
control functions. However, these infrared signals need to be in line of sight to operate the
device, and may be reflected by mirrors as would any other light source.
Some remote control is done by radio frequency signals. These do not require line of sight to the
device being controlled. They can be focused in one direction, or be multidirectional. Radio
frequency remote control is widely used in such applications as garage door openers, automatic
barrier control, burglar alarms and wireless home alarm systems.
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when it is on, since most of the quadcopter sound comes from the motors. Motor mount
sometimes is built into combination fittings with landing struts or can be part of the UAV frame.
2.6.6 Propellers
Propeller produces lift. In Newton's Law of Lifts and deflection of the flow, lifts are generated
due to air pressure and compressive forces from the wing area, that the pressure of the wing
area does not produce a pure force, but a pressure difference is needed to produce a lift.
A device consisting of a set of two or more twisted, airfoil-shaped blades mounted around a shaft
and spun to provide propulsion of a vehicle through water or air, or to cause fluid flow, as in a
pump [27]. The drone propeller components include; adapters, reducers, lock nuts and other
accessories.
Drone Propellers are a key component that keeps your multirotor in the air, and they have a
direct impact on how your drone flies. Taking time to choose the right drone propeller for your
multirotor, and how you want to fly, will allow you to get the best out of your machine.
Standard propellers of the quadcopter are back propellers and front propellers, although drones
look more or less the same from any angle, there is a front and back. The “tractor” propeller are
the propellers at the front of the quadcopter. These propellers pull the quadcopter through the air
like a tractor. Most drone propellers are made of plastic and the better quality made of carbon
fiber. Better propellers design gives a better flying experience and longer time of flight. There is
also some big innovation towards low noise UAV propellers. It is a good practice to always
inspect the propellers before flying or working with the quadcopter and having an extra set of
propellers in case of eventual damage. Flying with a damaged or bent propeller must be avoided.
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Apart from the tractor propellers we have the pusher propeller are at the back and push the UAV
forward hence the name “Pusher”. These counter clock rotating propellers exactly cancel out
motor torques during stationary level lift. Opposite pitch gives downdraft. Again, can be made of
plastic with the better pusher propellers made of carbon fiber. The propellers may also be fitted
with guards.
2.6.7 Antenna
Depending on the receiver, it may be a loose wire whip or helical “rubber ducky” type. This is
easy to upgrade. Circularly polarized cloverleaf antenna gives you further video signal distance
and improves the video stability. A very good antenna stops the problem of the multi-path effect
and also blind angle.
22
(https://cdnv2.getfpv.com/media/catalog/product/cache/fa4da5475405b0da777dc0f4b9d16483/t/
r/truerc_blaze_5.8ghz_antenna_6_.jpg)
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2.6.10 Boom
Shorter booms increase maneuverability, while longer booms increase stability. Booms must
be tough to hold up in a crash while interfering with prop downdraft as little as possible. In
many drones the boom is part of the main body. Other drone have a definite boom as a
separate part.
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Figure 2.16; Quadcopter Landing Gears
(https://cdnv2.getfpv.com/media/catalog/product/cache/fa4da5475405b0da777dc0f4b9d16483/
l/u/lumenier-qav-pro-lifter-cinequads-edition---extended-landing-gear.jpg)
2.6.14 Gimbal
The drone gimbal is the pivoting mount that rotates about the x, y, and z axes to provide
stabilization and pointing of cameras or other sensors. A device for keeping an instrument such
as a compass or chronometer horizontal in a moving vessel or aircraft, typically consisting of
rings pivoted at right angles [29]. A gimbal is a piece of film equipment that helps make filming
and transitions smoother. Gimbals are a type of camera stabilizer that keeps the camera and
filming stable, even on bumpy or shaky surfaces or when the videographer has an unsteady hand
[30].
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Figure 2.17; Quadcopter Gimbal
(https://cdnv2.getfpv.com/media/catalog/product/cache/
3979b3fd908fbb12b31974edb6316b2e/m/7/m7r.jpg)
26
Figure 2.19; Quadcopter Gimbal Controller
(https://cdnv2.getfpv.com/media/catalog/product/cache/fa4da5475405b0da777dc0f4b9d16483/
h/o/hof-rs3-gimbal-control-link-module-_crossfire-micro-rx__1.jpg)
27
Figure 2.20; Quadcopter GPS Module
(https://cdnv2.getfpv.com/media/catalog/product/cache/3979b3fd908fbb12b31974edb6316b2e/
h/g/hglrc-m100-5883-gps-module.jpg)
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Figure 2.21; Quadcopter Electronic Speed Controller
(https://www.getfpv.com/media/catalog/category/Electronic-Speed-Controllers-ESC.jpg)
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2.6.20 Camera
The camera is the sight sensor of the quadcopter. Drones equipped with computer vision sensors,
such as stereo cameras or depth cameras, can analyze their surroundings and detect obstacles
using advanced image processing techniques. This technology is valuable for complex flight
scenarios and autonomous missions. The following are the common camera sensors that enable
the quadcopter carries out its expected designed operations [35]. First-person view (FPV), also
known as remote-person view (RPV), or video piloting, is a method used to control a radio-
controlled vehicle from the driver or pilot's viewpoint. Most commonly it is used to pilot a radio-
controlled aircraft or other type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) such as a military drone [36 ].
FPV Equipment is at the core of an FPV Drone system. FPV Equipment usually consists of an
FPV Camera, a Video Transmitter plus Antenna, and a Video Receiver plus Antenna connected
to either an FPV Monitor or FPV Goggles. With recent technological advancements, FPV
Equipment now features a HD video feed from the Drone to the Goggles or Monitor
ii. CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) Sensors: Although less common nowadays, CCD sensors still
find their application in specialized drone cameras. They excel at capturing high-quality images
with low noise levels, making them suitable for professional aerial photography and surveillance
tasks.
iii. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) Sensors: LiDAR sensors emit laser pulses and
measure the time it takes for the light to bounce back after hitting an object. They provide precise
3D mapping and distance measurements, enabling drones to perform tasks like terrain mapping,
forestry analysis, and construction site inspections.
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iv. Thermal Imaging Sensors: Thermal cameras detect heat signatures emitted by objects,
allowing drones to capture images based on temperature differences. This technology is
invaluable for search and rescue operations, monitoring crop health, and identifying energy
inefficiencies in buildings.
v. GPS (Global Positioning System): GPS is a fundamental sensor in drones that provides
accurate positioning data, helping drones navigate and maintain stable flight paths. This
technology is essential for autonomous flight, surveying, and mapping applications.
vi. IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit): IMUs combine accelerometers, gyroscopes, and
magnetometers to provide real-time information about the drone's orientation and movement.
These sensors enhance flight stability, especially in challenging weather conditions or when GPS
signals are weak.
vii. Ultrasonic Sensors: Ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to detect obstacles in the drone's
vicinity, enabling it to avoid collisions during flight. These sensors are particularly useful for
indoor navigation and close-quarter maneuvers.
viii. Computer Vision Sensors: Drones equipped with computer vision sensors, such as stereo
cameras or depth cameras, can analyze their surroundings and detect obstacles using advanced
image processing techniques. This technology is valuable for complex flight scenarios and
autonomous missions.
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2.6.22 LED Lighting
Having drone lighting allows you to see your drone in dark places, illuminating the night sky,
and it’s just plain cool! Our quad LED lights are bright and available in
.different models and colors. We also have LED distribution boards, controllers, and more to
light up your drone today
The free body diagram of a quadcopter as shown in figure 2.26 consists of a brushless motor,
which is a type of motor that has a permanent magnet construction (rotor) and a wire-bound
polar stator. Electrical energy is converted into mechanical energy by the influence of magnetic
force between the permanent magnet and a polar stator. The number of magnetic poles in the
rotor also affects the step size and torque ripple of the motor. Equation 12 is the model equation
for the various movement of the quadcopter.
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Figure 2.26; Quadcopter Free Body
Figure 2: Shows Mathematical Components for flight dynamics and maneuvering movement of
the self-lifting lawn mower.
There are about six (6) movement possible with the aerial unmanned vehicle;
i. Up/down
ii. Left/right
iii. Front/back
iv. Roll
v. Pitch
vi. Yaw
The various component of force and direction of application enable us to determine, the torque,
thrust, acceleration, velocity etc, needed as necessary inputs to airlift the vehicle and to sustain
the stability during the grass cutting operation.
The mathematical model is an application of Euler's equation and Laplace transform. The design
calculations are carried out by using the quad-copter dynamic modelling and simulation in
MATLAB and Simulink software.
(12)
Cb/i means the conversion of the body frame value to the inertial frame value. ϕ (phi), θ (theta),
ψ (psi) is a Euler Angle which is the rotation angle formed by a quadcopter when flying against
the x, y, and z-axes.
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2.8 Proportional Integral Derivative (PID) Controller
Proportional Integrative Derivative (PID) is a control system to determine the precision of an
instrumentation system with the characteristics of feedback on the system. This PID control
component consists of three types, namely Proportional, Integrative, and Derivative [39,40]. In a
control system, there are several types of control actions, including proportional control, integral
control, and derivative control. Each of these control actions has certain advantages, where the
proportional control action has the advantage of rapid rise time, integral control action has the
advantage of minimizing errors, and the derivative control action has the advantage of
minimizing errors or reducing overshot/undershot. For this reason, in order to produce output
with fast rise time and a small error, we can combine these three control actions into the PID
control as in Figure
t
d
u(t) = k pe(t) + k i ∫ e ( t ) dt +k d e(t) (13)
0 dt
Equation (13) describes the output value u(t), which is the sum of proportional gain (Kp),
integral
gain (Ki), and derivative gain (Kd), each of which is changed by error (e) in a specific interval
(t).
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2.9 Analysis of the Quadcopter Components
This analysis will cover the moment of inertia for the brushless motors, Electronic Speed
Controller, Arm, and Middle frame [41].
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CHAPTER THREE
3.1 Materials
This chapter covers the materials and methods applied to achieve the set goals for the research
work. The materials to accomplish the construction of the automated self-lifting lawn mower are
as follows and these materials are also shown in Table1.
Some of the main specifications for the design of Automated Self Lifting Mower include but not
limited to the following [42,43&44];
VI. Antenna
36
Figure 3.1 represent the design of the Automated Self Lifting Mower. This design was done
using Autodesk inventor 2021, for compatibility for SIMMECHANICS. The orientation for
stability during cutting operation is where we are now. We noticed the yaw moment of the
quadcopter when the cutter is centralized. So we have the option of taking the mower to the sides
of the quadcopter with varying the distance from it and see the performance at simulation.
37
Figure 3.2 represents the quadcopter design using SIMMECHANICS, with which
we have been able to put the various components together for simulation. The four
rotors for the lift of the quadcopter, the various movement and hovering. The PID
is to provide stability on the go.
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Table 1; Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation
Bill of Engineering Measurement and Evaluation (BEME)
Torque: 0.20Nm
Weight: 0.02kg
Size: 119.38x66.04 mm
39
Gps
15. Matlab
16. Simulink
19. Python
21. Simscale
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Total 622,000
3.2 Methods
In order to achieve the research objectives, the block diagram below, shows the methods
from creating the plant model to implementation. As part of creating the model, Autodesk
inventor is used because of the SIMMECHANICS link, to aid easy export to MATLAB.
These are the design environment we are familiar to get the work done. There is other
software like SolidWorks and Python to achieve the same purpose or results. We are using
proportional integral derivative to control the device and provide balance or stability during
the mowing operation. After the designs have been concluded, simulation is done to see if the
physical prototype will work as expected, the simulation performance will the true picture of
the design so far, if there will be need for adjustment. when the expected result is achieved,
then design implementation is the next step to take.
CHAPTER FOUR
41
Results and Discussion
4.1 Discussions
Considering the labor of handling a mower for grass cutting and the need to make the work easy
by using a hand held remote controlled or an android phone to control the cutting operation.
Through the reality of this project the task to work for hours under varying weather conditions
with mowers would have been eliminated. Engineering research and innovation provides
manufacturing companies the possibilities of migrating from one phase of technology to the
other. It is a current trend that engineering machines or devices are produced with automation
and robotics features. It makes life easier though it may be expensive initially.
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42
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