Communication Module

The Communication Module (de_comm, binary de_comm) is the UDP-based broker that lives on the drone or companion computer. It coordinates between the MAVLink module, camera modules, custom plugins, and the cloud Communication Server.

What it does

• Runs as a local broker on the companion computer.

• Connects plugins (MAVLink, camera, custom) via UDP.

• Maintains an encrypted WebSocket uplink to the DroneEngage Communication Server.

• Routes messages between local modules and the cloud.

• Implements the DroneEngage/Andruav message protocol over UDP and WebSocket.

When to use it

Every DroneEngage vehicle needs this module. It is the glue between the flight controller interface and the cloud.

Quick links

• Communication configuration

• Custom plugins overview

• DataBus protocol

• Plugin development

For developers

• Repository: droneengage_communication

• Language: C++17

• Build: CMake 3.10+, Boost 1.74+, build.sh.

• Architecture: plugin-broker pattern.

  • Plugin side: CModule, CUDPClient, CFacade_Base.

  • Broker side: CUavosModulesManager, CUDPCommunicator, CMessageBuffer.

• Configuration file: de_comm.config.module.json.

• Package output: build/de-communicator-pro-*.deb, installs to $HOME/drone_engage/de_comm/.

See Communication technicals for the plugin-broker architecture, message protocol, and build details.