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Building a Pure-Python ROS 2 Driver for the YDLIDAR X2

This is a pure-Python driver and ROS 2 Jazzy package that reads the LiDAR, decodes complete revolutions, publishes sensor_msgs/msg/LaserScan messages, creates the required TF transform, and launches RViz with a saved configuration. Github: https://github.com/danielengineer92/YDLIDARX2-ROS2 Starting with the serial protocol Before adding ROS 2, I needed reliable data from the sensor itself. The X2 sends a […]

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Building a TF-Luna ROS 2 Driver: From UART Bytes to a Live /range Topic

I built a Python driver and ROS 2 Jazzy node for the Benewake TF-Luna LiDAR, starting with raw nine-byte UART frames and ending with live distance measurements on a standard sensor_msgs/Range topic. This project walkthrough also shows how to build and run it. Turning a Small LiDAR Into a ROS 2 Sensor I recently built

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Drone Log #2: Building and Validating an Autonomous Drone with Object Tracking

1. Project Overview 2. Flight Test Run Flight test: the drone detects the red ball and autonomously performs an orbit around it using onboard vision and control software. 3. Primary Objective Develop a drone system capable of: Success Criteria Possible criteria to include: 4. System Functions 5. Safety Requirements Hazard Detection Method System Response Target

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Autonomous Drone: Object Tracking using ROS2, YOLO Detection, PX4, a Raspberry Pi 4, and the Pixhawk 6C.

In this project, I developed an autonomous target-tracking system for a drone using a custom-trained YOLOv8n object detection model and the Robot Operating System 2 (ROS2). The goal was to have a drone autonomously track and visually lock onto a target (a red ball) by adjusting its heading (yaw) based on real-time camera feed data.

Autonomous Drone: Object Tracking using ROS2, YOLO Detection, PX4, a Raspberry Pi 4, and the Pixhawk 6C. Read More »

PX4 X500 Drone Build Log #1: From Unboxing to First Flight

The Holybro X500 PX4 Development Kit finally arrived, and I had no clue what to expect. It was mostly plug and play although some custom firmware was required. This project is all about building a development platform for future autonomy, computer vision, ROS 2 integration, and companion computer experiments. The Hardware For this build I

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