I am a member of an all volunteer K-9 search and rescuse team. We respond to calls for missing persons, cadaver searches, police evidence article searches, etc. I would like to know how to build/purchase a helicopter drone that will provide quality video to aid in our searches in the even there is some scenario where the dogs are unable to reach the victim. The biggest "wish list" item is for an on-board camera with FLIR capability. I don't even know if that is available or cost prohibitive. If anyone can lend steer me in the right direction, I would appreciate it.
I will be going through the DIY Drone website to study up, but some practical advice to know what I don't need to concern my self with would be helpful, as well.
Since all of our expenses are out of pocket, cost is a factor.
Thank you in advance for you help.
John Swaney
Replies
Send me an email at
Colby.chuck@gmail.com to be notified when it is available
Let me quickly address some of your questions.
Depending on the amount of ground you want to cover, you may be better off with a fixed wing solution vs a multicopter.
"Cost prohibitive" is relative to what you have at your disposal. For an octo multirotor figure on a minimum $5000 and that would be if you build/design it yourself. There are some ready to fly (RTF) options out there, but they are usually over $10000.
FLIR cameras range in price, but a camera that is small and well suited for this application will run around $2000 (maybe a bit less).
You really need to determine: what kind of conditions you think you will be flying in, the flight time you expect to achieve, the amount of ground you need to cover, etc...
Adam
John,
Welcome! You will find that this site is full of information that will help you accomplish what you need. I am currently working with a non-profit Search and Rescue in Wisconsin. They have met with me several times to see the Nemesis (http://sentientdrone.com). They have plans to purchase the Nemesis Mark II - our new improved frame which isn't on our website yet - with a FLIR camera. It is worth noting that the Mark II will be priced RTF around $9800 excluding the FLIR camera. I was able to find better manufacturing partners and lower my costs, which in turn resulted in a lower price.
It is highly unusual for me to respond to a question with information about my product, but it is designed for such a task so you may be interested. However, even if you are completely uninterested in my product, I am more than willing to answer any of your questions. Just shoot me a PM if you have any specific questions after browsing the site a bit.
Adam