Model, Simulate and Control a Drone in MATLAB & SIMULINK from Udemy

One of the only comprehensive, detailed and approachable online courses taking you from the mathematical modelling of a quadcopter drone to MATLAB/SIMULINK implementation and PID control design.

Today, drones are everywhere, from ultra high tech military devices to toys for kids going through advanced flying cameras and much more. How do such "apparently" simple machines achieve such precise and impressive flights in varying unstable and unpredictable environmental conditions.

This course gives you the opportunity to learn and do the following:

- Understand and harness the Physics behind a Quadcopter Drone. - Establish and approximate the Physics of DC motors and propellers from experimental data. - Derive the mathematical equations behind the rotational and linear dynamics of a drone.- Implement them in engineering model in MATLAB &- Test and fit your model to relevant real life performance and inputs.- Implement, test and tune PID controllers adapted to your requirements in order to control the output of your system, in this case the altitude, position and attitude of your drone. I will thoroughly detail and walk you through each of these concepts and techniques and explain down to their fundamental principles, all concepts and subject-specific vocabulary. This course is the ideal beginner, intermediate or advanced learning platform for the mathematics behind engineering systems, the use of MATLAB and Whatever your background, whether you are a student, an engineer, a sci-fi addict, an amateur roboticist, a drone builder, a computer scientist or a business or sports person, you will master the physics behind an electric car and learn how to implement and control them in

If you have questions at any point of your progress along the course, do not hesitate to contact me, it will be my pleasure to answer you within 24 hours.

If this sounds like it might interest you, for your personal growth, career or academic endeavours, I strongly encourage you to join. You won't regret it.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Understand the functioning and physics behind drones' battery systems.
Approximate the performance of any dc motor or propeller from empirical data mathematically.
Understand and harness the physics of a drone.
Convert physical motion (throttle, roll, pitch, yaw) to voltage signals.
Derive, understand and model the rotational dynamics of a drone (pitch, roll and yaw motion).

Derive, understand and model the linear dynamics of a drone (3d linear acceleration, velocity and position).
Implement mathematical functions in matlab and simulink.
Create and test an engineering model in simulink.
Design, tune and implement automated pid algorithms (altitude control and rotational dynamics).
Use and understand common simulink blocks.

Understand the functioning and physics behind drones' battery systems.
Approximate the performance of any dc motor or propeller from empirical data mathematically.
Understand and harness the physics of a drone.
Convert physical motion (throttle, roll, pitch, yaw) to voltage signals.
Derive, understand and model the rotational dynamics of a drone (pitch, roll and yaw motion).
Derive, understand and model the linear dynamics of a drone (3d linear acceleration, velocity and position).
Implement mathematical functions in matlab and simulink.
Create and test an engineering model in simulink.
Design, tune and implement automated pid algorithms (altitude control and rotational dynamics).
Use and understand common simulink blocks.

Syllabus

Mathematical and Physical Modelling

DJI Mavic Pro Design Brief

Battery Specifications and Performance

Empirical Modelling of DC Motors

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores the physics behind quadcopter drones, which is essential for designing and controlling these complex systems in various real-world applications

Teaches how to implement mathematical functions in MATLAB and Simulink, which are industry-standard tools for modeling and simulating dynamic systems

Develops skills in designing, tuning, and implementing automated PID algorithms, which are widely used for controlling the altitude and rotational dynamics of drones

Requires learners to implement mathematical functions in MATLAB and Simulink, which may require a license or access to these software packages

Focuses on modeling and control using MATLAB and Simulink, which may not be relevant for learners interested in other drone platforms or programming languages

Uses Simulink blocks, which may require learners to familiarize themselves with the Simulink environment and its specific functionalities

Reviews summary

Drone dynamics, simulink modeling & pid control

According to learners, this course provides a positive and in-depth exploration of drone dynamics, modeling, and control using MATLAB and SIMULINK. Students particularly praise the clear explanations of complex mathematical concepts and the hands-on application within SIMULINK. The course is described as a comprehensive guide for understanding quadcopter physics and implementing practical control systems. While some reviewers found certain sections challenging, the overall consensus highlights its value for gaining a solid foundation in the subject matter, making it suitable for engineers and technically-minded students.

Best for those with some math/engineering basics.

"While the explanations are clear, some basic understanding of physics and calculus is definitely helpful."

"Might be a bit challenging for complete beginners without any prior engineering or math background."

"Assumes familiarity with differential equations and basic mechanics."

"Coming in with some MATLAB/Simulink experience is a plus, though not strictly required."

Instructor answers questions quickly and well.

"The instructor is very responsive and helpful with questions."

"Got quick and detailed answers whenever I was stuck."

"Instructor actively engages with students in the Q&A."

"Support provided makes a big difference."

Covers the topic from modeling to control.

"This is one of the most comprehensive online courses I've found on this specific topic."

"Covers the whole process from math to simulation and control."

"The level of detail provided is excellent."

"A complete package for anyone wanting to understand drone flight control."

Detailed coverage of PID algorithm design & tuning.

"The explanation and implementation of PID controllers was thorough and easy to follow."

"Learning how to tune the PID for altitude and attitude control was very helpful."

"Great section on automated PID control design."

"I now feel confident in implementing PID for other systems."

Strong focus on building and testing models in Simulink.

"Building the drone model in Simulink was incredibly practical and insightful."

"The hands-on work with Simulink really solidified the concepts for me."

"Loved the sections on creating the open-loop and closed-loop models."

"Applying the theory in Simulink was the most valuable part."

Explanations of core math and physics are strong.

"Instructor explains the dynamics and theory well."

"The course explains the mathematical concepts behind drone dynamics very clearly."

"Really helped me understand the physics and equations involved."

"I appreciated how the complex math was broken down step-by-step."

Minor issues with different Simulink versions.

"Some minor discrepancies or block name changes might exist depending on your specific Simulink version, but they are usually easy to figure out."

"Had a little trouble matching block properties exactly due to version differences."

"Suggest using the recommended Simulink version if possible to avoid minor hiccups."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Model, Simulate and Control a Drone in MATLAB & SIMULINK with these activities:

Review Linear Algebra Fundamentals

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Reinforce your understanding of linear algebra concepts, which are crucial for understanding drone dynamics and control.

Browse courses on Linear Algebra

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Review matrix operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and inversion.
Study vector spaces, linear independence, and basis vectors.
Practice solving systems of linear equations.

Brush Up on PID Control Theory

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Strengthen your knowledge of PID control, a core component of drone control systems, to better understand the course material.

Browse courses on PID Control

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Review the principles of proportional, integral, and derivative control actions.
Study the effects of each PID gain parameter on system performance.
Practice tuning PID controllers for different systems.

Follow MATLAB and Simulink Tutorials

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Familiarize yourself with MATLAB and Simulink, the primary tools used in this course, by completing introductory tutorials.

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Complete the official MATLAB onramp tutorial.
Complete the official Simulink onramp tutorial.
Explore additional tutorials on specific Simulink blocks used in the course.

Four other activities

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Simulate Drone Dynamics with Different Parameters

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Experiment with the Simulink model by changing parameters and observing the effects on drone behavior.

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Modify drone parameters such as mass, inertia, and motor constants.
Run simulations and analyze the resulting changes in drone dynamics.
Document your findings and observations.

Implement a Basic Altitude Controller

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Apply your knowledge by implementing a basic altitude controller for the drone model in Simulink.

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Design a PID controller for altitude control.
Implement the controller in Simulink.
Tune the controller parameters to achieve stable altitude control.
Test the controller with different setpoints and disturbances.

Document Your Drone Simulation Project

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Solidify your understanding by creating a detailed report documenting your drone simulation project, including model design, controller implementation, and simulation results.

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Describe the mathematical model of the drone.
Explain the design and implementation of the PID controller.
Present simulation results and analysis.
Discuss any challenges encountered and solutions implemented.

Read 'Small Unmanned Aircraft: Theory and Practice'

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Expand your knowledge of drone theory and practice by reading a comprehensive textbook on the subject.

View Small Unmanned Aircraft: Theory and Practice on Amazon

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Read the chapters on drone modeling and dynamics.
Study the sections on control system design and implementation.
Work through the examples and exercises in the book.

Career center

Learners who complete Model, Simulate and Control a Drone in MATLAB & SIMULINK will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Simulation Engineer

A simulation engineer creates and tests models of systems or processes, often using software like MATLAB and Simulink. This course is an exceptionally strong fit for a simulation engineer. Its focus on modeling drone dynamics and implementing control systems is directly aligned with the work of a simulation engineer. A simulation engineer can use this course to help master the skills necessary to build robust and accurate simulations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Simulation Engineer

Flight Systems Engineer

A flight systems engineer designs, develops and tests the complex systems of aircraft and spacecraft. This role has a strong overlap with the course material, as the course covers the dynamics and control of drones. Flight systems engineers use mathematics, physics and software simulation to develop flight systems. This course provides a strong foundation in the tools and understanding needed for such an engineering role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Flight Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

A control systems engineer focuses on the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated systems. This course is an excellent fit for this career path because it delves into the mathematical modeling of a quadcopter and the implementation of precise control systems. Control systems engineers use tools like MATLAB and Simulink to model dynamics, test designs, and implement automated control feedback loops. Such systems are used in a variety of automated systems today.

See salaries and explore the career path for Control Systems Engineer

Robotics Engineer

A robotics engineer designs, develops, and tests robots and robotic systems. This role often involves mathematical modeling, simulation, and control, all of which are covered in detail by this course. This course, with its focus on modeling a drone's dynamics and implementing control systems in MATLAB and Simulink, directly helps build a foundation for designing and controlling complex robotic systems. A robotics engineer uses these tools to build and test robots and related automated systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Autonomous Systems Engineer

An autonomous systems engineer works on the design, development, and testing of systems that can operate without human intervention. This course helps one to understand the mathematical models, physics, and control systems that form the foundation of autonomous systems through the design, simulation, and control of a drone. Autonomous systems engineers need a strong background in exactly these kinds of principles.

See salaries and explore the career path for Autonomous Systems Engineer

Automation Engineer

An automation engineer designs and implements automated processes and systems. This course provides the core understanding of the physics, dynamics, and control systems needed to implement an automated system. An automation engineer uses software like MATLAB and Simulink to model, test, and implement control systems. The course's focus on mathematical modeling and control is directly applicable to the work of automation engineers.

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Mechatronics Engineer

Mechatronics engineers integrate mechanical, electrical, and software engineering principles to design and improve automated systems. With its focus on modeling drone behavior and implementing control systems, this course provides valuable skills for a mechatronics engineer. A mechatronics engineer develops and tests devices that involve mechanical and electronic components. This course teaches the fundamental principles of the design of such systems, in particular through the use of MATLAB and Simulink.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechatronics Engineer

Aerospace Engineer

Aerospace engineers design, develop, and test aircraft and spacecraft. Given that this course focuses on the dynamics and control of drones, an aerospace engineer may find benefit in the course material. The course helps one to understand how to mathematically model the flight of an unmanned aerial vehicle and implement control systems using MATLAB and Simulink. Such skills are applicable, more broadly, to aerospace engineering. This course helps build a foundation for the design and simulation of flight systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

An embedded systems engineer designs and develops the computer systems that control other devices, such as the control system for a drone. The course material provides vital understanding of the physics behind drones, while also exploring the implementation and testing of these systems in MATLAB and Simulink. An embedded systems engineer has the theoretical and practical knowledge to develop these kinds of automated devices.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Test Engineer

A test engineer designs, executes and analyzes the results of testing procedures on a variety of product types. This course helps one to build a foundation in the principles of simulation and control of a complex system through the example of a drone. A test engineer can use the techniques explored in this course to rigorously test simulated and actual systems. This may increase the rigor and robustness of overall testing procedures.

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Research Scientist

A research scientist within engineering can engage in scientific study within various fields. This course may be helpful for those interested in studying drones and robotic systems through the lens of simulation and control. A research scientist can benefit from the opportunity to work in MATLAB and Simulink to build engineering models and test automated feedback systems. Some research scientists require advanced degrees such as a Ph.D.

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Mechanical Engineer

A mechanical engineer designs and develops mechanical systems. While this role does not typically focus on the programming or software side, the mathematical modeling of a mechanical device such as a drone gives insight into the underlying physics. A mechanical engineer uses principles of physics and engineering to design components. The course may be useful to broaden their skillset.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer

Software Engineer

A software engineer designs, develops, and tests software. While this course doesn't focus on general software engineering principles, the use of MATLAB and Simulink, coupled with understanding of control system dynamics, may be helpful for certain types of software engineering projects. A software engineer may find a deeper understanding of the underlying physics useful for the development of simulations. Therefore, this course may be helpful.

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Data Scientist

A data scientist analyzes large datasets to extract insights that can drive business decisions. Although the course does not directly focus on data analysis, the use of MATLAB and the creation of models may be of interest. A data scientist might like to explore the creation and simulation of physical systems. Thus, this course may be helpful, though it is not directly in the field.

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Project Manager

A project manager plans, organizes, and leads projects from start to finish. The course material may have use in the management of projects that focus on robotics or automated systems. A project manager may like to see the technical aspects of a project. Thus, this course may be useful for project managers in the technical field, though it is not a direct fit.

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Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Model, Simulate and Control a Drone in MATLAB & SIMULINK.

Small Unmanned Aircraft

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Provides a comprehensive overview of the theory and practice of small unmanned aircraft, including modeling, control, and estimation. It valuable resource for understanding the underlying principles of drone flight and control. This book is commonly used as a textbook in university courses on unmanned aerial vehicles. It adds depth to the course by providing a more rigorous treatment of the mathematical models and control algorithms.

Small Unmanned Aircraft: Theory and Practice

Hardcover

$$$

Small Unmanned Aircraft: Theory and Practice

Kindle Edition

$$$

Model, Simulate and Control a Drone in MATLAB & SIMULINK

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Drone dynamics, simulink modeling & pid control

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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