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Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) have revolutionized various processes in industries worldwide. Drone technology has improved outside the military use of drones and into commercial and personal use.
They are incredibly versatile technological innovations, capable of aerial monitoring, surveillance, photography, and even package delivery. Today, many companies and businesses use them for these purposes.
However, drone technology hasn’t stopped there. In recent years, more drones have been equipped with advanced software that allows them to be more precise and efficient. These include artificial intelligence and machine learning software.
What are the Benefits of Using Drones?
With drones being commonplace today, it’s easy to forget the many processes drone pilots can take for granted. They are no longer luxury items but affordable, multi-industrial tools anyone can use.
There are many benefits businesses and individuals can gain outside the military use of drones. These include:
1. Speed and Efficiency
Drones can speed up different types of aerial inspection and monitoring processes. People like engineers, plumbers, or architects can inspect buildings, pipelines, or heavy machinery more accurately in less time.
2. Convenience and Safety
Drones allow users to see what’s happening in remote or inaccessible places quickly and safely. Engineers and first responders can perform safety and disaster management without putting themselves at risk.
3. Versatility and Utility
While drones were initially developed as military hardware, their commercial utility makes them invaluable assets. Aside from their high-resolution cameras, they can carry payloads and even make minor repairs thanks to customizable attachments.
How Do Drones Work with AI and Machine Learning?
Many drones in the military, commercial, and civilian sectors use some form of AI chatbot and machine learning software. Drones can perform more efficiently and easily cover more tasks using these tools.
Companies are also using AI and machine learning software to automate an increasing number of operations. As this technology continues improving, more tasks are left to AI for fast, safe, and accurate results, from empowering corporations to streamlining everyday workplace activities such as pitch deck consultants. For drones, they are a game-changer.
Here’s how:
1. Computer Vision
AI-based drones rely on computer vision. In drones, high-performance image processing is paired with a neural network.
Neural networks implement complex algorithms in machine learning, allowing drones to perform various tasks. Developers “train” the algorithms to recognize and identify objects in different contexts to implement these networks.
The result allows drones to perform the following processes efficiently:
- Object Detection – Drones in the military, civilian, and commercial sectors take advantage of image annotation to find optimal routes and avoid obstacles
- Tracking – Once the object is detected and recognized, drones can follow and track it, whether moving or stationary.
- Identification – Identifying and tagging the object to given coordinates is made possible thanks to correct classification, which neural networks provide
2. Real-time Data
Autonomous flights and other processes aren’t possible without the real-time data drones process mid-flight. AI enables real-time processing to provide continuous feedback to operators and the drone’s internal navigation system.
AI and machine learning software are beneficial for humans. Operators can use drones to assess hazardous areas without danger to individuals or ground teams.
For example, AI and machine learning software in current and future military drones allow for high-speed calculations. It will enable drones to adjust for air currents mid-flight to capture information on the ground during reconnaissance missions.
3. Sensors
Sensors are another crucial component for drones that utilize AI and machine learning. Drone systems rely on the camera and onboard multispectral sensors for visuals, positioning, and environmental data.
The onboard AI and machine learning software process the data from sensors to respond appropriately to environmental conditions. Depending on the programming, it may also prioritize or avoid particular objects.
In other cases, drones may even use sensor data to optimize their flight routes. Today, many types of drones incorporate various sensors, from fixed-wing drones to quadcopters.
Why Do Drones Use AI and Machine Learning?
While drones are invaluable in all civilian, commercial, and military operations, they also have limitations. For example, they can be hijacked, accidentally trespass into authorized or private areas, or crash due to bad weather.
Today, many drones, especially in the military, integrate machine learning and artificial intelligence. Here are a few examples:
1. Weather Forecasting
Flying a drone in bad weather is a quick way to destroy the said drone. To prevent this, drone models can incorporate AI and machine learning software paired with special sensors to detect different factors.
Onboard software can calculate factors like humidity, temperature, and wind speed. Drones can collect and process this data to respond appropriately or send it to receivers at ground stations.
2. Object Detection
Operators can utilize drones to recognize individual objects based on aerial imagery. During mapping, the machine learning software teaches the drone the object and allows it to tag and identify it.
Outside the military use of drones, object detection is crucial for recognizing landmarks and tracking objects in real time. In the military, it can scan and target specific priority areas.
3. Automated Flight
Automated flights are now possible thanks to AI and machine learning software. Aside from remembering previous flight paths and coordinates, the onboard software can also help adjust the drone mid-flight.
What’s next for Smart Drones?
The future of drones in the military, commercial, and civilian sectors are looking brighter. With current and potential applications becoming expansive as technology advances, they will be capable of much more.
Drone AI and machine learning technology are simply the next to see widespread commercial and civilian use. With so much potential, drones will continue playing an important role in industries for years.