FlightPlan! 1.0

The app in question offers users the ability to visually program a flight plan for the Tello Drone, which can then be uploaded to the device for execution. Additionally, it supports manual flight control through the app interface. Real-time telemetry data from the drone is presented within a glass cockpit display.

The Tello Drone, a compact model produced by Ryze Robotics, features an HD camera and incorporates advanced flight control technology from DJI.

Accessing the Tello API involves connecting to the drone's airframe via a WiFi UDP port. Once successfully connected, users can control the drone using straightforward text commands. Prior to utilizing the app, users must ensure the Tello drone is powered on and their iPhone is connected to the Tello WiFi network. This can be confirmed by navigating to Settings -> WiFi.

Upon first launch, the app requests permission to access Location Services. This is necessary for determining the SSID of the WiFi connection and confirming the user's connection to the drone. It is important to note that the app does not utilize location services for any other purpose.

The app operates in two distinct modes: manual operation and planning/autopilot mode. The status of the app is prominently displayed in a panel at the top center of the screen, indicating whether a WiFi connection has been established. Users may notice a slight delay in updates to WiFi status.

In manual mode, engaging the take-off icon will initiate an automated take-off and hover state for the drone. The land icon allows for an automated landing procedure. The emergency stop feature should be used sparingly, as it immediately halts all motors and can result in a crash.

The plan button toggles between planning mode and manual mode. In planning mode, users will see a grid representing the ground along with a yellow arrow indicating the forward direction of the drone. This mode allows users to input a sequence of commands, beginning with take-off; failure to do so will result in a warning message. After completing the flight plan, pressing land will end the session. The arrow simulates the drone's position but is not to scale.

Tapping on the upload icon sends the flight plan to the Tello for execution. During this phase, real-time telemetry data such as pitch, roll, yaw, velocity (x, y, z), temperature, time of flight (tof), height, battery percentage, motor activation duration, barometric pressure, and acceleration (x, y, z) is displayed within the glass cockpit interface.

For a comprehensive guide on how this app operates, please visit our website at reefwing.com.au.

This application represents an enhanced iteration of previous software I detailed in an article titled "Programming the Tello Drone using Swift." For further insights into its functionality and guidance on creating custom versions of similar applications, please refer to that article.