Using DJI Tello Drone with Python

Using DJI Tello Drone with Python

July 30, 2024

Last year I got a drone.

This is what I’ve learn with it so far.

DJI Tello Dron

The dron has a camera as well, similar to the RPi Camera tested here

DJI Tello Python

If there are some doubts, I wanted to try and control the drone with…code.

I have forked and created a Docker Image with Python Code which is able to control the drone.

ℹ️
  • Hardware Specs:
    • The Battery last ~10 min
    • Weight ~80g
    • Price ~100$
    • It has an Intel CPU which we can program with python, 5MP Camera with 720p Live View Vision System, WIFI 802.11n 2.4G,

So far it can do the following:

  1. Test Setup
  2. Keyboard Control
  3. Camera (Photo/Video) Control
  4. Computer Vision with DJI Tello

Credits to Murtaza’s YT Video that helped to get started.

Computer Vision without a Dron

CV with a RPI4

I got a small camera for the Pi this year - Try OpenCV and yolov8


FAQ

How to Control DJI Tello with Mobile Apps

  • There are official Apps for DJI Tello (Manufactured by Ryze)
    • iOS App
    • Android - The official app seems outdated and non compatible with my Android

About Dron Regulations

DIY Drone Resources

  • Haga un PEQUEÑO dron Arduino con cámara FPV: ¿volará?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sa6EslOHsI0

  • Haga un avión de papel FPV RC que vuele | ESP32

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDjBi0ErDdw

  • Open Source Motion Capture for Autonomous Drones

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ql20JKrscQ https://github.com/jyjblrd/Low-Cost-Mocap https://github.com/jyjblrd/Low-Cost-Mocap?tab=MIT-1-ov-file#readme

Low cost motion capture system for room scale tracking

About Flying

A very interesting video series about learning to fly on a Ultra Light Plane.

  • They also teach how to pilot drones: www.aeroilipamagna.es
  • But i discovered them for their initiation course
What you need to know about ULM’s 📌
  • Ultra-Light Motorized (ULM): Small, lightweight aircraft for recreational flying, training, and aerial photography. Simpler than traditional airplanes.

  • Key Features:

    • Lightweight: Designed for small takeoff and landing spaces.
    • Simple controls: Easier for beginners.
    • Open cockpit: Offers an immersive flying experience.
    • Limited range and speed: Smaller engines mean lower range and speed.
    • Regulations: Specific licensing requirements depending on the country.
  • Types of ULMs:

    • Microlights: Smallest and lightest, often single-seat.
    • Trikes: Three-wheeled landing gear, separate pilot seat.
    • Powered Parachutes: Parachute-like canopy, motor, and pilot harness.
  • Popular ULM Models:

    • Microlights:

      • Bréguet 901: Reliable French microlight.
      • Skyrider Sport: Popular American two-seater.
      • Flight Design CTS: Modern microlight with advanced avionics.
    • Trikes:

      • Polaris Ranger: Versatile for both flying and ground use.
      • Skychaser: Powerful engine, comfortable seat.
      • Bensen Gyrocopter: Unique autorotation capability.
    • Powered Parachutes:

      • Skywalker X2: Stable and predictable flight.
      • Paramotor UK Skywing: British-made, engine options.
      • Duet Paramotor: French-made two-seater.
  • Conclusion: ULMs provide affordable flying, but require proper training and safety regulations. Consider cost, performance, and maintenance when choosing a model.