Wingtra's Leading Edge in the UAS Industry

As the commercial UAS industry continues to expand and diversify, one manufacturer stands out for its quiet yet consistent delivery of cutting-edge technology. Founded in 2016, Wingtra specializes in hybrid VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) UAS aircraft, focusing on large-scale photogrammetry and LiDAR mapping.

Why Wingtra?
Unlike competitors such as DJI, Wingtra's aircraft can cover significantly more area on a single flight compared to the Matrice 350. Furthermore, Wingtra boasts LiDAR capabilities which set it apart from brands like Skydio, Autel, and Parrot. Despite being based in Zurich, Switzerland, Wingtra has earned a unique accolade: its VTOL systems are included on the Blue List, approved by the U.S. Department of Defense for safe and reliable use.

Looking at Wingtra UAS and DOD Approval 

VTOL Advantage:
The WingtraOne VTOL system stands out for its unique combination of the efficiency of fixed-wing aircraft with the flexibility of vertical take-off and landing, enabling operations in diverse environments. Referenced from it’s website, below are a few of the many advantages using a VTOL. 

• Efficient Operations: WingtraOne can map from 2 to 14 times more area compared to multicopter and traditional fixed-wing drones, significantly reducing mapping time and labor costs.

• Flexible Deployment: Requires only a 2x2 m space for take-off and landing, allowing access to confined or rugged terrains where other drones cannot operate.

• Minimal Impact Landing: Protects valuable sensors and extends equipment lifespan by avoiding the harsh impacts associated with belly landings typical of fixed-wing drones.

• Speed and Coverage: With a flight time of up to 59 minutes and the ability to cover 110 hectares at the lowest ground sampling distance (GSD), WingtraOne facilitates rapid data collection for large-scale projects.

To see the WingtraOne in Action, visit their website or the following YouTube Video: 

Video: Wingtra One Generation 2

Photogrammetry Capabilities:
WingtraOne's  photogrammetry capabilities are marked by its high-resolution imaging and extensive aerial coverage:

• High-Resolution Camera: Equipped with a 61 MP camera, WingtraOne captures detailed images with a GSD down to 0.7 cm/px, offering  image quality not common in the commercial UAS industry. .

• Large Area Coverage: Efficient fixed-wing flight allows the aircraft to cover extensive areas quickly—up to 310 hectares at 1.9 cm/px GSD in a single flight, making it ideal for large-scale industrial and agricultural projects.

• Reduced Need for GCPs: High precision PPK GNSS receiver enables accurate mapping with fewer ground control points, reducing setup time and increasing overall efficiency.

In addition to a variety of photogrammetry payloads, Wingtra also has a new LiDAR option which was released earlier this year. 

Looking at Wingtra Payload Options Source: Wingtra.com

LiDAR Capabilities:
Wingtra’s lightweight LIDAR sensor is competitive when compared against other LiDAR sensors in the UAS industry:

• Detailed Point Density: Achieves up to 660 pts/m² at 45 m AGL with triple return, capturing fine details even through dense vegetation and on complex terrains.

• Versatile Coverage Options: The drone provides flexible mapping options with effective point densities tailored to various surface conditions—from hard surfaces to high vegetation.

• Absolute Accuracy and Range: Delivers vertical absolute accuracy down to 3 cm at 90 m, with a laser scanner capable of reaching up to 300 m, ensuring precise and reliable mapping data across expansive areas.

• Advanced Laser Scanner Technology: Utilizes a Hesai XT32M2X laser scanner with a 90º horizontal and 40.3º vertical field of view, supporting three returns for comprehensive data collection.

Below is an example point cloud taken from Wingtra's website. To interact with the point cloud, click here: https://api2.lidarmill.com/artifacts/987c843f-cf93-4e0d-a32e-dec912449729/cloudviewer

Looking at Example LiDAR Point Cloud from Wingtra 

Conclusion
While Wingtra may not have the same level of mainstream recognition as UAS giants like Autel, DJI, and Skydio, it has carved out a unique niche in the industry. This distinction is built on its innovative VTOL technology, superior photogrammetry capabilities, and advanced LiDAR systems—features that many competitors have yet to match or replicate effectively. As Wingtra continues to push the boundaries of UAS technology, it is poised to introduce even more innovative solutions that will likely redefine standards in aerial mapping and surveying. The future looks promising for Wingtra, and its ongoing developments are eagerly anticipated by industry professionals and technology observers alike.

UAS and Line Stringing

Industry Background                                                                                                      As of this post, I have spent nine years immersed in the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) industry. My experience spans several hundred UAS operations, earning a degree in unmanned aerial systems, consulting for private engineering firms, and serving a diverse array of clients. This journey has not only provided me with substantial technical expertise but also the privilege of forming significant industry relationships.

Looking at my Background (Literally)

The Roles of UAVs in Line Stringing
One of the most intriguing—and perhaps "shocking"—applications of UAS that I have encountered is its use in Transmission Line Stringing. The introduction of UAVs to this field marks a significant leap from traditional methods, blending modern technology with complex logistical operations to enhance efficiency and safety. (see Figure 1 for example of Line Stringing: Photo credit: dronevolt.com)

Figure 1: Example of UAV Line Stringing

Line Stringing Case Studies                                          Referencing the first video, I have immense respect for Skyscopes and the pilots operating these UAVs. Initially, the concept of using drones for transmission line stringing seemed far-fetched. However, as more documented case studies and recent videos from various entities have become available, the practicality and effectiveness of UAVs in this role have become undeniable. While some footage may be edited for marketing purposes, it remains a genuine representation of what UAV technology can accomplish.

Referencing the next video, PG&E and Infravision have successfully completed several missions across Europe and North America, working with utilities to implement UAV technology in their operations. Despite challenges such as wind accessibility and safety concerns, their workflow has proven both efficient and effective, showcasing the global potential of UAVs in utility work.

Conclusion                                                                           For those familiar with traditional methods of stringing transmission lines, especially in mountainous areas, the risks and time commitments associated are substantial. Some might consider helicopters as a viable alternative, but they introduce additional elements of danger and complexity. Nevertheless, UAS technology will continue to be adopted in line stringing applications for projects that fall within the safety and efficiency parameters of the mission type.

About this Website 

This website was originally created as a capstone project during my time at college. Now, it serves as an online portfolio that showcases several UAS projects I have been involved in. As the sole author, editor, and publisher of this website, please forgive any spelling and grammar errors you may encounter, as blogging is not my primary occupation.

The timeline below highlights my activity on this website:

2018: Several posts were published while I was still studying at Purdue University.

2019: I continued to publish several posts during my time at Purdue University.

2020: More posts were added to the website, and I graduated from Purdue University.

2021-2023: I have been posting regularly since starting my career.

2024: I have been posting semi regularly since volunteering and managing my career. 

Disclaimer                                                                
Please note that some of the content on this website may appear ambiguous or vague. This is because my team works in a highly specialized industry and we deal with proprietary information that we do not want to be copied. However, if you come across something that interests you, please don't hesitate to reach out, and we will be happy to share what we can.

Remember this Incident?

Overview

There are numerous examples of safe and unsafe UAS operators. In this post, we're going to explore an incident that happened on live TV, all the way back in 2015. 

Background

Imagine you're tearing down a ski slope, and suddenly, a bladed machine nearly kills you. For Marcel Hirscher, Austria's skiing maestro, this nearly became a chilling reality—not from an avalanche, but from a plummeting drone! During a 2015 World Cup race in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy, Hirscher had an uninvited guest drop in, quite literally, just inches behind him. This wasn’t any small consumer-level toy but a 22-pound machine that appeared to have experienced a full power failure. The culprit? An irresponsible operator who failed to maintain a healthy distance from the racers.

Conclusion

This incident, while almost cartoonish, underscores a serious point: when mixing cutting-edge technology with sports, we must tread carefully to keep the spotlight on enhancing the thrill of sports without endangering it. Through Hirscher’s close shave, and through sheer luck, UAS pilots need to ensure that they take additional measures to prevent accidents like this from happening again. If you haven't already seen, check out the video below. 

Laos Revealed: A Story of Culture, Challenge, and Change

Overview:                                                                                                                                              Hi, everyone, this is Alan Pecor. I am the sole author of this blog. Please disregard any spelling and grammar errors because blogging is not my main occupation. Apologies aside, this post is perhaps one of the most important articles I have created because it brings attention to an issue that I will never forget. This issue was brought to my attention through volunteering in Laos last year (see Figure 1 below). Let me share with you a journey that has forever changed my perspective.

Figure 1: Me Looking at Nong Khiaw Laos 

Volunteer Background:                                                                                                     In 2023, I took some time off work and ventured to Laos, a landlocked country bordered by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, and China. My mission was twofold: to teach English and engage in environmental projects, including permaculture, which seeks to foster sustainable and self-sufficient communities. In addition to having the privilege of being immersed in Laos's culture, I was able to learn about a part of history that isn't commonly known. Amidst the breathtaking landscapes (shown in Figure 2 below) and the warmth of the local community, I became educated about the silent menace lurking beneath the soil—the legacy of unexploded ordnances (UXOs).

Laos Since the Vietnam War:                                                                                  Laos remains scarred by its title as the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, a consequence of over two million tons of ordnance dropped during the Vietnam War. Decades later, approximately 30% of these explosives still menace the land, claiming lives and limbs with chilling regularity. The United States, responsible for this enduring hazard, has contributed over $230 million towards clearance efforts—a figure dwarfed by the $13.3 billion (inflation-adjusted) spent on the bombing campaign. This stark disparity underscores a glaring need for increased investment in UXO clearance, a task complicated by Laos's rugged terrain and the inherent dangers of detecting buried explosives.

Figure 2: Looking at UXO Shells at UXO Visitors Centre Luang Prabang Laos

The magnitude of the problem is overwhelming, with an estimated 80 million undetonated cluster bombs continuing to pose a fatal threat to civilians. The challenge of locating these UXOs is daunting, hindered by technological and logistical constraints, yet the human cost of inaction is far greater. Referring to Figure (X), here are a few examples of UXOs that I observed at the UXO Lao History Museum, illustrating the grave reality on the ground. For further insight into the impact of UXOs, I recommend watching the video below:

UAS and UXO Removal:                                                    Innovatively, some UAVs are emerging as a critical tool in the daunting task of UXO detection. Equipped with advanced sensors and AI-driven software, UAVs can safely and efficiently survey vast areas, identifying potential UXO sites without risking human lives. Organizations like the Demining Research Community are at the forefront, pioneering the use of remote sensing, machine learning, and robotics to enhance the accuracy and safety of demining operations. This approach not only promises to accelerate the clearance process but also represents a significant leap towards safeguarding future generations from the horrors of past conflicts. For a deeper understanding of how UAV technology aids in UXO removal, watch the below video: 

Conclusion:                                                                                                                              Reflecting on my time in Laos, I'm struck by the juxtaposition of its serene beauty against the hidden dangers that lie beneath. It's not my intention to portray Laos as dangerous, but it is absolutely unacceptable to ignore that innocent people are still at risk. The resilience of its people, their unwavering spirit in the face of adversity, and the innovative strides being made towards a safer future are a testament to the enduring hope that defines Laos. As we witness the potential of drone technology to mitigate the UXO threat, we're reminded of the power of human ingenuity in overcoming the remnants of war. I plan to volunteer in Laos again in the future, driven by a conviction that our collective efforts can bring about real change. This belief reinforces the notion that, no matter who you are or what your opinion is, we all have the capacity to contribute to a better world—and that includes me.

Inspiring Innovation: The Big Brothers Big Sisters Career Fair

Figure 1: Review Panel Discussion at Big Brothers Big Sisters. Photo credit: Lauren Cook

On Feb 17th, I had the privilege of attending the Big Brothers Big Sisters career fair in Indianapolis, an event dedicated to inspiring and empowering young minds through mentorship and community engagement. I participated in a review panel alongside several industry professionals, where we shared insights and guidance to budding young talents. Additionally, I showcased our UAS simulators, providing students with hands-on interactive activities that allowed them to engage directly with cutting-edge technology and explore its real-world applications. Should your Big Brothers Big Sisters organization be interested in exploring UAS technology further, feel free to reach out to me for expertise and demonstrations. 

Figure 2: Looking at UAS Poster Conversation. Photo Credit Lauren Cook

Figure 3: Looking at UAS Equipment from USI Consultants. Photo Credit Lauren Cook

Voliro T: The UAS That Does More Than Just Observe

When utilizing Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for bridge inspections, aircraft are primarily deployed for contactless data collection. Yet, a glaring gap persists: very few UAS can test the  deficiencies they identify. This oversight often results in inspectors to yet again be exposed to dangerous environments. 

Enter the Voliro T UAS
Thanks to its unique design, the Voliro T enables inspectors to conduct close-proximity tests eliminating the need for additional hands on inspection. Unlike most industrial UAS, this system is capable of carrying various payloads, including probes, thickness gauges, ultrasonic transducers, and impact eco systems. The tilt rotors and distinctive omnidirectional design, illustrated in Figure 1 allow this aircraft to balance itself when testing difficult to access structures. 

                                                                    Figure 1: Voliro T Aircraft Note: Tilt Rotors

Pushing the Boundaries
Based on information from Voliro's website, the UAS is suited for contact-based inspections of storage tanks, wind turbines, smokestacks, and various steel structures. While there's limited information currently available regarding the exact data and Return On Investment (ROI) this drone provides, Voliro T clearly boasts a novel design and holds potential to carve a niche in the UAS industry. For a deeper dive, below is a linked video showcasing the Voliro T's relevance and its impressive tilt rotor capability.

     Voliro T UAS In Action

Drone Laws You Should Know Before You Fly

While the video contains light-hearted and promotional elements, it offers a comprehensive overview of the crucial drone laws we must follow. Personally, I find videos more engaging than reading through the FAA's written guidelines. I'd highly recommend taking the time to watch it if you're uncertain about the intricacies of FAA Part 107.

FLIR Thermal Studio Pro

Looking at UAS Imagery in FLIR Thermal Studio Pro 

Overview

FLIR Thermal Studio Pro, developed and managed by Teledyne FLIR LLC, is a software solution that facilitates the processing and analysis of thermal data gathered through FLIR products. While some of FLIR's products are  designed to integrate with handheld cameras, I have discovered that Thermal Studio Pro provides immense value in analyzing and processing our UAS imagery. Through this post, I aim to demonstrate a few techniques I have used with Thermal Studio Pro to analyze the conditions of bridge decks, utilizing the powerful tools that the software offers

Teledyne FLIR Advantages

As a frequent user of the Zenmuse XT2, I utilize it for various infrastructure inspections. FLIR provides numerous tools that are available for free download which can be found here. If you're unsure about the potential benefits, you can easily access their software here. However, please note that although the tools are free, the generated information is watermarked and cannot be practically utilized. Additionally, the free trial software has no limitations.

Teledyne FLIR Difficulties

Unfortunately, not all the tools available on FLIR's trial software are functional. When I reached out to tech support regarding the panorama tool, they informed me that it is only accessible with the purchase of Thermal Studio Pro. I am extremely disappointed with their customer service, as the lack of access to the panorama tool may render my year subscription fee useless. FLIR has made no attempt to provide me with a temporary license to test the compatibility of the panorama tool with my data. Please refer to Figure 1 to observe the lack of response 

Figure 1: Teledyne FLIR's Customer Service 

Features for UAS Inspections 

As a novice user of FLIR Thermal Studio Pro, I find the following features to be useful for thermal deck inspections:

       • Temperature Profile

       • Color Pallet Tools

       • Box Annotation

       • Temperature Spot meter

Bridge Deck Case Study 

To inspect bridge decks, we use a UAS equipped with the XT2 camera to capture sections of the decks from above. When imported to Thermal Studio Pro, the unedited file appears in black and white (Figure 2). To identify areas of concern, we use the temperature profile tool to adjust the temperature variance and better define the boundaries of bright spots (Figure 3).

Figure 2: Unedited Thermal R_JPEG File Looking at Bridge Deck

Figure 3: R-JPEG File with Profile Adjustment Looking at Bridge Deck

Next, we use the color palette tool to assign more colors to temperature and identify hotspots of concern (Figure 4). To exclude irrelevant data, we use the box annotation tool to draw a box around the area of interest (Figure 5).While we are less concerned with temperature, we can use the spot meter tool to verify the data and ensure consistency. If any patch is warmer than 95 degrees F, it is more likely to be deficient. 

Figure 4: R-JPEG File with Color Pallet Looking at Bridge Deck

Figure 5: R-JPEG File with Spot Temperature Tool Looking at Hotspots on Bridge Deck 

Figure 6: Example Diagram of Visual and Thermal Imagery of Bridge Deck 

Tools I am Troubleshooting

We can also create a comparison diagram using FLIR Thermal Studio Pro to combine visual and thermal imagery (Figure 6).However, I find it challenging to create reports using FLIR's template, and the panorama tool doesn't seem to work with the XT2 camera despite numerous attempts with 85+ overlap. As FLIR doesn't allow a trial of the panorama tool, I'm not sure if it's compatible with the camera. Despite this, I'm still trying to use the tool.

Conclusion

I am generally satisfied with Thermal Studio Pro's performance and functionality. The software has proven to be a valuable tool for conducting UAS and infrastructure inspections, allowing me to quickly analyze and interpret thermal data in a comprehensive manner. However, their panorama tool and customer service could be better. 

Combatting DJI Security Risks: The DroneSense Solution

Introduction
The drone industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) predicting over 835,000 commercial drones in the United States by 2024. DJI Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) have become widely popular in public safety applications, but recent security concerns and vulnerabilities have raised alarms in the industry. This blog post will discuss these security concerns, a recent Chinese drone ban in Florida, and DroneSense's new communication device designed to address these issues and improve drone security.

DJI Security Concerns and Vulnerabilities
While DJI drones have proven to be valuable tools in public safety, their security vulnerabilities have become a point of concern. Several reports have identified weaknesses that could allow users to modify crucial drone identification details, such as serial numbers, and even bypass tracking security mechanisms. These vulnerabilities pose a significant risk to both drone operators and the public.

Recent Event: Chinese Drone Ban in Florida
In response to these security concerns, some jurisdictions have taken action. Florida recently enacted a ban on Chinese drones, further highlighting the need for secure drone solutions in the public safety sector. This move underscores the importance of addressing these vulnerabilities to maintain trust in the growing drone industry.

DroneSense's Solution
DroneSense, a company specializing in drone software, hardware, and professional services for first responders, has developed a new communication device to help mitigate security concerns associated with DJI drones. This device pictured in Figure1 is designed as an add-on for public safety drones and prevents information leakage to the drone manufacturer.

Figure 1: Dronsesnse Module Mounted on DJI Matrice 300 Airframe

Key Features of DroneSense's Device
Referecing Figure 2, the new communication device offers several security and operational features, including First Responder traffic prioritization, 4G/5G data connectivity, secure real-time live streaming, and end-to-end 256-bit data encryption. By implementing these features, DroneSense aims to provide public safety agencies with a more secure and reliable drone solution.

Figure 2: Dronesense Features 

Device Mounting and Compatibility
DroneSense's communication device securely mounts to the airframe of various drone models using industrial-grade fasteners. This secure attachment ensures compatibility and reliability during flight operations.

Benefits for BVLOS Flights and More
The device offers several benefits for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) flights, altitude limits, no-fly zones, and emergency landing sites. By leveraging 4G/5G networks and adding onboard intelligence, the device can improve the safety and functionality of public safety drone operations.

DroneSense's Commitment to Data Security
DroneSense remains dedicated to supporting public safety and first responders while addressing security concerns. Their new communication device, compatible with multiple drone hardware devices and planned for expansion to non-drone platforms, is expected to be available in late 2023.

Conclusion
The growing importance of drone technology in various industries highlights the need for secure and reliable solutions. DroneSense's new communication device addresses security concerns associated with DJI drones and offers a promising solution for public safety agencies. For more information, visit the DroneSense website at discover.dronesense.com/onboard. 

Citations 

DroneSense. (n.d.). Onboard: Real-time Telemetry and Video Streaming. DroneSense. Retrieved April 29, 2023, from http://discover.dronesense.com/onboard/

Horvath, I. (2023, April 12). DroneSense unveils DJI drone addon device for real-time telemetry and video streaming. DroneDJ. Retrieved April 29, 2023, from https://dronedj.com/2023/04/12/dronesense-dji-drone-addon-device/

Horvath, I. (2023, April 5). Florida's Chinese drone ban could hurt search and rescue operations. DroneDJ. Retrieved April 29, 2023, from https://dronedj.com/2023/04/05/florida-chinese-drone-ban/

Computer Considerations for UAS Operations

Overview
Photogrammetry holds a vital position in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), facilitating the development of precise 3D point ckouds and maps using aerial imagery. This blog post concentrates on the optimal computer specifications for operating Pix4D photogrammetry software, a prevalent option within the industry. Alternatives such as Agisoft PhotoScan, DroneDeploy, and Bentley ContextCapture will be mentioned. Below is a table I created that beiefly categorizes different tiers of computer considerations which can help process data derived from photogrammetric UAS operations.

Table: Tiers of Computer Systems for Photogrammetric Processing

Considerations
In addition to the specifications mentioned in the table, remember to consider additional features such as remote desktop connection access, portability, durability, and CPU protection while selecting a computer  for UAS photogrammetric projects. While Pix4D is the primary focus of this guide, other photogrammetry software options have similar requirements. Agisoft PhotoScan, DroneDeploy, and Bentley ContextCapture all demand powerful processors, ample memory, and dedicated graphics cards to function effectively. However, there may be some differences in terms of compatibility and performance with specific hardware components.

Conculsion
Selecting the right computer for photogrammetry software in Unmanned Aerial Systems depends on your budget, performance requirements, and additional features like remote desktop access and portability. The three tiers presented in this guide should provide a solid starting point for your search. Remember to consider your specific needs and the demands of the software you plan to use, and invest in a computer that meets or exceeds these requirements to ensure smooth operation and optimal results.

Citations

• Circuit Board" (n.d.). GIPHY. Retrieved April 28, 2023, from https://giphy.com/explore/circuit
• Pix4D. (2011-2021.). Computer requirements: PIX4Dmapper. Pix4D Support. https://support.pix4d.com/hc/en-us/articles/115002439383-Computer-requirements-PIX4Dmapper