Choosing Motors for FPV Quadcopter
Choosing Motors for FPV Quadcopter. Building a First-Person-View (FPV) quadcopter is an exciting journey into the world of unmanned aerial vehicles. One of the critical decisions in this process is selecting the right motors for your quadcopter. In this detailed guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of calculating and choosing motors that align with your quadcopter’s performance and flight characteristics.
1. Understanding Motor Parameters
KV Rating
Learn about the KV rating, which indicates the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) a motor will make per volt applied with no load.
Stator Size
Understand how the size of the motor’s stator impacts its power output and efficiency.
Number of Stator Arms and Poles
Explore how the number of stator arms and poles affects the motor’s torque and RPM.
2. Calculating Motor Thrust Requirements
Weight Calculation
Calculate the total weight of your quadcopter, including the frame, electronics, battery, and payload.
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio
Determine the desired thrust-to-weight ratio for your quadcopter based on its intended use and flight characteristics.
Propeller Selection
Select appropriate propellers and determine their thrust characteristics to match your desired thrust-to-weight ratio.
3. Propeller Pitch Speed Calculation
Desired Speed
Calculate the desired speed of your quadcopter by considering factors like maneuverability and cruising speed.
Propeller Pitch
Understand how the pitch of the propeller impacts the speed and efficiency of your quadcopter.
RPM Calculation
Calculate the RPM required for the propellers to achieve the desired pitch speed.
4. Motor Thrust Calculation
Thrust Formula
Use the thrust formula to calculate the thrust produced by the motors at a specific RPM and voltage.
Propeller Efficiency
Consider propeller efficiency and its impact on motor thrust calculations.
5. Motor Selection Considerations
Flight Time
Factor in the flight time you desire, as higher KV motors may drain batteries faster.
Payload
Consider any additional payload you plan to carry and adjust motor and propeller choices accordingly.
ESC Compatibility
Ensure the selected motors are compatible with the Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) you plan to use.