Kuadrot

Kuadrot, or quadrotor, is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) powered by four rotors. The configuration provides lift and control through the coordinated speeds of four electric motors mounted on a lightweight frame. Propeller layouts commonly follow an X configuration or a plus (cross) configuration, with opposite rotors rotating in opposite directions to balance torque.

Core components include the frame, four motors, electronic speed controllers (ESCs), a flight controller, and a power source such as a lithium-polymer battery. The flight controller runs stabilization software and processes sensor data to maintain stability, follow commands, and execute autonomous routines. Flight is achieved by adjusting rotor speeds: increasing lift on selected motors tilts the vehicle; yaw is produced by creating differential torque across rotor pairs; altitude is controlled by the overall “collective” lift.

Kuadrots vary from small hobbyist devices to professional systems used for photography, surveying, inspection, agriculture, and more. Typical sensor suites include inertial measurement units (IMU), barometers, and GPS, with optional cameras, lidar, ultrasonic sensors, or optical flow sensors for positioning and scientific tasks.

Autonomy and control range from manual operation via a radio controller to automated missions with waypoint navigation, return-to-home, and obstacle avoidance features. Safety and regulatory considerations commonly involve geofencing, preflight checks, responsible operation within line of sight where required, and adherence to local rules regarding registration and airspace use.

Limitations include finite flight time, usually 15–30 minutes depending on size and payload, sensitivity to wind and weather, and ongoing maintenance needs for batteries and motors.