Today’s question is about 3D mapping. Do you need to introduce multiple orbits for making an accurate 3D model with your drone? How can you map overhanging structures? What makes Phantom 4 Pro the best drone for UAV mapping?

In our 800th episode, we suggest ways via which you can excel in 3D mapping with your drone. Do you need to introduce multiple orbits while mapping a complex structure? Learn how you can deal with this increased complexity in 3D mapping. We also discuss how you can get survey grade data using photogrammetry.

Next, we talk about the best drones and cameras for UAV mapping. How does the Phantom 4 Pro compare to the Yuneec H520 for UAV mapping? Learn why global shutters can help you achieve greater accuracy in 3D mapping. You will also receive some great tips for processing your data. Can you process vertical image captures with other ones? Tune in to find out. We thank Simon from Norway for the question. Fly Safe!

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Timestamps

• [02:07] Paul thanks all Drone U sponsors
• [06:06] Today’s question is about improving accuracy in 3D drone mapping and modeling
• [07:02] What is the minimum number of orbits that you need to make in 3D mapping? Do you need more orbits while mapping a complex structure?
• [08:16] Expert tips for building accurate 3D maps when you are introducing multiple orbits
• [10:23] Can you get survey grade data with photogrammetry?
• [11:07] Which is the best drone for UAV mapping ? We compare the Phantom 4 Pro and Yuneec H 520
• [12:19] Learn how the focal length on your camera affects the ground sampling distance
• [12:55] Does a global shutter in the Phantom 4 render it better for UAV mapping? We discuss how a linear rolling shutter in the Yuneec H520 affects mapping results
• [14:30] Paul urges everyone to check out the Pix4D podcast
• [14:51] Learn why vertical capture in the Ground Station Pro is far better than Site Scan’s Perimeter scan
• [15:10] Can you merge vertical image capture with other ones?
• [15:21] Which are the best drone cameras for mapping overhanging structures? We discuss why you are better off using the X4S and X5 over the X7
• [16:28] Some common mistakes that UAV pilots make with manual tie points

Today’s question is about drones for filming football games. Can you film a football game without flying over people? Which is the best drone and camera to record football games?

Our caller wishes to use his drone for filming football. Can he do so without flouting any FAA drone laws? We also discuss why using the Inspire 1 along with the Z3 camera to record football games is a smart move. Tune in to this fun and informative episode. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Timestamps

• [01:48] We share details of the forthcoming Drone U Fly-in
• [03:03] Today’s question is about using drones for filming football
• [04:12] Tips and tricks for using a drone for filming football without flying over people
• [04:22] Why should you use the Inspire 1 with the Z3 camera to record football games?
• [05:18] Is there any way you can fly your drone over people?

Today’s episode is about using drone mapping for crime scene investigations. We are joined by Neal Carter, an accident re-constructionist. Paul and Neal discuss why drone mapping for accident reconstruction has gained in popularity. Can you get better data with drone mapping? And, is it quicker to use drone mapping?

Paul and Neal go into the nitty gritty of crime scene investigations. Learn how crime scene investigations are researched. What are the various KPI’s that are are looked at while investigating a crime scene? And, what is the consequence of processing mapping data incorrectly? Tune in to find out. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [00:22] Paul introduces Neal Carter to listeners
• [01:03] Neal explains how car scene investigations are conducted
• [01:42] How does Neal collaborate with police officers?
• [02:27] What kind of data is available for reconstructing accidents?
• [03:05] "]What kind of car accidents does Neal deal with? Is drone mapping done for all accidents?
• [04:04] "]How is drone mapping and photogrammetry being used for accident reconstruction?
• [05:31] Can you get better data using a drone? Is drone mapping data comparable to data derived from a 3D laser scanner?
• [06:24] Can drone mapping data provide faster data? What is the turnaround time?
• [07:09] Discussing the criticality of building up your flying skills before venturing into crime scene reconstruction
• [08:13] What are the various KPI’s ? What are the various things that crime scene re-constructionists look at?
• [10:20] What are the consequences of processing data incorrectly?
• [11:17] Neal shares his contact information
• [11:45] Can you learn about accident reconstruction at the Drone U Fly-in?

In today’s episode we discuss how Remote ID will impact the drone industry. Vic is joined by Kenji Sughara, a UAS policy expert. Will Remote ID be introduced anytime soon? Which technology will Remote ID work on? Will this lead to any data security and privacy issues?

Kenji shares details of the Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) which has made this proposal. Were there any major disagreements among ARC members while formulating this proposal? Will the introduction of Remote ID lead to real time tracking of drones? Kenji also discusses the importance of coming up with a cheap, yet easy solution.

When the Notice for Rulemaking Proposal (NPRM) drops, you shall definitely hear about it from us. Vic provides some great suggestions via which you can constructively affect the decision making process. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [00:53] Discussing the origins of Remote ID; how did Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) end up getting involved in this issue?
• [02:19] Is the importance of Remote ID lost on people? Can Remote ID lead to change in public perception?
• [03:45] What is the possibility of Remote ID being introduced in the near future?
• [05:02] Why was the ARC in charge of the Remote ID issue comprised of 70 members?
• [06:01] Were there any major disagreements among ARC members?
• [07:52] Discussing the poor representation of UAV operators in ARC
• [08:57] What are some of the technological challenges in the implementation of Remote ID?
• [10:35] "]Is constant tracking of all drones a possibility?
• [12:08] What were some of the concerns raised by ARC members and UAV operators?
• [13:08] What is the difference between “broadcast only” and “network” technology?
• [14:28] Is real time drone tracking required for security reasons?
• [15:14] Where there any objections with regards to compliance?
• [17:02] "]With the introduction of Remote ID, will data security be an issue?
• [18:57] Discussing the criticality of providing cheap and easy technology
• [19:47] Shall drone tracking information be available to authorized personnel only?
• [22:10] Will the drone industry have a chance to comment and get involved in this important issue?
• [23:09] Kenji speculates how Remote ID will turn out
• [25:00] What is the likely date by which the NPRM will be made available?
• [26:30] Vic provides some tips for making constructive comments when the NPRM finally drops

How the Smallest Variables Can Have a Huge Effect on Mapping – Interview with Pix4D

Drone U Chief Pilot, Paul Aitken recently headed off to Denver, Colorado to attend  AUVSI Xponential 2018. In today’s episode he is joined by Angad Singh from Pix4D  to discuss best practices in drone mapping. Paul and Angad talk about Pix4D’s wide ranging capabilities. They provide some expert tips for accurately integrating drones and photogrammetry into your workflow.

How can you produce accurate drone mapping data for crime scene reconstruction and NDVI mapping? How do you generate the ultimate and most beautiful 3D model using photogrammetry? Can you really produce a good drone mapping model in windy conditions?

We also talk at length about camera sensors. Learn how the resolution and focal length of your sensor can impact your image quality. We wrap up this informative episode by talking about using drones in agriculture. Why should you always use a radiometrically calibrated sensor for NDVI mapping? Can drones really help address the global problem or food security? Tune in to this very special episode of Ask Drone U. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [00:22] Paul introduces Angad Singh from Pix4D; Angad helps integrate drones and photogrammetry into your workflow
• [01:57] Can you achieve survey grade data using Pix4D?
• [03:00] Discussing the importance of intimately understanding how Pix4D works
• [04:06] Angad talks about the different industries that he works with
• [05:08] Top 3 industries that are benefiting from drone technology
• [05:36] Tips and tricks for using drone mapping in crime scene reconstruction
• [08:25] The challenges of turning a 3 dimensional earth surface into 2 dimensional flatland
• [09:26] Discussing Pix4D capabilities
• [13:33] How does the focal length of the sensor affect the accuracy of your maps?
• [15:02] Why should you never zoom in or out while doing accident reconstruction?
• [15:44] How can the ground sampling distance impact the accuracy of your data-set?
• [16:38] How does the resolution and focal length of the sensor affect image quality?
• [17:41] How can you get the best possible resolution with a DJI Phantom 4 Pro? Learn how you can achieve a 1 cm Pixel size by processing data in Pix4D
• [19:40] Will using different templates for processing data from Nadir, cross hatch and orbit missions result in greater accuracy?
• [20:06] How to produce a visually appealing drone mapping model using photogrammetry
• [22:13] Can you produce good drone mapping data in windy conditions?
• [24:36] Angad discusses the various nuances of NDVI mapping
• [25:38] What is radiometric calibration? We talk about the important of using the right sensor and producing data that is radiometrically calibrated
• [27:01] How can drones help address the critical issue of food security?
• [28:39] Learn how the ability of using the Pix4D Ag deliverable across different platforms renders it truly beneficial
• [30:50] What is the difference between a linear rolling shutter and global shutter? Can using a linear rolling shutter cause disruptions to your content?
• [33:43] Angad shares his contact information

Today we talk about processing software for agriculture drone mapping. How do cloud solutions compare to desktop solutions? What are the benefits of using Pix4Dag? Are there any good cloud based drone mapping software for agriculture?

Our caller, wants to take up NDVI mapping. He is concerned about data security, and wants to go for a desktop based mapping solution. Can he opt for a desktop based drone mapping software? What are the various benefits of using Pix4Dag? Should he opt for Raptor Maps, a cloud based drone mapping software? Tune in to learn the importance of producing a great client deliverable. Fly safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [00:30] Paul shares details about the forthcoming Drone U Fly-in
• [03:04] We share details about our in person-mapping class in Denver, Colorado from May 13-15
• [04:38] Today’s question is about drone mapping software for agriculture
• [06:14] Can you process agricultural mapping data on your desktop?
• [06:44] How can Raptor Maps help you deliver great data to your clients?
• [07:36] What are the various benefits of using Pix4Dag?
• [08:48] We talk about the various benefits of producing actionable maps while doing NDVI mapping

Today’s question is about the DJI Osmo. How does Osmo Plus compare to Osmo Pro? Can you shoot real estate using the DJI Osmo Pro?

Our caller, Graham is contemplating buying the Osmo Plus or the Osmo Pro for shooting real estate. What extra features does the Osmo Pro offer?  Is it worth spending more for the Osmo Pro? How many variations of the DJI Osmo are available? Thanks to Graham from Austin for the question. Fly safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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5 Unique Ways To Use The Osmo – https://youtu.be/ppR6n8kqbbY

Timestamps

• [02:28] Today’s question is about the DJI Osmo
• [03:12] How many variants of the DJI Osmo are available?
• [03:44] Is it worth spending more for buying the Osmo Pro?

Today’s question is about agricultural drones. Which agricultural drone will give you the best results? Should you buy a fixed wing drone for crop surveys? Can you capture crisp aerial images using a fixed wing drone?

Our caller is using an Inspire 1 Pro and X5 camera for conducting crop surveys. However, he wishes to map larger tracts of agricultural land. Is it worth buying an expensive fixed wing drone? What is the recommended flight speed for a fixed wing drone? Will he need a high end thermal imaging camera? Tune in to find out. Thanks to Mark from NY for the question. Fly safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Also, the folks over at Energen are offering a special discount on their amazing portable chargers for all Drone U members.  Use promo code DroneUA40 at checkout to get a great deal on a killer battery.

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [01:26] Today’s question is about agricultural drones
• [02:54] Should you use a fixed wing drone for mapping?
• [03:20] How is thermal mapping different from regular mapping?
• [03:40] What is the recommended flight speed for thermal mapping?
• [04:17] Will the quality of your aerial imagery suffer if you are flying a fixed wing plane at high speeds?
• [04:41] Do you need a high end thermal imaging camera if you are flying really fast?
• [04:59] Can you build a fixed wing using a DJI flight controller?
• [05:12] Why should you avoid using a ND filter for mapping?
• [05:38] Is it worth buying a fixed wing drone for mapping an 800 acre farm?

Today’s episode is about getting rid of your old drone. How do you get rid of your old drone? Can you reuse parts of your old drone?

Our caller, Robert for Arkansas crashed his drone. And, he is looking for a convenient way to get rid of it. Should he simply trash his drone? Is it environmentally harmful to do so? And, is it possible to reuse parts of your old drone? We also provide various tips and tricks for buying a used drone. Tune in to learn more. Fly Safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Don’t forget to pick up a charger from Colorado Drone Chargers. These guys make high-quality quadchargers to help you maximize your flight time. Use discount code Drone U 8 to get yourself a killer deal!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
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Timestamps

• [02:01] Today’s question is about getting rid of your old drone
• [02:56] Can you reuse parts of your old drone?
• [03:41] What is a safe way of getting rid of your drone batteries?
• [04:45] Can you dispose off your drone at a recycling center?
• [05:53] Can you find a buyer for your old drone?
• [06:49] Expert tips for buying a used drone; can you accurately check the mileage of a used drone?

Today’s episode is about using drones for oil rig inspections. Can you inspect oil refineries with an entry level drone? Which equipment do you need to conduct oil rig inspections? And, how much will the drone and camera cost you?

Our caller wishes to conduct aerial inspections of oil refineries using a Phantom 3 advanced. Can she cater to the oil and gas industry using an entry level drone? We discuss the need to understand the client deliverable before zeroing in on the right drone and camera. How do you select the right mapping application for the job? Which are the various pain points that you will have to address if you do oil rig inspections?

We also discuss various closing strategies that will help you lock down a drone sale. Tune in to learn more. Fly safe!

The 2018 Drone U Fly-in is your opportunity to build community, get inspired and fly better. Get practical, hands-on flight instruction from industry’s best. Limited spots available. Reserve now!

Make sure to get yourself a Drone U landing pad!

Get your questions answered: https://thedroneu.com/.

If you enjoy the show, the #1 thing you can do to help us out is subscribe to it on iTunes. Can we ask you to do that for us really quick? While you’re there, leave us a 5-star review, if you’re inclined to do so. Thanks! https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ask-drone-u/id967352832.

Follow us:
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Get your copy of “Livin’ the Drone Life” – //amzn.to/2nalUDH
Get your copy of our Part 107 Study Guide – //amzn.to/2omQatT

Timestamps

• [03:46] Today’s questions is about the best drone systems for oil refinery inspections
• [04:38] Which is the best drone for oil rig inspections?
• [04:55] Which are the various pain points that a drone pilot may have to address while doing an oil rig inspection?
• [05:17] Can you do oil rig inspections with a Phantom 3 Advanced?
• [06:13] Which is the best camera to detect methane leaks?
• [06:30] Discussing why it is important to intricately understand the final deliverable while doing oil rig inspections
• [07:56] Learn how you can select the right mapping application for a job
• [09:11] Discussing the importance of articulating the problem and educating the client
• [11:19] How do you determine the right drone for the job?
• [13:20] Common sales mistakes made by drone pilots in sales
• [15:07] We discuss how a client objection is just one step closer to locking down a sale
• [16:40] Expert advice for locking down a drone sale