Droneit Group - Blog

Mastering the Art of Conversing with Kate: Your Revolutionary AI Study Buddy

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 19:36:24 GMT

Mastering the Art of Conversing with Kate: Your Revolutionary AI Study Buddy

In today's digital age, technology is transforming the way we learn and interact with information. A true revolution has taken place in aviation education with the advent of Kate, your AI study buddy. No other training school offers an AI companion like Kate, making her a truly unique and powerful resource. Kate is a groundbreaking AI that can be your key to achieving top marks in your RePL and AROC exams. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore best practices for chatting with Kate to maximise your learning experience.

Understanding Kate's Capabilities

Before diving into the best practices, let's briefly review what makes Kate truly exceptional:

Answer Theoretical Questions : Kate excels at providing explanations and insights into various topics related to the RePL and AROC courses. Her responses are carefully crafted to ensure accuracy and depth.
Conduct Multi-Choice Quizzes : Kate can assist in preparing for final exams by conducting multi-choice quizzes on specific topics. This feature helps you assess your knowledge and identify areas that require further study.

Best Practices for Chatting with Kate

Formulate Clear Questions. To harness the power of Kate, start by formulating clear and concise questions. Instead of merely entering keywords, frame your query in a way that helps Kate provide accurate responses. For instance:
Instead of typing "RePL flight restrictions," ask "Can you explain the flight restrictions associated with RePL in detail?"
Focus on Specific Topics. Kate's strength lies in her ability to provide detailed explanations. Focus on specific topics or subtopics rather than broad subjects to receive the most in-depth and relevant information.
Use Natural Language. While Kate is incredibly powerful, she responds best to natural language. Avoid using overly technical jargon in your questions. Communicate with Kate in a conversational manner to receive clearer and more accessible responses.
Leverage the Quiz Feature for Active Learning. Kate's multi-choice quiz feature is a game-changer for active learning. Utilise it to test your knowledge, reinforce key concepts, and pinpoint areas that require additional review. Regularly review quiz results to track your progress effectively.
Ask for Clarification and Verification. Kate is powerful but not infallible. If you ever receive an answer that seems unclear or incorrect, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. You can also inquire if Kate is certain about her response, and she may reevaluate and correct herself if necessary.
Report Incorrect Responses and Glitches. If you encounter an incorrect response or experience any glitches while using Kate, please report them. Your feedback helps improve Kate's accuracy and ensures a better learning experience for all users.
Harness the Revolutionary Power of Kate. Kate is not just an AI; she's a revolutionary tool created in solitude to ensure her perfection. When used correctly, she can be your secret weapon to achieving top marks in your exams.

Kate, your revolutionary AI study buddy, is unlike anything else in the aviation education landscape. Created by Droneit's co-founder, James Jones, whilst in solitude in a forest at the foot of the French Pyrenees, Kate's development journey speaks to her uniqueness and power. By following these best practices for engaging with Kate effectively, you can unlock her full potential and make the most out of this groundbreaking AI companion. Ask clear questions, focus on specific topics, and utilise Kate's quiz feature for active learning. Remember to request clarification or verification when needed and report any issues you encounter. This makes Kate smarter, more powerful, and more likely to assist others.

With Kate by your side, you'll be better equipped to succeed in your courses and exams. Embrace this revolutionary tool and embark on your journey to top marks with confidence. Happy learning!

Introducing Kate: Revolutionising RPAS Education with AI

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:07:37 GMT

Kate: Our Revolutionary AI Instructor for RePL & AROC

We are pleased to announce the launch of a ground breaking feature here at Droneit - Kate, our AI instructor powered by Chat GPT. We are excited to share with you the immense potential of Kate in transforming the way students prepare for exams and acquire knowledge in the field of Remote Pilot Licensing (RePL), Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC), and RPAS-specific legislation.

The Power of Kate

Kate represents a remarkable advancement in the field of education. With her exceptional intelligence, efficiency, and speed, Kate stands as an invaluable asset for students pursuing their RePL and AROC. She has been meticulously trained on the course theory in these areas, enabling her to provide accurate and relevant information while assisting students in their studies.

Unmatched Convenience

Droneit Group has always been at the forefront of innovation, and the introduction of Kate continues this tradition. As pioneers in the online classroom for RePL with our premier RePL-focused Learning Management System (LMS), we understand the importance of convenience in education. Additionally, we are the sole training provider offering a free app that facilitates on-the-go studying. Now, with Kate, we take convenience to new heights by providing a powerful AI instructor accessible anytime, anywhere.

Personalised Learning Experience

At Droneit, we recognise that every student is unique and has specific learning needs. Kate has been meticulously designed to deliver a personalised learning experience tailored to each individual. Through advanced algorithms and machine learning capabilities, Kate adapts to the pace, strengths, and weaknesses of each student. This personalised approach ensures that students receive targeted guidance, focusing on areas that require further support.

Advanced Learning Styles and Enhanced Accessibility

We understand that every student has unique preferences when it comes to learning. That's why we stand out from the rest as the only training provider offering advanced learning styles. Our student portal supports various learning modalities, catering to students who prefer to study by reading, watching, or listening (or even a combination of all three). Whether you absorb information best through written materials, engaging videos, or immersive audio, our platform ensures that your learning experience aligns with your preferred style.

But that's not all. We take pride in providing exceptional accessibility options for our students. Our student portal features a widget that can transform the appearance of course materials, making it easier for individuals with specific accessibility needs. Additionally, the widget goes above and beyond by offering an audio feature. It can read the course materials out loud, ensuring that students with visual impairments or those who prefer auditory learning can fully engage with the content.

Continuous Progress Monitoring

We believe that monitoring progress is crucial to achieving optimal learning outcomes. With Kate, Droneit Group introduces a feature that continuously tracks and analyses students' progress. Through comprehensive data analysis, Kate identifies areas where students may encounter challenges, providing additional resources and guidance to help them overcome difficulties. This proactive approach ensures that students remain on the right path, steadily progressing toward their learning goals.

Enhanced Exam Preparation

Preparing for exams can be a daunting task, particularly in subjects as intricate as RePL & AROC. However, with Kate as their AI instructor, students gain a powerful tool to aid their exam preparation. Kate generates practice questions, simulates exam scenarios, and provides detailed explanations for answers. This invaluable support empowers students to approach their exams with confidence, maximizing their performance.

The Future of Learning

The integration of AI in education represents a transformative shift in the landscape of learning. At Droneit Group, we are committed to leading this change and revolutionising aviation education. Kate, our revolutionary AI instructor, exemplifies our dedication to providing cutting-edge solutions that equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their chosen field.

In conclusion, Kate, our AI instructor specifically trained on RPAS aviation theory, powered by Chat GPT, represents a significant advancement in the remote aviation education sector. With its exceptional intelligence, personalised learning experience, and continuous progress monitoring, Kate elevates the learning journey for students pursuing RePL their AROC. As the CEO of Droneit Group and the creator of Kate, I'm proud to introduce this innovative feature, reaffirming our position as a leader in the industry.

Join us on this exciting learning journey with Kate, your trusted AI instructor. Together, let us embrace the future of education and unlock new possibilities for success in aviation education. Click the button below to try Kate out yourself for free.

5 Fastest Growing Drone Industries of 2023

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 01:02:20 GMT

5 Fastest Growing Drone Industries of 2023

Drones have come a long way since their inception and are now being used in various industries. While drone dog walking hasn't been perfected (yet), their ability to capture aerial footage, monitor crops, and conduct surveys has made them an indispensable tool for many businesses. In recent years, the drone industry has experienced tremendous growth and is expected to continue growing at an unprecedented rate in 2023. In this article, we will explore the fastest-growing drone industries of 2023.

1. Agriculture

The drone industry has experienced massive growth in recent years, with various sectors adopting the technology to improve efficiency and productivity. However, one industry that is rapidly embracing the use of drones is agriculture.

The agriculture industry is expected to be the fastest growing drone industry in 2023. According to a report by PwC, the agriculture drone market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 32.4% between 2018 and 2023, reaching a market value of $4.2 billion by the end of 2023 1 .

The use of drones in agriculture is transforming the way farmers approach crop management, with the technology enabling them to gather critical data that helps them make informed decisions. Farmers are using drones to monitor crop health, map fields, assess soil quality, and plan irrigation and fertiliser applications.

One of the most significant benefits of using drones in agriculture is that they can provide real-time data on crop health, enabling farmers to detect crop stress, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies. Drones equipped with specialised cameras and sensors can capture high-resolution images and analyse them using machine learning algorithms to provide detailed insights into crop health.

Drones are also being used to map fields and generate accurate 3D models that provide farmers with a better understanding of their fields' topography and soil quality. This information can help farmers plan irrigation and fertiliser applications more effectively, resulting in increased crop yields and reduced water and fertiliser usage.

Another significant advantage of using drones in agriculture is that they can help farmers save time and reduce labour costs. In the past, farmers had to walk through their fields to inspect crops manually, which was time-consuming and often inaccurate. With drones, farmers can cover large areas of their fields in a fraction of the time it would take to do it manually, saving time and reducing labour costs.

In addition, drones are also being used for precision agriculture, which involves using data and technology to optimise crop production while minimising inputs such as water, fertiliser, and pesticides. Precision agriculture can help farmers improve crop yields, reduce waste, and minimise the impact of agriculture on the environment.

Overall, the use of drones in agriculture is transforming the way farmers approach crop management, enabling them to make data-driven decisions that result in increased yields, reduced costs, and minimised environmental impact. As a result, the agriculture drone market is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, making it one of the fastest growing drone industries in 2023.

Droneit is an authorised DJI Enterprise reseller. Talk to us about purchasing drone + training bundles

2. Construction and Inspection

The construction industry has historically been slow to adopt new technologies, but the increasing use of drones is changing that. With the ability to survey construction sites, map out terrain, and create 3D models, drones are streamlining the construction process and reducing the need for manual labour. In this article, we will explore how the construction industry is embracing drones, and how their use is set to revolutionise the industry.

The construction industry is one of the largest industries in the world, with a global market size of over $10 trillion. Despite this, the industry has been slow to embrace new technologies. However, the adoption of drones is changing that. Drones can provide a range of benefits to the construction industry, from surveying sites to monitoring safety hazards. They can also increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall project management.

One of the primary uses for drones in construction is site surveying. By using drones equipped with cameras and sensors, construction companies can quickly survey large areas of land and create accurate maps of the terrain. This can be especially useful for projects in remote or difficult to access locations. By reducing the need for manual surveying, drones can significantly reduce the time and cost associated with site surveys.

Drones can also be used to create 3D models of construction sites. By using photogrammetry software, drones can capture high-resolution images of construction sites and generate accurate 3D models. This can be invaluable for architects and engineers, as it allows them to view the site from all angles and make more informed design decisions. It can also help project managers identify potential issues before they become costly problems.

Another benefit of drones in construction is their ability to monitor sites for safety hazards. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can provide real-time updates on site conditions, allowing project managers to quickly identify potential hazards and take appropriate action. This can help prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injuries on construction sites.

As the demand for affordable housing and infrastructure projects grows, the construction industry will increasingly turn to drones to streamline their operations. Drones can help reduce costs and increase efficiency, making construction projects more affordable and accessible to a wider range of clients. They can also help reduce the environmental impact of construction, by reducing the need for heavy machinery and manual labour.

Infrastructure such as bridges, roads, railways, power lines, and pipelines require regular inspection to ensure their safety and maintenance. Traditionally, these inspections were done manually by human inspectors, which can be time-consuming, costly, and risky. However, drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR sensors, and thermal imaging cameras can quickly and safely inspect infrastructure from the air, providing real-time data and insights.

Drones can access hard-to-reach areas, such as bridges and power line towers, without the need for human inspectors to physically climb or access dangerous locations. Drones can capture high-quality images and videos of infrastructure, which can be further analysed to detect defects, cracks, corrosion, or other damages. They can also use LiDAR sensors to create accurate 3D models of infrastructure, enabling engineers to assess their condition and plan necessary repairs or maintenance work.

The use of drones in infrastructure inspection can significantly reduce inspection time and costs, increase safety by minimizing human exposure to hazardous environments, and improve the accuracy and quality of inspection data. As a result, the demand for drones in infrastructure inspection is expected to grow rapidly in 2023 and beyond, making it one of the fastest growing drone industries.

Drones are revolutionising the construction and inspection industry. With their ability to survey sites, create 3D models, and monitor safety hazards, drones are reducing the need for manual labour and increasing efficiency. As the industry continues to grow, drones will play an increasingly important role in streamlining construction processes and making projects more affordable and accessible.

3. Emergency Services

Drones are revolutionising emergency services by providing critical support in search and rescue operations, disaster response, and firefighting efforts. With their ability to quickly navigate through challenging environments and capture real-time data, drones are becoming an integral part of emergency services, saving lives and minimising risks. In this article, we will explore how drones are transforming the emergency services industry and becoming one of the fastest-growing sectors in 2023.

Drones equipped with thermal cameras and high-resolution imaging capabilities are becoming essential tools in search and rescue operations. They can quickly locate missing persons in vast areas such as forests, mountains, or disaster-stricken zones where traditional search methods may be limited. Thermal cameras can detect body heat signatures, making it easier to locate individuals who may be hidden or unconscious.

Moreover, drones can access areas that are difficult for humans to reach, such as collapsed buildings, caves, or dangerous terrains. They can be deployed quickly, providing immediate situational awareness to rescuers and helping them make informed decisions. Drones can also transmit live video feeds, allowing the incident commanders to assess the situation and allocate resources effectively. By reducing search time and improving efficiency, drones are playing a crucial role in saving lives in search and rescue missions.

During natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, drones can rapidly assess the extent of the damage and help emergency responders plan their response. Drones can capture high-resolution aerial images and create detailed maps of affected areas in real-time. These maps can provide valuable information on the condition of critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, buildings, and utility networks. This data helps emergency management agencies to prioritise their resources, plan evacuation routes, and coordinate relief efforts effectively.

Furthermore, drones can monitor ongoing disasters, such as wildfires, in real-time. Equipped with thermal cameras, drones can detect hotspots, track fire movement, and provide crucial information to firefighters on the ground. This data helps firefighters make informed decisions about where to deploy their resources and how to contain the fire. Drones are significantly reducing response time and improving the safety of emergency responders in disaster scenarios.

Drones are also transforming firefighting operations by providing enhanced situational awareness and improving safety for firefighters. Drones equipped with thermal cameras can detect hotspots and map the spread of a fire, allowing firefighters to identify areas that need immediate attention. Drones can also monitor fire behaviour, such as wind direction and speed, which helps in predicting fire movement and containment strategies.

In addition, drones can assess the structural integrity of buildings during a fire, providing critical information to firefighters on the ground. This data helps them make informed decisions about where to enter a building, where to focus their efforts, and when to evacuate. Drones can also deliver essential supplies, such as water or medical kits, to firefighters in remote or inaccessible locations.

The adoption of drones in firefighting operations is increasing the efficiency and safety of firefighters, reducing the risks associated with traditional firefighting methods and improving the overall outcomes of firefighting efforts.

As the demand for emergency services continues to grow, drones are increasingly becoming essential tools for search and rescue, disaster response, and firefighting operations. Their ability to quickly access remote and hazardous areas, capture real-time data, and provide situational awareness is transforming the emergency services industry. Drones are improving the efficiency of operations, reducing response time, enh ancing safety for emergency responders, and ultimately saving lives.

In 2023, the drone industry is projected to experience significant growth in the emergency services sector .

Droneit is an authorised DJI Enterprise reseller. Talk to us about purchasing drone + training bundles

4. Media and Entertainment

Drones have become increasingly popular in the media and entertainment industry as they offer unique aerial perspectives that were previously impossible to capture. With drones, filmmakers, and videographers can now capture stunning footage of landscapes, events, and sports. Drone technology has enabled content creators to explore new angles, heights, and perspectives, which enhances the viewer's experience.

One of the significant benefits of using drones in the entertainment industry is the ability to capture high-quality aerial footage without the need for expensive equipment or specialised teams. A drone equipped with a high-resolution camera can capture cinematic-quality footage, which was previously only possible with helicopters or cranes. This shift in technology has democratised the film and television industry, making it accessible to a broader range of professionals and amateurs.

The use of drones in the entertainment industry is not limited to film and television production. Music videos and live events, such as concerts and festivals, are increasingly incorporating drone technology to capture unique perspectives and enhance the viewer's experience. The ability to fly a drone close to a stage or artist can create dynamic and immersive footage that makes viewers feel like they are part of the action.

The sports industry is another area that is benefiting from drone technology. Drones are being used to capture footage of sporting events, races, and other outdoor activities, providing a unique perspective that was previously unattainable. Drones can follow athletes and vehicles through challenging terrain, creating dynamic footage that enhances the viewer's experience.

The demand for immersive experiences in the entertainment industry continues to grow, and drones are poised to become a staple tool in content creation. With the development of new technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, the use of drones in the entertainment industry is expected to grow further.

One of the significant advantages of drones is their versatility. Drones can be customised to meet specific requirements, such as lifting heavy equipment or flying in harsh weather conditions. As the technology advances, drones will become even more versatile, enabling content creators to capture footage in new and exciting ways.

Moreover, drones are being used in other areas of the entertainment industry, such as theme parks and attractions. Theme parks are incorporating drones into their shows and attractions, creating a more immersive and engaging experience for visitors.

The use of drones in the entertainment industry is not without its challenges. Drone regulations, safety concerns, and privacy issues are among the factors that need to be addressed. However, as the technology advances, regulations and safety protocols will evolve to ensure the safe and responsible use of drones.

Drones are revolutionising the media and entertainment industry, providing unique aerial perspectives that were previously impossible to capture. Drones equipped with high-resolution cameras are changing the way we capture images and collect data, and the demand for immersive experiences continues to grow. As the technology advances, drones will become even more versatile, enabling content creators to capture footage in new and exciting ways. The use of drones in the entertainment industry is expected to continue growing, enhancing the viewer's experience and changing the way we consume media.

Droneit is an authorised DJI Enterprise reseller. Talk to us about purchasing drone + training bundles

5. Delivery

The delivery industry is being transformed by drones, with companies like Amazon and Wing experimenting with drone delivery services. Drones can deliver packages quickly and efficiently, reducing delivery times and costs. As the demand for instant gratification continues to grow, the delivery industry will increasingly turn to drones to meet the needs of consumers.

Wing, a subsidiary of Alphabet (Google's parent company), is one of the companies leading the way in drone delivery services. They are currently operating in select areas of Australia, including Canberra and Logan, and have plans to expand to other locations in the near future. Their drones are capable of delivering a variety of products, including fresh food, drinks, and over-the-counter medication.

Drone delivery services are also gaining popularity in regional areas. An Australian tech startup, Swoop Aero, is working with TerryWhite Chemart and Symbion, Australia’s largest healthcare wholesaler, to deliver medical supplies, such as vaccines and blood samples, to remote communities.

Drone delivery services are revolutionising the delivery industry in Australia. Wing, along with other companies, is leading the charge in offering faster and more efficient delivery services while reducing the impact on the environment. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more companies in Australia and around the world adopting drone delivery services as a viable option.

In conclusion, the drone industry is rapidly evolving, and these are just a few of the fastest-growing drone industries of 2023. As drone technology continues to improve, we can expect to see them being used in even more industries in the future. Drones will play a critical role in driving innovation and transforming industries, making them a valuable investment for businesses.

Droneit Supports Air Race

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 08:49:59 GMT

Droneit Instructor Gary Thomas To Compete at SFC Air Race

We are very proud and excited to highlight Gary Thomas, RPAS Instructor at Droneit, who will take part in the SFC Air Race next week. Gary has had an illustrious career as a Flight Instructor for the Royal Australian Air Force, where he honed his skills in advanced training such as Formation Flying, Aerobatics, and other techniques. His expertise in these areas makes him an invaluable asset to our team at Droneit.

Gary specialises in training students in his ex-RAAF CT4 trainer as a Flight Instructor at Warnervale Air, Central Coast (NSW) Aero Club and he even certified our CEO James Jones with an aerobatics endorsement, including spinning! His wealth of knowledge and experience makes him an excellent resource for anyone seeking a career in drones or the Air Force.

Who is Gary Thomas?

BAE SYSTEMS in Tamworth, NSW has had the privilege of employing Gary Thomas (GT) who was instrumental in providing military flight training for 23 years. GT had the opportunity to work at both the ADF Army Det A and the ADF Basic Flight Training School (BFTS) in his years of service.

Apart from military flight training, GT was also involved with the ADF Pilot Selection Agency, serving as a Flight Screening program Instructor. During his time at BAE SYSTEMS, GT trained many foreign nationals, providing conversion training to Australian Commercial Licence standards, with both Instrument and instructor ratings. In addition, GT also trained foreign nationals for overseas defence force contracts, which include the Royal Brunei and PNG defence forces.

GT's duties have been extensive and include Ab-initio student pilot training, ADF Army Intermediate Pilot Course (fixed-wing), Grade One Flight Instructor (M/E) Fixed–wing, CIR (S/E) L/L Aero, and FORM. Over the course of his tenure at BAE SYSTEMS, the instructor was responsible for ensuring that students receive comprehensive training that adequately prepared them for their respective roles.

In conclusion, when GT was at BAE SYSTEMS in Tamworth he was an integral part of the company, providing military flight training, and training foreign nationals to Australian Commercial Licence standards for over two decades. His expertise has been invaluable to the ADF Pilot Selection Agency, foreign nationals, and students who have undergone their training at the Basic Flight Training School.

Droneit is proud (and lucky) to have him as an RPAS trainer.

What is the SFC Air Race?

The SFC Air Race is a six-day navigational time trial that takes place in Outback Australia. The event brings together teams of pilots from all over the world to compete in a challenge that is both exciting and meaningful. The goal of the SFC Air Race is to raise $20,000 for Angel Flight Australia, a charity that provides free non-emergency flights to people in rural and remote areas of Australia who need access to specialist medical treatment.

Gary's team Wallaby Airlines has so far raised $2,395 towards the $20,000 target and is leading the race so far with the highest amount of donations. If you can spare just $1 or $5 and would like to support Gary raise funds for such a great cause please click here .

SFC's Commitment - SFC will match $1 for $1 for any donation above $750, maximum matched donation of up to $250 for each individual participating in the SFC Air Race. This is a very generous donation by SFC.

Who Is Angel Flight?

Angel Flight Australia is a lifesaving charity that operates flights throughout Australia, providing a vital link between remote communities and the medical care they need. Without these flights, many people in rural and remote areas would not have access to the specialist medical care they need, simply because they live too far away from the city. Angel Flight Australia coordinates these flights, ensuring that people in need can access medical care that would otherwise be unavailable.

The SFC Air Race is an exciting challenge that brings together teams of pilots from around the world. Over the course of six days, these teams will navigate their way through the Australian outback, racing against each other to be the first to complete the course. The race is a test of skill and endurance, requiring pilots to navigate through some of the most challenging terrain in Australia.

The race is not just about competition, however. It is also about raising awareness of the work that Angel Flight Australia does and raising funds to support their efforts. The $20,000 raised by the SFC Air Race will go towards funding 125 life-saving Angel Flights, providing vital medical care to people in need.

The SFC Air Race is a unique event that combines the thrill of competition with the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people in rural and remote areas of Australia. By supporting Angel Flight Australia, the race is helping to ensure that people in need can access the medical care they need, regardless of where they live.

In conclusion, the SFC Air Race is an exciting challenge that is making a real difference in the lives of people in rural and remote areas of Australia. By raising funds for Angel Flight Australia, the race is helping to ensure that people in need can access the medical care they need, regardless of where they live. So, if you're a pilot or an aviation enthusiast, why not get involved in the SFC Air Race and help make a difference?

DJI Ends Support For Aeroscope

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 08:06:23 GMT

What is going on?

DJI has discontinued production and sale of the AeroScope drone detection and identification system, a tool adopted by airports, government agencies, and private businesses to safeguard airspaces from unauthorised UAV penetration. The company made no formal announcement of the decision but indicated it on the product page via a pop-up screen, while options to buy the product were removed from the site. However, the product is still available for purchase or rental at some UAV dealers and service providers.

What is Aeroscope?

Introduced in 2017, DJI presented AeroScope as a tool for remotely monitoring and recognising DJI drones. Leveraging the communication links already established between a drone and its controller, the system enabled the identification of drones' registration numbers and their geographical location on a map.

What is going on?

The move by DJI to end its AeroScope activities may appear counterintuitive, given the rising numbers of UAVs in the skies and the increasing demand for drone detection and identification tech. However, the decision may have been partly motivated by the expanding number of specialised companies providing full-scale alternatives, covering identification, producer and model type, pilot position, and, in some cases, mitigation capabilities.

Brendan Schulman, former DJI vice president of policy and current vice president of policy and government relations for Boston Dynamics, noted that two reasons may have played a role in the decision to halt AeroScope production: the lack of sense in continuing to support a feature that was created to assist US security interests when being constantly attacked by US security agencies and the implementation of FAA Remote ID.

This move has left us wondering if they have any new versions of Aeroscope in the works? Let us know if you know.

Airspeeder - World's First-Ever Crewed Flying Racing Car

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 23:50:23 GMT

The Airspeeder Racing Series is set to feature the world's first-ever crewed flying racing car.

Get ready for a revolution in the world of motorsports, as Alauda Aeronautics unveils the Airspeeder Mk4 - the world's first and fastest crewed flying car! Developed and built in Adelaide, South Australia, the Airspeeder Mk4 is a cutting-edge electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft that is set to revolutionize the sport of piloted Airspeeder racing.

The Airspeeder Mk4 boasts an impressive top speed of 360 kph (225 mph) and can accelerate from a standing start to that speed in just 30 seconds, thanks to its advanced electric propulsion system and sophisticated aerodynamics. But that's not all - this state-of-the-art aircraft also has a projected range of 300 km (188 miles) and produces near-zero emissions, making it an eco-friendly choice for racing.

What sets the Airspeeder Mk4 apart from other eVTOLs is the fact that it's inspired by space technology! Two innovative technologies - the Thunderstrike Hydrogen Turbogenerator and the AI Gimballed Thrust - give this flying car unprecedented speed, manoeuvrability, and range.

The Thunderstrike Hydrogen Turbogenerator is a 1,000 kW (1,340 horsepower) turbogenerator that uses green hydrogen as fuel, providing safe, reliable, and sustainable power over long distances and flight times. And the Airspeeder Mk4 incorporates a unique combustor made using 3D printing techniques developed in the space industry for rocket engines, greatly reducing nitrous oxide (NOx) emissions.

The AI Gimballed Thrust, on the other hand, uses an Artificial Intelligence (AI) flight controller to individually adjust four rotor pairs mounted on lightweight 3D printed gimbals, making the Airspeeder Mk4 less like a multicopter and more like a jet fighter or Formula 1 racing car. This unique technology enables the aircraft to manoeuvre with incredible precision, essential in close-action racing.

But the Airspeeder Mk4 is not just a racing vehicle - it's also a testing ground for sustainable green propulsion systems that have the potential to change the future of air travel. Alauda Aeronautics, the creators of the Airspeeder Mk4, are already looking beyond racing to a world where private flying cars are a daily reality and a viable means of urban transport.

We at Droneit are proud to be a part of this exciting project. Our company has been training some of the Airspeeder pilots and issuing Remote Pilot Licences (RePL), certifying the best and most qualified pilots take to the skies in this incredible flying car.

So get ready to witness the Airspeeder Mk4 take to the skies! Alauda Aeronautics plans to begin flight testing the aircraft in the first quarter of 2023, with the first crewed flights of the airframe to follow. And in 2024, the Airspeeder Racing Championship will showcase this amazing machine to the world.

This is an exciting time for the future of air travel, and Alauda Aeronautics is at the forefront of this revolution. So visit the Airspeeder website at www.airspeeder.com to learn more about this incredible flying car and the upcoming Airspeeder Racing Championship.

Dubai To Get Flying Taxis by 2026

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 01:55:37 GMT

Dubai To Have Flying Taxis by 2026

Exciting news from Dubai! Skyports Infrastructure has received approval from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for their innovative vertiport design. Together with Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority and Joby Aviation, they presented their vision for the future of air mobility infrastructure at the World Government Summit. This is a significant step towards creating a high-speed, zero-emissions vertiport network in Dubai, which is set to launch by 2026.

Who is Joby Aviation?

Who is Joby Aviation? Joby Aviation is a California-based aviation company that specializes in the development of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The company was founded in 2009 with the goal of creating an aircraft that would be able to take off and land vertically like a helicopter, but fly much faster and more quietly, with zero emissions. Joby's aircraft design features a tilting wing and multiple electric motors, which enable it to take off and land like a helicopter, and then transition to forward flight like a conventional airplane. Joby Aviation has been developing their aircraft technology for over a decade and has recently achieved a significant milestone by completing the second stage of the Federal Aviation Administration's aircraft type certification process. The company is now working with partners to bring their eVTOL aircraft to market and create a sustainable and efficient mode of air travel for the future.

What about Australia?

It's not just Dubai that's getting in on the action! Australia is also planning to develop an air mobility infrastructure, and it's expected to revolutionize the way we travel. With this ambitious project, Australia is set to become a global leader in aerial mobility, making it easier, faster, and more sustainable for people to move around. We can't wait to see what the future holds for air travel!

Crypto Payments Now Accepted

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:41:44 GMT

You can hodle or you can use your crypto to reinvest in your drone career

Turn your digital currency into physical skills and become a professional remote pilot!

Use your investment to build up your Drone skills, enrol in any of our courses using cryptocurrency. Yes, you read it right! We are accepting cryptocurrency as a form of payment for our courses, we know how important investments are and we want to make sure we open this exciting opportunity for people who use and exchange cryptocurrency.

Being early investors in cryptocurrencies, Droneit’s Lee Carseldine and James Jones saw the opportunity for students to capitalise on their crypto investments by taking advantage of a bull run and using the growth of crypto to pay for business expenses. For students, the opportunity to pay for your course using cryptocurrencies means you could get your course without using fiat currency!

Droneit has always been the first to deliver innovative technologies to assist our students to achieve their goals and dreams of becoming professional remote pilots. Being the leading Drone training school in Australia we added this to our list of "firsts" and are incredibly excited to bring the global cryptocurrency economy to our students. Currently, apart from being the first training school in Australia to offer this we are also the only school that offers this type of payment option.

The Value of Cryptocurrency is volatile that is a widely accepted fact, they can go up in price, they go down low and some may even lose the cost they initially invested. However, the industry of Drones has proven to be in a constant state of growth and success, it is even predicted to grow bigger by 2024, and we want to invite Cryptocurrency users and give them the opportunity to take part in this journey. Why learn with us? On top of our actual and hands-on training in the field with our professional instructors, we also have a CASA-approved curriculum designed by industry pilots paired with our flexible training options, together with our combination of interactive online classes with practical in-person flight training, Droneit also has a fully functional student learning app. Learning can be costly; however, we believe that Learning should also be made economical and cost-effective and here at Droneit we made that all possible. Turn your digital currency into physical skills and become a professional remote pilot!

How To Pay Using Cryptocurrency

To pay with a cryptocurrency you simply need to open a wallet on the crypto.com exchange. If you are already a crypto.com user simply checkout choosing crypto.com as your payment provider and follow the prompts.

To open a crypto.com account it's free and easy. You'll also get $25 USD just for signing up so click HERE and enter the reward code: ezvdng4cfj

Disclaimer

Past performance is not an indication of future results. Your capital is at risk.

Cryptocurrencies are a high risk investment that can fluctuate widely in price and may even become worthless. They are not appropriate for all investors and you should consider whether they are suitable for you in light of your financial situation. You should only buy cryptocurrency if you are prepared to accept the risk of losing all your initial investment.

Cryptocurrency trading on margin or leverage carries additional risk of losing money rapidly due to the leverage involved. You should consider whether you understand how leveraged trading works and whether you understand the risks involved. You should familiarise yourself with cryptocurrency risk disclosure statements provided by every platform and exchange we promote.

The purpose of this blog post is solely to display information regarding the products and services available on the crypto.com exchange. It is not intended to offer access to any of such products and services. You may obtain access to such products and services on platforms and exchanges, subject to registering for and opening an account. Your use of the platforms and exchanges we promote are subject to their own disclaimers, privacy policies, and terms and conditions.

The information on this website does not constitute investment advice, nor a solicitation or recommendation for you to click any link or buy or sell any cryptocurrency or any related financial instrument. Please ensure you understand all risks and seek independent advice if necessary.

Meet Our RePL Graduate - Adam from Radial Systems

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 07:23:28 GMT

Meet our RePL Graduate - Adam, from Radial Systems

In our new Q&A blog post series, we'll be shining some light on our RePL graduates. In this instalment, Adam from Radial Systems will be talking to us on how drones allowed him to combine his passion for mapping, laser scanning, data and aviation!

Hi Adam, thanks for taking the time today to share some of your experiences with us! Why don't you start by telling us more about Radial Systems ?

No problem! We are a local Brisbane based company focused on getting high-quality drone mapping & laser scanning outputs in a fast and cost-effective way for our clients. Good measurement data is hard to collect, so I want to be able to get this data in more efficient and effective ways than is traditionally available. Most of our work is in Queensland but we do service Australia wide.

What made you want to get into this type of work?
I used to work in the energy sector in New South Wales and my passion for mapping started there with the mapping of power corridors, part of my role was supporting the GIS team and network operations team, who digitised all of the poles, wires and other assets . It was a vast amount of data and critical to operating and maintaining the electricity network. I realised aerial mapping was the only way to complete these types of jobs, usually due to the size of the area and the terrain.

I actually got into drones through my interest in mapping and laser scanning. In the old days, these aerial scans were put together through fixed-wing aircraft, which obviously had quite a high cost attached to it. With drones becoming cheaper to obtain and operate, smaller companies can now access these types of aerial services at a much lower cost. The lower cost of appropriate hardware also meant pursuing this type of career was far easier for me than it would have been without drones; not to mention Droneit's student discount on hardware let me save even more.

So really drones have allowed me to combine my interests in aviation, data, technology and mapping to pursue a new and interesting career path in an evolving industry. It's a game-changer!

What made you want to seek out getting your RePL through Droneit?

I realised an RePL will open lots of opportunities for me not just in being able to fly drones legally and safely, but also in building trust with my clients. I work closely with builders and architects to provide them with aerial scans for their projects, these scans make up part of their overall building project deliverable. Me having those appropriate RePL qualifications gives my clients confidence that I know what I'm doing and my work will be of a high quality. The RePL also means that my clients have that extra peace of mind that all the CASA rules are being followed on their worksite, thereby reducing their risk. I think this definitely gives me an advantage over not having my RePL.

Do you have any interesting or memorable jobs that you have been involved in since getting your RePL?
Recently I was involved in an architecture project in the beautiful countryside! It was a large site with a river intersecting throughout and power transmissions positioned through the site too. It made for some interesting drone flying in a really picturesque location. After I processed the 3D data from the drone, I was able to show my clients a visual representation of the site with high accuracy for measurement tasks - they were super excited with the images and the speed with which they were produced!

It's definitely a pretty cool way to earn a living. In my previous job I was pretty much stuck behind a desk in the office most days, so being able to get out and about to visit these types of locations, and help my clients too is an amazing change for me.

If you'd like to learn more, check out Radial Systems here . Otherwise, you can always contact the friendly Droneit team for any questions about completing your RePL or starting your own drone business here . Droneit offers student exclusive discounts on eligible hardware, so you can start your drone business for less!

Free Virtual Seminar for Veterans: Social Media For Small Business

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 05:19:43 GMT

Free Virtual Seminar for Veterans: Social Media For Small Business

Droneit is a proud supporter of Australian veterans through our involvement with the Australian Partners of Defence (APOD) and making the Veterans' Employment Commitment . We're pleased to announce that the veteran community will have free access to a virtual seminar on Social Media for Small Businesses - taking place on Friday, 24th September from 1pm to 2pm AEST.

For those thinking of starting their drone business, or are already running theirs - this is a great opportunity to see the benefits of social media in making a big impact for your small business. Michelle Endacott, the CEO of Prince’s Trust Australia will be sharing a wealth of knowledge gained from working with the Australian Women’s Weekly and other media entities to assist veteran-community owned businesses to get the most out of social media.

Racing Queensland Drone Trial Success

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 06:47:27 GMT

Trials are set to be underway for drone footage of thoroughbred racing soon, after the roaring success in harness racing in Queensland.

Droneit founder Lee Carseldine along with CEO James Jones have been providing footage during the recent harness racing winter carnival and have their eyes on thoroughbred racing after rave reviews from stakeholders.

Read the full article by The Courier Mail here: https://itsmol.co/the-courier-mail

Drone Industry Terms For Beginners

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 02:32:13 GMT

Stuck? Here are some commonly used terms to help you

For someone thinking of starting out as a drone operator, sometimes it’s easy to get lost in all the different terms that are used. To add to the confusion for people, these terms are sometimes used interchangeably. So, for all you aspiring drone pilots out there - here’s a basic list of all the different terms you should know before starting your drone training.

CASA: The Civil Aviation Safety Authority. This is the Australian Government body that regulates Australian aviation safety. The rules, restrictions and safety guidelines that you must abide by when flying your drone are set out by CASA. Our training curriculum and materials have been reviewed and approved by CASA.

You can learn more about CASA here .

Drone : Well, this is an obvious one. But sometimes a Drone can be referred to as an RPA/RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System), this is the term currently recognised by CASA. Another expression that can refer to a Drone is UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), but this term is less commonly used and not recognised by CASA. There are other international terms to refer to a drone, but these are the main ones used in Australia.

FPV Drone: You may have heard this one come up a bit, and with time it'll become even more common. FPV (First Person View) Drone is a type of RPAS that uses its onboard camera to transmit live video to the operator, typically to goggles that the operator would be wearing. There's a few CASA rules around flying FPV Drones that you can read about here .

ARN: An Aviation Reference Number, you obtain this by applying to CASA. You cannot complete an RePL course without an ARN. This number is just a unique ID for CASA to identify you when communicating to them.

Need to get a CASA ARN? Follow the instructions on the page here .

RePL: This is the abbreviation for Remote Pilot Licence. This is a licence issued by CASA upon successful completion of our RePL courses. The Sub 7kg RePL is standard, but can also be upgraded to Sub 25kg . The Sub 7kg or Sub 25kg weight rating simply means that is the maximum weight of the drone that you are allowed to fly using your RePL.

The Sub 7kg RePL allows you to:

fly drones over 2kg and up to 7kg for commercial purposes
fly any drone up to 7kg outside of CASA’s Standard Operating Conditions (with appropriate CASA approvals)

You can learn more about obtaining an RePL here .

An RePL holder can only fly drones above 2kg and up to 7kg (or up to 25kg with an Endorsement) if they are flying under a ReOC.

ReOC: This is a Remote Operator’s Certificate. To legally fly and operate as a licensed remote pilot offering commercial drone services you must fly under a company (or your own ABN) ReOC. Multiple individual RePLs can fly under one ReOC. As a ReOC holder you can also apply to CASA for additional permissions and approvals to conduct more complex drone operations outside of the standard operating conditions such as flying at night, in close proximity to the public, and flying in restricted airspace.

If you'd like to know more, check out our ReOC page for more information.

AROC: An AROC is an Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate. The AROC certifies you to communicate from the ground on an aviation radio frequency whilst operating in proximity of aerodromes, controlled airspace or around manned aircraft.

You can find out more about AROC here .

We hope the above helped clarify some points for you. All our course packages are flexible based on your requirements - you can see them all here , or get in touch with us to discuss your requirements or if you have any further questions.

5 (More) Cool and Creative Drone Uses

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 03:55:06 GMT

Some more clever ways drones are being used in different industries

We loved writing about some unique ways we've seen drones being used and tested , and our students loved learning about it too. So back by popular demand, here are some more ways that drones are being used in innovative ways.

#1: Search, Rescue & Safety

We love hearing about how drones can help people, wildlife and the environment in unique and complex ways. Sometimes, it's just the simple things that really impress - like using advancing technology to find a needle in a haystack - or a missing person in a remote area. In this case, drones are increasingly being used in search and rescue operations thanks to their thermal imaging capabilities, improving battery life, and ease of use compared to more traditional means.

Drones are also being increasingly used in beach safety by monitoring surf conditions and assisting in shark-spotting .

We believe the uses for drones in these areas will continue expanding in future.

#2: Sporting Events and Strategy

Sports are watched by billions of people worldwide, and viewers are always looking for new ways to consume media. Drones are enhancing the user experience by easily facilitating the capture of aerial shots for fans to enjoy the action from a different point of view and presenters to analyse the game. Even in training, drone technology allows players to wear GPS tracking devices on the field, which sends signals to the drone to allow it to map player movement. This provides trainers with valuable information to build or enhance their team’s game plan.

If you want to see more about this, we highly recommend you check out our podcast with our RePL graduate Scott Barker. Scott has used drones in sports performance analysis for the Brisbane Broncos, the National Rugby League, and Netball Queensland - to name a few.

#3: Wine Making

Vineyards are taking the farming approach to the next level by examining grapes with the use of drones and infrared technology . Drones are being used to spot sick plants and even map vineyards down to the grape! That’s right, drones can give winemakers an indication of the quality of grape being grown and even an estimate of the total grape harvest.

#4: Construction

It’s hard to believe, yet the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology has used drones to create a rope bridge that is capable of holding a human. Experts believe the relationship between man and machine will only grow in the future - and we’re excited to see how the use of drones grows with it!

While drones being used to assist in the build of full structures may be a while away, we are still seeing drones being used in the construction industry to reduce costs and create project efficiencies, among other things.

# 5: Window Cleaning

Last but not least, drones are being developed to clean windows and buildings at high altitudes. Currently, it’s a dangerous job, but with drones this task can be completed quicker and more effectively - minimising the need for human risk.

We hope you enjoyed those examples! And who knows, maybe you've now got some new inspiration for how you can use your drone. If you need information on which Remote Pilot Licence is right for you, talk to us today .

Droneit Launches Student App

Thu, 20 May 2021 01:59:56 GMT

Droneit has now launched a new free mobile app for all our students

At Droneit we always aim to be at the forefront of providing quality drone training to our students. Whether that be through our CASA approved curriculum designed by industry pilots, our flexible training options, or our combination of interactive online classes with practical in-person flight training - there's no shortage of reasons for why our students love Droneit. Now, add a fully functional student learning app to that list!

This app is available on iOS and Android and will allow you to access all your training materials plus more!

Seamless transition from Desktop to Mobile App whether you want to learn at home or on the go
Support contact functionality
Access to exclusive student specials and early access to store promotions
Access to flight planning software

DOWNLOAD

M300 RTKs Join Droneit Fleet

Tue, 04 May 2021 05:00:47 GMT

Droneit's fleet of drones continues growing with the addition of 4 new DJI M300 RTKs

The DJI Matrice 300 RTK is truly an impressive piece of technology. With a maximum flight time of 55 minutes, multiple payload configurations, advanced AI capabilities, and so much more - it's no wonder these drones are becoming a favourite for so many work sites and jobs across different industries. They are durable, reliable and versatile - not to mention, a joy to fly.

We're excited to announce the addition of 4 new Matrice 300 RTKs to our fleet of drones. These will join our existing DJI M600 Pros as part of our drone equipment that we offer our Sub 25kg RePL students to train with. If you're looking at drone training packages, it's important to understand what equipment you will be trained and assessed on. To set yourself up for success as a CASA accredited drone pilot, you need to get the best training and support possible - and this also extends to the equipment you use as part of the course. Our training packages have all been designed with practical and commercial requirements in mind - which is why we offer these industry standard drones for our 25kg RePL training.

Our M600s are currently available in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne while the M300s will soon be available in Brisbane, Cairns, Adelaide and Perth for the Sub 25kg training. If you'd like to know more about our Sub 25kg endorsement or book in your spot for your training - get in touch with us here .

Podcast #004 - Scott Barker - SBG Sports Software

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 23:29:37 GMT

Scott Barker on Drones in Sports Performance and Coaching

It's our pleasure to welcome you to the fourth episode of "The Best Drone Podcast!"

In this episode, we talk to Scott Barker. Scott is an experienced sports performance analyst, having worked in various roles with the Brisbane Broncos, The Rugby Football League, the National Rugby League and Netball Queensland. Scott currently works with SBG Sports Software, which develop a wide range of sports software for use in performance analytics.
We caught up with Scott to learn how he uses drones as part of his team coaching and training, how COVID impacted his line of work, and so much more!

Take a look at our full podcast video below, or subscribe to our YouTube page to be alerted when we upload our highlights of this episode. If you want the audio version of this podcast, check out our Spotify page !

Droneit Featured in Reuters Story

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 04:18:45 GMT

We Love Hearing From Our Drone Course Graduates!

One of the best things about teaching new students is getting the chance to hear about all the different industries and walks of life they come from. It's great to see so many different individuals having a common passion for drones and flying. Lots of these students find us through Google, whether it be our competitive course offering, positive online reviews, or they just feel like Droneit clicks with them - Google Search definitely plays a part in helping students connect with us.

One of our course graduates, a video journalist from Reuters, got in touch with us to hear our thoughts about how Google Search potentially leaving Australia may impact Droneit and our students.

At the end of the day, we are passionate about sharing our industry knowledge and drone flying expertise with new students. Yes, Google Search leaving Australia would be a challenge for both Droneit and our students, but it would not deter us to keep doing what we're doing - offering the best drone flying courses in Australia!

You can find the full article here .

We love hearing success stories from past graduates, and inspirational ideas from future students. Want to chat with us about all things drones? Get in touch !

5 Cool and Creative Ways Drones are Being Used

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 06:24:25 GMT

Drones are more common than ever, but what are the clever ways they are being used today?

The term “drone” wasn’t very common until a few years back. Now, you can’t seem to move without hearing about them or hearing them buzzing over your head. As these impressive pieces of technology become even more common and advanced, people are coming up with more ingenious ways to use them.

#1: Surveying The Earth

Drones allow us to explore high-risk or hard to reach areas of our planet. Take for example the scientists of the geology world who get up close and personal with volcanoes . Drones allow them to not only access these dangerous terrains remotely, but also use their technology to collect data on gas emissions and physical layouts.

#2: Delivery

As eCommerce continues to grow in global popularity, retailers have to find new ways to deliver packages and parcels on time. Amazon believes that drone technology is the way forward. Called Prime Air , the first autonomous drone delivery was made on December 7th, 2016, and it took 13 minutes. Impressive.

#3: Wildlife Study and Conservation

Whether you like observing them in their natural habitat or want to keep them safe, the drone industry is making a positive impact on wildlife conservation and study. Some wild animals are notoriously easy to spook, and some are impossible to find if they want to remain hidden. Drone tech negates these problems by eliminating the need for direct human contact. They fly overhead or enter habitats discreetly to make less of an impact on the animal population.

Check out the video below to see how the Australian Wildlife Conservancy is using drone technology to ‘stock-take’ and monitor wildlife populations:

#4: Farming & Agriculture

Farming isn’t a dying profession. Farmers worldwide plough fields and tend to crops for the sake of feeding their families and the entire world. It can be back-breaking work, and it isn’t always successful, but drones are making it simpler. Farmers can use aerial shots to understand weather conditions better and tweak their methods accordingly. The video below gives a great example of just one of the ways how drones can help farmers tend to their crops.

#5: Drone Racing

If there is one thing you can count on, it’s the need for speed. Drones are no different as pilots are twinning their best models with VR goggles and first-person cameras to boost their adrenaline levels!

There is no stopping technology, and as it continues to evolve and grow - so too will the possibilities for drones. At Droneit we are looking forward to the future and the opportunities it will continue to unlock for the drone industry. Interested in learning more about drones and in training to get a start in the industry? Contact us today!

Podcast #003 - Dr Catherine Ball from World of Drones and Robotics Congress

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Wed, 16 Sep 2020 04:04:49 GMT

Dr Catherine Ball

Scientific futurist, tech influencer, author, champion of diversity, drone expert, associate professor.

“The future is here, s ay what you want.”

Dr Catherine likes to demystify emerging technology and empower people to make a change.

World of Drones and Robotics Congress: https://www.worldofdrones.com.au/

Dr Catherine Ball: https://www.drcatherineball.com/

Part 101 Manual of Standards (MOS) Update

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 00:32:21 GMT

Transitional amendment for RePL training courses

In April 2020, CASA amended the Part 101 MOS to extend the date by which training organisations were required to transition to the new MOS training syllabi and requirements. This 6- month extension from 10 April 2020 to 10 October 2020, was provided due to the impact of COVID-19 on the RPAS industry and training organisations’ ability to meet the transition requirements.

CASA is proposing additional relief in the form of a transitional amendment to Chapter 2 of the Part 101 MOS in relation to RePL training courses. The proposed transitional provision will provide that any student who commenced a RePL course on or after 3 April 2020 but before 10 October 2020, will have until not later than 31 January 2021 to fully complete all aspects of the course and its examinations and assessments, under the relevant syllabi as is in force before 10 October 2020. Any course commenced on or from 10 October 2020 must be completed against the new relevant syllabi.

While the COVID-19 pandemic continues to give rise to relevant restrictions and limitations, Droneit and CASA will continue, as far as reasonably practicable, and consistent with the requirements of aviation safety, to assist industry to maintain operations. If you have any queries or concerns, please email training@droneit.com.au and we will respond to you as soon as practicable.

Yours sincerely

Nehuen Salina

National Training Manager

Podcast #002 Steve Griffin - Unmanned Approvals

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 13:44:24 GMT

The Best Drone Podcast - #002 - Steve Griffin from Unmanned Approvals

It's our pleasure to welcome you to the second episode of "The Best Drone Podcast!"

Our show aims to educate and inform our audience about everything to do with operating drones, whether it be commercially or for enjoyment! Hopefully at times we will entertain as well as we feature new guests on a regular basis who are using drones in different ways to enhance their business or build a digital presence.

Steve Griffin has been flying since age 16. He has accumulated more than 5,000 flying hours across a broad range of aircraft types including aeroplanes, gliders, balloons, airships and ultra-light aeroplanes. He has Commercial Pilot licences for aeroplanes and balloons and holds approvals and ratings as a Flight Instructor, Examiner and Approved Testing Officer, along with being a CASA Delegate.

Covid-19 Update

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 04:28:13 GMT

Dear Students,

We're sad to announce that Droneit Victoria training locations will remain temporarily closed during Stage 4 Restrictions in Victoria. Yesterday the Victorian Government announced further Stage 4 Restrictions to businesses in greater Melbourne.

As required under the new restrictions, our exams and practical assessments will not be able to go ahead as planned for the next six weeks.

We will monitor government directives during the shutdown period so we can advise staff and students alike as to when our Victoria assessments locations will be permitted to reopen.

Under the new rules, we are permitted to provide online order fulfilment for drone hardware, and we will continue to provide contactless learning for all our online courses including online tutoring.

Other States and Territories in Australia who are not yet affected will continue as normal and we will provide the best we can under the circumstances. We urge other States and Territories to book in for assessments as soon as you can. If the date you want is full let us know so we can plan another date for you.

Please note, due to these restrictions there may be delays to online hardware order deliveries, and we thank you in advance for your patience. If you have a query regarding an existing order, we ask that you utilise our live chat on our website, email Taylor or Nehuen, or me at training@droneit.com.au

We wish all of our Victoria students and students across Australia a safe and healthy passage through the coming weeks.

Sincerely,

James Jones

CEO

Podcast #001 Alex Pryor - Pryority Droneworks

Sat, 18 Jul 2020 08:59:43 GMT

Our first guest is Alex Pryor from Pryority Droneworks. Based in Brisbane, Pryority Droneworks is a a technical service provider offering a range of industries with near real-time data to help make accurate and well-informed decisions. Using Drones (UAV/RPAS), Smart scanners (Matterport 3D and SLAM) and Sensors (IoT), Alex takes the guesswork out of early-phase project works for: Architectural, Engineering and Construction Projects as well as Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing clash detection.

The New Matrice 300 RTK Looks Terrifying (But Awesome)

Mon, 25 May 2020 01:27:00 GMT

The eagerly-awaited Matrice 300 RTK is finally here. Packed with exciting new features that put it leagues above its predecessor, the M200 V2. With a new design and exciting features, this new commercial drone is ready to blow everything else out of the water.

Not just your average drone

Many of the Matrice 300 RTK’s features were leaked earlier in the year, although some things have proved to be even better than what was speculated. Among some of the Matrice 300 RTK’s new features are:

55 minutes of flight time
Advanced AI capabilities
6 Directional Sensing and positioning
-20°c to 50°c operating temperature
15km transmission
1080p triple-channel video
Can carry payloads of up to 2.7kg

The newest Matrice drone is designed with superior weather performance for a drone that is more stable and effective, ideal for various commercial purposes.

Added intelligence enriches the quality of the device. The M300’s Smart Pin and Track provides enhanced tracking options for static and moving objects, with the ability to synchronize location data with other operators. The Smart Inspection features make it possible to optimize the collection of data for railway lines, power lines and more, providing much greater accuracy. It’s even possible to mark out points of interest, helping to ensure consistent results when monitoring a particular area.

And as if all of that wasn’t enough, the Matrice 300 is also capable of three simultaneous payloads, including a downwards gimbal - a new feature for DJI. Shoot at a variety of angles and achieve your best drone footage so far.

What makes the Matrice 300 RTK stand out?

For a start, have you seen how it looks? Breaking away from traditional DJI drone designs, the Matrice 300 has a more futuristic feel (as if drones couldn’t get more futuristic-looking). Resembling a Star Wars All Terrain Walker, it’s a piece of equipment that looks cool, while still having features that make it more than just good-looking kit.

The Matrice 300 RTK has had many upgrades since its predecessor. When the Matrice 200 was released in 2017, it was immediately seen as the model to beat. And that’s exactly what DJI has done with the M300. Each of the specs is an improvement on the last, so if you’re looking for an upgrade, now would certainly be the time to do it.

Will it make your wishlist?

Described by DJI as combining ‘industry-leading airborne intelligence with unrivalled reliability’, it’s a commercial drone that could provide some significant improvements to your drone results.

Released alongside the Zenmuse H20 series, DJI look set to dominate the market. The M300 is beyond impressive, and almost terrifying in what it’s capable of.

Whatever your drone application, you can be sure that the Matrice 300 RTK doesn’t disappoint. Now available to order, will you be investing in the M300 this year?

Finally! Drone Insurance That is Flexible (and Affordable)

Wed, 20 May 2020 01:58:00 GMT

A drone is a serious investment. Whether you are an enterprising business person taking advantage of drones’ many business applications, or an enthusiastic hobbyist flying a drone for the simple pleasure of it, that investment needs to be protected.

So what better way to protect something important to you than a comprehensive insurance policy? The trouble is that for a long time, drone insurance has been prohibitively expensive and / or hard to match to the many and varied uses of drones for business or pleasure. Until now, that is. We have teamed up with the people at Precision Autonomy to give you a great deal on a drone policy that fits your unique needs and budget.

Cover built around you

Nobody likes to pay over the odds for cover that’s surplus to their requirements. Moreover, nobody likes it when an insurance policy does not cover the actual value of what is lost or damaged.

The great thing about Precision Autonomy’s cover is that it uses a ground-breaking flight management system so that they know when you are in the air and when you are on the ground, so your cover is tailored accordingly with true flexibility. You can select cover on a Pay-Per-Fly basis combined with a low base-rate for ground cover. So you need not worry about your policy being void for damage incurred on the ground or have to contend with excessive costs if you only get to fly your drone now and then.

There are also flexible liability limits as well as hull coverage options to ensure that whatever you need to use your drone for, your policy has you covered.

Better cover. Less expense. It really is that simple.

Why choose Precision Autonomy?

Precision Autonomy are not the only guys out there offering drone insurance. However, they are the best placed to offer drone insurance that is both flexible and affordable. They have a dedicated team of underwriters with over a decade of experience in the esoteric field of Aviation and Drone Underwriting.

They have a range of insurance options that is peerlessly flexible and comprehensive. Furthermore, they can provide valuable data insights which can prove beneficial in all kinds of commercial drone operations.

Get your free zero-obligation quote here!

Whether you are flying a drone for business or pleasure, the cost of replacing or repairing a damaged drone can be financially crippling. Drone insurance should be considered essential no matter when, why or how often you fly your drone.

Moreover, with Precision Autonomy you can avoid paying over the odds while ensuring that your cover is matched to your exact needs.

Why not take a look for yourself? Click Here to get a quote that is 100% free of both cost and obligation. You may be surprised by just how much you have been over-paying for a policy that lacks the flexibility you need.

New Zealand Gets an eVTOL Taxi Service and We're Jealous

james.jones@droneit.com.au (James Jones) — Mon, 18 May 2020 06:19:50 GMT

The future is here! New Zealand is getting an eVTOL Taxi Service. But we’re not jealous. Nope. Well… maybe a bit.

There was a time when unmanned vehicles were considered the stuff of science fiction. Still, the unmanned cars driving around the streets of key cities in Queensland last year proved that tomorrow’s technology is here to day. What’s more, aeronautical buffs will be delighted to learn that unmanned travel isn’t just confined to the ground anymore.

Recently, the frankly extraordinary 13-rotor transitioning VTOL airframe called Cora was unveiled by Wisk Aero. You can find out more about them in this video;

This fully electric air taxi rises like a helicopter, flies like a plane, and looks like a massive wasp in an Iron Man suit… in the best possible way.

The bad news? The kiwis are getting it before us!

Why New Zealand?

Obviously, we’re not jealous. Nope.

Not even a little bit.

The Cora is preparing to launch a service trial on New Zealand’s South Island pending New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority. We’re not sure who the passengers will be. The All Blacks will obviously be way too heavy for the craft. Maybe those two blokes from Flight of the Conchords will be aboard the Cora’s inaugural flight? Or maybe Peter Jackson will use it to transport cast and crew around for a 15 hour long adaptation of The Silmarillion? Heck, they might be using it to transport sheep or gumboots.

Again, not jealous, just curious.

The venture is actually part of a push by the NZ government to encourage aerospace pioneers to choose the country as a sort of test bed for development. The last Hobbit film came out 5 years ago, after all. They must be desperately in need of infrastructure.

Credit where it’s due, the venture shows a clear desire to open up the country to pioneering efforts in aviation

which might not be possible or desirable elsewhere.

Not that we’re jealous here in Australia.

Cora blimey!

Turning our attention to the Cora itself, we can see that this vertical takeoff techno-wasp is imbued with some pretty impressive tech.

Backed by Boeing and Kitty Hawk, it has an incredible pedigree and leverages a combination of cutting edge self-flying software and human oversight. There are 3 completely independent flight computers, while a parachute can be deployed in the event of catastrophic failure.

Its VTOL liftoff is facilitated by a small, winged electric multirotor which uses 12 small electric rotors, combined with a larger pusher prop at the rear of the craft to allow for winged flight. Each direct drive motor in the system has only one moving part- the fan. This means that rotor issues can be handled using automated troubleshooting processes with no discernable difference in the flight path.

It is capable of speeds of up to 160 kilometers per hour with a range of around 40km with some reserve and a 460m AGL cruising height.

A great deal of effort has gone into assuring the Cora’s safety with over 1,200 flight tests logged so far. All in all, it makes for a very impressive and highly innovative aircraft with the potential to revolutionise short distance air travel.

The important thing is, we’re not jealous!

All joking aside, this is a remarkable and potentially game-changing innovation. Time will tell how effective and popular it is in the short term.

And when the Aussies get to play with this cool new toy!

Drone safety rules for Australia. What are they?

Wed, 13 May 2020 02:47:00 GMT

CASA has gone to great lengths to ensure that Australians have plenty of drone rules to follow. This is essential when it comes to drone safety. There is no legal age requirement for drone flying, which means anyone can own one. Right now, there are believed to be over one million drones operating in Australia . That’s a lot of airborne activity!

Consequently, CASA has introduced a series of new drone safety rules for people to follow.

To help you stay safe and avoid any fines, we’ve compiled the rules down below:

The two golden rules of drone flying

CASA indicates there are two main things that everyone must do when flying a drone:

It doesn’t matter how big your drone is or where you are, you can only operate one per time. Maintaining a visual line of sight basically means that you can always see your drone. So, you should only fly it in the daytime, when the sky is clear. Avoid any obstacles - like trees or buildings - and don’t fly in bad weather conditions where your view is obscured. If you can’t see your drone, then you immediately put others at risk.

The main things to avoid when flying a drone

Unsurprisingly, the list of things you can’t do is more extensive than what you can. CASA identifies these key safety rules to abide by:

These rules aren’t difficult to follow, and they’re all relatively straightforward. It’s all about being aware of your surroundings and avoiding situations where people are put at risk.

How do I know where to fly my drone?

One of the key safety issues is where you are allowed to fly a drone. On private property, you can fly it wherever you like - if you own the property, of course. In public places, it’s slightly more challenging as certain areas are no-fly zones. Thankfully, CASA has many drone safety apps that you can download and use to locate safe flying zones.

Do you need a licence to fly a drone?

In Australia, you may need a licence if you’re flying your drone commercially. This means that you do it for business purposes, to get money, or if it weighs more than 2kg. There are a couple of exceptions to this rule , but the majority of commercial drone pilots need a licence.

It’s important to know the drone safety rules as you can be penalised if you’re caught breaking them. Additionally, CASA will soon be bringing in registration rules for drone owners. As part of registering your drone, you will need to get accredited. This means you have to pass an online test on drone safety. So, the more you know now will help you when this comes around!

Update: UBER Air In Melbourne

Mon, 11 May 2020 01:54:00 GMT

It is a very intriguing move, but what are the current ambitions for a project this big?

eVTOLs

Uber intends to roll out this service by using things called eVTOLs . This stands for electric vertical take-off and landing. For all intents and purposes, it’s a helicopter that uses electronic technology. By using these, it is hoped that it can avoid the extreme noise generated by lots of helicopters flying around the city at once.

Currently, they want to keep the helicopter noise at around 67 decibels for people on the ground. By comparison, that’s similar to the standard noise generated by busy traffic. It sounds promising, but many residents and experts believe the Uber-copters need to be much quieter than this to avoid disruption.

321 kilometres per hour for up to 60 miles

Details of Uber’s ambitions for Melbourne were revealed in a secret document. One of the key details was that these electric choppers would be able to travel up to 321kph, for up to 60 miles. This could drastically improve transportation efficiency in this busy city! Imagine being able to hop in a helicopter and zip over traffic to your destination.

The flights themselves are around 475m in the air. So, it’s not too high in the sky, and certainly nowhere near the altitude of a plane .

83 skyports and 1000 helicopters in Melbourne

Perhaps the most ambitious thing about this move is how Uber plans to implement it in the city. They propose 83 skyports should be built on top of buildings, and 1000 helicopters can be released in the city.

So, if you live in Melbourne and see a lot of construction work happening on tall buildings, then you could be witnessing the birth of an Uber skyport!

While all of this sounds very cool, there are some concerns surrounding the concept. The main one is the noise in the air that a 1000 helicopters will make. Granted, Uber is working with companies like Tesla, who are trying to develop quiet, fully electric, choppers. But, it’s unsure if these will be in existence for another few years. Uber is looking to start rolling trials for this service by the end of the year!

It is both exciting and somewhat nerve-wracking to think about this type of transportation. If done well, it can revolutionise the city and clear up a lot of traffic issues. However, many Australian cities have already experienced issues with drone delivery services in the past. The noise and lack of airspace control over them have been a concern in Canberra . So, there’s the fear that similar issues will present themselves in Melbourne - but on a larger scale.

In summary, we could see 'Uber Air' trials in Melbourne in 2020. However, it’s expected that we won’t see this in full-operation until 2023 - provided the trials go well!

Do I need to register my drone?

Thu, 07 May 2020 23:00:00 GMT

More and more people in Australia are buying and using drones - both for personal and commercial use. As these figures continue to rise, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has decided to implement some new regulations. The hope is that these regulations allow for safer airways and more responsible drone piloting.

So, what is happening?

CASA is working towards bring rules for registration and accreditation to the Australian drone-flying population. However, as of right now, there aren’t any rules in place. You do not have to register a drone now, but you will need to when these rules are finalised and enforced.

It seems a bit confusing, so we’ve answered a few burning questions you probably have:

Do I have to register a drone if I’m flying it for fun?

If your drone weighs over 250g, then you will need to register it when registration opens. If yours weighs less than this - or is only flown inside - then you don’t need to register it.

Right now, you don’t have to do anything. Still, it can help if you check out the Know Your Drone section on the CASA website. This will brush up your drone safety knowledge, which will assist you when accreditation and registration opens.

What if I’m flying my drone for commercial use?

Commercial use refers to any drones that are used for business purposes. This could include a photographer capturing footage with a drone, or a farmer using drones to spray things on crops. For the most part, you will need a remote pilot licence (RePL) to operate a commercial drone. If you do, you won’t need to get accredited, but you will need to register your drone.

This holds true for any drones operating under the ‘excluded category’ as well. This typically includes commercial drones under 2kg or ones flown over your own land. You don’t technically need a license for these drones, but you will need to register them, and you will have to get accredited if you don’t have a licence.

What is accreditation?

Essentially, it’s a new rule by CASA that will show you know the basics of drone safety. Getting accredited will be easy as you typically just complete an online quiz and watch a safety video. Again, if you already possess a RePL, you don’t need to get accredited as well.

How do you register?

Registration will be very straightforward and can be handled via the CASA website. You need the following:

It’s also worth noting that you have to be over 16 to register your drone!

To summarise:

Hopefully, this clears everything up, and we will keep you updated on any news relating to these new rules.

How China’s Drones are Helping with Fighting Coronavirus

Sun, 03 May 2020 23:22:00 GMT

The coronavirus outbreak has changed so much in such a short space of time. The whole situation has seemingly birthed a new age of technological innovation as well. Countries all over the world are seeking new ways to fight the crisis, with China leading the way.

China was the first country hit by the virus - and hit severely. In the last few months, they have started using drones to try and combat this terrible situation. Through smart thinking, they’ve taken this technology and shaped it to perform essential tasks that are helping the country move through this crisis.

Disinfectant drones

As per the WHO , coronavirus can live on surfaces for up to 72 hours. This is one of the most troubling aspects of the virus. It’s all well and good people staying indoors, but if someone with the virus touches a surface in a public place, it can stay there for a few days and be passed on to anyone else that touches it.

In fact, this is one of the main things that governments worry about when letting people return to their normal lives. So, China started using DJI drones to disinfect streets and public areas . It’s a genius move, and many of the drones in use normally work within the agricultural industry. It’s common for drones to spray pesticides across fields, so these have been repurposed to disinfect areas of the country and kill the virus lingering on surfaces.

Transportation drones

Next, China has used drones for transportation in two different ways:

In truth, China has been using drones for consumer delivery since 2019. However, coronavirus has increased the frequency and availability of this service. It has allowed people in remote areas to gain access to food and other essential supplies without needing to leave their homes or contact other humans.

The same goes for medical supplies as well. Obviously, medical facilities around China constantly need new supplies to keep up with the patients inside. Delivering these via trucks or vans was simply not efficient. Much of the country was literally locked down, meaning roads were closed, and it took a lot longer for deliveries to take place. As such, drones offered a faster and more efficient delivery option in these testing times.

Overall, the key benefit of using transportation drones is that they minimise human-to-human contact. It stops any slight chances of a delivery driver catching or spreading the virus as they move between hundreds of houses per day. This keeps people safe while also ensuring that consumers and medical facilities continue to receive essential supplies.

All of this shows you just how far the commercial drone industry has come. While this virus has caused mass disruption and chaos throughout the world, it has managed to show the potential of drone technology. Two questions remain: will other countries start using drones in these ways to fight back against the virus? Will we see more and more drone use after the coronavirus is finished? The answer to both should be yes, as it’s clear that commercial drones have so many innovative uses.

Can Drones Deliver my Pizza Yet?

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 04:51:00 GMT

You’ve probably read by now that Dominoes in New Zealand has just successfully delivered its first pizza by a drone. If not, take a look!More

A week as a Drone Pilot

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 07:39:00 GMT

Being a beginner drone pilot comes with a bunch of challenges! From time-consuming admin work to understanding how to use drones to capture exactly what the client wants. Here at Droneit, we're all about empowering people and fostering great relationships with our team members. A few weeks ago, Sam worked with Droneit as part of his school vacation work experience program. Here is a little glimpse into his experience and his key takeaways!

During my time at Droneit, I had the opportunity to understand the life of a Drone Pilot. My time at Droneit was spent flying drones and completing other admin work like emails and editing videos.

On my first day, I completed some admin tasks relating to emails, banking and invoicing. The second day onwards, I was busy flying Drones!

I worked closely with Lee on different projects. Since CASA regulations are strict, I had to learn the ins and outs of flying drones safely. I learned about scanning the skies and understanding a little theory about flight and aviation.

Besides the boring but necessary admin work, flying drones was fun and helped me create visual content from a higher perspective.

I also became much more proficient at using the drone flying apps such as DJI, Go 4 and Drone Deploy.

From being a P.A for a week all the skills I learned doing that such as banking, invoicing, etc. will help me during life and give me a head start on how to run a business. In the future, I would like to pursue a career in filming and video editing. Flying drones would give me the skills to fly in new places and capture unique views and scenes.

My time at Droneit was really informative and fun and gave me a much broader idea of how a business works as well as how Droneit operates with its customers and students. I also learned of the strict laws of CASA and how that affects the operations of a business. The only thing that was challenging was doing the paperwork that no-one wanted to do!

If you would like the opportunity to do work experience with us, send us an e-mail at hello@droneit.com.au

Want to be Amazing at Night Drone Photography? Here’s How!

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 07:26:00 GMT

9 Best Underwater Drones in Australia

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 01:18:00 GMT

Submarine drones (otherwise known as ROVs — remotely operated vehicles) are becoming popular for underwater photography, filming and exploration.

Underwater Drone Facts (if you didn’t already know):

- Underwater drones are mostly attached to a wire, this is because radio waves don’t travel easily in water. This wire is used for controlling movement, streaming images and tracking the location of the drone. However, wireless drones are now being introduced and give more possibilities for control and movement.

- Submarine Drones generally have 4K cameras for high-quality video and drone photography. They also have powerful LED headlamps to see in deep water. However, they differ in terms of speed, operating depth, size and weight, method of control, battery duration and the purposes they are mainly used for.

In this list, we include the nine best submarine/underwater drones to use in Australia:

Biki

Price - Affordable
Weight - 1.1 kg
Speed - Lowest - 0.5 metres/second
Aesthetics - Fairly simple design with a streamlined body mimicking the appearance of fish

Biki is designed for fun rather than any commercial use. Nevertheless, it is equipped with two LEDs and has a 4K camera that delivers high quality, smooth videos. Added to that, it’s one of the few wireless drones and comes with a waterproof remote control so you can swim with it.

Nemo

Price - Affordable
Weight - 3.6 kg
Speed - 2 metres/second
Aesthetics - Ergonomically designed to glide easily and move faster through water

Nemo is powered by two horizontal and two vertical propellers that give it an excellent speed. Nemo comes with a backpack for easy transportation and fast-charging, a changeable battery that has up to three hours of life. Along with this, the 4K camera provides high-quality images and WiFi connectivity allowing these to be transmitted live to your phone or tablet. A downloadable iOS or Android app allows you to control the drone with the same device.

Gladius Mini

You can look at an in-depth product review here

Weight - 2.5 kg
Speed - 2 metres/second
Aesthetics - Streamlined, biologically designed

Equipped with 4K UHD camera, this drone can dive down to 100m, rise-up, hover, tilt, and turn with precision. Three vertical propellers combined with intelligent control algorithms ensure the stability of the drone in all directions while two thrusters propel GLADIUS MINI at a speed of 2m/s.

Power Ray

Weight - 3.8 kg
Speed - 2 metres/second
Aesthetics - Tough aluminium core in a sleek, shock-absorbing body

Equipped with sonar and an array of sensors, these drones can detect the presence of fish, assess water temperature and determine the general seabed topology. It’s, therefore, the perfect drone for fishermen who can use it to fish in a more effective manner.

It can operate with three-hour battery life. The 4K camera can capture video or still images at twelve megapixels.

MITO

Weight - 3.45 kg
Speed - 2 metres/second
Aesthetics - four-thruster design and tilt-lock function from -45 degree to 45 degree

It’s managed by a wireless remote control with a 500-metre range or by a phone or tablet with a downloaded iOS or Android app.

The swappable batteries last for four hours. Equipped with two bright LEDs and a 4K camera, live videos and twelve megapixel still images can be uploaded to a mobile device where the supplied app enables colour correction and sharing.

FIFISH

Weight - 3.9 kg
Speed - 1.5 metres/second
Aesthetics - six-thruster design with 4K Camera and tether plug

FIFISH allows exceptional manoeuvrability — movement in any direction and at any angle, with 90-degree tilts and 360-degree spins. It has one of the deepest maximum depths at 100 metres with four-hour battery life and speed of 1.5 metres per second.

Filming is enhanced by extremely bright LED headlights and a 4K UHD camera that’s optimised for underwater shots. This has HDMI live streaming, automatic colour enhancing algorithms and there’s a VR head tracking mode that gives full control through movements of the head.

CCROV

Weight - 5524g
Speed - 1 metres/second
Aesthetics - four horizontal and two vertical thrusters with 4k/30fps camera and 100m diving capacity

The development of this ROV was financed by crowdfunding and the theme is continued with the use of open-source GNU/Linux software that’s free to download. The wire length can be 25, 50 or 75 metres with a maximum speed of one metre per second and three-hour battery life. These are also the smallest ROV in the market!

iBubble

This is the most expensive of the drones tested and arguably the most successful. It’s one of the few wireless versions and so can operate freely with little restriction up to a depth of sixty metres.

Battery life is only one hour but it has a 4K camera with automated movie scenarios. It’s ideal for scuba divers and can be used manually while underwater or via a connected bracelet.

How Drone Technology Is Changing The World As We Know It

Mon, 10 Jun 2019 06:38:00 GMT

Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) as they are officially known, are a technology that has been around for a long time, but rapid technological development has helped drones really show their potential in the last decade. In this article, we'll look at some of the ways this technology is changing the world around us.

Making potentially dangerous jobs safer

The obvious, and currently most common, use of drones is in warfare and other extreme situations. Thousands of them have been deployed in the war in the Middle East and other conflicts around the world.

Using drones in this way makes it possible to attack strategic targets without risking the life of an aviator. Beyond warfare, however, there are other ways this technology can be used in aid of a greater good.

For example, water-drops during bush fires is a very difficult and dangerous task. This requires a great deal of skill and bravery from the pilot, and while the majority of this missions end well, that's not always the case. Before you condemn this ludicrous idea check out what these guys built...

The challenge in developing drones for this task is that they need to be able to lift a lot of weight, and that weight can change considerably during the mission. Experienced human pilots can feel what is happening with the aircraft and respond instantly to the changes, keeping the flight stable.

When the craft is piloted remotely, information has to be processed from the information provided by sensors, and that is a slower process than piloting by feel. However, more intelligent, autonomously piloted drones are being developed that may help overcome these challenges – could drones deliver far greater accuracy and efficiency than a human pilot could? Comment below and let us know what you think.

Making advanced film making techniques available to all

New Paragraph

Another very big change has been in the way we make movies today. In the past, aerial shots were extremely difficult, complex and expensive. Now, drones can be used in all kinds of creative ways to make more interesting content, movies and capture scenes in a way that was never possible before.

In fact, it is possible to film an entire movie using only drones. Nobody has done a full-length feature film yet, but that doesn't mean it can't be done!

When investing in a drone for film making, there are two things that need to be considered. The first is the technological features of the drone itself, and the second is the camera.

A good drone for film making has these features:

Automatic collision and terrain avoidance

"Return to Base" system
Ability to track and follow a target
Sufficient strength and energy to lift and carry the camera
Strong construction to help prevent damage

When it comes to choosing a drone camera, the things to look for are:

Ability to remotely control the camera independently of the drone
Flat lens ("fisheye" is not a good look for most cinematic masterpieces)
Depth of Field

That last item is really the most important one because it's what makes a movie look like a movie and not footage from a security camera.

Another great thing is that using a drone costs much less than using a manned aircraft, yet it can let you capture amazing shots in all kinds of ways, including some that could never be achieved using conventional techniques.

Bringing private air transport within reach of the masses

Think about the most obvious status symbol of the rich and famous. Chances are you thought of either a luxury yacht or a private plane. Up to now, it's typically only been very high wealth individuals who have been able to afford the luxury of private air transport. The main reason for that is that it costs a lot to have an aircraft and the personnel to fly it.

Now think about how much you hate commuting during rush hour. It's a terrible experience because moving along the surface of the earth is slow and limiting. If you could fly through the air like a bird, your experience would be very different.

Everything we know about private transport is about to change. Drones that safely transport you from A to B will soon be part of everyday reality. The technology already exists, but it's still going to be a while before it's available for everyone to make use of.

This is the technology people have been fantasising about in science fiction for more than 150 years (remember the Jetsons?), and finally it is something we can see. Within the next 10-20 years, it can be expected that the metropolitan sky will be filled with these smart autonomous vehicles, and that crowded rush hour commute will be nothing more than a memory.

What's next?

The future of drone technology is so exciting. We may have only discovered a small part of the potential so far. The technology is continuously evolving and becoming more advanced with each passing day. With further development, drones will have positive benefits to offer to everyone, and it may only be a few years before drones become a household appliance that everyone needs to have.

Before that can happen, new legislation will need to be made to classify different types of drone systems into categories so that there is not a blanket law covering all drones, no matter how diverse they may be.

That future is, however, inevitable. Drones are here to stay, and hopefully, people will operate them responsibly enough that it does not delay the passing of that necessary legislation that will bring the future to us sooner.

If you’re interested in beginning or furthering your career in this extremely exciting and rapidly developing industry – book in a free consultation with a Drone expert at Droneit today

How CASA's New Drone Laws Will Impact the Industry

Tue, 28 May 2019 06:15:00 GMT

One of the biggest complications with Australia's drone laws is that not everyone who owns and operates a drone is aware of the laws, and it seems that it's also the case that many simply don't care . The difficulty of prosecution is not something to be relied upon, however. It is far safer for drone users to comply with the laws because if they don't, it's very likely to swing the tide of public opinion enough that politicians will be encouraged to toughen up legislation and slow down the development of drone uptake and technology in Australia.

Already new rules have been brought into play because there have been so many blatant violations of safety regulations and personal privacy.

One of the ways CASA has attempted to make it easier for drone operators to comply with the law is via the publication of its Can I Fly There database system, which is available as an app for iPhone and Android and can also be accessed from a website.

Knowing about this will make it far easier for drone operators to at least know if operating in a certain area will result in a violation.

Registration will be compulsory for commercial operators

This will be one of the most difficult laws to enforce, since it may not be easy to identify who the operator of an unregistered drone is, nor will it be easy to identify whether a drone is registered or not. However, unregistered drones flying in ‘no-fly’ areas will be confiscated.

Registration will be compulsory for drones over 250g

In practical terms, it might just as well be said "for all drones", because there are very few usable drones currently on the market that weigh less. Those that do can generally be considered to be ‘toys’ or otherwise, are extremely expensive, sophisticated military devices that are out of reach of the average consumer anyway.

A matter of age

One of the most confusing new rules is that operators of drones who are under 16 years of age must be supervised by an accredited drone operator who is over 18 years of age. This leaves a kind of twilight zone between the ages of 16 and 18 where a person does not need supervision but also can not provide it for someone else.

Registration is going to cost you

Drones are getting less expensive to buy, but with new legislation, you’ll need to pay a $160 registration fee.

For commercial purposes, and those looking for a career in drone operation, the commercial operator's license will be an essential ticket and a must-have requirement.

The bottom line

Whether or not there will be an impact on the industry depends largely on what percentage of the industry decides to comply with the regulations, and how effectively CASA and other law enforcement agencies can detect and prosecute those in violation.

News reports indicate that CASA currently relies heavily on social media posts for collection of evidence against alleged violators, however, this not really the most effective method because:

Overall, it would seem there may be little impact on the industry except for increased costs due to the need for registration, however, for anybody looking to take-up drone flying in a commercial context becoming a licensed operator with a registered device is essential.

The definition of a drone will also need to be reworked. While it's clear that CASA intends to include all unmanned aerial vehicles in its regulations, the wording of many regulations and the type of evidence being relied on for enforcement is strongly indicative of photography drones, which are only one class of drone.

Drones may be used for making deliveries, performing non-photographic work (for example, thermal scanning of solar arrays to find hot spots), scientific applications, and at some point in the future as human transport devices as well.

CASA will need to think about not only current classes of drones but also anticipate future development in order to be ready for what is coming. Otherwise, the legislation will be at least one step behind.

If the laws are designed to help keep our airspace safe, then as long as the law is out of step with what is happening, presumably the airspace will be less safe than it should be.

The Future of Drones Industry Experts Predictions for Drones in 2020

Wed, 15 May 2019 22:32:00 GMT

Drones have always been an exciting technology, but the industry’s most recent developments indicate that drones will be going from strength to strength, with very solid potential to change the world in the years ahead.

These innovations will make drones more accessible, more affordable, and easier than ever to operate. For safety and legal reasons, it is still best to seek training to learn how to operate drones properly. It's all fun and games until you get a hefty fine in the mail for accidentally violating regulations.

It is easy to see a future where drones are to become commonplace household appliances, and the range of industrial applications for drones is also sure to expand.

In this article, we'll look at some of the most exciting predictions of what is just around the corner in drone development.

In-flight recharging for battery-powered drones

One of the biggest limitations for battery-powered drones has been the short operation time before we need to recharge or replace the batteries. Now imagine a future where drones never have to land. That future is already with us, courtesy of a company called GET (Global Energy Transmissions).

Something else which is extremely exciting about this is that the technology could potentially have many more applications beyond drones, it just depends what GET decides to do with it.

This will also potentially have some influence on the next item on this list.

Drones as autonomous personal transport

Now, this is an exciting development… the Ehang 184 AAV , will allow people to get around in drones! The limiting factor at the moment is that the developer cautions a maximum range of one kilometre. But if this technology is adapted to make use of GET (described above), then that limit may be no longer an issue. We might be able to tour the entire country, or even make international flights some day, without having to stop and recharge.

Drones as workers

Until now, drones have mainly performed passive tasks, carrying things like cameras and parcels. That's now changing, Apellix is developing "worker bee" drones with arms. The potential uses for these devices seem practically unlimited, and it will be interesting to see what happens. There's a strong chance that these robots may make certain jobs such as window cleaning obsolete. Robotic drones will be able to perform these tasks at a fraction of the cost of a human worker and without error.

Cheap satellite replacement

Satellites are expensive to build and even more expensive to get into space. But what if we could get most of the benefits of a satellite without the need to achieve space orbit? That's the goal of Project AlphaLink . The interesting thing about this project, apart from the abilities it will open up, is the joining together of multiple drone bodies at their wingtips, to provide greater endurance, and an excellent "wingspan to weight ratio".

The "Rise of the Machines" has never been closer

We already have smart drones, autonomous drones, so what's next? Drones that talk to each other? Yep, that's exactly right. This concept is the "collaborative drone", and it's fairly obvious that if a large number of drones work together to achieve a task, that task should be able to be completed more quickly. Time is a critical factor in rescue operations, for example, and that is one way the technology is likely to prove very helpful. Firefighting is another huge possibility.

This technology is currently being developed by Insayb Wireless Limited , a UAE based company. The way it works is dependent on the application, If we look at the search and rescue scenario, one drone flying around scanning for people who are trapped or missing may need to cover a lot of areas and make multiple passes, with no guarantee of success.

Contrast this to a collaborative scenario, however, and you will see that there is huge potential here. With multiple drones, a much wider search area can be covered and the drones can communicate with each other about what they each are seeing. This allows a mosaic to be formed from each drone's individual view, and from there we could be able to see much more, requiring fewer passes, and locating more people more easily.

Safer scientific exploration

There are not many aviators willing to fly directly into a hurricane or tango with a tornado, but there are some out there who actually do this as part of their job. It's a very dangerous undertaking and hasn't always yielded usable results due to the damage that can occur and the difficulty of flying in those conditions.

Drones are obvious candidates for this type of mission. They can be made to be self-correcting, they're completely fearless, and they're much more replaceable than human pilots.

This possibility is being tested by Meteomatics AG of Switzerland. Apart from the dramatic stuff like tornado chasing and hurricane flying, there are other ways the technology can be useful. In agriculture, construction, military work, and even sports being able to predict and potentially manipulate weather is a highly desirable outcome. This technology may be the key to unlocking that potential.

We've only scratched the surface of what is possible

In the case examples listed above, we've only examined a few ways that drone technology is being improved and applied. The best developments are still to come, and whether you love drones or fear them, they are an inevitable part of the future.

This may well be the best time to learn as much as possible about drones as you can, so you are prepared for what is coming and will understand the technologies that are potentially going to be available to you.

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The Three Best Drones to Buy as a New Flyer

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 04:26:00 GMT

Drones are not only incredibly fun, but they also open up a range of professional opportunities.

Among companies and agencies, there is an insatiable appetite for high quality and unique aerial footage. These companies want to integrate this amazing technique into their marketing, break new ground and also stay ahead of their competitors with drone filmed content.

If you are looking to capitalise on this opportunity or simply enjoy flying for its own sake, then you will want to identify which drones are the best to get started with. It might seem at first like you have to break the bank to enter this world, but that’s really not the case.

Here is a look at the three best drones to buy as a new flyer.

1. DJI Mavic Air

This is perhaps the go-to option for those budding drone pilots who want to learn the ropes with a quality piece of kit. This small drone weighs just 480 grams, making it a lightweight option that you will feel more confident flying – you don’t want to jump in at the deep end and get a drone that could cause some significant damage if a mistake happens.

DJI is a trusted manufacturer, and in this option, it has brought the iconic flight technology developed by DJI. This fact powers up the experience and helps new pilots to get to grips with the UI and experience that is offered by DJI, who is the major player in the drone technology space.

There is also a 4K Ultra HD camera on board, capable of capturing professional grade footage. To make things even better, this drone is fully programmable, meaning that you can control the drone in amazing ways and prepare yourself for a bigger piece of equipment.

2. DJI Phantom 4 PRO V2.0

One of the more premium pieces of technology buzzing around at the moment is the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 by DJI. Featuring the OcuSync HD transmission system, any new drone flyer looking to go for a top tier drone, then look no further than the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0

The upgraded masterpiece of engineering that is the new propellers on the the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 give you better thrust, more efficient battery consumption and a less annoying, subtler flying noise.

These upgraded propellers are said to give the drone 7% more flight power, DJI haven’t officially advertised this increasing speed, but industry tests are suggesting a formidable boost.

The FlightAutonomy system jam packs the device with sensory information from both vision and infrared sensors, meaning the drone has 5 different directions of obstacle sensing and 4 directions of obstacle avoidance, meaning you’ll be able to fly with confidence.

The Phantom 4 PRO V2.0 also integrates seamlessly with the DJI Googles for an immersive flying experience.

3. DJI Spark

This is a great option for those budding pilots who want a wide-angle lens on a mini-sized drone that weighs just 300 grams. Despite it’s competitive price and petite stature, the popular DJI Spark captures 12MP still camera images and Full HD video.

A multitude of intelligent flight modes such as Quickshot, TapFly, ActiveTrack and Gesture mean you’ll be in full control of your drone with simple hand movements and you’ll be able to focus on what really matters, capturing amazing aerial content.

Advanced flight sensors are available here, further making the drone easier to fly. Replaceable batteries are particularly great, assisting pilots to keep the action rolling with just a few seconds needed between battery changes.

Have lots of fun!

We hope that this quick look at some of the best starter drones has given you some inspiration. You will find that there are a lot of great options out there that can really help you to get better accustomed with flying. With our range of courses , you’ll be ready and confident to fly solo in no time at all, and who knows what kind of amazing opportunities might come your way!

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Drones are not only incredibly fun, but they also open up a range of professional opportunities.

1. DJI Mavic Air

2. DJI Phantom 4 PRO V2.0

3. DJI Spark

Have lots of fun!

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