Motivating Undergraduate Computing and Engineering Research via Educational and Scientific Drones

A full technical and theoretical design of a scientific and an educational hexacopter that is used as a framework to increase students' motivation in computer science and engineering and aimed at supporting interdisciplinary research in colleges is presented. The design and construction of a custom-built drone are described, with all the technical challenges and solutions. The drone is designed to carry a cluster of handheld computers (Raspberry Pis) and multiple programmable modules (e.g., GPS and weather, and pollution evaluation sensors). The drone is used as a framework that allows students to learn how to write applications in a more enjoyable way. Additionally, most of the modules are programmable with various programming languages that are typically taught in computer science introductory courses (e.g., C/C++, Python, and Java). Modules (e.g., sensors) are mounted on to the human-controlled hexacopter drone and designed to automate the collection of readings, requiring a pilot only to fly the drone. Potential results can plot graphically for analysis post-flight to support projects across multiple disciplines as needed. The presented project and the designed Multicopter drone has the potential to be adapted to offer researchers, students, scientists, and engineers a flexible and creative method to collect and analyze relevant and real data to be used for many practical research projects (e.g., atmospheric pollution data).