Drones, formally known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), are pilotless aircraft controlled remotely or autonomously via onboard computers. They range from palm-sized consumer devices to military-grade systems with wingspans exceeding 20 meters.
Key Components
Frame
Materials: Carbon fiber, aluminum, or lightweight polymers.
Designs: Fixed-wing (long endurance) vs. multirotor (VTOL agility).
Propulsion
Electric motors (LiPo batteries) or gas turbines (heavy payloads).
Sensors & Payloads
Cameras (RGB, thermal, multispectral), LiDAR, radar, gas detectors.