Page 2: UAV roundup 12/3: The latest in unmanned aerial vehicle news
Editor's note: This article is continued from page one.
The tests are being carried out by drone software and services companyPrecision Hawk, which was chosen by the FAA because it is developing such a technology. The company’s technology reportedly enables a drone to automatically take action such as turning or landing if it comes too close to a forbidden area such as an airport, or if it comes close to an aircraft.
The system is called LATAS, for low-altitude tracking and avoidance system, and can use the Verizon cellular network, satellite links, or standard aircraft location beacons to monitor and communicate with drones.
Amazon unveils latest Prime Air vision-guided delivery drone
Amazon has unveiled its latest autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), or drone, that is designed to deliver small packages in less than 30 minutes in a video presented by former Top Gearhost Jeremy Clarkson.
The latest model is designed to rise vertically at an altitude of up to 400 ft;, then transition into a horizontal flight path, where it will travel at speeds of approximately 55 mph, at distances of up to 15 miles. Its hybrid design uses lift fans and a pusher prop for lift and flight capabilities.
In order to navigate safely in the airspace, Prime Air is equipped with "sense and avoid" technologies, meaning it is equipped with some sort of presumably advanced vision system, though Amazon has not released any details on its components.
Read more about the Amazon Prime Air.
Homeland Security set to publish privacy guidance on drone use
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will soon publish its long-awaited guidance on protecting privacy when it comes to the use of drones.
The Office of Management and Budget completed its review of a DHS document entitled Protecting Privacy, Civil Rights & Civil Liberties: Best Practices for Unmanned Aircraft Systems,” according to the OMB’s website. The review began in March and ended at the end of October. Typically, according toThe Wall Street Journal, proposals are published within weeks of receiving the OMB’s approval.
Read more on the DHS privacy guidance.
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About the Author
James Carroll
Former VSD Editor James Carroll joined the team 2013. Carroll covered machine vision and imaging from numerous angles, including application stories, industry news, market updates, and new products. In addition to writing and editing articles, Carroll managed the Innovators Awards program and webcasts.