Author - Jon Bottarini

22Sep

Aerial Mapping Via Drone

aerial_mapping The surveying and mapping industry has used photogrammetry and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) for many years, Questions over which is best have gone on for just as long. Choosing between photogrammetry and LiDAR is not a case of which offers superior technology but, rather, which is better suited for the surveying purposes required. Professionals working in the sector understand that both have their benefits. Photogrammetry uses pictures to take measurements whereas LiDAR uses lasers and light to do the same. For mapping and surveying bare earth regions, photogrammetry is a great choice. But for areas with heavy vegetation or other obstructions in the way of the site being surveyed, LiDAR provides the best fit.

Drone technology takes flight

Drone technology has made a huge impact on aerial mapping and surveying. Drones offer many advantages including the ability to capture photos at predefined elevations and at a predetermined overlap percentage. In the past, conventional aerial LiDAR providers turned down surveying projects on areas under 5 square kilometers because it simply wasn't cost effective. Today, drones mounted with LiDAR systems, can map these same areas quickly, affordably and with far less logistical issues. In turn, while drone mounted LiDAR systems achieve great results, their cost and using them over larger areas may not be currently feasible. UAV LiDAR systems also offer image control and perspectives unique from traditional capture methods. Drone operators too have the flexibility to configure the vehicles to gather large volumes of data and capture images that are perfect for what the application requires. The affordability of drones also means that aerial surveying and mapping has attracted more people to the industry. This translates into varying skill and experience levels which inevitably brings about mixed surveying results. In the same way, organizations that rely on surveying data have also decided on an in-house approach.

Acquiring Accurate Imagery

Regardless of whether a surveyor chooses photogrammetry or LiDAR, the ultimate goal is to acquire accurate imagery. Surveyors begin by determining the level of accuracy they require, which drives the decision between LiDAR and photogrammetry. Generally, LiDAR achieves more accurate results but is limited when it comes to obtaining high resolution images through the technology's data. Often, individual use traditional photogrammetry methods to augment the LiDAR data. Surveyors often choose what they are more familiar with, as well as what is more affordable. While there is nothing wrong with such an approach, it is important to keep in mind that the requirements of each project will vary, as will their cost. The use of  UAV LiDAR or photogrammetry alone may work for one project while other missions may require the use of both technologies to achieve the desired imagery. Some surveyors forego LiDAR and photogrammetry entirely, choosing instead photo-based solutions. Though initial costs may be more affordable, redoing everything means expenses can mount quickly.

Varied  Capabilities and Cost

Currently, LiDAR is not as readily available in mainstream technology but options continue to increase.  Still with the right drone and a camera of reasonable quality, surveyors can achieve workable measurements. If a project's requirements are accurately followed, photogrammetry produces accurate 3D models. Its low cost also means it's the most common choice for surveying. Today, even inexperienced operators can capture images to create a 3D demo. However, the quality of the work determines the quality of the data.

Research and due Diligence

When considering LiDAR or photogrammetry, it is important to remember that the choice is not about which is better. Both offer advantages and disadvantages. Limitations presented by technology capabilities, terrain, as well as the size of the area all come into play. Given the choice most surveyors would happily choose both technologies to utilize as they see fit. Those interested in surveying via drone should learn as much as they can about both technologies to determine which works best for their situation.
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14Jul

Unmanned Systems to the Rescue

Disasters_TUnmanned advancements help first responder's efforts When disaster strikes we look to the men and women in emergency services to render aid to those affected. Thanks to advances in technology, first responders now have unmanned systems to help in those efforts. Currently, unmanned helpers include Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and robots equipped with sensors, cameras, and even microphones.  

Unmanned Systems impact on an industry

The impact of unmanned technologies in emergency and disaster situations continues to grow. Drones offer numerous advantages including: rapid deployment, the ability to assess dangerous environments from a safe distance, minimize risk to workers, and more. Operators can change drone equipment to adjust to changes in the environment. A night-vision camera can be quickly exchanged for an infrared camera to read heat signatures of survivors. Programmable flight paths ensure complete coverage of an area. All these advantages can significantly impact the number of lives saved in the event of a disaster.  

Extending relief workers’ reach

UAVs are particularly helpful in reaching areas that are inaccessible. Drones equipped with high resolution imagers can provide pictures, stream live video and create before and after snap shots of the affected site. Emergency workers can use this information to determine a plan of action – where to deploy, areas to avoid, identify survivors, and more. What's more, drones can re-deploy to get the most accurate data in what is usually a very active and changing situation. Officials can use the data to continuously adjust and respond accordingly. First responders aren’t the only ones who benefit from drone use in emergency situations. Drone manufacturers can use feedback from operators in the field to improve the overall performance of the product, thus improving capabilities for future relief efforts.  

The challenge of the amateur operator

Unfortunately, the growing use of drones also has a downside. As more enthusiasts take to the skies, they can pose a risk to active emergency situations. Many well-intended users believe they are providing assistance when, in fact, their efforts can hamper and even derail relief efforts. Such situations require formal training, expertise and collaboration with disaster and emergency relief officials. Operators functioning on their own volition are a risk to personnel on the ground. Rescue organizations continue to advise drone enthusiasts, not officially involved in efforts, to restrain themselves and stay away from active emergency situations.  

A growing array of unmanned systems

Rescue personnel can choose from an ever increasing array of unmanned systems. For example, RoboSimian is a highly dexterous robot that can access areas deemed too risky for humans. This robot can scan, assess as well as manipulate its environment. Currently, RoboSimian can close a valve, pick up an object and remove impediments. Certain situations require even more sophisticated technology – such as detecting movement under piles of debris. Developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, FINDER (Finding Individuals for Disaster and Emergency Response) utilizes low power radar to detect imperceptible movements beneath rubble. FINDER’s radar emits a low power radio signal that bounces off debris and changes if movement is detected. As with robots and UAVs, FINDER is an important tool that enables rescuers to locate those in need and provide assistance quickly and efficiently.  

A bright future

Given the advantages unmanned systems offer, emergency and disaster relief agencies will continue to adopt this technology. For the agencies involved in planning and executing search and rescue operations, the deployment of UAVs, robots and additional technology is a positive development.
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13Jul

Wildfire Operations & Temporary Flight Restrictions

wildfire_T"Know Before You Fly" Urges Operators to Stay Away from Wildfires, Adhere to Temporary Flight Restrictions 

WASHINGTON — The Know Before You Fly campaign today urged operators of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to respect temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) over and around wildfires as this year’s wildfire season makes an early start.

Wildfires or other hazardous conditions often lead to authorities putting in place TFRs, which allow first responders to do their jobs unimpeded and without danger to their aerial support.

Temporary Flight Restrictions

Violating the TFR may endanger the safety of the operation, and in some cases may ground search and rescue crews until the airspace is cleared, allowing the wildfire to spread. But TFRS do not just apply to wildfires.

For stadium events ranging from concerts to NASCAR races to the Super Bowl, model aircraft flights and unmanned aircraft operations are generally restricted. More information about the types of TFRs may be found here.

To check for TFRs in your area, visit the FAA TFR list at http://tfr.faa.gov/tfr2/list.html. Additionally, download the FAA’s B4UFLY app, available on the App Store or Google Play, to find up-to-date information on TFRs.

No one should be flying within a TFR that restricts UAS and/or model aircraft operations.

Standard flight guidelines for operators

At all other times when flight is permitted, Know Before You Fly would like to remind recreational flyers to follow these guidelines to keep the skies safe for all:

  • Fly no higher than 400 feet
  • Fly within visual line of sight
  • Stay well clear of other aircraft
  • Never fly within 5 miles of an airport without contacting airport authorities or air traffic control
  • Keep well away from emergency response efforts, such as fires
  • Beware of FAA airspace requirements (http://www.faa.gov/uas/tfr/)
  • Don’t fly under the influence
  • Register your device before your first flight (http://knowbeforeyoufly.org/register-your-drone/)

If you are flying for commercial purposes, please adhere to the FAA small UAS regulations, which can be found here.

Know Before You Fly was launched by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) in partnership with the FAA with the goal of spreading awareness about safe and responsible use of UAS. For more information on safe and responsible flying, visit KnowBeforeYouFly.org or follow @FlyResponsibly on Twitter. 

 

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14Jun

6 Drones For Professional Film and Photography

cinema_top_6The film and photography industry has quickly become one of the biggest adopters of drone technology. When DJI released a drone equipped with an HD camera and steadying technology, it was a game changer. Suddenly, an entire niche gained affordable access to perspectives previously reserved for helicopter and fixed-wing pilots. Most professional film and photography enthusiasts are primarily concerned with the quality of the camera. However, factors such as flight stability and ease of use are also important considerations. This short list includes 6 drones for professional film and photography that integrate these features best.  

Thor X4 Cinema Class UAS

Thor X4 Cinema Class UASThe Thor X4 Cinema Class UAS is a heavy lift octocopter. It's designed to carry professional filming cameras such as the Sony Fs700, or Canon C300. The Thor X4 is ATI's most advanced octocopter and is optimized for professional film applications. A number of upgrades have improved the drones' overall flight and performance. It is equipped with a dual battery box that can hold two, 20,000 mAH cell batteries, which provides a massive power source up to 40,000 mAH. In addition, the battery box gives the drone a stronger anchor point. A top plate provides extra protection for electronics and helps strengthen the frame. Main Features:
  • Designed to carry heavy cameras and other payloads
  • Optimized for professional filming applications
  • 18″ carbon fiber props that provide reduced flex and vibration
  • Better stability even in strong winds
  • Dual 20,000 mAH batteries for a combined 40,000 mAH power source
Rating: 10/10  

Chroma Camera Drone with 4K CGO3

The Chroma Camera Drone offers everything needed for professional film and photography -- all in one package. This quadcopter boasts a 4K camera, a long lasting power source and a touch screen controller. It is also equipped with advanced safety technology and modes for assisting beginner pilots. The Chroma Camera Drone is fairly easy to fly with smooth and predictable response. Plus, its aerial photography mode makes it easy for pilots to capture great shots. It also uses GPS and GLONASS for exceptional positional accuracy and reliability. It also captures steady and distortion-free images in amazing 4K high definition. Safety features include: Follow Me and Tracking modes, as well as a Return Home function. These features enable safer landings and enhance the equipment’s security. In addition, the Chroma Camera Drone allows for adjustable flight boundaries for responsible flying. Main Features:
  • Flight ready drone equipped with a stabilized 4K CGO3 camera
  • ST-10+ Controller with a touch-screen display
  • Smart Mode feature for first-time pilots
  • Aerial Photography mode for great panning and tracking shots
  • Adjustable flight boundaries
  • Return home mode for safe landings at the start-off point
Rating: 9/10  

DJI Phantom 3 Professional

The Phantom 3 Professional is widely regarded as one of the best film and photography drones available today. The Phantom 3 has worry-free navigation -- even while it processes and completes complex calculations in real time -- to assist pilots during flight. It isequipped with GPS-assisted hover to help operators keeps track of the equipment and easily fly the UAV back home. The Phantom 3 also boasts an unmatched propulsion system for its class and a smart battery for increased power. Sensors calculate battery power in real time so that pilots always know how much flight time is left. In addition to the above features, the DJI Phantom 3 Professional also compiles automatic Flight Logs, including flight route, time and distance information, as well as cached versions of any shots or video taken during the flight. Main Features:
  • Ultra HD recording with a 4K camera
  • Lightning fast brushless motors for fast, agile, and responsive flight
  • Advanced autopilot for automatic take off, flight, and return at the push of a button
  • Automatic flight logs that save details of each flight for future reference
  • Three axis gimbal for improved stability, crisp images, and smooth footage
Rating: 9/10  

DJI Inspire 1 Pro/Raw

Helix Inspire 1 Pro Aerial Drone KitThe DJI Inspire 1 Pro/Raw is a professional filming platform that combines the best of DJI's industry leading UAV technology and world class imaging capabilities. The Inspire 1 Pro/Raw drones are the smallest and easiest to fly in their class. They come equipped with the Zenmuse X5 and X5R professional cinema-quality cameras. The DJI Inspire 1 Pro/Raw has all the features flyers have come to expect: one button take-off, stable flight, return home, 360° camera views, to name a few. Main Features:
  • The world's smallest and easiest to fly professional aerial filming platform
  • Cinema quality Zenmuse X5 and X5R cameras designed for aerial imaging
  • Remote camera focus
  • Comprehensive control of drone and camera at all times
  • New design propellers and motors for fast and agile flying
  • Intelligent flight modes include home lock, course lock, and points of interest
Rating: 9/10  

Q-Cop 450 Quadcopter

The Q-Cop 450 Quadcopter from Hitec is the company's first multirotor drone and is designed for high performance flying and image capture. Its aerodynamic design ensures greater flight stability. Its built-in high definition camera captures high resolution aerial photos and real-time videos. Q-Cop 450 features include ultra-efficient propellers and brushless motors, and flight aids such as an autopilot return function. Main Features:
  • Streamlined, ergonomic design for incredible flight stability and performance
  • Built-in high performance 90° vertical HD camera with shock isolation
  • GPS enabled directional control
  • Automatic return-to-home feature
  • 22-33 mph cruising speed and 20-25 minutes of flight time
  • 300m range for streaming video direct
Rating: 7/10  

Yuneec Typhoon Q500 4K

As a company, Yuneec has developed and manufactured RCs for over 15 years. The Typhoon Q500 4K brings that expertise together and, as such, is considered the company's flagship drone. The Typhoon Q500 has smooth and stable flying. Plus, its all-in-one controller gives the operator camera control and a first-person view of images. The Typhoon Q500 is capable of capturing ground videos and photos thanks to a hand-grip option, which is included. For new pilots, the Typhoon offers two autonomous modes: Follow Me which tethers the drone to its controller and Watch Me which keeps the pilot in the frame of view. The Typhoon Q500 4K's sturdy body and strong arms highlight its quality construction and make the UAV a complete professional film and photography package. Main Features:
  • Responsive controls and smart modes for easy flying
  • Strong, sturdy and durable construction
  • Personal Ground Station with built-in touchscreen
  • CGO3 4K 3-axis Gimbal Camera
  • Handgrip for capturing ground footage
  • Watch Me mode that continuously keeps pilot in focus
  • FAA compliant No Fly Zone feature
Rating: 7/10   Film and photography professionals, as well as enthusiasts, have a growing number of drones from which to choose.  As for now, the drones outlined are a great place to start. They provide a nice combination of high quality cameras, smooth and stable flying, and ease of use.
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13Jun

Archeologist’s Latest Tool: Drones

archaeologyThe use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and all their forms – drones, multi-rotors, and quad-copters – has exploded in recent years. This explosive growth, coupled with increased affordability, has transformed the way industries approach business. The film and photography industry are such an example; drone technology now provides access to views that were previously the domain of helicopters and fixed wings. The advantages of drone-based imaging are many, and unmanned aircraft are fast becoming an indispensable tool to various industry professionals, including archaeologists. Drones offer archaeologists the ability to survey existing and future excavation sites in detail as well as provide a different perspective to workers on the ground.

Transforming the Science of Archeology 

By using UAVs for surveying, archaeologists capture a wider view of an entire site and can also identify possible areas of interest. While drone use is especially helpful before the start of an excavation, some professionals in the field are now using them during digs. One reason drones have become a crucial piece of equipment in archeology is their ability to provide low altitude shots, close ups, wide angles, and oblique shots. Archaeologists have long employed balloons and kites fitted with cameras to get aerial shots of the site. But now drones, such as DJI’s Phantom and the Yuneec Typhoon, capture these same shots extremely well and deploy quickly. Other benefits of drone use in archeology include the ability to fly in most weather conditions, something that is not always possible with balloons or kites. Drones are also capable of reaching less accessible areas such as wooded areas or the interior of caves. Plus, these vehicles can capture/record detailed two and three dimensional data of large areas that would otherwise require a lot of time and effort when done by people on the ground. Aside from the limitations caused by battery life, drone system operating costs are negligible once they are up and running. In addition to flying stability, drones appeal to archeologists because of their relative affordability. Additionally, archeologists also cite the fact that the machines are lightweight and easy to transport. Plus, their size and discrete nature is perfectly suited for sites that receive visitors.

The Future of Drone Use in Archeology

The majority of archaeologists employing multi-rotors in the field appreciate that they are relatively easy to fly and operate and come ready to use out of the box. This ease of use means that many archeologists are fast becoming comfortable piloting these crafts – taking off, landing, and taking pictures with ease. Other archaeologists prefer to hire qualified drone pilots. The scope and difficulty of each particular project usually determines if a professional operator is needed. In terms of future trends, most industries like archeology will continue to benefit from advances in drone technology that help extend flight durations. Continued advances in automation will also be a significant factor as well as improvements to imaging technology. The ability to use imaging data to recreate archeology sites as 3D models or digital terrain is an indispensable part of any archeologists work and yet more is on the way. For example, drone-mounted systems such as ground penetration radar would be a major advance not only for surveying known locations but for finding new and, as yet, undiscovered sites of historical importance.

The future is bright

While most archeologists and academic researchers using drones are already familiar with flying the UAV's, there is still a place for commercial drone services to thrive within this industry. It is clear that drone use has already transformed archeology work, and future trends point to the science's increased reliance on unmanned aerial vehicles.
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08Jun

KnowBeforeYouFly.org Announces Over 500,000 Unique Visitors

drones_before_flyWASHINGTON — Know Before You Fly announced today more than 500,000 unique users have visited its website since the launch of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) education campaign in December 2014. An estimated 700,000 UAS were sold in the United States in 2015, according to the Consumer Technology Association. In addition, more than 425,000 people have registered their drones since Dec. 21, 2015, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The robust traffic to the Know Before You Fly website is evidence that the safety campaign is potentially reaching the majority of people flying or interested in flying UAS.

Campaign Strength Contributed to Supporters

The campaign saw a spike in visitors during the holiday season likely due to a number of consumers purchasing UAS for the first time. In fact, Dec. 25 (Christmas Day) saw the highest number of visitors (6,009) to the site. Additionally, the spike in December may have been helped by the FAA’s Dec. 14 announcement requiring recreational operators of small UAS to register before the first flight outdoors. The strength of the campaign is due to its nearly 100 supporters, which play an invaluable role in amplifying the campaign’s educational efforts and informing the public by spreading the word about safe and responsible UAS use. Know Before You Fly lists several manufacturers, distributors and retailers as supporters, including Amazon, DJI, Horizon, and Walmart. The campaign also has a number of supporters from the manned and unmanned aviation communities as well as from a number of UAS training programs and research institutions, such as Virginia Tech. Many of these companies and organizations have agreed to include UAS safety information on their websites, with their products and/or at point-of-sale. For instance, in December 2015, DJI began distribution of the campaign’s safety brochures inside the packaging of all its U.S.-bound Phantom 3 and Inspire 1 UAS product series. Amazon launched the Fly Responsibly Drone Store and the company links to the campaign’s materials on Amazon.com. Meanwhile, Walmart is promoting a link to the Know Before You Fly website on its store shelves where drones are sold and a link to the campaign’s website is included on receipts for UAS purchases made in-store and online.

Traffic Tells the Story

Traffic to the website proves these education efforts are working. Nearly 41.6 percent of Know Before You Fly website traffic was referred from websites of campaign supporters’, such as the FAA.gov (14,020 referrals), TowerHobbies.com (10,274 referrals), Amazon.com (6,821 referrals), BestBuy.com (6,193 referrals), Yuneec.com(6,171 referrals), HorizonHobby.com (4,815 referrals), and HobbyPeople.net (1,671 referrals). Additionally, one of every three visitors to the site has typed the URL directly into their browser, which means more and more people know the campaign by name. Know Before You Fly was launched by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) in partnership with the FAA with the goal of spreading awareness about safe and responsible use of UAS. For more information on safe and responsible flying, see our Drones - What You Need To Know page with more information about the Know Before You Fly initiative. Read full press release: Know Before You Fly Reaches Major Milestone with More than 500,000 Unique Visitors to Website.
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