DroneBlocks Simulator

 Introduction to Tello EDU with DroneBlocks

Safety:

Pre-Check   Before programming inspect for damage and ensure all propellers are secured in the correct motor. Before flight, place propeller guards and check for any broken parts.

Collisions  Avoid collisions by flying in a large, open room. In case of collision, beware of any deflecting propellers. It's helpful to have a "safety officer" in space to watch the flight path. 

Awareness  Never allow unused drones to be left on the group, you'll want to establish a clear boundary for students to stand and where they should fly. With multiple students, you must remind them to stay aware of surroundings, painters tape could even work to divide the room.

Environment  The Tello is very light and easily affected by air conditioning or fans. Do not attach anything to the Tello and stay clear of large metal fixtures due to interference. 

Batteries  Tello app monitors battery percentage as when low, Tello might behave inconsistently. It's important to also have a pair of back-up batteries.

Connecting Tello:

Tello can be operated with DroneBlocks by launching a pre-programmed mission, or by selecting one command at a time starting with the takeoff block. For lengthy projects, the mission should be programmed before connecting to the Tello. 

To launch (IOS version): 

• Open DroneBlocks app and wait for all blocks to load     
• Tap the menu and select Tello Blocks
• Drag & drop blocks to create your mission

To connect Tello: 

• Tap "Connect to Tello" (top right of app)
• A window with a "Connect" button will appear Do NOT tap yet
• Power on Tello (should appear as WiFi hotspot)
• Go to settings-wifi-Tello (Tello-XXXXX)
• Return to DroneBlocks and click "Connect" button
• Tello and Battery % should appear at top of app 
• When ready to perform, select "Launch Mission"

Coding:

Before coding, practice the sequence of connecting Tello to DroneBlocks. Make sure each Tello is paired with the correct device. Once ready to launch,

• Enter the first command by dragging the Takeoff block. (Tello will hover 4-5 feet)
• Add a Hover block to hold Tello in the air for 5 seconds
• Enter final command by dragging the Land block and placing below the previous blocks.
• Connect your device to Tello's Wifi
• Place Tello on a flat surface
• Check the battery level
• Select Launch Mission and watch the magic happen

Each time you complete a mission, drag it to the trash and begin again. When logged in with a google account, you can save missions for later. When completed, properly disconnect Tello and recharge the battery.

Flip:

Ascent & Descent:

Forward & Backward:

Standards:

1c.

Leverage CT and CS experts, resources and professional learning networks to continuously improve practice integrating CT across content areas.

3c.

Plan collaboratively with other educators to create learning activities that cross disciplines to strengthen student understanding of CT and CS concepts and transfer application of knowledge in new contexts.

4d.

Create CS and CT learning environments that value and encourage varied viewpoints, student agency, creativity, engagement, joy and fun.

Here's a video of a cool trick we programmed our drone to do!