Tag - uav

05Jan

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.  
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03Jan

Drone-jacking: a growing risk

Drone-jacking: a growing riskIn a world increasingly reliant on technology to function, cyber security has quickly become an important issue. Which begs the question, how safe is your drone from a hacker attack? Experts predict that the hijacking of drones may be one of the next big cyber threats; which raises the potential for worrying possibilities. In its 2017 Threats Predictions Report, McAfee Labs listed drone hijackings as one of 14 cyber security issues for the coming year. The report noted that attacks against hardware – such as mobile devices and drones – would increase in 2017.  

What is Drone-jacking?

Drone-jacking is the act of taking control of a drone by hacking into its operating system. While some hackers do this for fun, the biggest threats come from individuals with malicious intent. Hacks of major sites demonstrate that the devices we now rely on are at risk. With their popularity and consumer success, drones have become a part of that conversation. One of the growing concerns? Many consumer drones lack adequate protection against hacking. And, unfortunately, even responsible drone operators are at risk. From recreational users to emergency responders and industrial uses, drones are becoming an integral part of life. Major tech companies such as Amazon, UPS and Domino’s are actively testing drones for use in the delivery of goods. As the number of drones in operation increase, experts fear drone-jacking may be a common occurrence.  

Drone-jacking: a growing risk

The risks associated with drone-jacking are varied. Such dangers range from the potential loss of expensive drones and equipment to the destruction of private property. For instance, reports of near misses with commercial airplanes could turn from problematic to catastrophic should the drone fall into the wrong hands. Also, military drones could be diverted from their official task and used as lethal missiles by criminal hackers. In addition to the serious security risks stemming from drone-jacking, commercial operators also stand to lose out. Delivery drones could also be at risk of getting hijacked. Thus, robbing the company and inconveniencing customers, at the very least. Likewise, most drones still cost a significant amount of money and come equipped with expensive equipment and accessories. So, replacing a drone in the event of a jacking comes at financial cost to the owner.  

Protecting UAVs from getting drone-jacked

Thankfully, for every hacker with ill-intentions there are many more fighting for the good use of technology. Many security firms are currently working on strengthening UAV systems. However, even as more effective defense measures are conceived, attackers continue to develop counter measures. It is more and more imperative that Drone owners, particularly commercial operators, become vigilant about their hardware’s security. Simple steps include: staying informed, investing in the latest security and keeping software updated. Other measures include improving the protection of data and software systems related to the UAV as well as detection capabilities and response. Measures also include protecting the ground controller; if it is a tablet or smartphone using anti-virus software. Pilots may wish to consider using a VPN service to protect the devices’ internet connection from hackers, as well. Other users recommend varying your flight paths to reduce the chances of your UAV becoming an easy target for hackers looking to intercept it. As a whole, the industry needs to continually develop solutions that make attacks more difficult and expensive for perpetrators to carry out.  

Protecting your drone

In conclusion, both drone enthusiasts and commercial operators need to invest in security as well as robust equipment and technology. Drone-jackings may be the wave of the future but drone owners have steps they can take to protect themselves and their equipment.  
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22Dec

Unwrapping a drone this holiday season?

Unwrapping a drone this holiday season?Before you fly, review the steps below to make sure your first flight is a success. December 22, 2016 – Last Christmas the FAA estimated that over 1 million individuals received a drone as a gift. This year, that number is expected to rise. The continued popularity of drones, coupled with increased selection and lower prices, means a fair share of holiday gifts will include a drone. However, with that gift comes responsibility. So, what exactly do first time flyers need to do before taking that drone out for a spin? Read on to find out.  

Register your drone

Whether a drone is for commercial purposes or simply for fun, it must be registered with the FAA. Any drone weighing between 0.55 lbs. and 55 lbs. must be registered. The registry helps create accountable flyers and safer skies. Any time you fly, make sure you bring your registration information with you. Think of it like a fishing license, it doesn’t do you much good sitting at home. Registration costs $5 and it is a much cheaper than paying a fine up to $27,500 in civil penalties for flying unregistered. Unregistered drones, coupled with criminal penalties, are far steeper and could cost an operator up to $250,000. Save yourself the stress and risk; take 5 minutes, spend $5 and register your drone with the FAA.  

Know the rules

The rules for hobbyist drone operators are quite simple:
  • Keep it low – never fly above 400 feet
  • Keep it in sight – keep visual contact of your drone at all times
  • Keep it away – never fly over people
  • Keep it legal – fly according to community-based guidelines
  • Give notice – if you’re flying within 5 miles of an airport
As for commercial flyers, they have additional requirements and guidelines they must follow. Plus, there are tests they must pass and licenses they must secure before operating their vehicle.  

Know your airspace

Those open skies aren’t as open as you may think. In fact, our airspace is crowded with all types of air traffic – commercial and recreational, alike. It is your responsibility to understand what is going on above and around the area you are flying your drone. It is good practice to stay away from dense, urban areas. Dense areas are littered with trouble spots for drones: powerlines, pedestrians, private property, and moving vehicles…to name a few. Keep it safe, fly in deserted areas far from the city. Also, remember to stay at least 5 miles away from an airport.  

Know the weather

That drone may not be as rugged as you think. Keep your equipment safe, take a moment to look at weather conditions. High winds? Low visibility? Air pressure changes? These factors, and more, can significantly impact your drone’s performance…as well as yours, as a novice flyer. For instance, flying in stiff winds can impact the life of your battery and, thus, decrease flight endurance.  

Know your limits

As you may guess, it takes a lot of time and a lot of practice to become a proficient drone operator. Though the drone may come out of the box ready-to-fly, it doesn’t mean the operator has the skills to keep it from crashing. If you’re just starting out, take your time. Get familiar with your drone. Read the manuals.  Become comfortable in your operational controls. Practice take-off and landing before venturing out. Once you’re ready for a longer flight, keep it safe…follow the recommended guidelines.   As the skies continue to fill with drone traffic, the actions of individual operators are sure to determine the pace and integration of this technology into daily life. Follow the rules and enjoy!
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05Dec

Watch: Unmanned Systems Source Presentation at Arizona UAS 2016

In this video, Andrew Osbrink gives a presentation on the business of Unmanned Systems Source, the customers we support, and where the future of the UAV market is heading. Recorded September 2016 at the Arizona UAS conference in Phoenix Arizona.

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05Dec

Apple May Harness Drone Technology To Improve Apple Maps Accuracy

Apple has supposedly begun work on a drone-powered alternative to keep their Apple Maps service up to date and faster that their current fleet of sensor and camera-outfitted vans and vehicles. According to a report by Bloomberg Technology, Apple intends to use drones to examine street signs and track changes to streets and roads. Additionally, the report indicates that monitoring construction projects is also a major goal of the project, which has not yet been fully approved by the FAA. While Apple usually does not respond to inquiries regarding future plans and technologies they will be using, there was an FAA exemption granted on March 22, 2016 for Apple to "operate an unmanned aircraft system to conduct data collection, photography, and videography". In the application, Apple stated they would be using many different drones from DJI, Intel, and Parrot, with data collection services managed by a company called Aibotix GmbH. In the application, Apple also addressed potential safety hazards of using the drones and how they intend to mitigate the risk:
The proposed operations do not create any hazard to users of the NAS or pose a threat to national security. The Aircraft are battery operated with a maximum flight time of less than 25 minutes. The Aircraft weigh less than 55 pounds. The Aircraft will be operated at or below 400 feet AGL within the visual line of sight of the pilot in command. UAS operations will be over private or controlled access property with the permission of the owner/controller or authorized agent.
You can read the full FAA exemption filed by Apple here. If Apple begins mapping efforts as intended, they may face some obstacles considering that current FAA exemptions still do not allow you to fly over people or roads. How Apple intends to navigate around these restrictions is still up in the air (no pun intended). Digital maps are essential to both the Apple and Google ecosystems, with consumers and developers alike both relying on the accuracy of the maps to travel to and from locations, and develop applications that use the map features. Accuracy is key, and if Apple can improve its current mapping efforts to match or beat Google, they will be well positioned for growth and user adoption.
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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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