Small size drones, weighting less than 25Kg, known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned aerial systems (UAS), or RPAS (remotely piloted air systems), are increasingly being used for multiple purposes in a variety of industries. You are well aware of that, aren’t you?
Nowadays, there are three main types of drones:
- Rotor drones, also known as quadrotors or multicopters, are drones that are lifted and propelled by four or more rotors. They are highly maneuverable and can hover in place.
- Fixed-wing drones, propelled by a single fixed wing or pair of wings, similar to an airplane. They are generally more efficient and can cover larger distances, but they are not as maneuverable and require a longer takeoff and landing distance.
- VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) drones are equipped with both fixed wings and rotors, which allows them to take off and land vertically and transition to horizontal flight. They are effective to take off and land in confined spaces and can hover in place as well as to fly efficiently over long distances.
Drones are able to capture high-resolution imagery and other data quickly and efficiently:
- RGB (red, green, blue) imagery. This type of imagery is created using visible light and is often used to create high-resolution maps and 3D models of structures and landscapes. In addition to providing detailed visual information, RGB imagery can also be used to measure distances and calculate volumes.
- NIR (near infrared) imagery. NIR imagery is created using wavelengths of light that are outside the visible spectrum and is particularly useful for agriculture mapping. By analyzing NIR imagery, farmers and other agriculture professionals can identify areas of their fields that may be experiencing stress or other problems, such as nutrient deficiencies or pest infestations.
- LIDAR sensors, which use lasers to measure distances and create detailed 3D models of structures and landscapes. Lidar is often used in combination with RGB and NIR imagery to create highly accurate and detailed maps and models.
There are many potential uses for drones beyond mapping and inspections, and the technology is constantly evolving:
- Drones equipped with specialized sensors and software can be used to conduct precise surveys of construction sites, helping engineers and architects to create accurate and detailed plans.
- Drones can also be used to create high-resolution maps of natural disasters, such as floods or wildfires, helping emergency responders to better understand the extent of the damage and plan their response.
Drones are also being used in a variety of other industries, including agriculture, forestry, and environmental monitoring.
- Drones can be used to monitor crops, identify pests, and measure soil moisture levels, helping farmers to optimize their irrigation and fertilization practices.
- Drones can also be used to track the movements of wildlife and monitor the health of forests, helping conservationists to protect endangered species and preserve natural habitats.
Drones can be particularly useful in situations where it would be difficult or dangerous for humans to access:
- Conduct inspections of structures and other remote assets, i.e., bridges, high-rise buildings, and other structures for damages.
- Earthquakes, wildfires, floods, toxic areas.
Overall, the use of small size drones for mapping and inspections is likely to continue to grow in the coming years, as the technology becomes more advanced and more widely available.
It is important to note that the use of drones is regulated by various laws and regulations, depending on the location and the specific application.
- Drones are subject to rigorous rules, including rules regarding altitude, distance from people and property, and the type of airspace in which they can be flown.
- Drones may be required to be registered and equipped with tracking devices, and operators may be required to hold a pilot’s license or other qualification.
- USA rules – EU rules
it is important for operators to understand and follow all relevant laws and regulations to ensure that drones are used safely and responsibly, as well as to obtain necessary permits, undergoing training or certification, and taking other precautions to ensure the safety of people and property.
In addition, it is important for operators to follow best practices for drone operation, such as performing regular maintenance on the drone and following established protocols for takeoff and landing.
Drones are a powerful tool. However, it is important for operators to follow all relevant laws and regulations, and to take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of people and property.
With the right training, kind of flying technology and payload equipment, drones can be an invaluable tool.
There are many different factors to consider when choosing a small size drone for multipurpose or mapping and inspections. Some of the key factors to consider include:
- Range: The range of a drone refers to the maximum distance it can travel from its operator. If you need to cover a large area or access hard-to-reach locations, you will need a drone with a long range.
- Battery life: The battery life of a drone will determine how long it can fly before needing to be recharged. If you need to fly for long periods of time or cover a large area, you will need a drone with a long battery life.
- Payload capacity: Depending on the specific application, you may need a drone that is capable of carrying a variety of sensors and other payloads. Make sure to choose a drone that has a sufficient payload capacity to meet your needs.
- Imagery and data quality: The quality of the imagery and other data captured by the drone is a critical factor for mapping and inspection applications. Look for a drone that is able to capture high-resolution imagery and other data with a high degree of accuracy and detail.
- Stability and reliability: Mapping and inspection applications often require accurate and reliable data, so it is important to choose a drone that is stable and reliable.
- Ease of use: If you are new to drone operation, you may want to choose a drone that is easy to fly and comes with a user-friendly interface.
- Price: The cost of a drone can vary significantly depending on its capabilities and features. Make sure to choose a drone that fits your budget, but also consider the long-term value of the drone and its potential return on investment.
- Support and training: It is important to choose a drone manufacturer that provides good support and training, so you can get the help you need if you have any questions or issues.
it is important to carefully evaluate the specific needs and requirements of your application when choosing what drone to buy.
Some of the leading small size drone manufacturers for inspection and mapping purposes include DJI, Parrot, Wingtra, and Yelloscan.
Overall, regardless of the specific brand or model, before choosing a drone better define its purpose or even better, the motivation of the business is supporting behind the technical activity of a drone.
That is the WHY.
Defining the why is important because it helps to clarify the goals of the business and gives it a sense of direction.
It ensures that the business is solving a real problem or meeting a genuine need in the market.
It figures out the proper HOW or sets the specific steps and actions that need to be taken to achieve the goals of the business.
At Drone to Business, we help you to set your WHY first.
There are many potential applications for drones and by clearly defining the purpose of the business, you can help to differentiate yourself from competitors and establish a clear focus for your company.
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