Below are general answers on typical components of waterproof drones from the list of GAO Tek’s waterproof drones.

Electronic Components

  • Waterproof ESC (Electronic Speed Controller): The ESC regulates the speed of the drone’s motors based on signals from the flight controller. In waterproof drones, the ESC is specially sealed to prevent water from short-circuiting the internal components. High-end waterproof drones often use ESCs with conformal coating to shield delicate circuits from moisture.
  • Brushless Motors: These motors provide the thrust needed for flight and are favored in waterproof drones due to their durability and efficiency. Waterproof drones use corrosion-resistant brushless motors designed to handle exposure to water without degrading over time.
  • Battery: The power source for most drones, the battery in waterproof models is usually enclosed in a sealed compartment or a waterproof casing. LiPo (Lithium Polymer) batteries are most common, but for waterproof drones, these are often reinforced to prevent water ingress, ensuring safe operation in wet conditions.
  • Sensors: Sensors like GPS, gyroscopes, accelerometers, and barometers are critical for flight stability and navigation. These components must be shielded from water to maintain accuracy. Waterproofing measures include sealed sensor housings or placing them inside water-resistant enclosures within the drone.
  • Waterproof Connectors: Connectors between different electronic components must be robust and sealed to prevent water damage. Many waterproof drones use silicone-sealed or IP-rated connectors to ensure a tight, water-resistant fit.

Software Components

  • Flight Control Firmware: The flight control system includes firmware that handles flight stabilization, motor control, and sensor data processing. For waterproof drones, this software is fine-tuned to adapt to more challenging conditions like rain, water splashes, or landing on water. Advanced firmware may incorporate algorithms for hydrodynamic stability if the drone needs to float or submerge temporarily.
  • GPS and Navigation Software: GPS software is vital for navigation, especially in scenarios like search-and-rescue missions over bodies of water. Waterproof drones often have enhanced GPS algorithms to maintain accurate location tracking even when interference from water surfaces may pose challenges.
  • Obstacle Avoidance Algorithms: Drones designed for use around water need reliable obstacle avoidance systems. The software controlling these systems might be customized to account for reflections and varying terrain associated with water, preventing false positives or collisions due to errant sensor readings in wet environments.
  • Camera Control and Data Transmission Software: Many waterproof drones are equipped with cameras for video capture or live streaming. The software controlling the camera must ensure reliable operation under fluctuating lighting and wet conditions. Additionally, transmission software must account for potential signal interference when operating over large bodies of water.

Mechanical Components

  • Sealed Enclosure: The primary structural component of any waterproof drone is its sealed body. Typically, the drone’s enclosure is made of water-resistant materials such as ABS plastic or carbon fiber, and it is carefully designed with watertight seals at vulnerable points. Rubber gaskets or silicone O-rings are commonly used around openings, such as battery compartments or sensor slots, to maintain waterproof integrity.
  • Waterproof Propellers: The propellers of waterproof drones are generally made from high-strength plastics or composite materials resistant to both water and corrosion. These propellers must be designed to maintain optimal thrust even when wet or submerged, ensuring the drone’s stability in harsh environments.
  • Floating or Buoyant Chassis: Some waterproof drones are built with a buoyant frame, allowing them to float if they land on water. The chassis may contain air-filled compartments or be constructed from buoyant materials such as expanded polypropylene (EPP) foam. This feature is especially important for drones used in marine or rescue operations.
  • Gimbal System: Waterproof drones often feature a waterproof gimbal system to stabilize the camera in wet conditions. These gimbals are designed to withstand exposure to water while maintaining smooth camera movements. A waterproof gimbal ensures that video footage remains stable even when the drone is subjected to water-induced vibrations or turbulence.
  • Landing Gear: The landing gear of a waterproof drone may be designed to handle both land and water landings. This requires materials that resist corrosion and maintain structural integrity after water exposure. Some waterproof drones also feature retractable landing gear to minimize drag and prevent water interference during takeoff and landing.

 

This resource page is for waterproof drones.

Below are other resource pages containing useful information waterproof drones:

FAQs on waterproof drones on gaotek.com

How to choose waterproof drones

Operation, Maintenance & Calibration of waterproof drones

Customers in the U.S. and Canada of waterproof drones

Applications of waterproof drones in Manufacturing Industry

We have products in stock and can ship overnight to most places in the U.S. and Canada.

If you have any questions about our products or want to place an order, our technical experts can help you. Please fill out this form  or email us.