ArduPilot ↔ Arduino Companion: GPS Navigation + Failsafe

This repo demonstrates integrating an Arduino as a companion controller for an ArduPilot-based drone.

What it does

• Reads GPS (NMEA) on Arduino
• Monitors failsafe conditions:
  • Kill switch input
  • Low battery threshold
• Sends MAVLink command to ArduPilot to trigger RTL (Return-To-Launch) when failsafe occurs

Why this matters

ArduPilot handles stabilization and flight control. The Arduino acts as an external watchdog:

• Adds custom safety logic
• Can trigger autonomous behaviors through MAVLink

Files

• arduino/companion_gps_failsafe.ino — GPS + failsafe logic + MAVLink command
• docs/wiring.md — wiring overview