Industry News

06Feb

DHS Issues ‘Counter-Drone’ Procurement Guide for Emergency Responders

Department of Homeland Security's SAVER program recently identified 13 counter-unmanned aerial systems that could be useful for emergency response. To accompany this announcement DHS also issued a guide on their features to assist procurement. National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL) SAVER program conducted the market survey of counter-unmanned aerial systems to help emergency responders identify useful products. The SAVER program is designed to help emergency responders make procurement decisions. SAVER conducts operationally orientated assessments of equipment and then releases the information. Responders use that information to select, procure, use and maintain the equipment. Its Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) Market Survey identified 13 such products and weighed their benefits and suitability for specific purposes.  

Counter-UAS

A C-UAS can detect, track, mitigate or classify a SUAS (small unmanned aircraft system) that is in the area. The use of SUASs for both legitimate and unauthorized purposes is on the rise, leading to a flurry of campaigns and new regulations from the FAA in recent years. The study states that most of the SUAS-related incidents reported to law enforcement involve the unintentional misuse of SUAS, and pose safety rather than security risks. As such, the products described in the market survey offer responders the ability to track and/or mitigate SUAS that could pose a threat to public safety and critical infrastructure. The 13 systems vary in price, ranging from $7,500 to $1.9 million. At the top end of the scale is a 500-pound, anti-UAV defense system from Liteye Systems, which consists of a radar sensor, EO suite and a directional RF inhibitor. It can detect, track, classify and mitigate SUAS by selectively interfering with its C2 channels. The stationary variant attaches to a vehicle or a mast. It includes a thermal camera and a video tracker. Closely behind in price is the Sky Tracker from CACI international. This fixed system covers large areas by networking several systems together. The Sky Tracker uses proprietary algorithms to track and classify SUAS. The system’s RF jammer emulates SUAS signals to hijack the command and control system. Thus, preventing communication with the pilot on the ground.  

Detect and Classify

Additionally, there are also options for first responders who need C-UAS that detect and classify but don’t mitigate SUAS. The study outlines the features of the Elvira from Robin Radar Systems and the UAVX from Spotter RF. The 183-pound Elvira costs in excess of $160,000. It combines detection and classification in just one sensor, using color-coded tracks overlaid on Google Earth and then layered on a customized map. No price is listed for the UAVX, which uses video tracking and tracks SUAS in real time. At just $7,500, the least expensive product surveyed is the Excipio Net Gun from Theiss UAV Solutions and Carolina Unmanned Vehicles. Excipio Net Gun is solely for mitigating SUAS. It accomplishes this by launching a net to either ensnare the SUAS or launching it to another location. Of the 13 C-UAS listed, eight can detect, track, classify and mitigate SUAS. Two are just for detection, tracking and classification and three are used to mitigate only. Before making procurement decision, the report encourages responders to know the laws in their jurisdiction which may prohibit the use of certain C-UAS features. Access the full guide here.
By Industry News, , , , Comments OffRead more...
01Feb

The Pacific Ocean Drone Challenge

What lies between the Pacific coasts of Japan and Silicon Valley? About 4,500 miles of ocean, of course! A distance easily traveled by commercial airlines but certainly beyond the reach of non-military drones. But is that about to change? Yes. If, that is, a winner emerges from the Pacific Drone Challenge.

The challenge

This new competition challenges pilots and scientists around the world to fly a UAV from Japan to Silicon Valley, California. Furthermore, as the flight must be non-stop, there is no chance to refuel. This event is a daunting 4,500 mile challenge for all technology innovators. And, though such a challenge seems beyond current capabilities, it is viewed as a way to extend possibilities and the reach of technology. Much as Charles Lindbergh’s historic flight across the English channel did for aviation. The contest is open to participants around the world and there is no deadline. The winner is the first team to successfully take off from Japan and land safely in Sunnyvale, California.

No prize money

Currently, the Pacific Drone Challenge is more of a “what if” question than a formal competition. The 4,500 distance extends well beyond the reach of current non-military drones. As of yet, the competition is not offering any prize money for winning teams. So far, competing teams include the Japanese tech company, iRobotics, and the American aircraft company, Sabrewing. Both are sponsors of the challenge

Endless possibilities

If a team successfully complete the challenge, the new technology developed for such an adventure may just benefit the entire industry. Certainly, a commercial drone — at a fraction of the size, weight and cost of other aircrafts –  that can fly 4,500 miles non-stop offers significant benefits. Find out more about the Pacific Drone Challenge.  
By Industry News, , , , Comments OffRead more...
01Feb

Keys to Finding Work in the Drone Industry

The past decade witnessed the explosion of drone technology and the widespread adoption of this technology for numerous applications. The use of UAVs is varied — from construction and agriculture to videography and real estate — and applications continue to expand. This burgeoning industry has left many wondering if a passion for flight could evolve into an exciting career. However, the path to becoming a professional drone pilot takes diligence and planning. So, for an experienced drone pilot, how easy is it to set up business and watch the money roll in?  

Proper certification

A Remote Pilot Certificate is vital. FAA approval is required if a drone is used for any business purposes. Operating without such certification can result in hefty fines. A Remote Pilot Certificate, or “drone license”, allows a pilot to legally fly a drone for profit making purposes. The certification process differs between first-time pilots and those who are existing pilots. First-time pilots must: 
  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Read, speak, write, and understand English (*exceptions made for certain impairments)
  • Be in a physical and mental condition to safely operate a small UAS
  • Pass the initial aeronautical knowledge exam at an FAA-approved knowledge testing center
For a full list of requirements, visit the FAA website. Existing pilots:
  • Must hold a pilot certificate issued under 14 CFR part 61
  • Must have completed a flight review within the previous 24 months
For a full list of requirements, visit the FAA website. Of course, there are certain restrictions pilots must follow when operating a drone…even if it is for business purposes. Particular operation also require a 107 waiver – which can take weeks to clear. Holding the proper certification and understanding the rules governing flight operations are vital.  

To Niche or Not to Niche?

As drone technology evolves, more and more niche applications arise. As such, a great starting point is to identify the niches that best suit a pilot’s interest and skill set. Developing the knowledge and specialized skills needed for a particular sector — aerial cinematography, 3D mapping, precision agriculture — is one approach. And though all involve the use of a drone, payload selection (camera, lens, etc.), information capture and post-processing software are unique to the application. Plus, selecting the right vehicle is vital — not all drones are capable of supporting each mission. Specialization allows a pilot to gain the knowledge, experience — and optimal equipment — to operate as safely and efficiently as possible. All while producing exceptional results for the client. Of course, specialization has drawbacks but it is one way a drone pilot can separate themselves from an increasingly populated market.  

Outsourced work, another option

The number of industries using drones, of course, continues to grow. Some choose to keep all operations in-house while others are outsourcing all flight operations. Outsourced pilot positions put a premium on pilot competency and tend to require higher levels of professional experience, certification and training. Those interested in securing such work should place greater emphasis on gaining knowledge, expertise and the proper certifications. a professional reputation in order to be successful. As UAV applications increase and drone technology improves, the number of opportunities within the market will continue to expand. Of course, piloting UAVs as a career is an enticing prospect for many amateur drone pilots and enthusiasts. Ultimately, the quality of a pilot’s work is what will differentiate a professional from an amateur. By Pamela
By Industry News, , Comments OffRead more...
26Jan

Deadline for UAS Flight and Payload Challenge Approaching

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) recently issued a Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) competition. The challenge? Design and build a cost-effective drone that carries the biggest payload and stays airborne the longest. The top ten designs in the Unmanned Aerial Systems Flight and Payload Challenge compete for prize awards totaling $432,000. Hosted by NIST Public Safety Communications Research Program, the challenge consists of three stages. Stage 1, concept paper submission, closes January 29, 2018 at 3pm ET. In addition, finalists will showcase the UAS with paid travel to the NIST Robotics Lab and the 2018 PSCR Stakeholder conference. Results from the UAS Flight and Payload Challenge support the public safety community and its stakeholders.  

The challenge

Currently, one of the barriers for UAS used in a public safety realm is payload versus flight time. Multi-rotor UAS offer users many capabilities. However, limited flight time is still a very real challenge. Flight time is further reduced with the addition of a payload. Of course, payload capacity, energy source and flight time are all linked. Optimized design trade-offs can provide greater efficiency and flexibility. The focus of this design challenge is to keep the UAS, and its payload, airborne for the longest time possible. Such enhanced capacity supports first responders’ communication technology on the ground while they conduct their search. The advancement of UAS research will help search and rescue operations support payloads for wireless communications or other life-saving goods to save lives. There are no fees or qualifications needed to enter the first stage. Stage 1 winning ideas are eligible for remaining stages of the competition.
By Industry News, , Comments OffRead more...
23Jan

Drones in Hurricane Relief

2017 brought some of the most powerful storms of the decade, resulting in over $188 billion in damages. Just three major storms of the Atlantic hurricane season — Harvey, Irma and Maria — ran up the majority of the damages. Manned aircraft, though incredibly helpful, are often too large and heavy to land in areas affected by these storms. As such, many aid and relief organizations are looking for unorthodox solutions. Enter drones.  

Growing demand

Recently, the American Red Cross teamed up with the UPS Foundation in an effort to bring drones to natural disaster sites. But they aren't the only organization looking to use drones for disaster relief. Following Hurricane Irma, the FAA issued 132 airspace authorizations for drones to aid in recovery and response efforts.  

The advantages

When it comes to disaster relief work, drones offer many advantages over manned aircraft. Rapid deployment is one such advantage. Thanks to a small footprint, drones can launch quickly -- there is no need for a lengthy runway that is free from debris. Instead, drones can deploy from a variety of scenarios that are conducive to the hostile conditions surrounding relief work. As such, drones can quickly perform a wide variety of critical tasks, such as: finding people in need of help, surveying the scope of the disaster, delivering supplies, etc. Drones can also deliver life jackets and rescue ropes to areas ground-based rescuers can’t access as well as predict further flooding and provide estimates of how long specific areas will remain underwater. In preliminary research conducted last year in Europe, drones found isolated people significantly faster than ground-based rescue teams.  

Air National Guard

The Air National Guard found use for UAVs typically deployed in combat operations. These long-endurance UAVs are especially helpful when it comes to conducting aerial survey. Such survey are incredibly helpful and are used for a variety of purposes. Surveys provide a better understanding of the measure and scope of the destruction zone. They help inform which areas may need the most urgent assistance. And, they help identify passable routes for emergency crews to get to those in need.  

Florida Power

Commercial drone companies in Florida conduct aerial surveys to provide clear shots of damaged homes. This information, in turn, is given to insurance companies so that they can act quickly on claims. Florida Power deploys dozens of drone teams following a storm. The teams use the drones to access areas not available by other means. These quick aerial surveys help the company identify areas that need to have electricity restored.  

Red Cross and CyPhy

The Red Cross is also beginning to use drones for relief work. Their pilot program uses CyPhy Works’ Persistent Aerial Reconnaissance and Communications (PARC) platform. The platform provides continual power to drones flying stationary and up to 400 feet in the air via a tether. The tethered drone allows for uninterrupted surveillance for weeks at a time. Equipped with a 30X zoom camera, the drones can survey several miles. Such surveys allow users to assess the impact of a disaster in order to best direct relief efforts.   Drones played a growing and invaluable role in hurricane relief efforts in 2017. As the hurricane season ramps up, it is likely that drone use will continue to improve natural disaster relief efforts for years to come. As stated by FAA Administrator Michael Huerta, “I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that the hurricane response will be looked back upon as a landmark in the evolution of drone usage in this country.”
By Industry News, , , , , Comments OffRead more...
23Jan

5 Tips for Flying Drones in Cold Weather

Flying drones in cold weather is not an issue for many operators. After all, there is not much that keeps them from flying, even extremely cold weather. Besides rain and high winds, a drop in temperature is usually not enough to keep a pilot grounded. Today, a majority of multi-rotors can withstand temperatures ranging from 32-145 degrees Fahrenheit. For specific thresholds, check the user manual which came with the drone. However, drone operations in cold-weather do require adequate preparation.  

Tip #1: Avoid Ice Build-Up

Of course, there are a variety of cold-weather conditions that could endanger a drone's function. However, ice is one of the biggest issues an operator needs to guard against. At all costs, avoid any ice build-up on the device. If a drone’s wings or propellers become covered by ice, it can alter its load distribution and thereby affect its aerodynamics. Condensation is of particular concern. In cold-weather flights, freezing air flows over the warm body of the drone which can form into condensation. It can then settle and freeze on the surface of the drone affecting the UAVs flight performance. Furthermore, when the ice melts it can cause further damage by seeping into the drone’s internal electronics.  

Tip #2: Keep an Eye Out for Rain

Unless a pilot is aware and confident in the drones overall IP-rating, it is simply good practice to avoid flying in rainy conditions. Obviously, drones are machines made up of various electrical components. As such, these components are affected by moisture just like any other electronic. Water can seriously damage motors, camera’s and other parts. If caught in rain or snow, cease operations immediately and remove any water by wiping down the drone.  

Tip #3: Remember the Batteries

Cold weather impacts batteries differently than warm weather. As such, batteries need to be adjusted accordingly. In cold weather, the chemical response within the battery slows. This results in the reduction of flight time. Depending on the temperature, flight time can reduce by up to 20%.  Extreme drops in temperature can also result in a sudden reduction in power. In some instances, extreme temperatures can result in complete battery failure. Best practices for cold-weather battery care include:
  • Fully charge all batteries
  • Pack spare batteries
  • Store batteries in a warm place
  • Hover on the spot after take-off
  • Take it easy on the throttle when flying
  • Take a portable charger
To get longer life and flying time out of your batteries always ensure they are fully charged in preparation. These and any spares should be stored somewhere warm such as a suitable carrier during transit to avoid degradation. A sensible idea is to hover "on the spot" for a few seconds after takeoff. This allows the battery to warm up prior to full flight. Finally, be sure to also take it easy on the throttle during flight and consider bringing in the drone to land once you have less than 30% of power left as a precaution. This is where having spare batteries or a portable charger come in and it helps to guard against any sudden loss of power midair.  

Tip #4: Altitude and Local Weather

Another consideration is altitude. Flying in high altitudes means the propellers must spin faster to compensate for thinner air. As such, the batteries drain more quickly which means shorter flight times. Local weather can also greatly impact the length of drone flight. Areas described as ‘dry’ versus areas with more humidity in their air certainly affect a drones performance. Ground conditions are another factor. For example, puddles of water of packs of snow can damage a landing drone. In such conditions, weighted sheets can provide a dry surface on which to land - thereby minimizing contact with any moisture.  

Tip #5: Don't forget the pilot

Last but not least, it’s a good idea to look after the pilot, as well. Essential supplies, such as: gloves, goggles, scarves, layers of warm clothes, and hot drinks can keep pilots safe in the elements. Packing extra cloths to wipe down the drone after operations, is also helpful. Flying drones in cold weather is possible. Simply keep in mind the tips above to ensure a safe, efficient flight...despite the temperature.
By Industry News, , , , Comments OffRead more...