Design and Implementation of a Remotely Operated Quadcopter with Integrated Image Capture for Surveillance Applications: A Case Study at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

This paper details the design and implementation of a remotely operated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), specifically a quadcopter, integrated with image capture capabilities. Driven by Nigeria's over-reliance on foreign expertise and technology for drone applications in both civilian and military sectors, this project aimed to demonstrate a viable pathway for indigenous drone development using locally sourced materials where feasible. The methodology involved hardware selection based on empirical and mathematical analysis, software implementation for flight control using a PID controller, and the integration of a wireless transceiver system for remote operation. This document presents the design rationale, system architecture, and control principles, offering a foundational module for future enhancements in remote sensing, flight autonomy, and payload integration within the Nigerian context.