Best Simulink quadcopter model as a starting point

Hi, I am relatively new to Matlab. I am just starting out on a project based on a basic quadcopter with GPS /IMU possibly camera / optical flow. I wanted to get a decent tablestakes model of the quadcopter up and running quickly so I can get to the main focus of adding on some new techniques along side the usual stuff.

What is the best model to consider as a starting point - I am working on a Mac so wanted to avoid UnReal 3D engines and the like, but do want to show some 3D trajectory views. I have noticed there are a lot of examples out there, but would really appreciate any help / opinions on which one is the best pick.

Thanks in advance.

Regards,

Dave

[Dave]

Thanks Jacob, much appreciated, I will take a look at the examples you mention.

Answer 1

[Jacob Mathew]

Hey Dave,

There is no unanimous single best example that you can start with, not just for quadcopters but for any problem you are going to tackle. The best approach would be to try out various examples, each having their own level of complexity and granularity and decide what requirements you want to model. Then picking the example that comes close as the starting point to further build and modify would give you the best results.

For example, as you mentioned that you wanted to get up and running quickly, add flying techniques and have some visualization, the following example takes you through the workflow:

https://www.mathworks.com/help/releases/R2025a/aeroblks/quadcopter-project.html

However, it does have a dependency on parrot mini drones. Instead, you can take inspiration from the following Simscape example for a more "from scratch" drone design:

https://www.mathworks.com/help/releases/R2025a/sps/ug/quadcopter-drone.html

Feel free to query the MATLAB Answers Forum if you face any hurdle putting the examples to use :)