The physics
of hover.
Explore how a quadcopter balances weight with thrust. Change each command, add a payload, and see which rotors work harder.
teaching modelOriginal civilian-style reconstruction. Rotor and force values are illustrative, not manufacturer specifications.
Start with a question.
Choose a guided setup, change one condition at a time, and capture the rotor readings in your notebook.
How much thrust balances weight?
Start with a 0.3 kg payload and use Find Hover. Capture a reading. Increase the payload and find hover again. Compare the throttle settings.
Look for: more payload means more weight, so the four rotors need a higher collective command.
Click a rotor, arm, or camera to inspect it.
Explore the airframe.
Click the 3D model or use these buttons to read about each part.
One command, four responses.
Pitch and roll redistribute rotor speeds. Opposite spinning pairs create a yawing reaction torque.
Ti = 10ui² Nui is each rotor’s 0–1 command. Total thrust is the sum of four rotors; weight is (1.6 kg + payload) × 9.81 m/s². Crosswind uses ½ρV²CDA with a chosen CDA = 0.12 m².
These constants are illustrative, not measured drone specifications. This conceptual controller shows command changes and a static force balance. It does not simulate acceleration, stability, battery discharge, sensor feedback, or real flight safety limits.
What changes when you add weight?
Use Find Hover, then increase payload. Weight rises while rotor thrust stays the same. Find Hover again to see the extra throttle needed to balance it.
Record what you observe.
Capture the current controls and readouts, then compare trials. Notes stay in this browser.
| TRIAL | PRACTICAL | CONDITIONS | READOUT | OBSERVATION | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| No readings yet. Set a condition and capture your first trial. | |||||