LoraDroneTracker

GPS tracker (not only)for drone using LoRa communication. Repository consists from 2 PlatformIO projects: LoraDroneTracker_T - for trasnceiver and LoraDroneTracker_R for receiver board. Check this figure to get quick overview how it works and what do you need.

Features

• No display is needed. This project uses serial communication with smartphone to get location data. You will recieve direct link for google maps.
• Unlike the GSM based GPS tracking devices, you don't need to use SIM card and you don't need to rely on signal of GSM operator.
• Possible to hibernate controler for specific ammount of time from beginning of flight - for example transceiver starts working after 17 minutes from start.
• Basic, easy to understand and well commented project using PlatformIO. Good base point for your further modifications.

Hardware

Additionally to soldering iron you will need:

Transceiver

Device attached to drone.

• ESP32 board with LoRa Module supported by this library +antenna. Every region is using specific frequency for LoRa communication, buy board with correct frequency band.
• GPS module with UART communication interface. I used BN-180.
• Lipo battery with PicoBlade1 (1.25mm spacing) connector.
• Small basic switch for battery (not mandatory)

Receiver

• ESP32 board with LoRa Module supported by this library +antenna. Every region is using specific frequency for LoRa communication, buy board with correct frequency band.

• Smartphone - tested with Android

• Powerbank and installed Serial Bluetooth Terminal app.

• OR

• OTG cable and installed Serial USB Terminal app.

Notes

• For most of TTGO and cloned boards you can charge LiPo battery through the board.
• Most of GPS modules are not able to lock position when are used indoor, you will need to test it outside.
• For receiver you can use larger antenna to get better range results. With stock antennas I was able to receive not corrupted messages from 1.5km distance.

Lora signal strength depends on:

• Antennas size, quality and position
• Obstacles in environment
• Quality of board
• Used LoRa communication settings. Check some guides how to configure LoRa communication devices.
• Based on my measurements, power consuption of intensive transmission is around 120 mAh. In sleep mode is calculated power consuption 8 mAh.

Credits

LoRaTracker project