Flight Controllers, ESCs and Propulsion

UAS 105 delves into the foundational technologies powering modern unmanned aircraft. We begin with the critical role of Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and the underlying principles of autopilot firmware that interpret sensor data to stabilize and control flight. The course thoroughly examines Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs), including their operation, configuration, and essential calibration procedures for optimal motor performance. A significant portion is dedicated to brushless motor theory, types, and their integration with ESCs and propellers to form efficient propulsion systems. Students will gain practical experience in assembling, testing, and troubleshooting these components, preparing them for roles involving UAS assembly, maintenance, and systems integration. This course emphasizes industry-standard practices for reliable and safe UAS operation.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

UAS 101

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Lesson 1: Introduction to UAS Flight Control Systemslecture

02Lesson 2: Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and Sensor Principleslecture

03Lesson 3: Autopilot Firmware Architectures and Core Functionslecture

04Hands-on Lab: Flight Controller Hardware Identification and Basic Configurationlab

05Lesson 5: Introduction to Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs)lecture

06Lesson 6: ESC Technologies, Protocols, and Safety Considerationslecture

07Lesson 7: Brushless Motor Theory and Operationlecture

08Hands-on Lab: ESC Calibration and Motor Testinglab

09Lesson 9: Propeller Aerodynamics and Propulsion System Matchinglecture

10Lesson 10: Power Distribution Systems and Battery Integrationlecture

11Hands-on Lab: Assembling and Testing a Basic Propulsion Systemlab

12Lesson 12: Advanced Flight Controller Features and Failsafeslecture

13Lesson 13: Troubleshooting Flight Control and Propulsion Systemslecture

14Capstone Service Project: UAS Propulsion System Integration and Functional Testassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Lesson 1: Introduction to UAS Flight Control Systems","Week 2: Lesson 2: Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) and Sensor Principles","Week 3: Lesson 3: Autopilot Firmware Architectures and Core Functions","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Flight Controller Hardware Identification and Basic Configuration","Week 5: Lesson 5: Introduction to Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs)","Week 6: Lesson 6: ESC Technologies, Protocols, and Safety Considerations","Week 7: Lesson 7: Brushless Motor Theory and Operation","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: ESC Calibration and Motor Testing","Week 9: Lesson 9: Propeller Aerodynamics and Propulsion System Matching","Week 10: Lesson 10: Power Distribution Systems and Battery Integration","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Assembling and Testing a Basic Propulsion System","Week 12: Lesson 12: Advanced Flight Controller Features and Failsafes","Week 13: Lesson 13: Troubleshooting Flight Control and Propulsion Systems","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: UAS Propulsion System Integration and Functional Test"]