CAI-NJ May 2017

DRONE TECHNOLOGY By Adam Frumkin, Kipcon, Inc.

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T he future of cost efficient and superior quality engi- neering has arrived. It’s not every day that indus- try changing technology comes along providing enhanced quality and speed while remaining cost-effective. Drone technology is that phenomenon. Drones, also called unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are exactly what the name implies; miniature flying copters that are controlled by a pilot from the safety of the ground. Most may associate these high-tech machines with modern mili- tary operations in which it is either too dangerous, costly, or even impossible to send humans in their place; but what about commercial industries that encounter the same prob- lem? As more and more communities are introducing drone policies regarding recreational drone use, they should also be aware of the benefits that this same technology can offer when applied correctly. Drones are flying into commercial industries all across the world, most notably professional engineering services for your communities. Equipped with high quality 4K cameras, drones are now the eyes of the engineer. These eyes can be placed virtually anywhere. Building and pavement inspections, reme- diation and repair projects, site planning and topographic surveying are all among the services that are currently being performed using drones. Only a handful of engineering firms are offering these cutting-edge solutions because not every firm has the knowledge or ability to effectively utilize the vastly

different drone, camera and software technologies that are available. Additionally, FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations require certification of commercial drone opera- tors. Although some communities may be hesitant to accept this new flying technology, these FAA regulations ensure that all operations are safe, professional and in conformance with the law. Plus, the value offered by drone technology services is just too good to pass up.

Building Inspections Roofs

In almost every case without drones, roof inspections require the engineer to either observe from ground level, from a ladder or physically walk the roof. Often, the roofs CONT I NU E S ON PAGE 30

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