Tag - drones

Starting a Real Estate Based Drone Business in 6 Easy Steps

Drones have added a new dimension to a great number of industries and services. Once a pastime for RC enthusiasts, today this technology opens up new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to start a business. The real estate industry is one such sector that is taking advantage of the new technology. It's easy to see how stunning, high definition aerial footage of a listing would benefit a realtor's marketing efforts. In fact, a growing number of realtor's are turning to this technology to gain a competitive edge, especially for their high-end listings. Drone enthusiasts have taken notice. If you're considering a drone-based business geared towards the real estate industry, there are a number of factors to consider. Read on to learn the 6 top things to consider before you print those business cards.  

Step One: Know the Rules and the Regs

It might seem like starting your business is as easy as purchasing a drone, opening the box and launching it into the sky. Well, not quite. In fact, besides securing the normal business licenses, it's important to understand what the FAA requires of all drone operators. Did you know that there are operational requirements for anyone who uses a drone to conduct business? This also includes the requirement to either hold a remote pilot airman certificate with a small UAS rating or be under the direct supervision of someone holding a remote pilot airman certificate. To learn what the rules and regulations are and, most importantly, how they impact you, visit Know Before You Fly. This non-profit organization is dedicated to educating prospective users about the safe and responsible operation of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).  

Step Two: Flight Proficiency and Safety

The next considerations are flight proficiency and safety; each are important for the initial and long-term success of your new venture. After all, work as a real estate drone photographer requires a high level of flying expertise. After all, this work involves flying in public places and over private property. One wayward move and the entire endeavor could end in disaster. Flight safety classes area a great place to start. Whether you take lessons from an approved instructor or decide to shadow an experienced pilot, it pays to put in the hours of practice. As mentioned above, the work of real estate aerial photography involves flying in public. As such, safety is crucial. A flight safety class will also help you become familiar with your drone. Once you or an appointed pilot are proficient in flying the drone it's time to consider the next step: choosing the aerial vehicle and equipment.  

Step Three: The Right Drone and the Right Equipment

Before you purchase, ask yourself: what type of service do I want to provide? High definition video footage? Aerial photography? What equipment will I need to deliver those services? There are countless drones and drone packages offered today. Your answers will help make your selection a bit more manageable. The old adage remains true, you get what you pay for. Investing in a high quality drone usually means better flight capabilities and higher quality equipment. Take time to comparison shop to ensure you get the best bang for your buck. Some drones come standard with gimbals and flight stabilization software. Others do not. Such equipment ensures the videos and photos you capture are as clear as possible - something that can give you an edge over your competitors.  

Step Four: Market Research, Find a Niche and Establish Pricing

It is possible, with a little advanced work, to establish yourself as the go-to real estate photography expert in your area. To do so, it's going to take some research. Find out who in your area is offering similar services and at what prices. Research how they are marketing their services. Do they have a website? Are they on social media platforms, if so, how are they using these platforms to sell their services? As you determine pricing, make sure the packages take into account all the expenses you'll incur to provide this service. Consider any pilot fees, equipment costs and the like while maintaining reasonable fees for the area. Don't limit yourself. There are other areas where your growing skills can be utilized in other industries such as building inspections or land surveying.  

Step Five: Business Insurance

The drone industry is still in its formative years and, as of yet, there are no legal requirements for you to insure your drone. However, it is probably a sensible thing to do. From crashes to accidental fly-aways, there are a number of things that can go wrong in a drone related business. It is also a good idea to meet with an insurance agent to find out how to best protect your entire business. After all, crashing a drone through a client's window is certainly a distinct possibility. Its best to have coverage that protects your business for any eventuality. Getting your business insured may not seem worth it but consider the fact that damage to your drone or private property can put a hold on your business, or worse.  Plus, it will give any potential clients peace of mind to know your insured.  

Step 6: Keep an Eye on Costs

The main aim of starting your real estate photography business is to make money. It is easy to get carried away setting up a new business in an area you’re passionate about but a strong business mind is also required to succeed. As such, it is important to keep an eye on costs. Keep expenditure to a minimum but at the same time never scrimp on quality as this will only affect your final results and customer satisfaction. In your quest to create a successful business it is now also time to get the word out and acquire some clients. There are many ways to do this, including registering on drone services websites, reaching out to real estate companies, social media, and more. When reaching out to real estate offices persistence is important but remain courteous and professional as they can be quite busy. The drone industry and its related business possibilities are still in their infancy. Creating a drone based business now will allow you to take advantage of future business opportunities. The tips above are a great place to start.  

uAvionix tests dime-sized ADS-B for high traffic density drone operations

uAvionix tests dime-sized ADS-B January 30, 2017 - uAvionix Corporation based in Palo Alto, California continues to innovate within the ADS-B transceiver market. Today, uAvionix announced the development and test of a dime-sized transceiver weighing less than 1 gram. UAvionix worked under a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement with the FAA and other partners to test this prototype.  

Smallest transceiver to-date

This ADS-B module represents the smallest transceiver to date. Its small form factor is designed to integrate directly into professional and consumer-level drones with transmission power between 0.01-0.25 Watts. It could provide visibility to any aircraft equipped with ADS-B “in” avionics from 1-10 miles away. Currently, the product does not fall within current FAA standards due to its low power output transmission.  

Need for uAvionix dime-sized ADS-B

Recently, a study published in January by the MITRE Corporation’s Center for Advanced Aviation Systems Development (CAASD) envisioned a world of very high traffic densities of drones with on-board ADS-B. The study sought to understand the implications of such a scenario. It suggested that there is a nominal transmission power output between 0.01 and 0.1 Watts that, when coupled with limited drone traffic densities, can result in a compatible operation with the system as a whole. uAvionix believes this module is a step towards the future. “We developed this product to show the world the art of the possible,” said Paul Beard CEO of uAvionix. “We can’t yet sell this device because the standards that were developed for ADS-B did not take into account the value of air-to-air ADS-B communications between small drones or between drones and manned aircraft. It’s literally not legal to transmit at these low power outputs. We aim to lead the discussion and development of those standards and will work with any regulatory body to do so.”  

About uAvionix

uAvionix develops the world’s smallest, lightest and most affordable ADS-B transceivers and transponders, Ping. UAvionix’s Ping network system combines hardware, software, and real-time airspace mapping to enable companies to safely and reliably operate drones in the National Airspace System (NAS). Shop the complete line of uAvionix ADS-B products at Unmanned Systems Source.

Drone Repair Shops

Drone Repair ShopsToday, thanks to a continued decrease in price, drones are now a fairly mainstream product. The skies, which were once the domain of experienced pilots, are filling with newbie operators trying their hand at drone flight. As such, some have discovered that “ready-to-fly” – as many drones are marketed – can really mean, “ready-to-crash”.  Of course, even veteran operators experience the odd mishap or two. When it inevitably occurs, a crash can impact the vehicle in a number of ways – from slight damage to outright destruction or complete loss of the vehicle. So, what should you do in the event your drone requires repairs? While some may have the skill and confidence to make their own repairs, other may hesitate. After all, these technological wonders, though more affordable, still cost hundreds of dollars. For the hesitant, perhaps a professional drone shop is the answer. But, what should you look for when choosing a shop? How do you get about getting your drone fixed? And how much will it cost? Read on to discover answers to these commonly asked questions.  

Drone repair shops: a growing industry

As the number of drones have steadily increased, so have the number of drone repair shops. It’s not surprising given the costs associated with purchasing these vehicles. Many would rather spend money repairing their drone versus simply discarding it once its damaged. To ensure your drone works as it should, it is advisable to entrust the repair work to a professional. For those with a professional repair facility nearby, its an easy solution. Simply call the shop, set up an appointment and take your drone to the shop. For those users who don’t have a local repair shop, there’s good news. Many drone repair stores accept drone delivery by mail. All you have to do is box up your damaged vehicle and send it to them.  

 Emerging companies

 As mentioned, the number of professional drone service companies, though growing, is still relatively limited. A web search should prove useful when determining your service repair options. There are a few companies attempting to distinguish themselves in this burgeoning industry. Unmanned Systems and Solutions (USAS) recently opened a 120,000 square foot facility in Chicago, Illinois. They claim to offer quick evaluation and repair of many major manufactured brands. Consumers can print a mailing label and ship their drone in for evaluation – which is usually completed within 48-hours. Another company is Expert Drones, which operates from its Old Town Alexandria repair location. Like USAS, Expert Drones also accepts damaged drones at any of their four repair facilities. Drone e-commerce website DroneFly also offers a repair service although that is currently closed to new repairs due to high volume. One thing to remember, not every shop fixes all brands of drones. Make sure you double check that they can service the make and model of your drone before you send it to them for repairs.  

Evaluation, Costs and Duration

Once you’ve selected the repair shop, the next consideration is cost. How much can you expect to pay to have your damaged drone evaluated and repaired? Most shops will charge to evaluate your drone as well as provide a list of repairs and the costs associated with each. Evaluation fees fluctuate between the various companies. On average, the cost for a drone repair evaluation is around $30. Repair costs of course depend on the damage the drone sustained. Average repairs cost around $200, with most jobs completed in less than a week. Don’t forget to account for ship time. Given these factors, most drone owners can expect to have their drone flying again within two weeks. The growing number of repair facilities is welcome news for frustrated pilots with damaged drones who hope to fly again quickly. When compared to the cost of purchasing a high-end drone, the price of repairs is reasonable. If the unfortunate does happen and your drone is damaged, professionals are now available to provide repairs. And, whether your damaged drone is for work or pleasure, you’ll soon be flying again in no time.

Indian Student Develops Landmine-Clearing Drone

Fourteen-year-old Indian student develops a drone designed to clear mines.

Landmine Clearing Drone? A landmine clearing drone may sound incredible. However, a fourteen-year-old from India has designed a machine that does just that – an anti-landmine drone that can detect and clear landmines. Harshwardhan Zala found inspiration for his creation while watching news footage. “I learned that a large number of soldiers succumb to injuries sustained due to landmine blasts while defusing them manually,” Zala said in an interview with the Times of India. The news report got Zala's mind spinning. In response, Zala designed and constructed a drone to dispose of landmines in a safer manner with less risk to human life. The first few vehicles were funded by Zala's parents. “I started making drones on my own and set up an interface with a base station but realized I need to do more,” said Zala. “So I fixed payloads that detect landmines.” Those small beginnings quickly changed when he won an innovation prize at the L.D. College of Engineering in Gujarat. Soon after, Zala found himself at Google headquarters where he was invited to share his invention with investors. And most recently, the government of India at the Vibrant Gujarat Summit, granted the designer a contract to produce these drones for use in war zones.  

The danger of landmines

According to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines website, antipersonnel landmines are explosive devices placed under or on the ground. They are designed to detonate by the presence, proximity or contact of a person. These devices can lie dormant for years and even decades until a person or animal triggers the mechanism - inflicting catastrophic injuries and even death. Landmines are indiscriminate; whoever triggers the mine, whether a child, a soldier, or an aid-worker becomes its victim. Mines placed during a conflict against enemy forces can still kill or injure civilians decades later. Removing landmines is extremely hazardous which is why Zala's drone has garnered such interest.  

Payloads for a landmine clearing drone

Payloads for this drone include an infrared, RGB sensor and a thermal meter, and a 21-megapixel camera with a mechanical shutter. The camera can take high-resolution pictures, as well. The drone also comes equipped with a 50-gram explosive that is used to safely destroy the mine without risking life. Zala has registered his drone for a patent and started his own company, Aerobotics. His intention is to produce more sUAS in the future.

uAvionix Ping200S granted FCC approval

uAvionix Ping200S granted FCC approvalJanuary 6, 2017 – uAvionix continues to roll-out innovative products within the Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) arena. Their latest addition? The Ping200S Mode S Transponder, which just received FCC approval. The Ping200S provides a unique combination of small size, low power and high visibility. All these factors make it an ideal choice for drones and other beyond line of sight UAV operations. “We are excited to offer Ping200S to the market,” said Paul Beard, CEO of uAvionix. “Until now, operators requiring a transponder had to choose between unlicensed devices or heavier, power-hungry legacy solutions.”  

How it works

Transponders are a vital part of airspace safety. They provide separation and safe operation to thousands of aircraft every day. The Ping200S transponder allows the same safety and situational awareness capabilities of traditional aircraft transponders. The device allows an aircraft to respond to interrogations by traditional radar and TCAS found on many manned aircraft. In addition to providing replies to Mode C and Mode S interrogations, it also reports the unmanned aircraft identification, type, position, velocity and course at one-second intervals using ADS-B. Manned aircraft equipped with ADS-B receivers or TCAS can identify and display a Ping200S equipped UAVs miles in advance of visual contact. Thereby, greatly increasing awareness and reducing the chance of a collision or a near-miss scenario.  

Ping200S FCC approval

FCC approval of the device means it met the rigorous standards to transmit safely on the 1090MHz with a nominal output of 250W. In addition, the Ping200S meets the performance requirements of the TSO-C199 as a Class A Traffic Awareness Beacon System (TABS). Weighing just 50 grams, the Ping200S has such low power consumption that it can be powered by a battery pack for hours and provide visibility to other aircraft up to 200 miles away. “The Ping200S will extend flight time and increase available payload for high altitude balloon and beyond line of sight (BLOS) UAV operators with no compromise to safe operation or performance,” said Beard.

Shop Unmanned Systems Source to find the Ping200S and other ADS-B solutions.

 

No Drone Orca Zone

New legislation in Washington State aims to protect some special residents

No Drone Orca ZoneLegislation introduced in the state of Washington aims to limit drone interference for some very special residents…an endangered population of Orcas. These Orcas, also known as the southern resident killer whales, are the smallest of four resident communities within the area. It is the only killer whale population listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. In addition, they are protected under the Endangered Species Act. The proposed bill requires drone operators to maintain a 200-yard buffer, in all directions, from any southern resident killer whales. This buffer already applies to boats, vessels and other objects that might encroach on the animals. However, the existing law was unclear as to whether or not the line other objects applied to drones and other sUAS.  

Legislators aim to eliminate confusion

In 2015, a drone operator in San Juan County was fined $1,025 for flying too close to the southern resident killer whales. Consequently, the drone operator's attorney argued that the word “object” was not specific enough to cover drones. The attorney's arguments succeeded and the fine was dismissed. After the dismissal, San Juan County Prosecutor, Randall Gaylord, recommended changing the existing law to include specific language about drones. The change would help bring clarity for all involved – prosecutors, law enforcement officials and drone operators. However, clarity is simply a by-product of the legislation.  

No Drone Orca Zone original intent

According to State Rep. Kris Lytton, D- Anacortes, her primary motivation for introducing the bill was to address growing concerns from area residents. The southern resident killer whales are a popular attraction. Each year, thousands travel to the area in the hopes of catching a glimpse...including drone operators. As a result, the number of people launching drones from boats to view the whales has increased. Which, in turn, has raised concern from residents. “I think it is reasonable that drones should have the same parameters as whale-watching vessels or private vessels,” said Lytton. Though drones seem a less invasive option to monitor and photograph orcas, it is still not clear how this technology impacts the whales. Until that impact is clear, the no drone orca zone aims to hold drone operators to the same standards as other vessels operating near and around these killer whales.