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Posts Tagged ‘drone’

Yuneec introduces new gimbal-stabilized 4K Mantis G drone

05 Sep

On the first day of the annual InterDrone conference in Las Vegas, Yuneec has introduced its latest quadcopter. Aimed specifically at consumers, the Mantis G was created for those wanting to enhance their social media profiles with HD (high-definition) and 4K aerial video or imagery captured from a unique perspective.

The portable and foldable Mantis G weighs one pound, making it ideal for travelers capturing imagery on the fly. It features a gimbal-stabilized camera that can record video up to 4K at 30 frames per second. Photos can be taken on the 13-megapixel camera in either JPG or DNG format.

The Mantis G measures at 10.5 inches, without the propellers, and is being marketed as ‘the perfect upgrade to your Instagram story.’

A maximum 33-minute flight time makes it the longest in its class. The drone can land automatically and be folded up within seconds so consumers can head off to their next adventure. Seamless social media integration allows users to instantly share their media on their social channels.

In the spirit of enabling consumers to capture professional-grade imagery with a creative twist, Yuneec has equipped the Mantis G with Waypoint Mode, which allows users to plot out a specific flight path for the drone, and the Visual Tracking feature that ensures the drone follows its designated target everywhere. For racing enthusiasts, the Mantis G can reach speeds up to 44 miles per hour.

The Mantis G can be controlled with a smartphone, via the controller that is included with the drone, or by voice control. Yuneec has modified its Pilot App to accept new voice commands from flyers. Modified antenna design and redundant frequencies (2.4 and 5 GHz), coupled with the new Smart Streaming feature, guarantee stable communication and signal transmission between the drone and controller.

One notable selling feature on the Mantis G from Yuneec is that any video, photo, or telemetry data will not be transferred or contained on any external servers. Recently, leading manufacturer DJI has released statements denying accusations of doing the same with their consumer data. The Mantis G was developed on open source PX4 code. No Fly Zones surrounding international airports have been integrated into the software, preventing unsafe and illegal flights. GPS and IPS sensors allow it to be flown both indoors and outdoors, making it that much for versatile for content creators.

The Mantis G retails for $ 699 and can be ordered here.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Parrot announces the ANAFI FPV drone with 4K HDR video and 21MP stills

03 Sep

French manufacturer Parrot may have recently exited the toy drone market by retiring their Bebop and Mambo models, but its time in the drone market is far from over. Today, Parrot announced the Anafi FPV, a portable, foldable drone, based on its regular ANAFI model.

The ANAFI FPV features Parrot’s unique 180-degree tilting camera, 4K HDR video, a CMOS 1/2.4” 21-megapixel sensor and 3-axis stabilization with standard 3X zoom. The LD-ASPH lens boasts an F2.4 aperture and 26mm (35mm equivalent) focal length. The drone weighs 350 grams (0.77 pounds), has a maximum transmission distance of 2.5 miles, a flight time of 26 minutes, and a top speed of 34 miles per hour.

Parrot has focused its efforts on creating a fully immersive experience with its Cockpit Glasses 3 and the continual development of its FreeFlight 6 app. Pilots can easily toggle between flight modes to fine-tune their imagery. Arcade Mode allows users to capture imagery by simply pointing their camera in their direction of choice. It can be combined with the Cinematic preset to simulate a ‘bird’s eye view.’

Other built-in features include Autonomous Flight mode for cinematic selfies, Smart Return-to-Home and Geofencing for safety, Panorama modes including 360° Sphere, 180° panorama, and Little-planet, plus Slow-motion and Hyperlapse video modes. Parrot aims to make it easy for users to create unique, professional content with a portable set up that takes seconds to launch.

At the beginning of last month, the world’s leading drone manufacturer, DJI, introduced its own FPV system. One main component missing was the drone, itself. Instead of expecting consumers to solder or source their own, Parrot has included everything in its ANAFI FPV All-In-One Pack. Parrot has designed the ANAFI backpack to double as a launching pad for the drone. Included are the Cockpit Glasses 3, Skycontroller 3, a battery, USB-C cable, 16GB memory card, and an additional set of propellers.

The ANAFI FPV All-In-One Pack retails for $ 799 and is currently available to pre-order.

Update (September 3, 2019): Edited the article and headline to clarify that the Anafi FPV is not specifically a racing drone.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New video shows off what appears to be DJI’s rumored ‘Mavic Mini’ drone

17 Aug

We’ve already seen purported images and rumored specs of DJI’s impending compact drone. Now, a video posted to YouTube shows off what appears to be the same device detailed in the previously-reported photographs.

Originally posted to TikTok by a user of a closed Facebook group dedicated to DJI drone equipment and subsequently uploaded to YouTube, the 23-second video shows a drone that appears to be the rumored ‘DJI Mavic Mini.’ On the front of the light grey drone is a white DJI logo. The arms of the drone are collapsed in their stored position and appear to have the protective tape still wrapped around them. The front and bottom obstacle avoidance sensors can also be seen in the video as the drone is rotated around.

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Interestingly, the area of the drone where the camera/gimbal would normally be installed appears to be missing. As noted by DroneDJ, it’s unknown whether it’s ‘been removed or has not yet been installed on this particular drone.’ The battery door appears identical to the one shown off in the previous images we’ve seen and show the same placement for the USB connector and Micro USB port.

Between our last post and this one, a leaked spec sheet has also been revealed that appears to contradict the initial report that the impending drone will weigh more than 250g. According to the purported spec sheet, the drone will come in at 245g, putting it under the FAA’s weight limit for registration requirements. DroneDJ has shared a follow-up article detailing why this is even more likely be the case considering DJI’s statements at its May 2019 event titled ‘Elevating Safety: Protecting the Skies in the Drone Era.’

Whatever the case is, there’s a lot of smoke hovering around the DJI rumor mill. Now the question is how much longer before the flames are found?

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The FAA is asking for input for its recreational drone test

17 Aug

Recently, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted recreational drone pilots access to Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC). This removed a huge bottleneck for the pilots as they were extremely restricted on where they could legally fly. Understandably the public wanted to know if they’d be held to the same standards at Part 107-certified commercial remote pilots, who are required to pass a knowledge exam.

The FAA has officially responded by issuing a Request for Information (RFI) this week. They are currently looking to identify and work with stakeholders in the industry on the administration of a new aeronautical knowledge test for recreational drone pilots. Thanks to significant technological advancements over the past few years, operating a drone is relatively easy to the point where they can be flown safely with minimal knowledge. By updating Section 349 of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, the government agency plans to educate current recreational pilots and bring them into the fold of safe, responsible small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) culture.

The amended law will require recreational pilots to pass this newly constructed aeronautical knowledge and safety test, to demonstrate they understand the rules. The FAA is currently developing the testing material with stakeholders.

The amended law will require recreational pilots to pass this newly constructed aeronautical knowledge and safety test, to demonstrate they understand the rules. The FAA is currently developing the testing material with stakeholders. They are currently looking for third-party entities, testing designees, to collaborate with on administering the knowledge training and test content across various FAA-approved platforms.

Testing designees should have the ability to reach the widest audience possible and also develop a standard electronic record that will be issued immediately to the pilot upon successful completion of the test. They will also provide necessary documentation, similar to what a newly-minted Part 107 remote pilot receives, that can be shown to the FAA or local law enforcement if required.

Those interested in participating are encouraged to review the RFI and respond by September 12, 2019.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New photos, specs emerge for DJI’s ‘Mavic Mini’ drone rumored to be released tomorrow

12 Aug

Late last week, DroneDJ obtained images of an unreleased DJI drone that appeared to blur the lines between DJI’s Spark and Mavic drones. Now, DroneDJ has gotten its hands on a number of specs it believes the drone, said to be named the Mavic Mini, could have when it’s officially revealed.

The images, which were first posted (and subsequently deleted) by Twitter user and drone pilot OsitaLV, show a drone that looks like DJI’s Mavic drones, but is small enough that it could also be the successor to the DJI Spark or even the DJI Mavic Air.

However, its arms articulate more in line with what the DJI Mavic Pro and DJI Mavic 2 Pro/Zoom do and its three-axis gimbal appears to be a smaller, less substantial version of that found on the Mavic Air—all details that further blur the lines of where this drone would sit in DJI’s lineup.

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According to the new information provided by OsitaLV, the drone will feature a 12-megapixel 4K 1/2.3 CMOS sensor, retail for $ 399 when it launches, weigh 350g (12.35oz) and measure 270mm (10.63in) diagonally when unfolded. This puts it 100g over the FAA’s 250g limit, but still keeps it on the smaller side.

OsitaLV suggests the new drone will make use of the enhanced Wi-Fi technology found in DJI’s Mavic Air and Spark drones, and have object avoidance sensors on the front and bottom of the drone. It’s also reported the drone will use a new, replaceable battery that’s housed inside a compartment that also houses the memory card slot and USB port.

One anomaly, however, is that the images show a Micro USB port on the drone, while DJI’s more recent drones use USB-C. This could simply be because the drone seen in the images was an earlier version sent in for patent and registration purposes, before the jump to USB-C was made.

Rumor has it DJI has an announcement planned for tomorrow, so there’s a chance we’ll see this little machine in its final form.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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UC Berkeley researchers have created a drone that shrinks to squeeze through small spaces

09 Aug

Since drones entered mainstream consciousness, people have gotten creative with developing new ideas for how they can be used. Drones can deliver food and other small items. They can even bake cakes or play instruments when configured properly. Now, a team of researchers at UC Berkeley’s High Performance Robotics Laboratory (HiPeRLab) has created a ‘Passively Morphing Quadcopter’ that can temporarily shrink down to squeeze through small spaces.

While this isn’t the first drone that can compress its shape mid-flight, it is the only one that can shift its shape without using any additional hardware components. This feature helps preserve battery life, enabling the aircraft the fly even longer. Engines enable the arms to rotate freely and constant force springs provide the momentum to change shape. When no thrust is applied, the springs pull the arms into a folded configuration.

When the drone approaches an opening smaller than it can fit, it can plot a course that allows its arms to retract as it’s flying through a small small space. The rotors shut off and after the drone passes through, it loses a bit of altitude as it powers back up. While this set up can offer up a number of useful real-world applications, like inspecting hard-to-reach areas, there is still work to be done by the HiPeRLab team for it to work in any other scenario where there isn’t a wide open area on the other side of a small space for the drone to squeeze though. Nevertheless, when perfected, it could make for an innovative filmmaking tool.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Skydio releases sample footage captured with its upcoming Skydio 2 drone

07 Aug

Last month, California-based drone manufacturer Skydio teased a follow up to their premier R1 model. Slated for release this Fall, the company recently updated email subscribers with more details about what they’re calling the ‘Skydio 2,’ presumably for the time being. The reel, above, demonstrates some of the new drone’s capabilities including the ability to navigate and fly through numerous obstacles, track subjects, and even perform a 360° spin.

Besides being able to fly autonomously and avoid obstacles, the ‘Skydio 2’ will also boast a breakthrough algorithm that can determine ‘where and how to fly to get the most stunning cinematic shots possible.’ Perhaps this ability was referenced in the second frame as the ‘Skydio 2’ gradually pulled away from a single beachgoer to reveal a stunning tropical island.

With the R1, Skydio positioned itself as a drone maker for consumers and enthusiasts. Using Nvidia’s onboard computer, the same technology that powers self-driving cars, the R1 can map it surroundings, avoid obstacles in every direction and track a single subject. Remote pilots can launch and fly effortlessly with this built-in technology.

Now, with the ‘Skydio 2,’ the focus has shifted to quality cinematography. A redesigned camera promises polished, professional-grade video. This, alone, makes it a huge improvement from its predecessor. If they offer it up in a compact, light-weight frame with increased battery life, they’ll have created the consumer-grade drone to beat.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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LAANC to be made available to recreational drone pilots later this month

02 Jul

In mid-May, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) clamped down on recreational drone operators by issuing a notice that prohibited them from flying in controlled airspace plus other restricted airports. While not legally binding, the message was clear: hobbyist pilots were now expected to be in compliance with the rules and regulations laid out in 14 CFR 107. The hiccup? Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC), which provides near real-time authorization to fly in controlled airspace, is only available for those in possession of Part 107 certification.

The FAA is fixing this conundrum by expanding LAANC to recreational users on July 23rd. The announcement was made in a recent webinar by Kevin Morris, an Aviation Safety Inspector with the FAA. Also mentioned was an important caveat, relayed from an FAA official: ‘Section 349 hobby flights cannot exceed UAS Facility Maps limitations. If you want to fly outside UASFM limits (200’ in a 100’, or in a 0’ grid), you still have to fly under Part 107.’

Before LAANC, a collaboration between the FAA and drone industry was introduced to Part 107-certified commercial operators in October 2018, obtaining a waiver to fly in controlled airspace could take up to 90 days. LAANC automates the application and approval process by providing access in near real-time with 600 participating airports. A list of approved UAS service suppliers can be found here.

Before the expansion becomes official, the FAA is hosting a free webinar, ‘What is the Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC)?,’ on July 18th at 4:00 pm, Eastern Time.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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DJI Spark 2 drone will not be released this summer as rumored

21 Jun

It has been almost a year since DJI introduced a new drone aimed at consumers. The Mavic 2 Pro and Zoom models were announced on July 18th of last year. With rumors swirling that the planned Phantom 5 line was canceled, while most of the Phantom 4 series has remained sold out for the past six months, it was expected that the world’s top drone manufacturer would release an update to one of its popular models in the near future.

DroneDJ recently reported that a Spark 2 drone was slated for release this summer. The original Spark was released April 15, 2017, making an upgrade long overdue. The spark is even smaller in size than the Mavic series. It’s an ideal accessory for vacations and family events which is why the July release made perfect sense. The online publication got some bad news this past Tuesday.

‘We have received word that the Spark 2 launch that was scheduled for July 23rd has been postponed indefinitely. An industry insider told us that DJI sent out a memo last week stating: “due to a shift in priorities the July 23 event is now on hold until further notice.” Unfortunately, no information was provided explaining the postponement nor was a new date announced.’

‘An industry insider told us that DJI sent out a memo last week stating: “due to a shift in priorities the July 23 event is now on hold until further notice.” Unfortunately, no information was provided explaining the postponement nor was a new date announced.’

Here are some of the specs and upgrades DroneDJ author Haye Kesteloo expected from the DJI Spark 2:

  • 4K video at 30fps
  • Increased video bitrate
  • An improved 3-axis gimbal
  • ActiveTrack 2.0
  • 2x digital zoom
  • An increased flight time of 18 minutes versus 16 minutes for the original Spark
  • New battery design that is not compatible with the original model
  • Same official range but with a new antenna design and a new remote controller featuring improved tech for a better connection. OcuSync 2.0 will likely not be included
  • Two exterior colors: black and white
  • A new panorama mode

DJI recently released the Robomaster S1, a ground-based robot aimed at educators and students interested in Science, Technology, Education, and Mathematics (STEM). This latest cancellation of the Spark 2 has insiders and enthusiasts, alike, wondering when they plan on shipping a new-and-improved drone.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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It is now illegal to drink and drone in Japan

15 Jun

Japan’s parliament passed a law this week outlawing the operation of a drone while under the influence of alcohol. If authorities catch anyone flying an unmanned aerial vehicle while intoxicated, offenders will face up to a year in prison and a fine of 300,000 yen (roughly $ 2,763.00). ‘We believe operating drones after consuming alcohol is as serious as (drink) driving,’ a Japanese transport ministry official told the AFP news agency.

This latest legislation was passed to also address the growing popularity of drones coupled with the reckless and illegal activity taking place in the country’s more tourist-friendly areas. Dangerous stunts, which have become more common, including quickly plunging a drone towards crowds, can result in a fine of up to 500,000 yen ($ 4,607).

Areas where drones are now banned include a distance within 985 feet of Japan’s armed forces, U.S. military personnel, and ‘defense-related facilities’ without prior permission from the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. The new restrictions follow an earlier ban on approaching nuclear power plants, Japan’s parliament buildings, and the prime minister’s office. Stadiums and other sites hosting the forthcoming 2020 Olympic festivities are also off-limits.

The new law covers drones weighing more than 200g (close to half a pound). Operating a drone in Japan does not require a license. However, remote pilots much abide by a series of regulations including:

  • Staying below 150 meters (492 feet)
  • Avoiding airports
  • Avoiding crowded areas
  • Only flying during daylight
  • Keeping the drone in sight at all times

Anyone who is caught violating any of the established regulations could face a fine of up to 500,000 yen (or $ 4,607).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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