Data Magician

Overview

Sensor data is the foundation of drone control. In this project, you will learn how to read the drone’s sensor data and perform simple analysis.

What You’ll Learn

• Sensor data reading
• I2C communication protocol
• Data logging functionality
• Data analysis methods

Materials Needed

Item	Quantity	Notes
Fully Assembled Drone	1	-
Computer	1	With VS Code + ESP-IDF environment
USB Cable	1	For programming
Smartphone	1	With Drone Control APP installed

Step 1: Understand Sensors

Sensor	Function
MPU6050	6-axis sensor, measures acceleration and angular velocity
BMP280	Pressure sensor, measures pressure and altitude

Step 2: Read Sensor Data

Open the following files to understand data reading logic:

• components/drivers/i2c_devices/mpu6050/mpu6050.c
• components/core/crazyflie/modules/src/estimator_complementary.c

Step 3: Add Data Logging

Open components/core/crazyflie/modules/src/log.c and add new log variables (e.g., acc_x, gyro_y, height).

Register these variables in the logInit() function.

Step 4: Compile, Flash and Test

1. Compile and flash the code
2. Power on, connect to smartphone APP
3. Enter the “Log” page, select the data variables to view
4. Click “Start Log”
5. Move the drone and observe changes in sensor data

Step 5: Data Analysis

1. Export log data to computer
2. Use Excel or Python for analysis
3. Plot curves of acceleration, angular velocity, and altitude over time
4. Analyze the drone’s motion state

Troubleshooting

Cannot read sensor data

• Check I2C connections
• Confirm sensor address is correct

Data log not displaying

• Check Wi-Fi connection
• Confirm log variables are registered

Achievement

Congratulations! You have mastered the methods of reading and analyzing sensor data, which is an important skill for drone development!

Next Steps

In the next project, you will learn how to use ultrasonic sensors for obstacle avoidance.