UAV Solutions
Fixed-wing solutions
RF-70
Advantages: low cost, low battery consumption, reliable.
Disadvantages: non-VTOL, big case, not as maneuverable.
Multicopers (and helicopters)
DJI-S1000
Advantages: VTOL, very popular, maneuverable.
Disadvantages: Less Flight time, more batteries required.
LiDARUSA is making every effort to bring to market a reliable, robust, easy to use and transport UAV capable of carrying the load required to scan with the Velodyne Puck or HD32, FARO 120 or X330, Riegl VUX, and even slightly heavier scanners with a variety of INS. This has proven to be quite the undertaking. While there is a wide multitude of vendors, hobbyists, specialists, etc. it is an extremely challenging problem to find a manufacturer that can provide the required solution. In this case, the platform must be able to easily support the weight of the required scanning system. This weight varies from just over 2kg to 20kg. Most likely the platform is a multi-copter or helicopter of some sort. This is beneficial from a landing and take-off vantage point and also for saving time along the desired trajectory. Time in the area is directly related to the vehicle efficiency, payload, battery supply, and environment among other things.
The biggest concern in our case is that the vehicle must be absolutely reliable. The payload is definitely going to be more expensive than the vehicle. For this reason diligence in manufacture and testing is of utmost importance. A $500 clunker can easily and safely transport a mobile mapping system. Sure, it may breakdown but if it does it is very unlikely it is going to crash and destroy the equipment on-board. The same is not generally true of a low-end, marginal, hobby grade UAV.
The FAA is finally moving forward on legislation in the US regarding commercial use of UAVs. The battle is still far from over. The LOS (line-of-sight) restriction remains quite high on the constraints of usefulness. Since the UAVs are rather small, they are quickly out of sight. Furthermore, since the flying height restriction is rather low (400 ft), the utility in forestry and other industries is limited again due to the LOS restriction and tall trees.
One thing is certain, UAVs are going to be used for commercial purposes soon (and they are in many cases already - both legal and not). LiDARUSA is making every effort to provide a trustworthy solution at a reasonable cost. Stay tuned as we continue to push forward in this market.
Don’t forget our gyroplane offering. If you need greater range and flexibility this is the perfect solution.
What happens if I crash?
In the advent of a crash, you will not have to pay full price to replace your system. What ever components are not damaged can be re-used. Additionally, since you already own the software you will not need to purchase that again. Let's say you have a Velodyne Puck system and you crash destroying only the Puck. To get your system going again will require a new Puck along with some other minor hardware (likely), a bunch of labor, and a new boresight. It is likely this could be accomplished for roughly $15,000.
Small UAS Must Be Registered under new FAA Rule
For more information and to view the full rule click here
