Autonomy

Drones can follow a pre programmed flight route collecting images and time-series data at consistent intervals while maintaining a set speed and altitude. Each image is plotted as a single data point in time and space within a Geospatial Information System (GIS) software program.

Figure 2. This image shows each point where the drone collected an image (red dot) and each location where our men on foot collected data from the ground control point (GCP).

Each image has overlapping data, which helps the software align it properly. The drones speed, altitude, and duration of image capturing is held consistent to help ensure a balanced spread of data points. The drone records locational data on three axes: X, Y, and Z. The combination of this data allows the software to triangulate its position and complete mathematical calculations to provide visual odometry functions. This is the basis for creating maps and models derived from drone data.

Figure 3. This image shows each transect as part of the pre programmed route for the autonomous flight path of the drone. It also shows the dashboard for the drone interface.

Full autonomy in the civilian market is still not feasible today, and drones still lack the sensing and reasoning capabilities required for that purpose. This is partly why the concept of a mixed initiative operation was introduced in the last decade (Sousa and Gonçalve). “For example, the operator is capable of generating plans and uploading these plans to the vehicle for autonomous execution, or the operator is also able to override plan execution and re-task the vehicle to execute new plans” (Sousa and Gonçalve). A company located in Redwoods, California named Skydio is changing this. Their drones are equipped with 360 degree sensors that are able to map the surrounding environment in real time. Skydio real time mapping allows the drone to simulate its flight path autonomously and avoid obstacles. *This is not a sponsored endorsement of Skydio aerial systems nor have we received any incentive for making this statement.