Micro Quad Indoor Obstacle Course

thingiverse

Human: Set up a test of skill for indoor quadcopter flying by printing parts for popular obstacles like knock down targets, the "hand of time," and various gates, including the daunting "mail slot" challenge. Our small group gathers in a conference room to fly timed obstacle course runs set up on tables. We usually create 10 or so 'challenges' and do three timed rounds. The person with the best course time and best total sum of three times earns bragging rights. Example flight: https://goo.gl/photos/8ga9GRXRQvQa7grcA Here's an example course: The "Diamond of Death" Gate has a narrow opening, measuring 15cm (6") wide by 15cm (6") tall. We hold it up with two square clip feet. We have a tall 'pylon' standing at 30cm (12") tall, which must be flown around in either direction for 360 degrees without knocking it over. A circular clip base is used to secure it. There's also a 20cm (8") tall knock down target that requires flying into and pushing off the table. We use a diagonal clip base, plus base, square base, or rectangular base, depending on how challenging we want it to be. The "Hand of Time" challenge demands flying around a 'hand' for 360 degrees in either direction. For extra fun, we use a hand that's about half the width of the table and place the round base in the middle of the table. This makes it difficult due to coming in and out of ground effect. We also have more knock down targets, pylons to circle, and other obstacles. The "mail slot" challenge is similar to the first gate but with a rectangular opening measuring 16cm wide by 10cm tall, with foam taped to the top edge as a hinge. To add an extra level of difficulty, we have a box for landing on. The box measures about 30 x 30 x 30 cm (1 foot square). Print Settings: Printer Brand: LulzBot Printer: TAZ 5 Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.3mm layers Infill: 50% or more Notes: I used ABS, but PLA or PETG should work fine. Post-Printing: Add foam or foam board strips. We use a 1/4" (6mm) fan fold foam sheet (or poster board). If you need to alter the foam width or use cardboard, simply edit the OpenSCAD file and change the constant for foam thickness. How I Designed This: Designed with OpenSCAD My OpenSCAD design is included for your enjoyment.