Object tracking demo on VTOL

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It is essential to lock and track the target that you are trying to monitor when you are conducting an aerial surveillance task through the fixed-wing plane or VTOL because your camera can quickly lose the target if it is not tracked. Luckily more and more drones are applying this feature. This video shows how we realized this through an affordable and easy to use solution. Please check this video to learn more: https://youtu.be/MrZkVPpl9nY

Anyway, please comment if you have better solutions.

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We are delighted to announce the launch of our innovative A series modular power solutions for the drone industry. (https://uav-en.tmotor.com/html/UAV/Multirotor/PropulsionSystem/a_series/)
The product page has been meticulously updated to provide customers with comprehensive details on the entire A series lineup, including:
In-depth single-product features, parameters, Downloadable reference documents, product videos, Comprehensive FAQ, Real-life product photography.

The A series modular power systems are engineered not only to excel in agricultural drone applications but also offer a wide spectrum of pulling forces to handle diverse working conditions: only 5 steps of installation, ready-to-use, built-in Monitoring, and cloud Box Analysis. It is a product with a validated service life of up to 2,000 hours of continuous operation.

For more details about the A6 model:https://uav-en.tmotor.com/html/2024/a_series_0711/1213.html
Additionally, We'd like to share that the rest of the A series lineup will be made available in the coming months, so please stay tuned for further updates.

12746967863?profile=RESIZE_710x

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During peak farming seasons, frequent battery plugging and unplugging will cause connector wear and oxidation.

High summer temperatures increase the risk of overheating.

Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain battery connectors to prevent flight damages. 

Please replace connectors immediately if you notice any signs of melting , ensure stable flight and safety.
12737331468?profile=RESIZE_710x

Professional cleaning and maintenance steps :

  1. First, prepare the necessary tools : 75% or 95% alcohol, wooden sticks, tweezers, cotton swabs,lint-free cloth.

 12737332054?profile=RESIZE_710x

 

  1. Pour alcohol into a cup. Dip a cotton swab and clean each copper plate on the battery plug until the black stains are removed.

12737331869?profile=RESIZE_710x

  1. After using the cotton swab, further clean with lint-free cloth. Soak the cloth in alcohol, then use a flat wooden stick to insert the cloth into the gaps between the copper plates, as shown in the pictures.

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  1. After completing the above steps, check and ensure each copper plate and gap is thoroughly cleaned.

(Note: make sure plug is dry completely before reconnecting the battery.)
12737332092?profile=RESIZE_710x

  1. To maintain the battery's plug : soak a cleaning cloth in alcohol. Use the wooden stick to insert the cloth into the gaps and clean each one, Repeat this process until it's clean.As shown in the picture.12737332654?profile=RESIZE_710x
  2.  Check whether the copper plates on both sides of the socket (as picture ①) has deformation.If the copper plates are deformed, use tweezers to repair them (as picture ②).12737332298?profile=RESIZE_710x

The battery connector is a small part but it is key to ensuring the drone's power supply.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend its life and ensure flight safety. 

As a drone pilot, learning about maintenance can keep your drone in the best condition.

Let's care for each flight and enjoy a safe, pleasant flying task.12737332857?profile=RESIZE_710xsmileView tutorial videos 

https://youtu.be/nfrTyabYMyA?feature=shared

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Application of TFmini-S in PixHawk


TFmini-S can directly be connected with the serial port of PixHawk. TFmini-S can be used in flight controller for the purpose of altitude holding or obstacle avoidance. This document is suitable to PixHawk adopts ArduCopter V3.6.2 or higher firmware (Note: Standard output mode should be used instead of PIX mode by Benewake GUI in firmware V3.6.2 or above).

Example for connecting PixHawk:

12699363892?profile=RESIZE_710x

12699363892?profile=RESIZE_710x

Figure 1 Schematic Diagram of Connecting TFmini-S with TELEM 2 Interface (Serial Port 2) of PixHawk

a) Mission Planner configuration description of TFmini-S for the purpose of altitude hold 

Connect the flight control board to Mission Planar. Attention: the installation height should be larger than non-detection zone. Select [Full Parameter List] in the left from the below bar- [CONFIG/TUNING]. Find and modify the following parameters:

SERIAL2_PROTOCOL = 9  [Rangefinder option]

SERIAL2_BAUD = 115  [Choose the current LiDAR baud rate, if haven’t been changed, the default baud rate 115200 should be selected, that is 115]

RNGFND1_TYPE = 20 [TFmini-S UART option]

RNGFND1_MIN_CM = 30 [It could be changed according to real demands and should be bigger LiDAR than non-detection zone, unit is cm]

RNGFND1_MAX_CM = 300   [It could be changed according to real demands but should be smaller than effective measure range of LiDAR, unit is cm]

RNGFND1_GNDCLEAR = 15 [expressed in cm, depending upon mounting height of the module and should be bigger LiDAR than non-detection zone]

RNGFND1_ORIENT=25 [face down]

PRX_TYPE=0

Upon setting of these parameters, click [Write Params] on the right of the software to finish.

If the error message “Bad LiDAR Health” appears, please check if the connection is correct and the power supply is normal. Also check it whether you have changed the mode from Standard mode to Pix mode while the firmware is 3.6.2 or higher if yes then the same error will encounter.

How to see the altitude value from LiDAR sensor: double click the area of the Mission Planner, look at the following picture:

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Select option sonarrange, see following picture:

12699364889?profile=RESIZE_710x

The altitude distance from the LiDAR will be displayed in Sonar Range (meters), see the following picture:

12699365661?profile=RESIZE_710x

B)Mission Planner configuration description of TFmini-S for the purpose of Obstacle Avoidance

It’s only recommended to be used in Loiter mode, the detailed setting is as follows:

Connect the flight control board to MP. Attention: distance between UAV margin and LiDAR should be larger than LiDAR non-detection zone. Select [Full Parameter List] in the left from the below bar- [CONFIG/TUNING]. Find and modify the following parameters:

AVOID_MARGIN=2 [Unit: m, set obstacle avoidance distance as required]

SERIAL2_PROTOCOL = 9 [Rangefinder option]

SERIAL2_BAUD = 115 [Choose the current LiDAR baud rate, if haven’t been changed, the default baud rate 115200 should be selected, that is 115]

RNGFND1_TYPE = 20 [TFmini-S UART option]

RNGFND1_MIN_CM = 30   [It could be changed according to real demands and should be bigger LiDAR than non-detection zone, unit is cm]

RNGFND1_MAX_CM = 300 [It could be changed according to real demands but should be smaller than effective measure range of LiDAR, unit is cm]

RNGFND1_GNDCLEAR = 15 [Unit: cm, depending upon mounting height of the module and should be bigger LiDAR than non-detection zone]

RNGFND1_ORIENT=0   [It depends on the LiDAR’s real installation direction, 0~7, 24=Up and 25=Down (total ten) are supported up to now, see detail in MP]

PRX_TYPE=4    [Rangefinder should be selected for proximity sensor in obstacle avoidance mode]

Upon setting of these parameters, click [Write Params] on the right of the software to finish.

If the error message “Bad LiDAR Health” appears, please check if the connection is correct and the power supply is normal.

How to see the target distance from the LiDAR: (distance from LiDAR in obstacle avoidance can’t be displayed in sonarrange option) press Ctrl+F button in keyboard, the following window will pop out:

12699365669?profile=RESIZE_710x

Click button Proximity, the following window will appear:

12699365296?profile=RESIZE_710x

The number in green color means the distance from LiDAR in obstacle avoidance mode(the number only refresh when this window opens, closes, zooms in or zooms out, it doesn’t mean the real time distance from LiDAR and will not be influenced in Mission Planner version under v1.3.48, the problem could be solved by updating Mission Planner)

²  Attach: If TELEM 2 port has been used, SERIAL4/5 interface could be used, the other setting are same

12699365887?profile=RESIZE_710x

Figure 2: Schematic Diagram of Connecting TFmini-S with SERIAL4/5 Interface (Serial Port 4/5) of PixHawk

 

 

Configuration Descriptions of Mission Planner:

Connect flight control board to MP, Select [Full Parameter List] in the left from the below bar [CONFIG/TUNING]. Find and modify following parameters:

SERIAL4_PROTOCOL = 9 (LiDAR)

SERIAL4_BAUD = 115

Upon setting of these parameters, the other parameters should be same as Mission Planner configuration description of TFmini-S for the purpose of Obstacle Avoidance or Altitude Holding, then click [Write Params] on the right of the software to finish.

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Microsurvey FieldGenius at 30% !


Microsurvey FieldGenius both for Android and Windows is now at 30% OFF only at Aeromao. FieldGenius is a mature, professional and full featured data collection software that also happens to be easy to use.

 MicroSurvey FieldGenius has become one of the most powerful and productive data collection software within the surveying industry. It can be partnered with many GPS receivers on a number of data collectors. 

12643937258?profile=RESIZE_400xFieldGenius is the ideal software/app to go with Emlid Reach GNSS receivers for the advanced user!

 Code-free linework, smart points, and live graphics make FieldGenius the choice of organizations that value productivity.

  • Code-free linework
  • Best-in-class user interface
  • Works on more displays/devices
  • Productivity tasks
  • Calculation tools
  • Part of the perfect workflow

 FieldGenius works with many GPS receivers and on a multitude of handheld data collectors. We believe you shouldn’t have to buy all new equipment just to upgrade one component.

 This promotion won't last long. Until quantities last.

More info here

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TFmini-S can be used with PixHawk for the purpose of obstacle avoidance.

  1. TFmini-SSettings:

Note: Frame rate should be set to 250Hz, see the details in chapter 7.4 “frame rate” and changing the communication interface.

The default communication of TFmini-S is TTL, IIC and TTL uses the same cable, so please set TFmini-S to IIC communication first, see detail commands in product manual.

We take two TFmini-S as an example in this passage and set the address 0x10 and 0x11 separately.

  1. PixHawk Connection:

See the connection details in PixHawk manual and TFmini-S manual, we take example for connecting

PixHawk flight controller:

12629947677?profile=RESIZE_710x

Figure 1: Schematic Diagram of Connecting TFmini-S to I2C Interface of PixHawk

Note:

  1. Default cable sequence of TFmini-S and PixHawk are different, please change it accordingly (SDA and SCL wires need to be interchanged). Look at the pinout of controller, pin configurations are starting from left to right:

 10961543091?profile=RESIZE_710x

  1. IIC connector should be purchased by user
  2. If TFmini-S faces down, please take care the distance between lens and ground should be larger than TFmini-S’s blind zone (10cm)
  3. If more TFmini-S need to be connected (10 LiDARs can be connected), the method is same.
  4. Power source should meet the product manual demands:5V±0.5V, larger than 140mA*number of TFmini-S
  5. Parameters settings:

Common settings:

AVOID_ENABLE= 2 [if 3 = UseFence and UseProximitySensor doesn’t work in IIC then choose 2 = UseProximitySensor]

AVOID_MARGIN=4

PRX_TYPE=4

Settings for first TFmini-S:

RNGFND1_ADDR=16 [Address of #1 TFmini-S in decimal]

RNGFND1_GNDCLEAR=15 [Unit: cm, depending upon mounting height of the module and should be larger LiDAR than non-detection zone]

RNGFND1_MAX_CM=400 [It could be changed according to real demands but should be smaller than
effective measure range of LiDAR, unit is cm] 

RNGFND1_MIN_CM=30 [It could be changed according to real demands and should be larger than
LiDAR non-detection zone, unit is cm] 

RNGFND1_ORIENT=0 [#1 TFmini-S real orientation]

RNGFND1_TYPE = 25 [TFmini-S IIC same as TFmini-Plus IIC]

 

Settings for second TFmini-S:

RNGFND2_ADDR=17 [Address of #2 TFmini-S in decimal]

RNGFND2_GNDCLEAR=15

RNGFND2_MAX_CM=400

RNGFND2_MIN_CM=30

RNGFND2_ORIENT=25 [#2 TFmini-S real orientation]

RNGFND2_TYPE=25 [TFmini-S IIC same as TFmini-Plus IIC]

Upon setting of these parameters, click [Write Params] on the right of the software to finish.

If the error message “Bad LiDAR Health” appears, please check if the connection is correct and the power supply is normal.

How to see the target distance from the LiDAR: press Ctrl+F button in keyboard, the following window will pop out:

10961543271?profile=RESIZE_710x

  

Click button Proximity, the following window will appear:

 10961543487?profile=RESIZE_710x

The number in green color means the distance from LiDAR in obstacle avoidance mode(the number only refresh when this window opens, closes, zooms in or zooms out, it doesn’t mean the real time distance from LiDAR and will not be influenced in Mission Planner version under v1.3.48, the problem could be solved by updating Mission Planner

Read more…

Since the highly anticipated launch of DJI Dock 2 and the advancements it brings, it has captured the attention of enterprise users, DSPs, and system integrators.


Its compact size, easy portability, and improved efficiency, combined with the upgraded abilities of supported drones like the DJI Matrice 3D and Matrice 3TD, are expected to enhance applications like mapping and surveying, among other applications.

While multiple third-party applications and products support the DJI Dock 2, FlytBase stands out by providing a comprehensive platform that leverages its potential and makes it enterprise-ready. In this blog, we will learn how FlytBase now helps you deploy fully automated, secure docked drone operations for enterprise applications with DJI Dock 2.

Top 5 reasons to choose FlytBase for your DJI Dock 2 operations

FlytBase seamlessly integrates with DJI Dock 2, providing an enterprise-grade drone autonomy software solution that includes workflow integration, flight automation, fleet management, flight safety measures, and robust data security features for efficient drone operations. Following are some of the reasons why you should choose

 

1. FlinksFlinks, short for FlytBase Links, are connectors that help integrate the FlytBase platform with a wide range of external software apps and hardware devices. Users can fully automate enterprise drone workflows with pre-built Flinks or create custom ones with FlytBase APIs and SDKs.

2. Flight safety and compliance: FlytBase ensures comprehensive drone safety with a range of features, including custom pre-flight checklists, collision avoidance, and configurable failsafes. Users can also create geofences and 2D No Fly Zones (NFZ) to maintain secure operations. Additionally, FlytBase alerts users to potential airspace threats and offers mitigation suggestions to help maintain a safe airspace.

3. Robust data security: With multiple layers of protection that include secure data transfer, encryption, network configuration, application-level controls, and flexible deployment options, the FlytBase platform is designed with security in mind. We also use tools to help us enforce compliance with our internal security policies.

4. Hardware agnostic platform: You can seamlessly integrate and deploy FlytBase with multiple docking stations, drones, and third-party payloads while being able to manage the fleets with a centralized dashboard.

5. Enterprise-grade support: FlytBase provides enterprise-grade support via calls, emails, and chat, with the option to upgrade to custom SLAs. This helps dedicated business and technical account managers enhance customer and partner success, as well as provide on-ground support for extensive or critical deployments.

In addition to numerous other features, FlytBase enhances your DJI Dock 2 operations, making them enterprise-grade and exceptionally efficient. Now, let's take a look at FlytBase's approach to data security and its flexible deployment options for ensuring robust data protection.

Protect your drone data with FlytBase Shield 

Large enterprises, government entities, and organizations managing critical operations face a major challenge in keeping their data safe and secure. Why is this so crucial? 

Well, they handle vast amounts of sensitive information like proprietary business data, classified government information, and critical infrastructure. The drones capture this data, and any breach could lead to significant consequences, such as financial losses, damaged reputations, or even threats to public safety. 

This is where FlytBase Shield comes into the picture to offer a comprehensive suite of security services designed to safeguard drone docks and data with multi-layer protection. 

With our robust encryption methods, like AES-256, you can ensure that your sensitive data is protected at rest and in transit. Additionally, we take security measures for our user accounts with the help of:

  • User account security with OAuth 2.0, Single Sign-on (SSO)
  • Integration with Google and Microsoft accounts
  • Adherence to industry cybersecurity standards such as SOC2 Type II, ISO 27001, GDPR, CIS, and NIST

This gives our customers peace of mind that their data and operations are safe.

FlytBase provides a range of deployment options for the DJI Dock 2, including the choice to operate within a separately managed AWS environment, offering an additional layer of security and privacy by being physically isolated from our multi-tenant cloud infrastructure.

  • Cloud: FlytBase Cloud provides cost-effective access with enterprise-level security. It complies with SOC 2 Type II, ISO 27001, and GDPR standards, and enables integration with private cloud storage.
  • In-country Cloud: Deploy FlytBase in your own country’s cloud to ensure compliance with data residency norms, data security, & the ability for customers to integrate with their preferred applications.
  • On-premise: Self-host FlytBase on a private server for highly secure & confidential projects. Meet cyber security compliance requirements and have complete control over your drone data.
  • Air-Gapped: FlytBase Air-Gapped operates offline, isolated from external networks, ensuring data security. Ideal for sensitive applications that require maximum protection.

Having explored FlytBase's data security measures, let's now learn about BVLOS operations, where FlytBase equips your drone operations with advanced capabilities for safe and efficient Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights.

How FlytBase makes your drone operations BVLOS ready

Flying Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) is a significant milestone for various industries. With FlytBase and DJI Dock 2, your drone operations can seamlessly transition to BVLOS operations, with essential features and capabilities that ensure safe and efficient flight beyond visual range.

  • Advanced Flight Planning Routines: FlytBase offers advanced flight planning routines tailored for BVLOS operations. Dynamic path planning, corridor fly zones, No Fly Zones (NFZ), Smart Return-to-Home (RTH), and customized flight workflows ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and efficient navigation in complex airspace.
  • Geofencing and No Fly Zones: FlytBase enables users to create Geofences and No Fly Zones, ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety protocols. These virtual boundaries restrict drone flight in designated areas, minimizing the risk of unauthorized operations and ensuring airspace integrity.
  • Flight Logs: FlytBase provides detailed flight logs that offer a comprehensive overview of each mission. Operators can review vital information such as flight path, altitude, speed, device status, and media captured during the mission. These flight logs enhance operational transparency, facilitate post-flight analysis, and support regulatory compliance efforts.
  • BVLOS Documentation Templates: FlytBase simplifies obtaining waivers and approvals for BVLOS operations with pre-built documentation templates. These templates streamline the application process, facilitating regulatory compliance and expediting approval for extended drone flights.
  • Third-party integrations for BVLOS flight safety: FlytBase integrates with third-party detect and avoid systems, Uncrewed Traffic Management (UTM) services, external ADS-B, and parachute recovery systems using Flinks. These integrations enhance safety by providing real-time alerts on intrusions, conflicts with nearby aircraft, and automatic parachute deployment in case of system failure.

    Find out which BVLOS enablers have partnered with FlytBase to make flights safer. visit: https://www.flytbase.com/flinks

After learning about multiple aspects essential for conducting safe, secure, and reliable autonomous drone flights, let's dive deeper into the applications of the DJI Dock 2 with FlytBase across diverse industries.

Automating drone operations across industries 

Applications like mapping and surveying are becoming more efficient and advanced, thanks to the DJI Dock 2, powered by FlytBase. The highly efficient cameras of the Matrice 3D/3TD drones make mapping and surveying more accessible and cost-effective than ever before. FlytBase simplifies creating grids over an area, especially for mapping and surveying. Users can precisely control parameters like Ground Sampling Distance (GSD) and overlap, ensuring accurate data collection. 

Additionally, FlytBase's Flinks enable seamless integration of third-party apps and systems, further enhancing the versatility and capabilities of the DJI Dock 2 for various applications beyond mapping and surveying.

  1. Public Safety: Equipped with autonomous drones, first responders gain rapid situational awareness during emergencies, aiding in law enforcement and Search and Rescue (SAR) missions. With remote control and management features, operators can efficiently oversee operations from remote or mobile command centers, ensuring swift and coordinated responses to public emergencies.
  1. Construction: FlytBase and DJI Dock 2 can be used as a monitoring system that helps automate data collection, enabling real-time tracking of construction progress. Conducting mapping and site analysis becomes effortless, facilitating effective planning, design, and asset inventory management.
  2. Mining: Deploying drone fleets for routine missions, such as equipment inspections and progress reporting, becomes easier. Real-time video data capture helps monitor and survey, ensuring efficient stockpile management to prevent mine hazards. 
  1. Security and Surveillance: Deploying drones for aerial monitoring and security patrols becomes seamless and efficient with the DJI Dock 2. In addition, by automating routine missions and scheduling patrols, with FlytBase, operators can ensure 24x7 monitoring of properties, enhance security systems, and easily safeguard assets

What lies ahead?

FlytBase with DJI Dock 2 enables a wide range of applications in sectors like public safety, mining, construction, and more while prioritizing data security with a robust system. In addition to this, the seamless integration with third-party systems via Flinks enhances the capability to automate, streamline, and ensure secure drone operations, offering an enterprise-grade experience.

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Oliver Rutishauser updated their profile photo
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Oliver Rutishauser replied to Otschi's discussion Single Motor Quadcopter
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Is there any progress on this project?
I thought of this design in 2018, and considered it to be a good senior project for my son.
The most challenging part in terms of mechanics is "a tiny CVT."
There should be no issues with the…"
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Hey everyone,I've been reading up on eFPGA (embedded Field-Programmable Gate Array) and I'm curious about its potential applications in drones.How can integrating eFPGA into drone systems improve performance or add new features? Has anyone here…
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We are delighted to announce the launch of our innovative A series modular power solutions for the drone industry. (https://uav-en.tmotor.com/html/UAV/Multirotor/PropulsionSystem/a_se...) The product page has been meticulously updated to provide…
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"MIDNIGHT STREETS" is this week's brand new music track. As always, it's 100% free to use with attribution, like my thousands of other music tracks. You can download it here:

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Each button on the remote control corresponds to different functional commands, and some buttons can be customized or have dual functions. Below,taking the EFT App paired with the MK15 remote control as an example to show how to set the functional…
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Hi everyone, recently I found the flopbot project, where they have built and flown a monocopter. Has anyone tried a monocopter of their own or to replicate the flopbot? Any insight or experience you could share would be highly appreciated. Thanks…
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During peak farming seasons, frequent battery plugging and unplugging will cause connector wear and oxidation. High summer temperatures increase the risk of overheating. Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain battery connectors to prevent flight…
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monocopter flopbot

Hi everyone, recently I found the flopbot project, where they have built and flown a monocopter. Has anyone tried a monocopter of their own or to replicate the flopbot? Any insight or experience you could share would be highly appreciated. Thanks…

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