Aim:

To test propeller balance and drone stability, and identify possible improvements.

Requirements:

• Mini drone or drone simulator software (like DroneBlocks / Drone Simulator app)

• Stopwatch or timer

• Marker pen or colored tape

• Notebook for observation

• Safety goggles or classroom safety glasses

Safety First:

• Never test indoors without supervision.

• Clear space of people, pets, and objects.

• Always check propellers are tightly fixed before starting.

Hands-On Steps

Step 1 – Observe Motor Rotation

Power on the drone (or simulation).
Check that:

• Two propellers rotate clockwise, and two counterclockwise.

• All four spin smoothly without shaking.
  If any propeller is loose or shaking, pause and fix it.

Tip: Balanced rotation keeps the drone stable in air.

Step 2 – Test Propeller Balance

1. Use a marker to put a tiny dot on one blade tip.

2. Spin the propeller slowly.

3. If it stops in the same position each time, one side is heavier.

4. Add a tiny piece of tape to the lighter side to balance it.

Why it matters: Imbalanced propellers cause vibration and reduce flight stability.

Step 3 – Measure Spin Speed

1. Use a stopwatch to measure how long it takes for a motor to spin 10 rotations (approx.).

2. Compare between all four motors.

3. If one motor is slower, check its wiring or ESC connection.

Engineers test thrust to ensure equal power distribution.

Step 4 – Simulate or Low Hover Test

If using a real drone:

• Lift it a few centimeters off the ground.

• Watch for tilting or drifting.

If using a simulator:

• Observe virtual flight stability.

• Make adjustments based on performance.

Step 5 – Troubleshoot and Discuss

In pairs or groups, discuss:

• What imbalance did you observe?

• How can you fix or redesign it?

• What improvements would make it more stable?

Write a short note in your Drone Logbook with:

• Observations

• Problems found

Your suggested fixes