Systems layout can be seen above. This UAV is great for small areas. Fast deployment and simple operation and inexpensive design make this UAV great for small or hazardous ( unimproved natural landing zones ) jobs. The wireless camera can be seen in the above layout it is on a pan and tilt setup allowing full range of viewing freedom and records to a ground base station tape.

This plane has a fully autonomous navigation system. allowing for fully automated image collection over a user defined path. Stabilization is achieved through the use of a 6 degree of freedom altitude heading reference system / internal measurement unit (AHRS/ IMU). The primary camera can be triggered at set location or over a time or distance interval.




Below is a waypoint path generated using Google earth. The intended path is shown in red this is the path that was uploaded to the UAV. The long line segments are about 800 yards long and total path length is 1.17 miles. The actual path flown by the UAV is shown overlayed in green. Straight line tracking is exceptional however there is minimal overshoot by the UAV when first merging with the line. The firmware used to control the UAV is still in its beta form. Expect improvements to waypoint path tracking in the near future. Once the UAV completes the path it returns home then enters a hold circle and waits for operator to resume manual flight control and land the UAV.
 


Here is a video recorded from the wireless 2.4 Ghz camera