The TPRO4 "Rocket" Drone: Build a High-Speed 3D Printed Nano FPV Racer

The TPRO4 is a radical departure from traditional "X-frame" drones. Designed with a torpedo-like aerodynamic shell, this nano-speedster is built for one thing: velocity. By using a pusher-motor configuration and a streamlined 3D-printed fuselage, it cuts through the air with minimal drag.

In this guide, I will show you how to print, assemble, and tune this rocket-style drone for maximum performance using the DJI O4 system or analog gear.

Difficulty

Intermediate (Soldering and basic FPV knowledge required)

Print Time

1-2 Hours

Top Speed

100+ km/h (depending on motors, props and battery)

Estimated Cost

$120 - $250 (depending on VTX)

.stl files: https://makerworld.com/en/models/2670676-tpro4-3d-printed-rocket-speed-drone

3D Printer & Filaments:

1. Primary Filament: PA-CF (Carbon Fiber Nylon) or PETG (for the main body).
2. Secondary Filament: TPU (95A) for the camera mount and antenna holders.
3. Printer: Any reliable FDM printer (Bambu Lab, Ender 3, etc.).

Electronics (The "Guts"):

1. FC/ESC: AIO (All-in-One) 1S-2S Board (BEatfpv Matrix 3 in 1 or DarwinFPV or HappyModel Crux3 AIO).
2. Motors: 1103 - 1303 Brushless Motors (high KV for 1S/2s).
3. Props: 3-inch 3018-3030 eg GEmfan 3018 or HQprops T3x3
4. VTX/Camera: DJI O4 Air Unit (for HD) or a Nano Analog Cam + VTX.
5. Receiver: ELRS Nano RX.
6. Battery: 1S 450mAh - 720mAh LiHV.

M2 Screws

1. 8x 5mm
2. 3x 25mm
3. 1x 20mm

Tools:

1. Soldering Iron and 60/40 Solder.
2. M2 Hex Driver.
3. Sandpaper

For high-speed flight, rigidity is your best friend.

1. The Main Fuselage: Print this in PETG, better PA-CF or ABS/ASA.
2. The Camera Mount: Print this in TPU. This absorbs vibrations and protects your lens.
3. The Bottom: Print this in TPU. Choose correct GPS size (12 or 18mm)

You can print all parts in PETG, but the drone will be prone to break.

This is just a rough overview. Basic FPV knowledge is a prerequisite.

1. Install the AIO and VTX in the cutout of the frame
2. Install the GPS in the Bottom part.
3. Use 3x 25mm M2 screws to attach Bottom to frame
4. Use 1x 20mm to mount AIO and VTX to frame
5. Put Front on frame and tighten screws
6. Install camera and connect to VTX
7. mount motors with M2 5mm screws (2 per arm)

Before flying ensure correct Betaflight settings! For faster GPS lock, reduce Baud rate in Ports tap.

1. I use a powerbank to get a GPS lock before flying
2. The drone has a 70° camera angle. Carefully get used to this. You might need to land blindly or at a high velocity.
3. For best speed results climb slowly, then turn into the wind and drop with full throttle.

You now have a custom-built, aerodynamic speed demon! The TPRO4 is a conversation starter at any flight line and a testament to what 3D printing can do for FPV.

Did you build one? Post your speed runs in the comments below! Let's see if someone can beat my 105km/h record.