European Emergency Number Association (EENA) has announced that it is working with DJI to look for ways to integrate the use of drones into first-response missions. Based in Belgium, EENA is a non-governmental organisation that serves as a discussion platform for emergency services, public authorities and researchers to transfer knowledge and best practice to better serve the needs of the public. Continue reading
Using UAS for Transmission R&D
The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) initiated a concerted effort into the application of unmanned aerial systems (UASs) for transmission research in 2012. The effort has accelerated and grown as UAS have increased in their capability and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations have relaxed. Continue reading
Google Patent for UAV Delivery of Medical Equipment
A new patent awarded to Google outlines a device that can call for a drone to fly in with specific medical equipment. Last year, Google patented the idea of flying drones to medical emergencies with life-saving technology onboard, and now it seems the tech giant has a plan for how we would contact these drones.
Israel May Purchase Loitering Munitions
The IDF is mulling the purchase of a new type of small drone that can hover in the area of a target and then dive down to destroy it with an explosive. During a press event in which the Israel Aerospace Industries showed off some of its unmanned products, an IAI executive said the military is interested in its Rotem drone. Continue reading
Drones to Check Planning Applications in UK
Drones are being used by councils in England to fly over the homes of people making planning applications, the Daily Telegraph has learned. A Freedom of Information survey of hundreds of councils found that a dozen had admitted to using or hiring drones. Two councils – Epping Forest and Moray – said the drones could be used to check on planning applications. Continue reading
Consumer Drone Manufacturers Create Own Lobby Group
DJI, 3DR, Parrot and GoPro have broken away from the Small UAV Coalition to launch their own drone advocacy group, The Drone Manufacturers Alliance, to lobby for “policies that promote innovation and safety, and create a practical and responsible regulatory framework.” Continue reading
Thrust Gets EMEA Distribution for FPV Racing Drones
PCS Edventures!.com, Inc., (PCSV) a leading provider of K-12 Science and Engineering (STEM) programs and leader in the design and manufacturing of precision technology for drone racing and robotics has announced a distribution agreement for the new Riot first person view (FPV) racing drone with Unmanned Aerial Systems Ltd. (UAS) from the UK.
Helicopter Drone Gets Green Light, Takes Off
The Volocopter, the world’s first helicopter drone that anyone can fly, even with no pilot experience, has received the green light from German aviation authorities to fly as an ultralight aircraft.