Futureproof: Cinema Pro Drone Companion Package
Future Narrative
I’ve ridden some epic long-distance motorcycle journeys and always captured key moments in my mind. I never wanted to pull over to fumble with a camera or nurse GoPro batteries and miss out on the true essence of a ride. Now, I capture memorable stretches of trips and spirited riding sessions with a simple button press. Cinema Pro launches up to four drones that track with me, automatically capturing stunning, high-resolution video from multiple perspectives. Videos can be easily edited, and I even use them as a training aid to analyze my riding style. I am a better rider and cinematographer today, thanks to Cinema Pro.
Rider Benefits
The FAA finally stratified the airspace a few years ago and approved Close Vehicle Coupled Proximity (CVCP) drone use standards that build upon V2X standards. Thankfully, vehicles and drones will never come into contact with each other. Drivers and riders can capture their journeys while staying focused on the road and taking in memorable moments.
Technology
The Cinema Pro Package is available in several configurations. Riders can specify up to four drones deployed from side or rear storage cases. When stowed, drones are protected by covers and charged by batteries at the base of the cases. A streamlined, urban commuter pannier allows for lane splitting in states where it is legal and accommodates smaller drones with flight times of up to 30 minutes. The standard side pannier accommodates two small drones or one larger drone capable of sustained filming for up to 60 minutes between charges.*
During extended remote trips, riders can use regen mode to recharge batteries. Regen mode exposes the blades of two motors on the master drone. While on the go, airflow spins the motors, regeneratively charging the drones and case batteries. Larger rear-mounted cases can accommodate two small drones or one larger drone. Extended-range booster antennas are available for motorcycles with larger cases. Drones are on a “virtual leash” and will never exceed their “bingo” battery range point for returning to their host vehicle.
* Flight times are dependent upon speed and weather conditions. Estimated flight times assume a speed of 65 miles per hour and fair weather with winds under 15 miles per hour.
Indicators and Implications
Lynk & Co recently released an update for its LYNK OS N vehicle 06 EM-P, including the ability to control DJI drones from inside the vehicle.
The FAA will need to formalize altitudes and regulations for drones operating with vehicles. FAA Advisory and Rulemaking Committees: Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Beyond Visual Line-of-Sight (BVLOS) Operations Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC).
Vehicle to Everything or V2X technologies and standards must mature to ensure that vehicles remain coupled with drones and that no vehicles or drones impede or intersect with one another or any other objects.
Futureproof is a series of occasional provocations illustrating possible future paths for technology and culture. Think postcards from the future.