Introduction: 3D Printed Quadcopter

For this project, I wanted to design and print a quadcopter with features that couldn't be manufactured by any method other than 3d printing.

Step 1: Electronics Mock Up.

The first step was to mock up the electronics. I used a piece of lexan to lay out the wiring and assemble all of the electronic components that would be used on this build.

Step 2: Fuselage Design and Engineering.

After I laid out the electronics, I made 3d models of all of the components and began arranging them out in a rough 3d model of a quadcopter. I gradually added all of the components and modified the quadcopter as needed to get them to fit.

Step 3: Test Fitting Components.

I created several partial prints to verify component fit up without spending g too much time printing the whole quadcopter. As I found fitment issues, I revised the model and reprinted.

Step 4: Final Prints.

Once all the electronics were fitted in small partial prints, I began printing g the full components. There were 7 pieces total, 4 motor arms, the fuselage, lid, and camera gimbal.

Step 5: Final Assembly.

After the prints were sanded smooth, I assembled all of the electronics in the fuselage. Once the electronics were assembled, I configured the flight controller, added propellers, and it was ready for a test flight.

Step 6: Ready for Flight.

The last step is to charge you batteries and go outside for a flight. Depending on the flight behavior, your quadcopter's flight controller may need to be adjusted according to the user manual.

Full Spectrum Laser Contest 2016

Participated in the
Full Spectrum Laser Contest 2016