ANATOMY OF A DRONE
Finding your way around a modern multirotor UAV.
Illustration by Rob Nance
A. STANDARD PROP
The same “tractor” propeller used on standard front-engine R/C airplanes.
B. “PUSHER” PROP
These contra-rotating props exactly cancel out motor torques during stationary level flight. Opposite pitch gives downdraft.
C. MOTOR
Usually a brushless electric “outrunner” type, which is more efficient, more reliable, and quieter than a brushed motor.
D. MOTOR MOUNT
Sometimes built into combination fittings with landing struts.
E. LANDING GEAR
Designs that need high ground clearance may adopt helicopter-style skids mounted directly to the body, ...
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