As the popularity and availability of drones increases so do the ideas for applications. One such application is the use of drones for entertainment shows. While flying a pack of drones with synchronized moves in the air is no easy task, it can produce a truly stunning view, especially if the drones are equipped with LED lights or other show elements.
For this purpose we have created UgCS DDC - UgCS Drone Dance Controller. UgCS DDC is a version of UgCS ground control software for drones that is custom-built for use in drone shows. It is capable of handling the simultaneous and synchronized control of dozens of drones.
In addition to the standard UgCS client and Service manager, it also features a DDC client. Through the DDC client it is possible to view the status of all your drones and send commands to them simultaneously. It is also possible to group the drones and send commands to a certain group of drones or even a specific drone.
UgCS DDC is currently the only commercially available software for drone shows to plan routes and execute them. It is offered as an additional paid option to our Enterprise version.
To find out more about UgCS ground control software for drones visit: www.ugcs.com
For inquiries regarding UgCS DDC please contact us at ugcs@ugcs.com
Comments
Our last video - coordinated flight of 5 Pixhawk-based drones.
https://youtu.be/BJZMZL490Dg
Today we did group flight of 5 drones. Unfortunately we don't have more ready drones with Pixhawk. Video will be published later.
Regarding anomalies. Recommended control system configuration includes one UgCS server on deducated computer, one DDC (Drone Dance Controller) computer for "Show" operator and some number of computers with standard UgCS client for emergency operators. We think that it should be at least one emergency operator for every 5 drones.
In case of something goes wrong show operator using DDC can issue commands "Land" or "Go home" for all or selected drones. In UgCS client emergency operator can take individual control over any drone and use UgCS commands to do anything with it.
Also as safety measures DDC together with flight plan sends individual geofences to each drone.
Time for an IPO.
Do you have any real world footage of your system controlling aircraft? It would be nice to see how these systems actually perform vs. the video screen captures of a simulation. How do you manage flight anomalies and the graceful degradation of "N" aircraft? Curious to hear more about your solution.