LEGO Autopilot takes to the skies autonomously

Seems like LEGO mods are gaining quite a bit of steam these days, as not only are the amount of block-based creations growing by the week, but Bosch has even unveiled a dishwasher specifically made for the hopelessly obsessed. Just in case the LEGO-based Wii concoction isn't down your alley, the self-proclaimed LEGO Autopilot could be just what the voyeuristic side of you has been yearning for. Modeled around HiTechnic's NXT Acceleration / Tilt Sensor kits, it's apparently possible to build a UAV for your personal indulgences with less than a grand in cash, and if you add on the optional webcam and Bluetooth controls, you could definitely fetch a sneak peek in faraway locales. The autopilot system reportedly "controls the rudder, which keeps the plane flying level," but manually altering the servo arm can give you a taste of manual controls if you get tired of watching. Of course, this here endeavor certainly isn't aimed at the faint of heart (or budget-minded), but be sure to hit the read link to see what you're in for if you decide to give this a go.

[Via Slashdot]

[HEADsoldier07 @ Mar 15th 2007 11:35AM]

hmm i wonder if it has a mounted air soft gun?

[Tavis Veighey @ Mar 15th 2007 12:50PM]

I'll believe it when I actually SEE it in action! The Lego ballence bot was Sweet because it actually HAD the Gyro Sensor.

There is more than just a quick programming and a tilt sensor that is needed. So this guy get's props for being the first to publish the idea on the net. However if he want's full credit, he is going to have to actually make it when he does get the sensor. And he better hope that nobody steal's his idea and get's this made before he does.

[matt @ Mar 15th 2007 3:00PM]

looks like al-qaeda will have a new tool to murder americans with - gps guided unmanned airplanes.

[4cr JaXs @ Mar 16th 2007 12:32AM]

"...gps guided unmanned (LEGO) airplanes."

[David @ Mar 16th 2007 7:33PM]

Rudder's don't keep planes "level" are we sure this guy knows what he is talking about?