Patrol Pro: An Optimized Inspection UAS
The Patrol Pro is a specialized heavy-lift quadcopter engineered for industrial inspections. By benchmarking against industry leaders and focusing on component harmony, this design achieves a superior balance of weight, performance, and cost-effectiveness for its mission profile.
Industry Benchmark: DJI Matrice 300 RTK
To create a truly effective design, we analyzed the specifications of the DJI M300 RTK. Understanding its engineering provides a crucial reference point for optimizing weight, performance, and component integration.
Aircraft and Airframe
The M300's foundation is a masterclass in lightweight, durable design using advanced carbon fiber composites and lightweight metal alloys. This allows for a rigid, vibration-resistant structure without a significant weight penalty.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Weight (with two TB60 batteries) | ~6.3 kg |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 9 kg |
| Maximum Payload | 2.7 kg |
| Ingress Protection Rating | IP45 |
Propulsion and Power
The integrated propulsion system is aligned with the DJI E2000 Standard, optimized for a 12S battery voltage. This provides the necessary thrust for heavy payloads while maintaining efficiency for extended flight times.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Motor | KV: 130 rpm/V | Stator Size: 60x10 mm |
| Propeller | Diameter/Pitch: 21x7.0 inch |
| Power Source | 2x TB60 Intelligent Batteries (12S, 5935mAh) |
| Total Battery Weight | ~2.7 kg |
Key Takeaways for Our Project:
- **Airframe Optimization:** The M300's sub-7kg weight is achieved through a highly integrated and lightweight frame. This guides our choice of a minimal-mass carbon fiber frame.
- **Component Harmony:** DJI's in-house design ensures motors, ESCs, props, and batteries are perfectly matched. We must select components that are similarly optimized for a 12S system.
- **Integrated Systems:** The M300's design reduces bulky enclosures and wiring. Our design must prioritize a clean build with integrated avionics to save weight.
Component Specifications
An at-a-glance overview of the Patrol Pro's hardware, selected for an optimal balance of performance, weight, and reliability.
Interactive Anatomy
Explore the harmonized subsystems of the Patrol Pro. Click any component to see its details.
Engineering Calculations
A transparent breakdown of the key calculations that define the Patrol Pro's performance capabilities.
All-Up Weight (AUW) Calculation
- Airframe1.50 kg
- Propulsion System (Motors, ESCs, Props)1.51 kg
- Power System (2x Batteries)2.80 kg
- Avionics (FC + GPS)0.12 kg
- Payload System (Gimbal + Cameras)1.47 kg
- Wiring & Misc.0.20 kg
- Total All-Up Weight7.60 kg
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio (TWR)
This ratio is crucial for vehicle authority and performance in wind.
1. Max Thrust per Motor: ~5.1 kg (from E2000 spec)
2. Total System Thrust: 4 motors × 5.1 kg/motor = 20.4 kg
3. TWR Formula: Total Thrust / AUW
TWR = 20.4 kg / 7.60 kg = 2.68 : 1
Flight Endurance Calculation
Estimates hover time under ideal conditions, accounting for battery health.
1. Estimated Power to Hover: 7.60 kg × 110 W/kg = 836 W
2. Total Battery Energy: 12Ah × 44.4V = 533 Wh
3. Usable Energy (80%): 533 Wh × 0.8 = 426 Wh
4. Endurance Formula: Usable Energy / Power to Hover
Time = 426 Wh / 836 W = 0.51 hours ≈ 30 minutes
Performance Dashboard
The re-engineered design shows a significant improvement in weight distribution and overall efficiency.
AUW Contribution
Total: 7.60 kg
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio
Flight Time Trade-off
An efficient quadcopter design maximizes endurance for the payload.
Component Pricing
An estimated bill of materials for the Patrol Pro prototype, prioritizing professional-grade components.
| Component | QTY | Est. Unit Price (USD) | Total (USD) |
| Sony A7R IV Camera | 1 | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| FLIR Hadron 640R | 1 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Gremsy T3V3 Gimbal | 1 | $2,000 | $2,000 |
| Cube Orange+ Flight Controller | 1 | $500 | $500 |
| T-Motor 6010 130KV Motor | 4 | $150 | $600 |
| Tattu 12S 6000mAh Battery | 2 | $300 | $600 |
| Tarot X4 Airframe | 1 | $400 | $400 |
| T-Motor Flame 60A 12S ESC | 4 | $80 | $320 |
| 21" Carbon Propellers (Pair) | 2 | $40 | $80 |
| Misc. (PDB, Wiring, Receiver) | 1 | $300 | $300 |
| Estimated Total Prototype Cost | $10,300 | ||