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

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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. Flinks: Flinks, 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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? 

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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• 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.

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Integrate your go-to apps and devices in a single click with Flinks

Using multiple platforms and systems in enterprise drone operations can create inefficiencies and pose safety risks. To solve these issues, FlytBase recently announced the launch of Flinks.

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But what is Flinks?

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Well, Flinks allow users to effortlessly connect the FlytBase platform with critical business systems such as alarm systems, video management, data processing, and more. By eliminating the need for complex, time-consuming manual interventions, Flinks enables enterprises to incorporate autonomous drones into their existing operations seamlessly.

Flinks includes six different integration types:

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1. Alarms: To integrate various alarm systems for drone response to incidents like motion sensors, fire alarms, and dispatch systems.
2. Data Processing: To integrate data processing applications that help generate high-resolution maps, surface and 3D models, and reports tailored to specific applications.
3. Live Streaming: To connect drone & dock video feeds with Video Management Systems (VMS) and other video storage or analytics applications for site security operations and incident response.
4. Mission & Logs: To export detailed drone missions and data to apps that help manage resources, batteries, and flight logs.
5. Detect & Avoid: To integrate third-party cooperative & uncooperative aircraft detection systems to ensure safety and compliance with airspace regulations.
6. UTMs: To integrate uncrewed traffic management systems for real-time airspace awareness.

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How FlytBase makes your drone operations BVLOS ready

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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.

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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.

2. 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.
3. 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. 

4. 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

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The EU Regulatory Framework 

There are two main regulations that guide drone operations in Europe: Delegated Regulation 945 and Implementing Regulation 947.

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Delegated Regulation (EU) 945/2019:

Delegated Regulation 945 outlines specifications for the design and manufacturing processes of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS). It sets requirements to ensure the safety, reliability, and compliance of UAS products within the European Union.

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Implementing Regulation (EU) 947/2019:

Implementing Regulation 947 establishes rules and procedures governing the operation of Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and personnel such as remote pilots within the EU states. It defines the operational requirements to ensure safe and standardized drone activities across member states.

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Classification of drone operations

The European airspace categorizes aerial operations into three main types. The regulation in Europe follows the concept of proportionality. These categories are tailored based on the level of risk associated with different drone operations. This regulatory framework applies to both, commercial and non-commercial operations.

Open category
The Open category pertains to low-risk aerial operations with minimal involvement from authorities. However, there are several technical restrictions and flight limitations to consider. Operators simply need to register their drones, check state insurance requirements, and fly within the operational limits set by the subcategory. The manufacturer, who needs to provide drones with a class identification label, handles any technical restrictions. However, these operations are limited to Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) only and cannot be used for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights. 

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In this category, the drones are restricted to a maximum altitude of 120 meters above ground level and can weigh no more than 25 kilograms. The Open category is further divided into subcategories A1, A2, and A3.-- which may be summarized as follows:

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A1: fly over people but not over assemblies of people 

A2: fly close to people

A3: fly far from people

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Specific category

The Specific category involves a higher level of involvement from authorities. Unlike the Open category, drones in the Specific category can fly Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS), above 120 meters in altitude, and weigh more than 25 kilograms. Generally, commercial drone operations utilizing docking stations to automate flight operations fall under this category. Operators need to seek operational authorization from the National Aviation Authority (NAA) through the following approvals:

SORA: It is a risk assessment methodology for drone flights in a specific category that aids in classifying risks, identifying mitigations, and setting safety objectives. SORA helps establish operational limitations, training goals, technical requirements, and operational procedures.

PDRA: The Predefined Risk Assessment (PDRA) is an operational scenario for which EASA has already carried out the risk assessment and has been published as an acceptable means of compliance.

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STS: STS is a predefined operation described in EU regulations. An operator is not required to obtain operational authorization to conduct an operation covered by a STS. Two STSs have been published so far:

• STS 01 – VLOS over a controlled ground area in a populated environment;
• STS 02 – BVLOS with Airspace Observers over a controlled.

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LUC: Light Unmanned Operator Certificate (LUC) is an optional certification that grants privileges, such as starting operations in a specific category without requiring operational authorization. Operators can voluntarily request an assessment from their NAA to evaluate their capability to assess operational risks.

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Certified category
The Certified category is designated as high-risk and operates under a regulatory framework akin to crewed aviation. This category applies to operations involving elevated risks such as transporting passengers, carrying dangerous goods, and flying over assemblies of people with drones positioned above three meters.

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Understanding Class Identification Label

According to EU regulations, Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) are classified into seven distinct categories known as Class Identification Labels. The specifications and physical characteristics of the drone are what determine its classification. These labels range from C0 to C6, with drones in the C0 class weighing less than 250 grams and those in the C6 class weighing less than 25 kilograms. They apply to both the open and specific categories.

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Following are the technical requirements and limitations for all class-labeled drones:

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These labels provide clarity for drone operators and regulatory authorities alike. They ensure that drones are appropriately matched with the level of risk associated with their operation. By categorizing drones into specific classes, the regulations have been tailored to address the varying levels of risk posed by different types of drones. This approach promotes safety, accountability, and standardization across the drone industry.

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The specific category includes class labels C5 and C6. They require the implementation of a geocaging system, enabling remote pilots to establish a virtual perimeter and a programmable boundary for their operations. Additionally, a flight termination system (FTS) must be available for emergencies.

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Remote ID requirements

According to EASA, starting from January 1st, operations in the open category require drones with a class label. But, if you have already bought a drone without a label before January 2024, you can still fly it in subcategories A1, A2, and A3, depending upon the weight of the drone. Additionally, from January 1st, 2024, all drones in the specific category and those with class labels 1 and above must have an active remote identification system.

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Remote ID allows drones to provide identification and location information while airborne, which can be received through a broadcast signal. This feature is essential for ground safety and security in drone operations. Moreover, Remote IDs help EASA, law enforcement, and regulatory bodies identify whether the drones are operating unsafely or in prohibited areas.

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Obtaining operational approvals for the Specific category operations

The Specific category encompasses a wide range of activities, from commercial endeavors to specialized missions that require a higher level of involvement from regulatory authorities. To ensure compliance and safety, operators must undergo a rigorous process of obtaining approvals. By understanding and following these steps, operators can navigate the complexities of the Specific category.

1. Concept of Operations (ConOps): In the drone industry, ConOps outlines how drone systems are used in specific operational environments. It details the roles of drones, user responsibilities, various flight and mission scenarios, as well as maintenance and support protocols, guiding stakeholders through the development, implementation, and usage stages.
   
   
2. Risk Assessment: This assessment helps evaluate potential hazards and assesses the level of risk associated with the proposed drone operation. These assessments could be in the form of Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA), Predefined Risk Assessment (PDRA),  Standard Scenario (STS), or Light UAS Operator Certificate (LUC), as mentioned above.
   
   
3. Training: Operators should undergo specific training to demonstrate proficiency in operating drones within the Specific category. These training sessions could cover topics such as flight planning, emergency response, and compliance with regulations. Training ensures that operators have the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct operations safely and effectively.
   
   
4. Approvals: The national aviation authorities evaluate the proposed ConOps and if all the requirements regarding mitigating potential risks are met, they grant approval for the operation to proceed.
   
   
5. Flight: Once the approvals are completed one can conduct the drone operations.

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Understanding the Specific Operations Risk Assessment (SORA) in detail

According to EASA “SORA is a methodology for the classification of the risk posed by a drone flight in the specific category of operations and for the identification of mitigations and of the safety objectives.” The following 10 steps explain the process of obtaining the SORA approval.
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2. Intrinsic Ground Risk Class (GRC): Determining inherent ground risk based on factors like the presence of people or buildings.

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3. Final Ground Risk Class (GRC): Assessing ground risk after implementing mitigations to address potential hazards.

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4. Initial Air Risk Class (ARC): Evaluating air risk factors before each operation, such as airspace congestion or weather conditions.

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5. Strategic Air Risk Mitigations: Applying pre-flight measures to mitigate air risk, like ensuring drones are weather-resistant.

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6. Tactical Air Risk Mitigations: Implementing in-flight measures, such as automatic hover or return-home programming.

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7. Final Specific Assurance and Integrity Level (SAIL): Determining the overall safety level by combining ground and air risk assessments.

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8. Operational Safety Objectives (OSOs): Identifying specific safety objectives based on the organization's SAIL.

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9. Adjacent Area and Airspace Considerations: Developing strategies to mitigate risks of encroachment on nearby airspace or ground areas during operations.

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10. Comprehensive Safety Portfolio: Compiling all assessment results into detailed safety documentation.

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SORA categorizes the risk of an operation into six levels, denoted as SAIL levels, ranging from I to VI. This classification is derived from a comprehensive evaluation that combines both Ground Risk and Air Risk factors. Each SAIL level corresponds to specific requirements that operators must adhere to, meticulously tailored to mitigate the identified risks inherent to the operation. By employing SORA, operators can effectively evaluate and manage the risk landscape associated with their drone operations, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance across the board.

SAIL II operations with DJI Dock and FlytBase

DJI Dock operations can be conducted for SAIL II levels, for which it is essential to achieve a Ground Risk level of 3. It depends on factors like drone and dock size, as well as population density. Currently, the Matrice 30, coupled with the DJI Dock can be easily flown Beyond Visual Line of Sight over a sparsely populated area, while the smaller drone Matrice 3D coupled with the recently released, Dock 2 can potentially fly over a populated area.

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However, Ground Risk mitigation, such as parachutes should be integrated to lower the Ground Risk down to a level of 3. Additionally, a Flight Termination System (FTS) is a crucial element to be considered, which might be required to operate the drones close to adjacent areas with a particularly higher level of risk.

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EASA's SAIL III compliance, issued on December 18, 2023, provides comprehensive guidance regarding Flight Termination Systems (FTS) in drone operations. It says that drones must be protected from human errors, particularly in situations leading to a loss of control. These situations encompass various scenarios such as crashes with ground, infrastructure, or people.

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The compliance emphasizes preventing pilots from selecting parameters that could directly result in a loss of control, including actions such as selecting non-active communication links, deactivating safety functions necessary for operation, and activating flight termination systems during normal operations.

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The compliance emphasizes preventing pilots from selecting parameters that could directly result in a loss of control, including actions such as selecting non-active communication links, deactivating safety functions necessary for operation, and activating flight termination systems during normal operations.

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FlytBase offers an enterprise-grade drone autonomy platform for streamlined aerial data collection enabling automated BVLOS flights using docking stations. Users can establish custom Geofences and manage No Fly Zones (NFZs) to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The platform integrates advanced technologies like Detect and Avoid (DAA) systems and ADS-B for airspace awareness, alongside onboard connectivity options and parachute recovery systems. Also, one can access detailed flight logs with automatic PDF reports for safety demonstration and regulatory compliance. 

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Conclusion and way ahead

In conclusion, the EU drone regulations provide a comprehensive framework to ensure the safe and responsible use of uncrewed aircraft systems. From the Open to the Specific category, each level is tailored to the associated risk, fostering innovation while prioritizing safety.

Looking ahead, recent updates from EASA bring promising changes. SAIL 3 operations, previously requiring a design verification report, now become more accessible. Manufacturers can declare compliance through means of compliance (MoCs), providing a pathway to broader Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations without the need for extensive verification processes.

Which features set DJI Dock 2 apart from its predecessor?

The DJI Dock 2 distinguishes itself from DJI Dock, through several impactful enhancements. 

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1. Weight and Design: 

DJI Dock 2 boasts a 75% reduction in volume and a 68% reduction in weight compared to its predecessor. Weighing only 34kgs, this version facilitates easier, quicker, and more cost-effective deployment of autonomous drone fleets.

2. Durability and Weather Resistance:

Dock 2 retains the durability of its predecessor with an IP55 rating, being resilient against harsh weather conditions, dust, and water.

3. Coverage and Efficiency: 

The DJI Matrice 3DT and Matrice 3D drones have a maximum flight time of 50 minutes and a maximum operational range of 10km when used with the DJI Dock 2, surpassing the capabilities of DJI Dock which offers a maximum flight time of 40 minutes and a maximum operational range of 7km.

4. RTK Modules:

The integrated dual RTK modules on the DJI Dock 2, coupled with internal and external fisheye cameras, provide real-time environmental feedback. This enables real-time blade detection, safety checks, and takeoff in just 45 seconds, given that there is a robust network signal.

5. Charging Capabilities:

Dock 1 charges drones from 10% to 90% in around 25 minutes at 24V output, while Dock 2 achieves this from 20% to 90% in roughly 32 minutes at 12V. Both docks offer over 5 hours of independent charge for safe Return-to-Home (RTH) functionality.

6. Improved Landing & Power Supply: 

DJI Dock 2 enhances landing stability and reliability through an improved image recognition system and a sloped design that guides the drone for precise positioning within the dock. For added security, it comes with a built-in backup battery that provides over 5 hours of operation in case of power loss or remote locations. Additionally, DJI Dock 2 only requires biannual maintenance, minimizing downtime and costs.

7. Third-party Payload Support: 

DJI Dock 2 offers increased versatility by supporting third-party payloads through M3D/M3DT E-Port. This allows for mounting payloads like spotlights, speakers, and parachutes, expanding the drone's capabilities and ensuring safety.

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Here’s a comparative study of the specifications of the DJI Dock 1 and Dock 2

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Dock 2 and its seamless operations with compatible drones

The DJI Dock 1 was designed for use with the DJI Matrice 30 and 30T drones. The key features of these drones include a 41-minute flight time, 12 m/s wind resistance, and compatibility with various third-party payloads.

However, DJI Dock 2 is designed to work seamlessly with the new DJI Matrice 3D and Matrice 3DT drones. 

The Matrice 3D

• Best suited for applications such as surveying and mapping
• Equipped with a telephoto zoom camera and a wide camera with a special shutter

The Matrice 3DT 

• Specifically designed for tasks like public safety, surveys, and inspections 
• Features wide-angle, telephoto zoom, and thermal cameras, simultaneously capturing regular and heat-sensitive video.

Both drones share impressive features like an IP54 protection level, up to 50 minutes of flight time, a maximum speed of 47 mph, and a strong battery life that can handle 400 cycles, significantly reducing operational costs. Additionally, they have an RTK module, enabling them to land with remarkable accuracy when used with the DJI Dock 2.

Use cases and applications of DJI Dock 2

Multiple case studies have proven that the DJI Dock 1 can help transform applications like security and inspections where close monitoring and surveillance are required.

Interestingly, along with the previously mentioned use cases of Dock 1, due to the wide-angle, telephoto zoom, and thermal cameras of Matrice 3D/3DT, the DJI Dock 2 can now also be used for advanced mapping and surveying.

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Let's explore the applications of Dock 2 in detail:

• Surveying and Mapping: Matrice 3D's high-precision cameras and the DJI Dock 2's autonomous deployment capabilities make it ideal for surveying and mapping large areas, construction sites, or infrastructure projects.
  
  
• Security and Inspections: The Matrice 3DT's thermal camera and long flight time are well-suited for security patrols, perimeter monitoring, and inspecting critical infrastructure like pipelines or wind turbines.
  
  
• Emergency Response: The DJI Dock 2's quick deployment and the drones' ability to operate in various weather conditions make them valuable tools for search and rescue operations, fire response, and disaster assessment. 
  
  
• Public Safety: The Matrice 3DT's thermal and zoom capabilities can assist law enforcement in search operations, crowd monitoring, and crime scene investigation.

DJI Dock 2 integration with FlytBase Software Platform

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The DJI Dock 2, powered by FlytBase, will offer a comprehensive solution for remote drone operations. FlytBase is an enterprise-grade drone autonomy software platform that enables efficient autonomous drone operations, allowing missions to be planned and scheduled in advance and executed with minimal human intervention. FlytBase integration with DJI Dock 2 will offer customizable and scalable features suitable for various use cases, including inspections, surveillance, surveying, and security.

By incorporating a variety of Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) components – such as parachutes, detect-and-avoid systems, uncrewed traffic management, and weather systems – FlytBase ensures that drone operations are reliable and secure.

Leveraging FlytBase, customers and partners have successfully obtained BVLOS certifications from top aviation authorities in 10 countries, including the FAA in the United States, EASA in Europe, CASA in Australia, SACAA in South Africa, JCAB in Japan, and CAAM in Malaysia. The platform also goes beyond basic mission planning by offering advanced features like dynamic route planning and customized flight workflows, all designed to align with regulatory standards.

In addition, FlytBase prioritizes data security by adhering to leading data protection standards. The platform is ISO 27001, SOC2 Type II certified, and GDPR compliant. To know more about the integration of FlytBase with the DJI Dock 2, feel free to contact us.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DJI Dock 2 marks a significant advancement over its predecessor, DJI Dock 1 in the drone autonomy industry. Offering improved features and performance at an affordable price, DJI Dock 2 leads the way in remote flight operations, setting new standards for efficiency and reliability in autonomous aerial operations and making it a must-have for industries embracing drone technology advancements.

Thrustmaster Joystick Support

Central to this update is our integration with the Thrustmaster joystick, specifically the Thrustmaster T.16000M Space Sim Duo Stick, known for its precision control and ergonomic design. This integration transforms the way operators control both the drone and its payload in a remote setup, providing:

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• Precision Control: The joystick's multiple axes, buttons, and programmable triggers enable operators to navigate drones with unprecedented accuracy, essential for executing complex tasks and navigating challenging terrains.
• Improved Maneuverability: The ergonomic design and intuitive interface of the joystick facilitate smooth and precise flight patterns, making it ideal for detailed inspections and operations in demanding environments.
• Revamped Key Bindings: To further personalize the flying experience, we have redesigned the Keyboard and Joystick Bindings Settings, allowing operators to tailor their control setup to their unique styles and preferences, ensuring smoother and more efficient manual flight operations.

Payload 2.0: Advanced Thermal Imaging and Sensing

Payload 2.0, brings a significant enhancement to your drone's thermal imaging and sensing capabilities. This update is particularly exciting due to the integration of the DJI M30 range finder, along with advanced thermal palettes and a split-screen display -offering a dual perspective, crucial for in-depth environmental assessment and decision-making.

• Versatile Thermal Imaging: With the integration of the DJI M30s thermal palettes, operators can now select from a range of imaging options to best suit the specific requirements of their mission. This versatility is invaluable in operations such as search and rescue, infrastructure inspections, and environmental monitoring, where clarity and precision in data interpretation are paramount.

• Dual Camera Mode: Our Side-by-Side (SBS) display feature is a breakthrough in environmental assessment. Operators can now view infrared and visual feeds simultaneously, enabling comprehensive real-time analysis and fostering quicker, more informed decision-making.
  
  

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DJI M30 Laser Rangefinder support for Enhanced Spatial Awareness

The integration of the DJI M30s laser rangefinder is another highlight of this release, offering operators exact spatial awareness, a critical factor in conducting precise operations:

• Instant Location Marking: Operators can now effortlessly mark, share, and revisit coordinates and distances of key locations or objects with a simple click, greatly enhancing operational response time and efficiency.
• Precise Drone Navigation: Direct your drone to specific coordinates with laser accuracy, a feature that significantly boosts operational effectiveness, especially in complex environments.

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Live Map Annotations

Discover our new Live Map Annotations feature, designed to offer versatile, customizable annotation tools for enhanced mapping, precise navigation, and improved team collaboration, ensuring efficient and safe mission execution in various operational scenarios. What’s new:

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• Versatile Annotation Tools: Users can create diverse annotations - lines, points, polygons - adaptable for various missions, from search and rescue to infrastructure inspections.
• Customizable Mapping: Annotations can be customized in color, shape, and position, improving the clarity and relevance of operational maps for better planning and execution.
• Launch Drone to Annotated Locations: Annotate specific areas on the map, set altitudes, and direct drones to these coordinates, enhancing efficiency and safety in complex environments.
• Enhanced Precision with Range Finder: The integration of the M30s range finder with Live Map Annotations adds precision, crucial for operations requiring spatial awareness and accurate distance measurements.
• “Face here” functionality: Mark points on the map for the drone to orient towards automatically, useful for focusing on critical areas. This feature, coupled with the M30s range finder, which displays the distance to these marked points, providing you with a comprehensive view of the drone's position and target location.
• Streamlined Team Collaboration: Live annotations are visible in a dedicated window and on the map, ensuring swift information sharing and synchronization among team members including owners, admins, pilots, and ground teams.

^{Let’s start with the basics - Key features of the DJI Dock}

Drone docking stations have this superpower - they can function unsupervised outdoors for extended periods of time while refueling the drone’s batteries autonomously with minimal downtime - just like how an oasis works! :D 

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Let’s have a look at what a drone dock, particularly the DJI Dock can bring in:

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• Autonomous drone operations: DJI Dock enables drone operations autonomously, significantly reducing human intervention and allowing for more efficient use of resources. Flight missions and routes can be scheduled in advance ensuring that drones are deployed at the right time and place for maximum efficiency.

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• Smart charging and quick turnaround: DJI Dock features fast charging capabilities and battery cooling system, ensuring that drones are charged quickly and ready for their next mission. It can charge from 10% to 90% in approximately 25 minutes.

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• ‍Automatic maintenance checks: The DJI Dock, which weighs a reasonable 90kg, is extremely simple to set up, requiring basic components such as a power source and an internet connection and a few minutes to configure. The system also performs automatic inspections to detect potential faults and ensure that drones are in optimal flight circumstances.

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• Wide coverage with real-time monitoring: The M30 Dock version drone has an operational radius of 7 kilometers and a flight time of 40 minutes per mission while allowing the docking station to monitor drone operations in real time.

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^{Now let’s look at site requirements - What to consider before deploying the DJI Dock}

To make the most of the DJI Dock, it is important to consider certain site requirements and follow best practices. We've highlighted some preparations that one should make prior to deployment to ensure the dock’s optimal performance:

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• Power Availability - One of the most important factors to keep in mind is the availability of uninterrupted power supply. A suitable location for consistent power supply with few outages. Power grounding, surge protection, and cable considerations are all beneficial if done ahead of time. The ideal power supply range is a single-phase AC with a power greater than 1.5kW and a voltage between 90 V and 264 V AC.

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• Geographical Features -The site's terrain and topography also play a crucial role in the deployment of the dock. It is done to ensure that the dock is protected against any harm including those like floods. A flat, wide region with a clear line of sight to the sky and an elevation of 4000 meters or less is ideal to minimize all types of impediments. Another consideration is that the location is not prone to water buildup or illumination. To increase safety, a clear backup landing spot 5 to 500 meters away at the same height as the DJI dock is recommended.

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• Zero Signal Interference - At all costs, any single source of signal occlusion or interference on the site must be avoided. There must be no visible signal shield within a 25-degree ground altitude angle. If any environmental measures or satellite data collecting is required, the M30 series can be utilized.

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• Security and Civil Work - Last but not least, some civil work will be required to correctly mount or position the DJI dock at the site. These may involve, for example, placing the dock on a steel base to prevent damage due to flooding. Grounding is necessary to secure the system as well as the user. Physical and digital security measures, such as firewalls, should be included in terms of security.

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^{Let’s also explore industrial inspection applications & case studies}

The repeat inspection capabilities provided by drone-in-a-box systems have undoubtedly brought significant improvements to the efficiency, safety, and scalability of operations and maintenance processes for assets.

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Case Study - Jilin National Grid

Power grid inspections are critical for maintaining the reliable delivery of electricity to consumers. It is even more crucial in regions subjected to extreme temperatures, where the grid's functionality can be challenged by extreme harsh weather. Conventionally, these inspections involve technicians manually surveying the grid, a process that is fraught with risk and physical danger in such severe environments.

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An illustrative case of this is observed during winter in northeastern China at the Jilin National Grid. This region experiences extraordinarily harsh winters, with temperatures plummeting to as low as -20 degrees Celsius.

The crew responsible for inspections under these extreme conditions was continually at risk. Frostbite and snow blindness were real and serious threats, significantly jeopardizing not only their safety but also their capacity to carry out inspections effectively.

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Power grid inspections with DJI Dock

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Faced with these challenges, the company decided to leverage technology to conduct inspections in conditions that were too perilous for human involvement. They chose the DJI Dock, a solution well-suited for remote operations in challenging environments.

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Post-deployment, the DJI Dock proved instrumental in performing operations and maintenance checks of substations and connecting lines, all controlled from a center situated 60 kilometers away from the inspection site. This meant that the personnel could conduct detailed and rigorous inspections from the safety and warmth of the control center, negating the need to brave the harsh conditions.

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^{Unlocking the full potential of DJI Dock - powering these applications with FlytNow}

‍FlytNow is an enterprise BVLOS ready, scalable software solution for remote drone operations and works with a range of hardware options, including the DJI M30 Series and the DJI Dock. The solution is designed to be modular supporting integrations that make it suitable for use in a wide range of industries, including inspection, surveillance, operations & maintenance.

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^FAQs:

^{Phased Approach for Autonomous Drone Operations}

To ensure regulatory compliance and operational safety, Kevin recommends a phased approach to drone implementation for industrial inspections. The approach involves a step-by-step progression in terms of removing human intervention and increasing automation in drone operations. The framework can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each project and it has proven to be effective, particularly in Canada. The four phases of this approach are as follows:

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1. Licensed Pilot with a RC and Visual Observer (VO): In the first phase, the drone operation starts with a licensed pilot operating the drone via RC while also acting as a visual observer. This requires no specific licensing and counts as a regular flight. The only difference between this and a regular flight is that the pilot will be operating through the dock, but will essentially be ready to take control with the RC in the event of an emergency.
   
   
2. Dock and Software with VO having Return-to-Home Functionality: The pilot is removed from the drone operation in the second phase, and the drone is piloted remotely using cloud-based software. However, this operation remains within the visual line of sight since a visual observer (VO) is present on the site with a return-to-home functionality to take control of the drone in case of an emergency.
   
   
3. Dock and Software with Complete Autonomy within VLOS: In the third phase, the drone operations are completely autonomous and the dock and the drone are remotely controlled from the command center without a licensed pilot or a VO on site. These operations however are conducted within the visual range and will test the ability of the drone to navigate on its own.
   
   
4. Dock and Software for Fully BVLOS Ops: Drone operations extend beyond the range specified in phase 3 in the final phase, necessitating a waiver from the regulatory authority of the operating geography. These operations require the use of technology such as Detect and Avoid, UTMs, and others.
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^{Applications of Drones in the Energy Industry}

Let's take a closer look at some of the applications in the power generation industry where autonomous drone operations can generate value or make the most sense: 

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Drones in Solar Farm Inspection

The solar industry is constantly looking for ways to streamline solar panel maintenance and reduce the time required for upkeep. A potential answer to this problem is the use of drones. Autonomous operations can make the process more efficient, allowing for faster and more accurate inspection.

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"Maintenance personnel still spend far too much time looking for problems rather than maintaining equipment," Kevin points out, "and this is where autonomy and AI applications will provide the most bang for the buck."

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The drones can be programmed to autonomously take off from their docks at a scheduled time, follow specific flight paths, capturing images of the solar panels from different angles. The images are then analyzed using AI algorithms to identify any faults or issues, such as damaged panels or vegetation growth. This information is relayed in real time to maintenance teams, who can then prioritize their efforts accordingly. 

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Additionally, the same system can be used to track the progress of the solar farm's construction process and conduct security patrols. Designers can identify and correct any issues that may arise during the construction phase. Furthermore, the construction process can be made more transparent by providing regular updates to stakeholders.

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Drones for Inspecting Dam Spillways

The use of autonomous drone systems in detecting and responding to dam spillways has been gaining traction in recent years. Energy companies can reduce the risk of personnel injury by monitoring and inspecting the dam spillway from a safe distance.

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Kevin shares an account about how they received a BVLOS waiver to conduct drone operations after a fatality occurred during a flood caused by dam water release. Before releasing the water, autonomous drones can perform a quick inspection of the spillway.

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He emphasizes that each use-case has its own set of technical requirements. Considerations like whether the drone is below grade or whether an LTE or RF connection is necessary had to be made in the case of the dam spillways.
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^{What Lies Ahead}

Implementing autonomous drone operations in industries like power generation could present several challenges such as navigating the complex regulatory frameworks, technical development, and partnerships with third-party providers. Kevin emphasizes that, in order to address regulatory challenges, industry players collaborate with regulatory bodies and use phased approaches to build trust over time.

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Technical challenges are addressed through R&D investments and collaborations with third-party providers to integrate complementary technologies. Partnership challenges are addressed by developing integrated solutions through open APIs and software development kits. Through these solutions, the benefits of autonomous drone operations can be realized while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

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He concludes the session by stating the importance to remember that there is “no one-size-fits-all” solution in the drone industry. Different use cases will require different sensors and aircraft, and there will be a variety of hardware and software options available to meet these needs.

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When considering partners for proof of concept projects, it's important to find a partner who can take a holistic approach to the project, considering all aspects of the drone solution from regulatory engagement to data hosting and security. With the right partners and solutions in place, drone-in-a-box systems have the potential to greatly improve efficiency, safety, and security across a wide range of industries.

^{The DJI Dock}

As the first drone-in-a-box solution offered by DJI, the introduction of DJI Dock has been a game changer for the industry and a significant step towards achieving true autonomy in drone operations. Companies looking to establish or expand their drone programs can reduce the learning curve by using the DJI Dock, which allows them to perform fully automated drone operations remotely.

One of the keyfeatures of the DJI Dockis its ability to operate unattended outdoors for extended periods. To accomplish this, DJI engineers implemented a variety of waterproof and dustproof designs that were rigorously tested to achieve the IP55 protection rating. Furthermore, the DJI Dock was subjected to reliability tests to ensure its ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions.

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To ensure the DJI Dock operates smoothly in varying environments, terrains, and industries, it underwent beta tests in more than 50 sites. The dock was officially shipped to selected end-users in China once the success rate of these tests was confirmed. It is worth nothing that over 600 DJI Docks have been shipped in less than 3 months, indicating the high demand for this product.

DJI plans to start dock shipment to international markets in Q2 2023. This move is expected to further boost the popularity of the DJI Dock and improve the overall efficiency of drone operations worldwide.

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^{Top Features of DJI Dock}

^{Case Study 1: Determining ROI of the DJI Dock for Solar Inspections}

Drones are increasingly being used in the solar sector to aid in every stage of a plant's life cycle, from planning to maintenance. They can assist in topographic surveys during planning, monitor construction progress, conduct commissioning inspections, and perform routine asset inspections for operations & maintenance.

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Thermal sensors on drones can detect issues such as hotspots in cells, panels, or strings, while AI can improve the layout of solar fields by considering factors such as transmission lines, shadows from vegetation, and landscape slope. Here is one more case study on BVLOS Inspections of Solar Farms Using Modular Drone Docks in Japan

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Introducing autonomy into the equation instantly elevates the entire operation. With the DJI Dock, operators can now double their efficiency and speed in no-time. DJI uses the following scenarios to demonstrate the cost savings of using DJI Dock in the solar industry:

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Scenario 3: Automated Drone-in-a-Box based Inspections

DJI Dock hardware and deployment, plus a 3rd-party operations & analysis software, would cost around 45K USD. While this may seem like a significant investment, it can provide long-term benefits in terms of increased efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

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The solar inspection system developed by third party software developers such as SNEGrid enables processing drone imagery with AI analysis to create accurate reports. This not only saves time and effort but also enables predictive maintenance and optimized performance.

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DJI Dock can inspect the solar power plants for a minimum of 12 times per year, and even more if needed. This means that the system can provide regular and timely feedback on the status of the solar PV system, allowing for proactive measures to be taken. Drone autonomy can be a part of the IOT network and create a synergy with other smart devices.

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For example, the data collected by drones can be integrated with weather forecasts, energy demand forecasts, and other relevant information to optimize the overall energy management system.

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This would enable real-time monitoring and control of the solar PV system, as well as seamless communication among different components.

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^{Case Study 2: Power Grid Inspections with DJI Dock}

In Jilin, a city in northeastern China, powerline inspection crews from Jilin National Grid are responsible for restoring power after snowstorms. However, with a winter that lasts six months and temperatures plummeting to -20 degrees Celsius, the crews are susceptible to frostbite and snow blindness, which poses significant risks to their safety and effectiveness.

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To address these challenges, the DJI Dock has been deployed to conduct inspections that are too hazardous for human workers. With just a few clicks, an operator at the operations and maintenance center, located 60 kilometers away from the Dock, can remotely select a Dock device and conduct immediate inspections of substations and connecting lines.

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The DJI Dock (powered by FlytNow) offers fully automated drone operations, allowing companies to schedule and plan activities without requiring physical presence at the worksite. This has made inspections more efficient, accurate, and safe, while also reducing labor costs. Furthermore, the data collected by the drones can be integrated with weather and energy demand forecasts to optimize energy management systems.

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The successful implementation of the DJI Dock in Jilin demonstrates the potential for drone autonomy to revolutionize power grid inspection and maintenance. Companies can leverage the DJI Dock to prevent equipment malfunction, increase efficiency, and save on labor costs while keeping their workers out of harm's way.

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^{DJI’s Collaboration with FlytNow Software Solution}

DJI has been working closely with other third-party software solutions, including FlytNow to enable drone operators to easily automate their drone operations. FlytNow is a cloud-based software that allows users to remotely control their DJI drones and automate their drone operations. The solution is designed to be customizable and scalable, making it suitable for use in a wide range of industries, including inspection, surveillance, operations & maintenance.

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The key benefits of using a software such as FlytNow includes:

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Designed for BVLOS ops

FlytNow’s uniqueness lies in the fact that the software has been designed with long-range Beyond-Visual-Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) operations in mind.

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BVLOS-approved

‍Numerous customers and partners have received waivers to conduct beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) drone operations with FlytNow. This approval has been granted by various regulatory bodies, such as the FAA, EASA, JCAB, CAAM, and GCAA. For instance, afterFIT in Japan received approval for automated drone operations, including night-time flights. Read more: https://dronedj.com/2022/05/27/bvlos-drones-night/
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Integrations for BVLOS enablement

FlytNow offers comprehensive software and hardware integrations to facilitate large scale BVLOS operations. These integrations include:
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• Detect and Avoid (DAA) technology like Casia-G, which can detect cooperative and non-cooperative aircraft in your operational environment,
• ADS-B technology like PingUSB, which provides real-time aircraft status updates,
• UTM systems such as Altitude Angel and Involi to enhance airspace awareness,
• Connectivity (5G/LTE) technology like Elsight Halo for uninterrupted communication for remote operations,
• Parachute Recovery systems like AVSS-PRS and DRS for safe landings during emergencies, among others.

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Built for Enterprise users

FlytNow is backed by advanced collaboration workflows and enterprise-grade security and scalability. Here’s how:

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Scalable

FlytNow is a scalable software solution for remote drone operations. It can manage one or multiple drones, as well as one or many docking stations. Its hosting infrastructure and enterprise-grade capabilities ensure uninterrupted drone operations at any scale.

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Existing Workflow Integrations

With FlytNow, enterprises can easily integrate their existing security solutions, such as VMS or alarm systems, for a seamless experience. For example, to ensure the clearance of pipeline ROW, third-party alarms that detect mechanical digging or heavy machinery over the pipeline can be integrated with FlytNow. When an intrusion alert is triggered, FlytNow autonomously dispatches a drone to the geolocation of the alert. The drone relays a live HD video feed back to the command center, allowing operators to quickly inspect the asset and respond to the incident.

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Ensures Operational Safety & Reliability

Operational safety and reliability are crucial for successful autonomous solutions. FlytNow offers numerous checks to detect issues in real-time and activate necessary fail-safes. Its workflows can be configured to make safer decisions by using data and events from multiple layers. For instance, users can set weather failsafes to trigger a "return to home" action, with a dynamically computed route based on UTM data that avoids no-fly zones. In case the drone can't land at the docking station, it would be automatically rerouted to a safe alternate location. 

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FlytNow's architecture addresses several challenges with remote and automated operations, including splitting operational context between edge and cloud systems to enable safe and reliable operations despite sporadic network connectivity.

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Architected to be Hardware-Agnostic

FlytNow is designed to support a wide range of hardware, such as 

• drones including DJI and other custom-built drones on PX4/Ardupilot,
• over 16 docking stations such as the DJI dock, Heisha Nest Series, Hextronics, IDIPLOYER Nexus, Omnidock, DBOX, Aerieport among others,
• Payloads such as thermal cameras, loudspeakers, spotlights, parachute systems among others,
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Based on the customer requirements, in terms of application or geography, the system-integrators can mix and match appropriate modules and create a full-stack solution that is optimal for the needs of that enterprise.

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^{How Pampa Energía Conducted Thermal Power Station Inspection with Drones}

In 2017, Pampa Energía integrated drones into their asset inspection operations and have since expanded to a fleet of nine different drones to assist in their large-scale operations. During inspections, they primarily use the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced and Matrice 200 series drones for photo imaging and analysis.

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These drones enable them to quickly cover large areas and capture tens of thousands of photographs, which are then stitched together into an orthomozaic to create an accurate representation of the plant. Pampa Energía conducts three types of inspections:

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3. Triggered

Triggered inspections are only carried out when there is a specific problem that needs to be assessed, such as the surveillance of oilfields and pipelines.

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^{Challenges Faced by Pampa Energía with Manual Drone Inspections}

As the demand for energy in Argentina grew, continuous monitoring and preventive maintenance of the Genelba Thermal Power Plant (CTGEBA) became critical to ensure uninterrupted operations. With a total capacity of 1,253 MW, representing 2.9% of the nation's installed capacity, the plant required frequent inspections to maintain safety and efficiency. However, as the plant expanded, manual inspections became increasingly challenging and time-consuming, leading to two major difficulties:

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1. Increase in drone inspection rounds

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As the Genelba Thermal Power Plant grew in size, it required a large number of manual visual inspection rounds to be carried out to cover the new equipment. This gradually increased the time required to cover the entire power plant for thermal inspection. The available inspectors were no longer able to cover the entire power plant in a single shift, resulting in a significant gap in the inspection timeline.

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^{Optimizing Inspection of Thermal Power Plants with Drone-in-a-Box Solution}

As part of its Digital Transformation strategy, Pampa Energía sought to optimize the inspection routes at the Genelba power plant. Rather than hiring additional employees and drone pilots, they decided to explore the use of autonomous drones to simultaneously carry out maintenance planning, inspections and security operations.

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Phased Implementation Process

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The deployment has been carried out in several stages, as follows:

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• First, a proof of concept test was conducted to evaluate various docking stations, battery recharge technologies, and control software.
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• The selected technologies were then purchased, and a highly thorough series of tests were run to ensure that the equipment's functionality and how it interacted with one another were both verified.
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• A determined and tested set of paths were determined for the drone.
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Additionally, the present and upcoming team members also received training on how to use this technology to carry out drone missions.

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The biggest benefit that drone-in-a-box systems provided was the dual functionality. The team at Pampa intended to deploy these systems across their power plants for inspection as well as security. The inspection team could use the docking station to do monitoring and maintenance of the plants during the daytime and in the nighttime they use the same devices for security.

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^{Why Pampa Energía Chose FlytNow as their DiaB Operations Software}

As Marcelo Lopez, Pampa Energía's Project Manager, pointed out “We wanted to optimize inspection routes at the Genelba power plant since the area was too large for inspectors to cover in a single shift. We decided to employ the FlytNow-powered autonomous drone-in-a-box solution due to its superior unattended flight technology and affordable price. The FlytNow customer success team has been dedicated to resolving customer issues. They are aware of industry developments, are attentive to their customer's needs, and capable of handling challenges.”

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Here’s how they benefited from autonomous drone-in-a-box systems powered by FlytNow:

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1. Improvement in inspection rounds:

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FlytNow enabled Pampa Energía's operations team and inspectors to schedule and execute repeatable drone missions along pre-established routes, stopping at specific points of interest to view assets remotely.

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The remote control of the drone's camera payload allowed for efficient zooming to detect faults or abnormalities in the power plants. Compared to manual inspections, FlytNow resulted in faster and more efficient rounds, significantly reducing the time and effort required to inspect large areas like the Genelba plant. 

Here’s how an inspection routine looked like:

Furthermore, the team utilized drone docking stations to perform security patrols at regular intervals, effectively monitoring the premises for any potential intrusions. By deploying drones to the site prior to security personnel, the team was able to proactively prepare for incidents, while simultaneously saving time and resources in terms of fuel and personnel typically required for routine patrols. The image below depicts a typical security patrol mission:

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2. Reduction in accidents:

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Given that, in a thermal power station the potential for devastating mishaps due to high pressures and temperatures is very high, it is crucial to ensure the safety of workers while maintaining the smooth operation of the plant. With the ability to send drones autonomously at a click of a button, the team can now access hard-to-reach or dangerous areas with ease, without having to send the local team in harm’s way.

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By remotely monitoring the plant's critical infrastructure and systems, the team can quickly identify and address any issues before they escalate into major accidents, thereby reducing the risks associated with human error.

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Additionally, FlytNow with a host of security features enabled the safety of the drone & the dock as well. With features such as:

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• Failsafes: FlytNow is equipped with various failsafe mechanisms that provide assistance in case of emergencies. For instance, in the event of a lost RC link or internet connectivity, the drone can either pause until the connection is restored or perform a controlled emergency landing at a predetermined safe location in case of low battery alerts. These failsafe mechanisms and timeout settings can be easily customized and configured by the team to ensure optimal safety during drone operations.

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• Geofence: The operators also have the ability to create virtual fences around the area of their operation and prevent the drone from entering restricted zones by taking specific actions if the fence is breached.

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• Collision avoidance: FlytNow enables collision avoidance by constantly scanning the drone's surroundings for potential obstacles. A real-time radar map with red, yellow, and green indicators is displayed on the operator's screen, allowing them to safely maneuver the drone around obstacles. This feature provides an additional layer of safety and helps prevent accidents, making it easier to navigate through challenging or unknown environments.
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3. Better precise documentation:

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The advanced video and image capture capabilities of FlytNow provide operators with a clear and accurate view of the plant in real-time. Moreover, the cloud media sync feature enabled operators to conveniently upload media from their drone's SD card directly to a pre-configured private cloud storage (AWS S3), without any disruption in their workflow. The archived data can be stored, organized, and shared across various stakeholders directly from the FlytNow dashboard to increase operational efficiency and situational awareness.

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^{The Way Ahead for Pampa Energía with Autonomous DiaB Solution}

As the second-highest per capita energy consumer in South America, Argentina faces increasing demand for electricity, driven by the need for space heating. With thermal power plants being the most reliable source of energy generation, their continuous operation is crucial to meet the country's energy needs.

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Once the Pampa Energía's deployment of autonomous drones at the Genelba power plant proves to be successful in enhancing operational efficiency and reducing the risk of accidents, the company plans to expand its drone-in-a-box program to several other power plants, ensuring a safer and more efficient operation while maximizing the return on investment.

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Achal Negi, Director of Business Development at FlytBase, highlights the potential drone-in-a-box systems hold for the future of thermal plant inspection and monitoring. He concludes by stating that: “Currently, manual inspection of thermal power plants is a time-consuming and potentially hazardous task for workers. By using autonomous drones for these inspections, energy companies can increase efficiency and safety for workers and reduce any potential down-time of the plant. Furthermore, the use of automated drones for thermal power station inspection with drones and docks offer more frequent and thorough inspections and also improve night-time security operations for power stations. We will see more autonomous drone-in-a-box deployments in power plants in the coming years.”

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At NestGen ‘22, Marcelo Lopez, discussed their operations in detail. Watch the entire video to learn more:

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