Importance of Sensor Locations in UAVS

Many customers of unmanned aerial vehicles have tailored their vehicles for filming and taking pictures, but unmanned aerial systems are also used for racing becoming a new development area for the sports market. Most UAV cameras today are quadcopters because they are remarkably steady and maneuverable platforms. There are a number of cameras for Unmanned Aerial Systems available, with different budgets and configurations. Some models are ready-to-fly with photographic suites integrated. These cameras produce high-quality HD video, stills and aerial photography below 400 feet Above Ground Level.

Aerial Photography and Filming

One of the systems of preference by professional photographers and videographers is the DJI Inspire 1 RAW. (RAW a format that keeps picture information filmed by the sensor when snapping a picture (Lim, 2015). It is also equipped with advanced software-driven features that simplify the planning and production of a video shoot. One of the main characteristics of the Inspire 1 is the selection of sensors onboard such as, the ultrasonic and optical flow sensors. These two sensors combined can be used to automatically stabilize the vehicle inside. I chose this model because is a professional grade, higher payload capacity to carry heavier equipment adaptable for its payloads.  The vehicle is high quality carbon fiber with automation built in.  The accessories may be exchanged out for an assortment of cameras and video options dependent on the needs.  This adaptability of the different sensors and cameras enable flexibility.

DJI Inspire 1 RAW

The DJI Inspire 1 RAW is equipped with an innovative high definition Zenmuse X5R camera and a three-axis gimbal.  The vehicle features a folding arm system. The arms rise up to get a clear 360-degree sight. The 3-axis gimbal maintains pictures steady and the camera aimed in the same direction as the vehicle tilts and turns repositioning independently of the vehicle. The Zenmuse takes 16-megapixel static photos with a choice for time-lapse and burst modes. The DJI Inspire 1 RAW is easy to use for one or two-people to create very high quality 4K HD and Micro Four-Thirds video. MFT cameras contain a sensor size that is similar to the 16mm (B&H Photo Electronics Corporation, 2016). The MFT format is being used for productions that require small, portable, cheaper cameras. Options for four interchangeable lenses ranging from 12mm to 17mm, for lengthier filming times, and better depth of areas, and yet preserve a particular focus that distinguishes it from small-sensor video from up to 2 km away (Olympus Imaging Corporation, 2016). Furthermore, the camera sustains bursts of three, five, or seven frames and time-lapse at stepped intervals of between three seconds and one minute.  The camera operates 360-degree so it can remain focus on the subject (B&H Photo and Electronics Corporation, 2016).

First Person View Racing

First Person View racing is becoming a popular sport throughout the world. FPV racing requires placing cameras on the vehicle and using them to race a circuit. Each vehicle feeds video to its pilot to control it at high speeds among eight to ten pilots simultaneously. These conditions place high demands on the wireless transmission system.

VAJRA80 Professional Racing FPV

The racing unmanned aerial system chosen as a First Person View (FPV) is the Speedwolf VAJRA 80 high definition FPV.  The VAJRA80 is a professional vehicle with wireless functionality and developed with modularity in mind. The control system ensures it meets various flight tasks and is user friendly. The VAJRA80 is equipped with a GPS and compass units to assist the controller hold a position, land safely, one-click return, automatic take-off, and  landing, communication loss protection, capacity for a1.1Kg payload, 15-30 minutes flight time based on payload (Drone Racers, 2016). One of the main characteristics, is the frame is made of carbon fiber, making it strong and light.  With the quickness of racing models, it is important that they be designed to endure crashes. Other features include the separation of vibrating elements such as motors and blades from vibration sensitive devices like recording cameras, flight controller, FPV camera, video transmitter, and radio receiver are all subtle to vibrations and can trigger poor flight conditions. This is important for the front camera, where the operator needs to respond and make route adjustments immediately to continue in the race or crash.

 

References

B&H Photo and Electronics Corporation. (2016). DJI Inspire 1 RAW Quadcopter with Zenmuse X5R 4K Camera and 3-Axis Gimbal. Retrieved from http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1186059REG/dji_inspire_1_raw_quadcopter.html/prm/alsVwDtl

Drone Racers. (2016). VAJRA80 Professional and Racing FPV. Retrieved from http://droneracers.us/category/uas/page/3/

Lim, R. (2015). 10 Reasons Why You Should Be Shooting RAW. Retrieved from http://photographyconcentrate.com/10-reasons-why-you-should-be-shooting-raw

Olympus Imaging Corporation. (2016). Benefits of Micro Four Thirds. Retrieved from http://www.four-thirds.org/en/microft/#SlideFrame_6

 

 

 

                        

DJI Inspire 1 RAW

 

VAJRA80 Professional Racing FPV