I’m taking part in a competition where we need a drone to drop multiple objects. I found a few single-drop systems online, but nothing that can release multiple items separately from the same setup.
Does something like this exist, or would we have to build it ourselves?
You’d need to attach your own quick-release system.
Two things to keep in mind:
The Mini 4K isn’t designed to carry extra weight.
Adding a payload will likely push the total weight over 249g, meaning you’ll have to register it and follow the rules under ‘The Exception for Limited Recreational Operations.’
@Val
You only need a Part 107 certificate if you’re flying commercially, but you will need to register the drone with the FAA since it’ll weigh over 0.55 lbs.
When people say the Mini 4K isn’t rated for lifting, they don’t mean it’s illegal—they mean it physically can’t handle much weight. What exactly are you trying to drop? Even a small load might be too much.
If this is a competition, I assume it’s for a school or organization that has airspace clearance for this.
Also, I hope there’s a supervisor overseeing this, because I don’t see why they’d recommend using a Mini for payload drops—it’s just not built for that.
That said, I’ve seen a few 3D-printed multi-drop release systems, but none that a Mini could actually lift once the payloads are added.
If you’re limited to using a Mini, here’s an idea: Take apart the rotating barrel from a NERF gun, mount it under the drone with some 3D-printed brackets (or just tape it), and wire in a remote trigger to control the release. You’d probably only be able to drop NERF darts or similarly light objects, though, since the Mini’s max lift capacity is about 200 grams.