Project R.U.D.O.L.P.H.
Remote Utilization of Drones for Overhead Lift of Performance Hardware
Project Status: COMPLETE
Overview
Project R.U.D.O.L.P.H. is a modular aerial lift system designed for carrying lightweight characters, props, or decorations in synchronized flight. Using a 3D-printed harness and lift system, it integrates precision LED lighting effects, xLights synchronization, and Falcon Player for show sequencing.
Carried by a DJI Mini 3 drone, the flight path is autonomously controlled using Litchi for flight coordination. This system is ideal for enhancing holiday displays, themed attractions, or custom aerial performances, creating seamless and synchronized visual effects in the sky.
Initially developed for the 2025 update to Project S.E.A.N.C.E., this system was first designed to integrate a flying ghostly character for an immersive light show experience. However, its modular nature allows it to be adapted for a wide range of aerial display applications.
Technology & Tools:
- DJI Mini 3 Drone Provides stable and precise flight for aerial displays.
- 3D-Printed Harness Custom designed clip-on harness for the DJI Mini 3 drone.
- LED Effects Built-in individually addressable LEDs for customizable effects.
- xLights & Falcon Player Show Control integration for immersive light show displays.
- Litchi Flight Automation Pre-programmed routes for smooth, autonomous flight.
Project Gallery
In-flight Effects Demo
3D-Printed Harness
LED Lighting Effects
Litchi Flight Coordination
Project Showcase
2025 - Zero in "Halloween Screams!"
Zero, Jack Skellington's faithful ghost-dog companion, takes flight high above the Haunted Mansion for our 2025 Halloween Light Show!