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Latest Firmware test - 0.0.5.5.2

Today I had my second test flight with the latest Firmware.

The results are incredible. The quad was very stable and solid also on very hard manouvres.The improvements are beyond my expectations.
You judge:

The Board tested was the VRIMUFULL with the MP32V3F1 and the BMP085 barometer.

Recent changes include:

 

- Updated default values for Stabilization
- Changed main loop timing.
- Fixed a memory bug.

This is the port of the Arducopter 2.6 firmware. Thanks to the original developers.

Still ALT_HOLD and GPS must be improved.
To choose your board in the config.h fie you have these options
(please comment with // what you don't need):

BOARD selection:
#define CONFIG_APM_HARDWARE MP32V1F1 //old board (rev. 1)
#define CONFIG_APM_HARDWARE MP32V3F1 //new board

 

GYRO and ACCELS selection:
#define INS_VRIMUFULL //standard sensors
#define INS_MPU6000 //new MPU6000 sensor

 

BAROMETER:
#define CONFIG_BARO AP_BARO_MS5611 //new barometer
#define CONFIG_BARO AP_BARO_BMP085 //old barometer

 

SENSOR BOARD:
#define CONFIG_MAG MP32NAVYSENSOR //standard board
#define CONFIG_MAG MP32NAVY2012 //new board with GPRS and dataflash
Once uploded please follow these steps:

 

1. In CLI mode SETUP --> erase and Reset.
2. Calibrate Radio
3. Calibrate compass by arming (without propellers!) and turning the copter on all axes.
4. Level and check that all variables are consistent.

 

The default parameters are based on my quad and my experience.

Please tune for your copter.
This firmware was tested with VRIMUFULL + MP32V3F1 + MPU6000 and VRIMUFULL + MP32V3F1 + STANDARD SENSORS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SczauszAlbA

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Un interessante iniziativa di VirtualRobotix che vuole diiffondere un po' di informazione sui droni e il loro utilizzo con particolare riferimento ai multirotori, molto in voga in questo periodo.

Durante il workshop verrà allestito un Quadricottero da uso modellistico e, temop permettendo, verrà fatta una breve dimostrazione di volo.

Per registrasi usate questo link:

http://www.eventbrite.it/event/6831438015?ref=ebtnebregn


Ci vediamo a Concorrezzo!

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70879260?profile=original Today I found in a drawer of my old lab this board, and memory began to go into the past.  Was 1996 , 16 years ago this is  my first board based on a 16 bit micro controller that used 'C' firmware that i called VR1000 (see on the bottom layer) .

I developed that board for a BUS Fleet Managment application .

That board was based on Siemens 80c166 in future that was the base for ST 10 a  father of STM32.

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The specification of this board was :

  • Microcontroller Siemens 80C166 .
  • 20 Mhz oscillator.
  • External muxed PROM and RAM (muxed mean that the address and data bus was shared so you need a component that with a pin automatically choose to use address or data bus for parallel comunication with Prom and RAM)
  • 64 kbyte EEPROM (Electri Erasable PROM) normaly before every reload of firmware i use UV Lamp for delete the firmware in the EEPROM.
  • 32 Kbyte static RAM
  • 8 Mbit Intel parallel flash . (Was first Flash available on the market , normally that component need 12 volt for write data in the flash and use 5 volt

With this kind of board was possible to fly a drone 16 years ago but the main problem was the sensor

In this sensor is possible to see the VR1000 (1996) and VR Brain MP32F4 IMU (2012)

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VR1000 CPU

80c166 (16 bit micro controller)

VR BRAIN MP32F4

STM32F4 (32 bit micro controller)

VR1000 RAM and PROM

64 Kbyte EEPROM and 32 Kbyte Ram (external)

VR BRAIN MP32F4 RAM and PROM

1 Mbyte Flash and 192 Kbyte Ram

VR1000 vs VR MP32F4 speed of processor

20 mhz vs 168 mhz

Advanced feature available only in MP32F4 :

Internal FPU - DSP floating point processor.

MPU6000 3 gyro 3 acc

I am very curious to know how will the new micro controllers for DIY applications in 2028 :)

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Virtual Robotix IDE Pro Manual

 

They finally managed to produce a small manual to compile the source and program the board Multipilot32 F1 (V1 and V3and F4 with vrobotix-ide-pro (Eclipse based).


The manual describes how to configure the environmenthow to compile the sources and how to program the boardTo program the board I took into consideration the following tools:

  • Multipilot32F1 (V1 and V3): DFU and ST-LINK/V2
  • Multipilot32F4: DfuSe and ST-LINK/V2
In the future I also integrate in the manual configuration and procedures to debugdirectly on the board with OpenOCD or ST-LINK/V2

For more information and , I opened on forum a new discussion Virtual Robotix IDE Pro

Thanks
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This video is doing by our VRGimbal user VR Gimbal with Sony 3D HXRNX3D1U ( 720 gr) in handeld mode

This is a video using complete VRGimbal with Panasonic GH2

..and this is another video of the same copter (in HD)

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Dear Friends,

These are specification of our : VR Gimbal :

Micro Controller is STM32F1 at 72 mhz.

3 Axis Brushless Direct Drive gimbal :

  • Roll (MOT1)
  • Pitch (MOT2)
  • Yaw (MOT3)

For each channel we have 3 high power pwm 5 Amp output .

I2C IMU that support 3 axis . It is on camera module , so we can know exactly the position of camera and control in realtime the 3 Brushless motors. MPU6050 (6 DOF) + HMC5883 (3 DOF)

1 USB port.

1 Serial port that support mavlink protocol.

1 Power module that support until 3S battery.

4 Radio RC Input for :

  • Control ROLL Setup.
  • Control Pitch Setup.
  • Control YAW Setup.
  • IR control repeater.

4 Analog Input 0-3.3v

1 IR Out , so is pssible to control a remote camera by its ir receiver.

On new revision 2.0 we add :

  • customizable push buton.
  • support for motors ampere monitor for each motors.
  • Very intuitive Firmware update tools.
  • Simple and powerfull VR Gui for VR Gimbal configuration.
  • Serial driver on USB port.
  • A complete and updated wiki repository with media gallery with last video from our user.

 

In this video is possible see the utility available for measure the current used by different kind of motors. This feature is very usefull for evaluate the specification of motors.

 

Is available a new tools for firmware update you can found more detail here :

https://vrgimbal.wordpress.com/quick-start-guide/firmware-upgrade/

We release a Major release 1.0.9 we add a lot of new functionality and full support of pan stabilization with 1 IMU sensor or two sensor .

rev 1.0.9

  • Experimental Stabilize mode on Yaw (good with small pitch values)
  • Experimental Follow mode on Yaw (need motor steps calibration and PID reconfiguration)
  • Experimental support for second IMU for precise Yaw measurement (contact us for more info)
  • Added support for analog/digital input (like joysticks and buttons) to be used in alternative to RC:
    • configure channel 100 to 105 to use analog input 1 to 6;
    • use the “JYC” serial command and follow the instructions to calibrate the inputs.

 

rev 1.0.5

  • Completed PID mode on Roll and Pitch, with support of RC commands.
  • Manual (RC) mode (to be used on Yaw for now) working but requires improvement.
  • USB serial support (see vers. 1.04)

more info is available here :

http://vrgimbal.wordpress.com/download/vrgimbal-1-09/

The firmware is opensource the repo is available here :

http://code.google.com/p/vrgimbal/

So if you want to join in development you are welcome .

 

This is a screenshot of VR Gimbal Gui developed using .net technology, so could be work also using mono on mac and linux , test on that platform is welcome ,you can connect directly by usb to VR Gimbal or by radio link as 3dr module , blueetooth or other ttl wireles adapter :

We Upgrade also the VRGui with new functionality , slider full support of Pan axis and Full Frame.

 

vrgimbalgui_109.jpg?w=918&h=687

With VRGimbal is possible to control this kind of gimbal ;

Handheld and Air Drone Gimbal 2-3axis Entry level gopro gimbal.

Handheld and Air Drone Gimbal 2-3axis Heavy dslr gimbal.

 

This is an example of video doing by our user of VRGimbal on heavy dslr gimbal :

This is official thread in virtualrobotix community is here join us for have more info and support :

http://www.virtualrobotix.com/group/vr-gimbal-user-group?xg_source=activity

For info or order VR Gimbal 2.0 board send a mail to :

info@virtualrobotix.com

We can also support our user in custom development on oem - odm gimbal hardware or firmware contact us for more detail.

 

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VrBrain 4.5and External Led

Hello,

I received an APM Led Buzzer card (from Charles Lakins).APM 2x LED / Buzzer Module

Led and Buzzer have + on signal pin of the APM and - on the common - bar.12232303653?profile=original

After searching VrBrain 4.5 documentation and Barone Rosso Forum, I got the right wiring data in order to use that module.

I had to reverse polarity of the module by unsoldering and reversing Leds and Buzzer on the card. Then I changed the wiring on the plugs.

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LED_Setting in the APM param list is 11

Here is it on board

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Thanks,

Marc

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At Google Community Group for manage the beta testing of VR Pad Station continue to join new member  this is the link : 

http://plus.google.com/communities/102697330643558260161

This is the official Virtual Robotix Discussion group about VR PAD Station 2.0.3 :

http://www.virtualrobotix.com/group/vr-pad-station-2-0

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We upload the last revision of  VR PAD Station 2.0.3 . We integrated the mavlink 1.0 telemetry function with original Virtual RC project so now is possible to use VR PAD Station as tools for :

  • Receive telemetry from drone.
  • Setting Parameter .
  • Change Flight Mode.
  • Set waypoint.
  • Send direct command as Return to Landing point , Land or Guided mode.
  • Virtual Remote control with a lot of advanced feature for setup the radio stick . (use virtual stick only with in simulation mode it's a beta for evaluation) 

In the new revision 2.0.3 is available

  • A new info bar with a lot of usefull information battery level , gps status , active mode .
  • A new follow me standard mode .
  • Only one connection for different application.
  • Parameter setup for gimbal.
  • New configuration option pannel .
  • New advanced user interface compatible not only with PAD but also with Smartphone android device.
  • A early revision of VR Glass Station a special revision that work on Google Glass device.

We are work in progress with some advanced features as Special follow me mode , Fligh log book and VR Gimbal integration.

The App is compatible with APM Copter , Plane and Rover.

Inside the community could be possible discuss directly with developer about the new request feature .

After join the community could be possible download the APK in a special section of  google play

This is the direct link to google play store beta registration: 

https://play.google.com/apps/testing/com.laser.VrPadStation

This is the direct link to google store : 

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.laser.VrPadStation

Feedback about our application are welcome ... :) In the next week we intend improve a lot the application with new feature under development.

Best

Roberto

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In this video is possible to see the position of main airport in the silicon valley with 4 miles of buffer around the position of airport. Our idea is to activate an a default automatic function that when the user try to fly in that area activate immediatly a landing failsafe procededure . 

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VR Pad Station is an app that turns your Android smartphone or your pad into a ground station combined with a powerful digital remote control radio for use with your RC model or with your drone. 
Is designed to be used on Rover, Airplane or Drones for hobby and professional use. It 's a project dynamic and evolving based on feedback from users of our community: www.virtualrobotix.com
It use mavlink 1.0 and support the firmware APM Copter , Plane and Rover

The current version is a preview suitable only for BETA testing use it carefully.
Use VR Radio only with the simulator, until new updates. This software is a valid alternative at DroidPlanner or Andropilot application. Developed inside VR Lab by Virtualrobotix community.

Version 2.0.5

- Added radio calibration in GCS settings;
- Added airports locations on map, in an area of 100km from user/drone position, activated from map settings;
- Fixed minor bugs;

Version 2.0.4

- Corrected gimbal settings layout on smartphones
- Added waypoint commands
- Long click on a waypoint in the list opens an editing dialog
- Option for setting the zoom when auto-pan is enabled
- Added option during the generation of polygon for set the altitude
- Added, where available, range/units/values of parameters
- 3D map in some areas with normal map type
- Now you can interact with map in the VR Radio, if RC override is not enabled
- Fixed an error in VR Radio where the channels goes directly from RC_MIN to RC_MAX
- Added failsafe and sensors status into HUD
- Added HDOP indication in the action bar

In the new revision 2.0.3 is available

  • A new info bar with a lot of usefull information battery level , gps status , active mode .
  • A new follow me standard mode .
  • Only one connection for different application.
  • Parameter setup for gimbal.
  • New configuration option pannel .
  • New advanced user interface compatible not only with PAD but also with Smartphone android device.
  • A early revision of VR Glass Station a special revision that work on Google Glass device.

We are work in progress with some advanced features as Special follow me mode , Fligh log book and VR Gimbal integration.

The App is compatible with APM Copter , Plane and Rover.

Inside the community could be possible discuss directly with developer about the new request feature .

Join us in beta testing this is the direct link to google store : 

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.laser.VrPadStation

 Google Community Group for manage the beta testing of VR Pad Station continue to join new member  this is the link : 

http://plus.google.com/communities/102697330643558260161

This is the official Virtual Robotix Discussion group about VR PAD Station 2.0.3 :

http://www.virtualrobotix.com/group/vr-pad-station-2-0

Feedback about our application are welcome ... :) In the next week we intend improve a lot the application with new feature under development.

Best

Roberto

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First VRBRAIN female pilot

Straight from Marco Robustini's UAV piloting school here is the first video of his new pupil: Valentina Russo.

Must say she earned Marco's bravery in flying such a big Quad...

She is Flying VRBRAIN of course on Marco's custom quad.

Bravi Valentina and Marco!

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CTX4 V2 build - step 2

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Almost done :-)

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I do not use bullet connectors on the ESC to motor cables, so I connect the cables like this while testing.
First, I test if the rotation directions are correct, by connecting the “servo” cable to the throttle channel on my rx. If the rotation direction is wrong, I swap two of the three cables between ESC and motor.

My ESC`s are flashed with SimonK, so before I disconnect the RX, I calibrate the ESC. Disconnect LiPo, set throttle on TX to full, connect LiPo (beeps), set throttle to low (new beeps) – finished
Test the motor (adjust throttle up/down) to check that all is ok.
Do this with all motors.

12232302875?profile=originalWhen done, I solder all the cables, and isolate using shrink tube.
Have soldered the LiPo cables from the ESC`s + the APM power module to a power pcb

12232303266?profile=originalHave mounted the frame without the top plate

12232303096?profile=originalOn the top plate, I have mounted GPS and a housing with the external IMU (compass) on the top, and the VRBrain below (using vibration mounts)

I have mounted my 3DR 433 Mhz telemetry radio in the back
Below the red motor mounts I use Bright Light LED strip
Below the black motor mounts I`m going to use bright white LED strips (have ordered from ebay)
The LEDS are controlled using the two LED outputs on my great VRBrain controller. 
Red LED`s indicate if I have 3D GPS fix
White LED`s for armed/disarmed..

+ I`m going to add a buzzer to the VRBrain buzzer output.

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Dear Friends,

in last month of this year our team work a lot on new electronic boards :

  • VR Micro Brain 5
  • VR Brain 5
  • VR GPS Ublox LEA6.
  • VR Telemetry Module.

Our products have the feature of being based on the original design and not be mere clones, with a research and development team ready to meet the demands and needs of users more evolved.

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VR Brain 5 Micro

The VRBrain Micro is a board of the new 5.x series of extremely small dimensions and is based on the powerful micro processor STM32F4 to 168 MHz , the operating system supports Nuttx as the PX4  and Pixhawk  and It compatible with the APM firmware Copter , Plane and Rover.


The Brain VR Micro is very small and lightweight only 10 grams in weight and 3.7 x 3.7 cm wide. Ideal for setting up of small and micro  sized drones as the frame AV250 .

Supports GPS and magnetometers external standard which it shares with the standard vr brain and allows the controller to provide automatic features as stabilize ,  return to the home , hybrid loiter auto take off and landing .

The board  able to handle up to 12 inputs on sbus receiver and 6  input on  PWM standard receiver , 8 PWM outputs for connecting ESC or Servo .

The source code of the project and ' available on the official repository and DIY Drone and ' ongoing integration of automatic features to APM Planner firmware upload directed, via bootloader.

These are the specifications :

  • CPU STM32F4 VR OS based on NuttX kernel 7.1 
  • 1 I2C EEPROM  for parameter storage. 
  • IMU MPU6000 SPI.
  • MSIC Barometer 10 cm resolution.  
  • 8 PPM Radio RC Input .
  • 8 PWM ESC - SERVO Output.
  • 1 SBUS Radio Input compatible with Futaba SBUS and Spektrum ,too
  • 1 SBUS Servo Output.
  • SD Card Reader until 64 Gbyte.
  • 1 RGB LED 
  • 2 LED Output 
  • 1 Buzzer Output 
  • On board telemetry module availabe at 433 / 868 mhz. (option) 
  • connector for external 3DR/VR GPS + MAGNETOMETER
  • dimension : 3.7 x 3.7  hole 3.2 x 3.2 .
  • weight : 10 gr

Status : First Fly done all work fine available for Pre Order.

VRBrain 5

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The VRBrain  5 is  the evolution of the 4th revision board, at an architectural level remains very similar to the previous version of Flight Control Board having demonstrated excellent reliability and robustness.

The card features the latest generation processor STM32F4 OS 7.1 Nuttx This card was created with the aim to implement greater redundancy than the earlier and allow the autopilot to integrate into a  distributed wifi network environment .

The board allows you to support 2 IMU sensor based on MPU6000 chip , up to 3 magnetometers and two GPS . In addition to the bus for redundancy and imu ' present an additional bus that allows you to add devices bluetooth or wifi network to interconnect directly to the drone PAD and Smartphone , or to the standards network infrastructure  .
It 's  also available  CAN bus for high-speed interconnection of optional devices.
The board revision 5 have a slot for  use  SD card that allows you to save the  flight logs and make them available online for integration with portals log flight management .

The card bootloader  allows the card to be updated directly from mission planner or compatible CGS applications.

These are the basic specs :

  • CPU STM32F4 VR OS based on NuttX kernel 7.1 
  • 1 I2C EEPROM  e FRAM for parameter storage. 
  • 2 IMU MPU6000 SPI , second imu option.
  • MSIC Barometer 10 cm resolution .
  • 1 MSIC Barometer  option 2th barometer on external  imu. 
  • 8 PPM Radio RC Input .
  • 8 PWM ESC - SERVO Output.
  • 1 SBUS Radio Input compatible with Futaba SBUS and Spektrum ,too
  • 1 SBUS Servo Output.
  • SD Card Reader until 64 Gbyte.
  • 1 RGB LED 
  • 2 LED Output 
  • 1 Buzzer Output
  • CAN BUS for interconnect option module 
  • 1 connector for  VR telemetry module availabe at 433 / 868 mhz. (option) 
  • 2 connector for external 3DR/VR GPS + MAGNETOMETER (option)
  • weight : 23 gr
  • enclosure available.

 Status : pre flight check done , all is good , in production .

Available in pre order . 

VR GPS 

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VR GPS Ublox Lea 6H with HMC5983 Magnetometer

 

First Virtualrobotix GPS engine using Ublox LEA-6H receiver.

This is a 50-channel high sensitive engine that boasts a Time-To-First-Fix (TTFF) of less than 1 second.

Also provide a rechargeable backup battery to improve warm start.

The dedicated acquisition engine, with over 2 million correlators, is capable of massive parallel time/frequency space searches, enabling it to find satellites instantly.

Innovative design and technology suppresses interference sources and mitigates multipath effects, giving LEA-6H GPS receivers excellent navigation performance even in the most challenging environments.

Virtualrobotix GPS uses an high efficient low noise amplifier to improve antenna signal (19dB) and a SAW filter to select GPS frequencies (see graph below).

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It also mounting an ultimate 3-axis digital compass, with selectable interface SPI or I2C (HMC5983).

This one is an high speed (220Hz output) and high resolution (2 milli-gauss) magnetometer.

 

Features and Specifications:

  • ublox LEA-6H module

  • 3,3V or 5V Inputs, with low noise 3.3V regulator.

  • 5 Hz update rate

  • Rechargeable 3V lithium backup battery for high efficient warm start

  • Panasonic Low Noise Amplifier for antenna signal with high gain (19dB)

  • EPCOS SAW high quality low-loss RF filter for GPS application

  • 25 x 25 x 4 mm ceramic patch antenna

  • Dedicated I2C EEPROM for receiver configuration storage

  • High resolution compass (2 milli-gauss) and high speed (2 milli-gauss)

  • Power and fix indicator LEDs

  • ArduPilot Mega compatible 6-pin JST connector

  • Exposed pads for simple soldering connection.

  • I2c / SPI HMC5983 magnetometer .
  • 2 ttl tx-rx ser connection.
  • 38 x 38 x 8.5 mm total size, 18 grams.

Status : all it's ok a lot of flight without problem , in production , ready  for pre order. 

Some example from log collected in first test VRX GPS is red Line 3DR is blu

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VR Link (telemetry Module) - micro - standard - advanced OSD - base station .

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In addition to the autopilot systems in our laboratories have been developing a telemetry system simple , modular and advanced compared to what's available on the market and compatible with the 1.0 mavlink protocol. 

We chose to mantain compatibility with the modules 3DR , but we have worked to expand its functionality.

Micro version :

The micro version it's an add on to the micro brain that allows you to add easily and efficiently support wireless connectivity directly onboard .
The module ' based on the micro SILAB 1000 and it' core normally available .

Standard version:
The standard version is a standard kit with a radio that will allow the connection from the drone to the ground, the main peculiarity of the standard version is that can work independently by simply feeding it through a usb battery pack or a small lipo .
On the ground the module replicates the light and sound of the buzzer's drone.
This feature allows you to detect any alarm signal even if the light on the drone is not ' perfectly visible.

The module on board the drone has available an RGB LED and a speaker very powerful signal that allows you to see and hear even at a considerable distance of the drone .
These new modules using the communication protocol mavlink and therefore are compatible with any drone supports this protocol : VRBrain 4.x and 5.x - APM 2.x, PX4 , Pixhawk , Autoquad etc.

With this feature easily solve a problem that often prevents you from realizing anomalies on board the aircraft such as the loss of the GPS signal , the abrupt decrease in battery level or the sudden lack of the radio signal that activates the failsafe .

Osd advanced version :

On board of drone  can integrate the function  osd simply adding a module dedicated on  the telemetry module . This configuration allows you to add the image coming from the analog video  FPV  camera as overlay of standard fly information as :
artificial horizon, altitude , distance from home , flight mode , battery level , etc. etc..

Status : hardware ok , working progress on first revision of firmware for standard and advanced revision.

We are ready for the worldwide market if you need more info on price ,  pre order , or you want to became a member of our distributor , support and developer team contact : info@virtualrobotix.com 

Best

Roberto 

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My new CTX4 V2 frame

Inspired by Robertos "open top" frame I have modified my CTX4 frame design to get open top and top mounted LiPo CTX4 V2

 

Some Pictures created using SketchUp

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The frame uses 16mm carbon tubes and tube clamps from flyduino.net

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Have moved the LiPo plate to show the open top.

In this frame I plan to use a GoPro or other small camera in the front as FPV cam.
If I want to use it for film/photo, I mount a landing gear that have a brushless gimbal and VR Gimbal Controller.

 

Here is my CTX4 V1 that was used in my loiter test video

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I plan to use:

Step 1

VR Brain 4.5  (+ external IMU when it is supported)
APM 2.5 Power module to get 5V and measure LiPo voltage and ampere usage
UBLOX Lea 6 GPS

3DR 433Mhz telemetry radio modules
30A SimonK ESC

Step 2
FPV camera and 5,8Ghz TX

Step 3
Landing gear
Brushless gimbal (GoPro)
VR Gimbal Controller

 

Step 4
2 way video switch, so I can switch between FPV and GoPro using a radioswitch.

 

Step 5

?

 

If any interest, I plan to create a build log where I describe things step by step in a way so new user may find some help + make a forum thread where you can ask questions or give me hints about what I should do another way (I´m not a pro)

 

 

Read more…

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Dear Friends,

today we finish to test first prototype of micro brain , this is the video of first power on , all work fine , we check all onboard sensor : IMU , BAROMETER  . Check eeprom for parameter storage and SD card. Serial port , and usb interface . All work fine :) Check also new bootloader and our mission planner fork with VRBrain support all work perfect . Diego our Electronic Designer doing a great work no error until now :)

Today 09/05/14 finish the test of all subsystem : Magnetomer , GPS , RC IN PPMSUM and RC OUT and all work fine . See the video .

These are the specification : 

CPU STM32F4 VR OS based on NuttX kernel 7.1 

1 EEPROM or FRAM device for parameter storage. 

IMU MPU6000 SPI.

MSIC Barometer 10 cm resolution.  

8 PPM Radio RC Input .

8 PWM ESC - SERVO Output.

1 SBUS Radio Input compatible with Futaba SBUS and Spektrum ,too

1 SBUS Servo Output.

SD Card Reader until 64 Gbyte.

1 RGB LED 

2 LED Output 

1 Buzzer Output 

On board telemetry module availabe at 433 / 868 mhz. (option) 

connector for external 3DR/VR GPS + MAGNETOMETER

dimension : 3.2 x 3.2 .

weight : 10 gr

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Price is 99 euro the board pre order is open the mass production start in 1 week when finish the test of first production batch .

more info about status of the product  on the store: http://www.virtualrobotix.it/index.php/en/shop/autopilot/vrbrainmicro51-detail

APM Copter , Plane , Rover Firmware available and fully tested by our devteam.

official blog post : http://www.virtualrobotix.com/profiles/blogs/vr-micro-brain-5-1-is-alive-first-power-up-and-os-check-up-fantas

for more info send a mail to info@virtualrobotix.com

Best

Roberto 

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This is a preview of VR Pad Station 2.0.1 enviroment that we use for develop VR Pad Station and check the  VRBrain APM Copter and Plane customization before to real flight .

Here you can found the procedure for join Google Group community  and download VR Pad Station for alfa testing  :

http://www.virtualrobotix.com/profiles/blogs/vr-pad-station-2-0-available-for-beta-testing

Here you can found info for install SITL on linux . In my test enviroment i use VMWare with Ubuntu linux and follow this instruction for configure enviroment on my PC :

http://dev.ardupilot.com/wiki/setting-up-sitl-on-linux/

After installation in ardupilot directory Tools/autotest 

you can found the file : 

sim_arducopter_randy.sh

in mavproxy configuration : 

mavproxy.py --master tcp:127.0.0.1:5760 --sitl 127.0.0.1:5501 --out 127.0.0.1:14551 --out 192.168.1.5:14550 --out 192.168.1.7:14550

you can change the ip adrress after --out with the ip of  your PAD with Port 14550 . On your pad and on mission planner you need to choose UDP connection to port 14550 normally is default .

For found your ip address on your PAD there are a lot of app on Play store that are usefull for  see what's your ip , keep atention if you use DHCP is possible that your ip change every time you connect to wireless network. 

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This is the screenshot of new Pannel available on VR Pad Station 2.0.1 in this pannel you can connect to drone , receive the parameter and choose what application do you want to start or going inside configuration pannel . If you are not connected you cannot select the application .

The actual release online is only compatible with PAD in the next week we finish the layout also for smartphone and release it.

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This is the screenshot of Ground Station app . On all the app is available on the top main information about status of the drone : Battery , GPS Fix , Mode of Flight .

On the top on the right you can found the button for choose the other app available . The app share same mavlink connection so you don't lost time when you change app.

On the left of the screen you can see main navigation info , in the middle of the screen you can found the main command available : 

Take off mode : It's a special guided mode we have implemented for take off your drone , we put the drone in guided at 5 meter and when you click take off after arm the drone the drone going in the sky. We test it at the field and it work fine , but at the moment is better to use these function only in simulation not in real world.

After you can activate guided mode and choose the point on the screen and the drone follow your command.

You can choose land or rtl when you want.

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In this screen you can see the same information but inside artificial horizon , on the map you can see the wayoint you load to drone in last mission and a track with position where you start to fly and the actual position on the point where you guided your drone.

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Here you can see on the left the Waypoint editor where you can add or delete waypoint manually or define automatic polygon  waypoint creation, upload and dowload waypoint on file or on the drone. 

If you decide to go in auto mode you can with auto button . In the middle there are the other button if you want you can retake control of your drone or in guided mode or by RTL or LAND.

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This is the VR Radio APP integrated in VR Pad Station , this is a complete app where you control your drone as on your rc radio , you can choose to use PPMSUM output or MAVLINK protocol , if you choose mavlink protocol you can use the app for fly flight inside the SITL enviroment . If you configure Mission Planner or Lasernavigator 3D , you can see in realtime the position of your drone when you interact with virtual stick.

You can arm - disarm the drone , select stabilize and take control of your drone ... put it in loiter choose other app and start to enjoy with automatic functionality .

I'm enjoy a lot with this kind of configuration and i think that SITL is a great enviroment for guy of DevTeam . It's a valid solution for check if the app work fine before to go in the field for doing real flight.

It's a good solution for learn how your APM drone work , you can set different parameter by mission planner or Pad Station and see different reaction from your drone.

We are only in alfa stage but have a lot of idea to develop inside VR PAD Station , join us and give me your feedback so we can improve your  user experience .

Best
Roberto 

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To better test if the design is ok, I made a simple VRBRAIN cad model to mount in my frame.

I found that I had to do some changes to fit the controller.

In this image I have used 10mm spacers between the center plates - I may test other lengths -

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If I use longer I may be able to mount the LiPo between the plates + the mobius camera ?

CNC next :-)

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I have been working on a new miniquad project where I did plan to use VRBrain controller, but now I must redesign it for the new VR Micro Brain :-)

I plan to use:
- 16mm carbon tubes (so I can mount ESC inside the tubes)
- 20A Slim Afro ESC
- SunnySky 2204s 2300Kv motors
- HQ Prop 6x3 Carbon Composit Props (some info on the motor/prop combo)
- VR Micro Brain :-)  + GPS + Telemetry radio
- Have Zippy Compact 1000, 1500 and 2200 3S that I plan to test

Here is some of my ideas so far:
Motor mount
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One of my frame ideas:

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A other frame testprint (43gr)

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A good news for company that would use Ardupilot Flight Control for professional application . Laser Navigation my company  produce VR Brain Flight Control boards this year at 6th board revision for different kind of application succesfully end the Stage 2 of Aerospace Space quality certification AS9100 . The quality certification is for develop drone , hardware and software for aerospatial market. 

VR Brain support Ardupilot firmware and our lab support the development of custom hardware for Quadcopter , Plane , Tradhely and Rover and would support Ardupilot.org .

In september start the production of board with this kind of quality process. This is the first step for start to work to Eurocae / FAA certified products and firmware. Are there other company with same level of quality in its production or development process ? Could be nice join force for improve quality of our products around the world.

For more info about pro application , company profile and case history contact me at r.navoni@virtualrobotix.com

or check my blog post here: http://diydrones.com/profile/RoberoNavoni ;about our last development.

The standard boards and accessories available here : http://www.virtualrobotix.it/index.php/it-IT/shop-virtualrobotix

Our Facebook group with last info from our lab is here  : https://www.facebook.com/groups/vrbrain the language of group is italian but is simple to translate in english or ask directly in Eng and we reply to you :) 

Best

Roberto Navoni

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In this video is possible to see, the first long range test of  one of advanced functionality that  will be available in a new pro revision of VR Pad station , with this feature is possible recive in realtime a streaming in h.264 with latency near 300  ms. The new feature support : Wifi - 3G - 4G LTE . With Video streaming you recived in realtime the telemetry data from the drone. 

Another interesting video about a new advanced follow me functionality that will be available on VR Pad Station and VR Leash ,too 

 

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VR Pad Station is an app that turns your Android smartphone or your pad into a ground station combined with a powerful digital remote control radio for use with your RC model or with your drone. 
Is designed to be used on Rover, Airplane or Drones for hobby and professional use. It 's a project dynamic and evolving based on feedback from users of our community: www.virtualrobotix.com
It use mavlink 1.0 and support the firmware APM Copter , Plane and Rover

The current version is a preview suitable only for BETA testing use it carefully.
Use VR Radio only with the simulator, until new updates.

In Version 2.1.0 we adding the support for new VR Gimbal that use mavlink protocol for setting and control the camera . This is last video of new gimbal with mavlink support that use the mission planner mavlink but will be support of our new VR Pad Station  : 

Version 2.1.0

- Updated USB serial library (need more test)
- Added USB compatibility for VR Micro Brain
- Added VR Gimbal configuration panel
- Added a confirmation dialog when enabling RC override
- Improved communication handling
- Improved device compatibility with less requirements
- Fixed some crash problems
- Fixed other bugs

Version 2.0.9
- Added MavLink telemetry logs option
- Fixed FollowMe and Guided Mode
- Fixed "out of memory" problems on some devices
- Fixed a problem where gimbal parameters are not downloaded automatically inside settings
- Fixed crashes on loading airports
- Fixed a bug during arming

Version 2.0.8
- Fixed HDOP decimals
- Added confirmation dialog for ARM/DISARM/TAKEOFF
- Sticks are aligned to the RC of the drone before override
- Separated acc calibration from mag calibration panel
- Added button in mag calibration for compare the drone yaw with the device gps yaw
- Screen never in standby
- Added support to 19200 and 38400 serial baud rates
- Added solar radiation level info inside overview panel

Version 2.0.7
- Changed USB serial library, now it supports more devices

Version 2.0.6
- Added failsafe configuration settings

Version 2.0.5

- Added radio calibration in GCS settings;
- Added airports locations on map, in an area of 100km from user/drone position, activated from map settings;
- Fixed minor bugs;

Version 2.0.4

- Corrected gimbal settings layout on smartphones
- Added waypoint commands
- Long click on a waypoint in the list opens an editing dialog
- Option for setting the zoom when auto-pan is enabled
- Added option during the generation of polygon for set the altitude
- Added, where available, range/units/values of parameters
- 3D map in some areas with normal map type
- Now you can interact with map in the VR Radio, if RC override is not enabled
- Fixed an error in VR Radio where the channels goes directly from RC_MIN to RC_MAX
- Added failsafe and sensors status into HUD
- Added HDOP indication in the action bar

In the new revision 2.0.3 is available

  • A new info bar with a lot of usefull information battery level , gps status , active mode .
  • A new follow me standard mode .
  • Only one connection for different application.
  • Parameter setup for gimbal.
  • New configuration option pannel .
  • New advanced user interface compatible not only with PAD but also with Smartphone android device.
  • A early revision of VR Glass Station a special revision that work on Google Glass device.

We are work in progress with some advanced features as Special follow me mode , Fligh log book and VR Gimbal integration and advanced low latency h.264 video trasmission.

The App is compatible with APM Copter , Plane and Rover.

Inside the community could be possible discuss directly with developer about the new request feature .

Join us in beta testing this is the direct link to google store : 

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.laser.VrPadStation

 Google Community Group for manage the beta testing of VR Pad Station continue to join new member  this is the link : 

http://plus.google.com/communities/102697330643558260161

This is the official Virtual Robotix Discussion group about VR PAD Station 2.0.3 :

http://www.virtualrobotix.com/group/vr-pad-station-2-0

Feedback about our application are welcome ... :) In the next week we intend improve VR PAD Station with new feature under development.

Best

Roberto

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Dear Friends
in this video I present the first flights made ​​with the new frame designed by Virtualrobotix.
The frame drawn using last generation 3D Cad , is made of carbon fiber and aluminum.
The frame is designed for users who want to have a frame strong, lightweight, reliable and easily customizable.
The version presented in the video and 'the naked version, we are also ending the production of the cover.

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This is a render of cover developed for VR Copter X4-8

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The current configuration of the drone is:

  • VR Brain 4.5
  • GPS 3DR
  • Arducopter32 rev 3.0.4 Firmware
  • 4 ESC Turnigy 30 AMP with firmware SIMONK
  • 4 Engines MK 3638
  • 4 Props APC 12 can 'mount up to helices 14-15
  • Zippy 5800 mah battery support until 10000 mah 3S 
  • GoPro hero3 white.
  • Futaba radio module with Jety 7-channel PPM.
  • Is possible to implement the VR Copter also as coaxial X8 as in the render 

All electronics  mounted on six dampers it is easily removable and can be inspected.
The battery is mounted above the distribution board to limit the vibrations transmitted to the VRBrain 4.5

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Weight without GoPro and 1490 grams without battery
Take-off weight of 2068 grams including battery and GoPro
Flight time from 5800 mah battery with 14 min of flight with 70% of battery used.
The final version of the frame should weigh 150-200 grams less.

The maximum payload is 1 kg .
The frame will be available in kit form in the month of September.

We are working also to some option as VR Gimbal frame for GOPRO and small DSLR.

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I Fly this frame for 2 hours with my VRBrain 4.5 and firwmare Arducopter32 rev 4.0 

The results is very impressive , the loiter is great , return to home ,too :) 

See the video .... 

If you have some suggestions about the frame are welcome :)

for more info : http://www.virtualrobotix.com/profiles/blogs/vr-copter-a-new-frame-for-your-vrbrain-with-fantastic-arducopter3?xg_source=activity

Best

Roberto

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The future is here after over two years of work can be said to have developed in the laboratories of Laser Navigation and thanks to the support of the network of laboratories Virtualrobotix drone technology of tomorrow.
A short video of a recent test test of our system of autonomous flight, mapping and advanced management of the payload.
In the video you can see to your left the management of telemetry and live images from the drone, during production of photogrammetry high definition of this shed, on the right instead you can see the anti collision system , mapping and location on board the drone, working in 3D mode, totally alternative to the GPS with an accuracy of 5 cm. Integrated into our flight control.
The system is able through modules VR SLAM and Payload managment to fully manage a mapping mission indoors and inspection giving results very impressive.
The localization module that we have implemented is fully compatible with automated features that normally are handled with GPS. So in fact allows both the flight assisted by Lidar that autonomous navigation with impressive precision than a standard GPS.
This new architecture named VR  Goliath it  is compatible with different types of frames is that copter trad hely, but also boat or plane depending on the component and makes' the supply to professional customers and advanced R & D. Soon we are planning at the Technical University of Padua, a faculty Aerospace Professional Seminar dedicated to students, researchers and High Tech companies  where they will present the results of these research activities and will experience first hand the latest innovations born out by our lab ... . different professional customers have begun to use these technologies and our feedback from the field in real situations have confirmed the quality tested in our laboratories. To access more information on the platform you can contact me at r.navoni@virtualrobotix.com .

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