has released two new multirotor helicopters, the Shadow and the Guardian. These quadrotor aircraft are built to carry high megapixel cameras and transmit the live video feed back to the operator. Both aircraft share the same frame, with the Guardian sporting more powerful motors and a larger battery, giving it a higher payload capacity.
The Shadow and Guardian quadrotor helicopters are designed, manufactured, and hand assembled in North America by Draganfly Innovations. Their size is 71cm (28 inches) in diameter and 25cm (10 inches) in height. The versatility of both models makes them suited for use by safety and rescue, researchers, inspectors, experimenters, educators, photographers, or anyone needing an airborne video and photo system.
The main battery is quick-swappable allowing unlimited end to end flights (given adequate spare batteries and chargers). All payloads feature the new Draganfly 1/4 turn quick connect system. Optional payloads currently include a 2-axis brushless stabilized GoPro Hero 3+ mount for optimal video and a 1-axis brushless stabilized 20MP Sony QX100 mount with remote zoom for optimal stills. Payloads feature real-time digital video downlinks and recording of the video or images to an onboard SD card or the handheld controller.
Features of the airframe shared by the Shadow and Guardian include the wide stance landing gear which prevents tip over during takeoff and landing, rugged carbon fiber construction, automated GPS position hold, altitude hold, and automated fail-safes for Auto-Land and Return-to-Home. The controller features a direct sunlight viewable touch screen, live aircraft telemetry, audible system warnings, and a wireless “buddy system” for connecting an optional additional controller during flight training or when having a second person act as camera operator. Visually, both the Shadow and Guardian look similar, but the Guardian’s more powerful motors and larger battery give it a 400g payload capacity vs the 300g payload capacity of the Shadow.
The Shadow and Guardian helicopters are highly capable for applications such as aerial photography, industrial inspection, 3D terrain mapping, wildlife protection, agriculture, research, search and rescue, and public safety. Each system includes a free Lil’ Draganflyer miniature quadrotor helicopter for flight training to prepare the user for the feel of a quadrotor helicopter.
The Guardian system comes with a military grade transport case, which holds the aircraft and all of the accessories needed for the operator to be ready to go at any time. The only steps needed before takeoff are to snap the landing struts in place, attach the 1/4 turn quick release payload, and install the battery. It only takes a matter of minutes to unpack and start flying.
Draganfly Innovations, manufacturer of the first civilian small Unmanned Aerial System (sUAS) to be credited with saving a life, designs Draganflyer helicopters, the best aerial vehicles in the world, along with Draganview control software. A recognized technology and industry leader, Draganfly shapes the aerial imaging and public safety revolution with its gyro stabilized camera mounts. Draganfly has reinvented the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and is defining the emergency services market with the Draganflyer Shadow and Draganflyer Guardian.
Source: Press Release
Dragan Fly Innovations has designed and created a great new platform. As I already fly the X4-ES and have been involved with the team at Dragan Fly Innovation here in Saskatoon. They provide a great product and technical support.
A great company and team to work with.
Doug Green