Tag - fixed-wing

23Mar

UgCS Mission Planning Software Now Available at Unmanned Systems Source

UgCS Mission Planning SoftwareMarch 23, 2017 – Unmanned Systems Source is pleased to announce a new distribution agreement with SPH Engineering. SPH Engineering is the creator of the popular UgCS Mission Planning Software which provides central management of all types and manufacturers of UAVs. It supports both fixed wing and multi-rotor platforms. Supported platforms, include: DJI Phantom 4 / 4 Pro, Phantom 3 and Phantom 2, Inspire 2, Inspire 1 / 1 Pro / Raw, Mavic Pro, A3, N3, Matrice 600 / 600 Pro, Matrice 100, A2, Naza-M v2, WooKong-M, Vision2+, Ace One. Currently, supported autopilots, include: Ardupilot, Px4 and other MAVLink compatible; InnoFlight: Jupiter JM-1; Mikrokopter; Micropilot; Microdrones; LockheedMartin: Kestrel, Indago. "UgCS software is a great addition to our site," said Andrew Osbrink, Business Development Director at Unmanned. "Whether a customer operates a fixed wing or multi-rotor, many crafts or just one, UgCS' flexible licensing model means organizations can purchase the license that works for their situation."  

The UgCS Desktop Solution

UgCS software has convenient tools for areal and linear surveys and provides direct drone control. Its modular architecture means ease of integration and simplifies adding support for new vehicles or payloads. Other features include easy route creation, an immersive 3D mission planning environmental and No-Fly zone support. In addition, it has built-in photogrammetry and geotagging tools, map customization, and more. Users can control one or a fleet of drones on a single mission, in multi-operator mode and in multi-platform environments.  

UgCS Mission Planning software options

OPEN is the free version of UgCS software. It offers limited capabilities in terms of the range of operations, functionality and support. However, it allows users insight into the software before making a purchasing decision. For UAV hobbyists and non-professional users, the ONE license is recommended. It provides unlimited range of operations with some limitation of the advanced functions. The PRO license is recommended for UAV professionals and land surveyors. It is the fully functional, multi-drone ground control software for professional UAV mission planning. Includes photogrammetry tools, digital elevation model (DEM) and KML file import to enable map customization. It also offers ADS-B receiver support to ensure flight safety. And finally, the ENTERPRISE license is for companies that operate a fleet of different manufacturer drones requiring a unifying ground station solution. Features ADS-B transponder support, multi-node deployment enables operation of a central server with unlimited connection to UgCS universal control server.  

About SPH Engineering

Founded in 2013, SPH Engineering employs both professionals and enthusiasts. They turn client ideas into products that address specific needs and requirements. Technology is not just a product for SPH Engineering, it's their passion. Visit Unmanned Systems Source to shop and compare UgCS Mission Planning license plans to find the one that is right for you.  
By Industry News, USS News, Vendor News, , , , , , , Comments OffRead more...
08Sep

Fixed Wing or Multi-Rotor?

news_headers_flat  

Should I buy a fixed-wing or a multi-rotor for my application?

At Unmanned Systems Source, we receive calls on a daily basis from customers who ask this very question. We always follow up with a question of our own, “I’m not sure, it depends. What’s your application?”. And so begins a conversation. Choosing between a multi-rotor or a fixed-wing is not always a straight forward choice. In fact, there are a number of factors that should be considered before making a selection. Common questions we ask interested buyers, include: What are the project objectives? How much area needs to be covered? What sort of flight duration is required? Are you collecting data? What is your payload? What is your experience level? And, finally, what is your budget? Once we understand the client’s needs and the operational environment, the choice comes into focus.

Fixed Wing Considerations 7200_c

Fixed-wings are generally better suited for rural environments and are work horses for many commercial and scientific applications. Though they may not offer the maneuverability of a multi-rotor, when it comes to flight times and coverage, fixed wings excel. Other advantages include:
  • Capability of operating at higher altitudes
  • Faster flight speeds
  • Power and capacity to carry heavier and, in some cases, multiple payloads – which in turn means the ability to gather more sophisticated data
  • Option to choose from a wider variety of sensors
  • Extended flight times, 60 minutes +
  • Larger coverage
In regards to the operational area required, it depends on the vehicle. Fixed wings need more space for takeoffs and landings. While hand-launched models deploy quickly, others require a launching rail. The initial costs to purchase a fixed-wing systems are higher but these systems are fairly inexpensive to maintain due to their simpler design. And there is usually less operational “down-time” for fixed-wings.  

M600-1-300x251@2x (1)Multi-rotor Considerations

The use of multi-rotors has exploded in recent years in large part due to their affordability and ease of use. But multi-rotor advantages certainly extend beyond these two points. Other advantages include:
  • Highly maneuverable in flight which is great for urban and tightly confined areas
  • Ability to hover – which make it an excellent choice for inspections of infrastructure that require close-up examination
  • Easy to operate and deploys quickly
  • Small takeoff and landing footprint
  • Affordable price-point
In flight, multi-rotors are incredibly maneuverable and can hover which make them the preferred choice for detailed inspection work and urban areas where space limitations are at a premium. They are also the obvious choice for video and photography work. Though multi-rotors provide only limited flight duration (15-20 minutes on average), their operational flexibility makes it a favored choice for many urban applications. Ultimately, the choice between a multi-rotor or fixed-wing for a specific application depends on a variety of factors. Understanding the strengths and limitations of each vehicle goes a long way in helping inform your decision.

Click here for the Fixed Wing or Multirotor Infographic!

By USS News, , , , , Comments OffRead more...
06Mar

Aeromao’s UAV ready-to-fly packages land at Unmanned Systems Source

aeromao drone takeoffMarch 4, 2015 – Aeromao’s Aeromapper UAV product line along with their extensive payload options are now available at Unmanned Systems Source. Aeromao’s Aeromapper EV2, Aeromapper Talon, and Aeromapper 300 offer the best value fixed-wing UAV for survey missions and photomapping applications. “We are very excited to bring Aeromao onboard,” said Jennifer Jerrick, President of Unmanned Systems Source. “Their packaged UAV’s help meet the growing demand for consumer friendly, ready-to-fly UAVs.” The Aeromapper EV2 and Aeromapper Talon also offer hot-swappable capabilities for ultimate versatility and unlimited applications. Aeromao brings years of experience and a history of innovative endeavors in the area of UAVs for high-precision mapping and aerial photography uses. Their continued goal is to produce the best-selling, ready to fly UAV for aerial photography and photomapping at an affordable price point. Shop the full line of Aeromao products here.
By USS News, , , , , , Comments OffRead more...