Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) students from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University will use SmartCam3D View in the, UAS/Severe Weather Disaster Relief Operations Study Away Program in Oklahoma this month.
During the study, students will learn operational and coordination requirements associated with UAS in support of disaster relief operations in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management.
Embry-Riddle students will be equipped with Rapid Imaging Software’s powerful augmented reality (AR) app, SmartCam3D View.
The app shows map data such as street names and points of interest as overlays on video.
(See how overlays show roads during a flood, locations of 911 call and critical water services infrastructure, to enhance disaster relief operations. Courtesy of Rapid Imaging Software and YouTube)
Having this information readily available assists the UAS pilot with safe flight operations and enhances disaster relief operations such as:
- Searching for missing persons or survivors
- Determining extent of damage to homes or infrastructure
- Directing emergency response teams to safe routes to affected areas
- Finding damaged infrastructure such as storm drains or fire hydrants
- Avoiding flight hazards, power lines and towers
(Image Credit: Sandra Cerreta)
“Embry Riddle is a leader in UAS education and we wanted to expose students to the best AR technology available”, stated David Geisler, Vice President of Operations for Rapid Imaging Software.
“We believe that drones equipped with AR will save lives and crucial time for agencies.”
“Students will operate under the FAA’s Part 107 sUAS rule using thermal imaging cameras, loaned from Rocky Mountain Unmanned Systems (RMUS), to effectively operate at night in search and rescue operations under a Certificate of Waiver,” noted Dr. Joseph Cerreta, Embry Riddle Assistant Professor of Aeronautical Science.
“Thermal cameras with Rapid Imaging Software’s augmented reality can make night operations safer and more effective for first responders.”
The goal of the study is to teach students how UAS can assist local communities when disaster strikes.
(See SmartCam3D Video Plugin, in action. Courtesy of Rapid Imaging Software and YouTube)
Rapid Imaging Software, is a pioneer in augmented reality and has been refining the technology since 1995. Our products are found on every US Army and US Marine tactical unmanned aircraft system.
