<section id="isPasted"><p>Many envision drones in one of two ways: as tiny toys fluttering in the backyard or as menacing military machines soaring high above. Practical applications, however, are drones’ real future. Businesses worldwide, spanning diverse sectors, are discovering how drones can enhance their operations and deliver unmatched value.</p><p>In this blog, we’ll dive into what drones really are &amp; explore their current commercial applications. Plus, we’ll take a peek into the exciting future of where drones might take us next.</p><h2></h2><h3>What is a Drone?</h3><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1697727859806-1697727859806.png" alt="What is a drone" class="fr-fic fr-dii"><p>Drones, often referred to as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are aircraft that fly without a human pilot onboard. This label applies whether the drone is massive enough to carry a person or small enough to fit in your pocket. Typically, a remote pilot controls these robotic fliers, but fully autonomous drones are also available. Initially created to offer a safer, more cost-effective alternative to manned aircraft, drones soon found their way into commercial markets, enhancing operational efficiency and offering some fun as well.</p><p>Drones, regardless of their shape or size, consistently feature key components: sensors, motors, microcontrollers, and a fuel source. The significant reduction in commercial drone prices over recent years may be attributed to the inclusion of components common to smartphones, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cameras, and GPS modules. This cost efficiency has opened doors, making them more accessible for both businesses and individual consumers.</p><h2></h2><h3>Drone Market Size</h3><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1697727859736-1697727859736.png" alt="Drone market size" class="fr-fic fr-dii"><p>Over the past decade, the drone market has experienced remarkable growth across the consumer, commercial, and military sectors In 2022, the global drone industry was valued at $26.2 billion, with the military sector contributing a significant $12 billion.</p><p>Here’s where it gets interesting: the military sector projects a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of over 7% for the next five years.<br>However, the worldwide market is set to outpace it, targeting a growth rate of nearly 8% CAGR. If this momentum continues, we can expect the global drone market to reach an impressive $38.3 billion by 2027, with non-military drone projects slowly becoming ever-more dominant.</p><p>A significant part of the growth is driven not by drone hardware, but by how it is manipulated to perform dangerous or difficult tasks.</p><h2></h2><h3>The Value of Drones-as-a-Service(DaaS)</h3><p>With drone hardware now more wallet-friendly to manufacture and buy, the real game-changer in the industry is pivoting towards drones as a service (DaaS). It’s not just about the drones anymore—it’s the actionable data and efficiencies they bring that businesses are chasing. Dive into the numbers: <a href="https://www.bcg.com/publications/2017/engineered-products-infrastructure-machinery-components-drones-go-work" target="_blank">Boston Consulting Group’s research</a> suggests that by 2050, value-added services could account for 73% of the drone market’s revenue. So, it’s clear: the value isn’t just in the flight, but in the insights they deliver.</p><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1697727859681-1697727859681.png" alt="Exhibit2 components of value drone" class="fr-fic fr-dii"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1697727859619-1697727859619.png" alt="Drone revenue" class="fr-fic fr-dii"><p>2050 Revenue Share of the Drone Market:</p><ul><li>Products<ul><li>Design, Sales, Marketing: 6%</li><li>Assembly &amp; Production: 8%</li></ul></li><li>Services<ul><li>Value-Added Services: 48%</li><li>Piloting &amp; Operations: 25%</li></ul></li><li>Other<ul><li>Maintenance &amp; Insurance: 13%</li></ul></li></ul><h2></h2><h3>Commercial Uses for Drones</h3><p>Drones have rapidly emerged as indispensable tools across numerous commercial sectors. As a result of their multifaceted applications, they have evolved from mere recreational uses to pivotal roles that improve safety and efficiency. Aside from their incredible video capabilities, drones offer groundbreaking innovations in delivery &amp; 3D mapping that are reshaping business operations for the better. Here are some of the ways drones are integrated into today’s businesses.</p><p><strong>Video Collection and Photography:</strong><br>From showcasing real estate properties to conducting wartime reconnaissance, drones are making their mark with video capabilities. Equipped with high-resolution and multi-spectral cameras, including RGB-NIR, NVDI, and UV NIR, drones have found a place in various sectors. They’re now used for tasks like mapping infrastructures, inspecting energy projects, &amp; monitoring agriculture. The value they bring is evident across industries.</p><p>For years, drones have captured breathtaking aerial photography images, offering us a unique bird’s eye perspective of cities, buildings, and sprawling landscapes. It’s become a familiar sight, yet the awe of seeing the world from that vantage point never truly fades.</p><p><strong>Inspections:</strong><br>Drones are becoming indispensable for inspection processes across a wide range of industries. The utility of these aerial tools is evident: they enable inspectors to gather essential data without ever leaving the safety of the ground. From navigating the tight confines of industrial tanks and boilers to assessing the integrity of towering structures such as wind turbines, cell towers, and amusement park ride supports, drones streamline the inspection process.</p><p>This not only reduces potential risks to human inspectors but also increases efficiency. Drones can often complete an assessment in the time it would traditionally take an inspector just to access the site. The adoption of drones marks a significant advancement in ensuring safety and operational excellence in inspections.</p><p><strong>Delivery:</strong><br>The concept of drone delivery, once viewed as futuristic, is rapidly becoming a part of today’s logistics landscape. Flytrex, for instance, has made significant headway, specializing in food delivery in targeted regions of Texas and North Carolina, completing tens of thousands of drone deliveries annually.</p><p>Additionally, it’s noteworthy to mention Zipline and Google’s affiliate, Wing, which have established themselves as the first and second largest drone delivery enterprises globally. The industry is evolving fast, and these companies are leading the way.</p><p><strong>3D Mapping:</strong><br>Drones, equipped with the ability to create 3D models, have revolutionized surveying methods, offering capabilities that traditional techniques can’t match. By capturing data with remarkable speed and accuracy, and then integrating this with advanced photogrammetry software, they produce detailed and accurate 3D models. Models like these can be meticulously analyzed, offering comprehensive insights into a variety of fields.</p><p>In urban planning, these 3D representations are invaluable. Architects and landscape designers use these models to guide their visions, ensuring public spaces evolve cohesively. Aerial models provided by agricultural drones provide a better understanding of soil composition, crop diseases, and crop yields.</p><p>Meanwhile, such models help track progress in the construction industry and inform site layouts. In order to make accurate comparisons, real estate professionals align properties with service titles using 3D maps.</p><h2></h2><h3>Future Drones: Smaller, Stronger, Autonomous</h3><p>The future of drone technology promises remarkable advancements. As the technology evolves, we anticipate the development of even smaller drones, surpassing even the compactness of today’s Black Hornet Nano. Conversely, larger drones designed for the transportation of goods will grow in size, endurance, and capability. It’s not far-fetched to imagine <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIdc-BaD0T0" target="_blank">drone taxis</a> becoming an integral part of urban transportation in major cities worldwide.</p><p>The rapid development of drones is closely tied to advances in communication technology. 5G’s ultra-reliable, low-latency communication allows drones to make instant, real-time decisions, enabling them to become increasingly autonomous. With projections indicating the onset of 6G networks by 2030, offering unparalleled terahertz frequency bands and superior edge computing capabilities, autonomous drones are poised to revolutionize several industries.</p><h2></h2><h3>PCBA Production: The Heartbeat of Modern Drones</h3><p>Behind every sophisticated drone lies an intricate Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) that powers its operations. As drones become more advanced and versatile, the importance of high-quality PCBA production becomes paramount.</p><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1697727859861-1697727859861.png" alt="Pcba heartbeat drone" class="fr-fic fr-dii"><ul><li><p><strong>Complex Circuitry for Advanced Functions:</strong> Modern drones are not just about flying; they come loaded with sensors, cameras, and communication modules, all of which require meticulously designed PCBAs. These assemblies manage various tasks, from stabilizing the drone in the air and capturing high-resolution images to communicating with the remote pilot or base station.</p></li><li><p><strong>Miniaturization and Efficiency:&nbsp;</strong>As drones aim for sleeker designs and longer flight durations, PCBAs must be compact yet powerful. Advanced PCBA production<br>techniques allow for the integration of multiple functionalities on a single board, ensuring drones are lightweight without compromising on features.</p></li><li><p><strong>Durability and Reliability:</strong> Drones often operate in challenging conditions, be it varying temperatures, humidity levels, or physical impacts. The PCBA, being the electronic backbone of the drone, must withstand these conditions. Modern PCBA production emphasizes not just functionality but also durability, ensuring drones remain reliable across multiple flights<br>and environments.</p></li><li><p><strong>Cost-Effective Production for a Competitive Market:</strong> With the commercial drone market becoming increasingly competitive, manufacturers aim to produce high-quality drones at competitive price points. <a href="https://www.macrofab.com/pcba/" target="_blank">Advanced PCBA production techniques</a> play a pivotal role in this, ensuring that drones are both feature-rich and affordable.</p></li><li><p><strong>Customization for Specific Applications:</strong> Different drones serve different purposes, from agricultural surveys and real estate photography to delivery and emergency response. Custom PCBA designs are tailored to these specific needs, ensuring that the drone excels in its designated function.</p></li></ul><p>As the drone industry continues to grow and evolve, the significance of PCBA production will only amplify. It’s the seamless integration of sophisticated PCBAs that drives drones’ unparalleled capabilities, making them indispensable tools in today’s technologically advanced world.</p><h2></h2><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The evolution of drone technology demonstrates a significant shift from its early recreational and military applications to now serving as indispensable tools in various industries. Their wide-ranging uses, from enhancing business operations to enabling novel technological applications, highlight their transformative potential.</p><p>As we anticipate further advancements, especially with the forthcoming introduction of 6G networks, drones are poised to be a cornerstone of future technological innovations and commercial applications. Their continued growth promises to shape the way industries operate, underscoring the critical role they’ll play in our future.</p><a href="https://www.macrofab.com/pcba/quality/" target="_blank">GET THE QUALITY YOU NEED WITH MACROFAB</a></section>

Drone technology is changing service industries 

By 2050 value-added services could account for 73% of the drone market's revenue. 

How Drone Technology is Changing Modern Service Industries

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires can cause immense damage to human life and property. In recent years, technology has evolved to the point where uncrewed vehicles can be used to help mitigate the effects of disasters. They excel in areas where human access might be limited or hazardous, enabling them to perform critical tasks such as pre-disaster monitoring, post-disaster assessment, debris removal, supply delivery, and environmental data collection.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Critical to utilising uncrewed vehicles for disaster relief is the ability to coordinate vehicles into autonomous fleets and leverage live video links for real-time observation. An example of this is <a href="https://www.cloudgroundcontrol.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cloud Ground Control (CGC)</a>, a platform that can elevate uncrewed vehicles to be effectively employed in managing and mitigating natural disasters.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Utilising uncrewed vehicles for pre-disaster preparedness</h2><p dir="ltr">Uncrewed vehicles can be leveraged pre-disaster, such as mapping risk areas and identifying changing environmental conditions as well as post-disaster, for example risk mitigation, rescue and relief.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">The foremost strategy to disaster mitigation is pre-disaster preparedness which refers to the monitoring of disaster-prone areas and detecting changes in environmental parameters. These changes help scientists in predicting when a climatic anomaly or disaster may take place and aid in taking preventive actions. Uncrewed vehicles use sensors to gather data in real-time. This data is then sent to software with special algorithms that automatically analyse it and trigger specific actions based on AI interpretation of the results.</p><p dir="ltr">CGC, for example, aggregates the data collected from multiple uncrewed vehicles and stores it in a centralised cloud-based platform. This central repository ensures that all relevant data is accessible to decision-makers and experts involved in disaster preparedness.<br><br>The sensors gather data across a wide spectrum of phenomena, such as temperature, humidity, atmospheric composition, electromagnetic radiation, and more. For instance, temperature sensors employ thermoelectric materials to convert thermal energy into measurable electrical signals. Electromagnetic sensors exploit interactions between electromagnetic fields and their target materials to discern properties like object proximity, material composition, or radiation intensity.<br><br>In the realm of pre-disaster preparedness, the utilisation of uncrewed vehicles equipped with these sensors brings substantial advantages. Firstly, the real-time data collection capability of these sensors enables the continuous monitoring of key environmental parameters that might serve as early indicators of impending disasters.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">For instance, sudden shifts in temperature, atmospheric pressure, or gas composition could signify the onset of natural events like wildfires, tsunamis, or seismic activities. By promptly identifying these anomalies, authorities and response teams can be promptly alerted, allowing for timely evacuation and mitigation measures. The robust data security measures offered by platforms like CGC ensure the safeguarding of critical environmental and situational data collected by uncrewed vehicles, enhancing the integrity and effectiveness of pre-disaster preparedness efforts.<br><br>Moreover, the automated relay of sensor-derived data to software integrated with specialised algorithms enables swift data analysis, extracting meaningful patterns and anomalies from the collected information. This analytical process aids in identifying potential disaster precursors, assisting experts in making informed decisions and predictions. The subsequent activation of specific actions through AI-driven interpretation further enhances preparedness.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">For instance, if a sudden increase in gas concentration indicative of a chemical leak is detected, AI can trigger the deployment of containment measures, thus minimising potential harm to human life and the environment.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Mapping an area post-disaster</h2><p dir="ltr">While preparing for natural disasters is key, once they strike, uncrewed vehicles can be on scene rapidly to provide a response. Uncrewed vehicles can be equipped with an array of sensing technologies to accurately map and analyse disaster-stricken areas. These maps are extremely helpful in aiding and increasing the effectiveness of humanitarian efforts. They allow relief workers to identify critical regions and prioritise response efforts. Thermal camera drones can scan a large area and fly over collapsed structures to identify people in distress. Drones can also be employed for pre-and post-disaster large scale 3D mapping of an area which can help in preventive measures before possible disasters and relief efforts afterwards.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Furthermore, uncrewed vehicles contribute to post-disaster mapping, surveying, and assessment. Utilising CGC’s cellular micro-modem CGConnect, uncrewed vehicles can be seamlessly linked to a cloud-based drone fleet management platform, enabling real-time live-streaming, command, and control from a web browser. Instead of having to collect data from multiple drones after they have conducted surveys, CGC allows for a simultaneous data collection and transmission from the entire drone fleet of up to 1000 uncrewed vehicles. This significantly enhances emergency response and disaster relief capabilities.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">Humanitarian Relief</h2><p dir="ltr">Another important use of uncrewed vehicles in disaster relief efforts is their ability to quickly deliver lifesaving supplies. Drones and other unmanned vehicles are currently being employed to directly deliver food, water, and medical supplies to people affected by natural calamities. Due to their maneuverability and flight capability, aerial drones respond much faster in many areas compared to crewed vehicles.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Additionally, uncrewed water vehicles (UWVs) can be used to transport supplies and people across flooded areas. These UWVs are equipped with GPS and obstacle detection systems to navigate submerged streets and obstacles effectively. Using their payload capacity, the UWVs travel through flooded neighborhoods, delivering supplies directly to doorsteps where people are stranded.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Technology plays a huge role in this, for example CGC can serve as a central platform for coordinating the delivery of such lifesaving supplies. It enables real-time tracking of multiple vehicles' locations, routes, and cargo status. Relief teams can monitor the progress of supply deliveries and adjust routes in response to changing conditions or emerging priorities.&nbsp;</p><h2 dir="ltr">An ongoing development&nbsp;</h2><p dir="ltr">Uncrewed vehicles have the potential to revolutionise the way we respond to natural disasters and save countless lives. By providing critical information and assistance in hazardous environments, uncrewed vehicles are becoming an increasingly important tool in the response to natural disasters. &nbsp;It is important to note, however, that uncrewed vehicles are not a panacea but rather an auxiliary tool in the effort of disaster management. While uncrewed vehicles offer substantial benefits, they complement a comprehensive disaster management approach, underscoring the importance of coordinated relief efforts that integrate emerging technologies like <a href="https://www.cloudgroundcontrol.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">CGC</a> to achieve optimal disaster response outcomes.</p><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">References</h2><ol><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Qiu,Stephanie. Cloud Ground Control Empowers Emergency Response And Disaster Relief With 5G Drone Fleet Control. 5 April 2023. [Internet]. <a href="https://www.advancednavigation.com/news/cloud-ground-control-empowers-emergency-response-and-disaster-relief-with-5g-drone-fleet-control/" target="_blank">https://www.advancednavigation.com/news/cloud-ground-control-empowers-emergency-response-and-disaster-relief-with-5g-drone-fleet-control/</a> .&nbsp;</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">CORDIS EU Research Results. EU project successfully deploys robots following Italy earthquake [Internet]. <a href="https://cordis.europa.eu/article/id/120405-eu-project-successfully-deploys-robots-following-italy-earthquake" target="_blank">https://cordis.europa.eu/article/id/120405-eu-project-successfully-deploys-robots-following-italy-earthquake</a>&nbsp;</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory. NOAA Saildrone Hurricane Observation [Internet]. [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://www.pmel.noaa.gov/saildrone-hurricane/</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Bateman J. China’s Launching Drones to Fight Back Against Deadly Earthquakes. Wired [Internet]. [cited 2023 May 14]; Available from: https://www.wired.com/2017/01/chinas-launching-drones-fight-back-earthquakes/</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Armed with drones, aid workers seek faster response to earthquakes, floods. Reuters [Internet]. 2016 May 16 [cited 2023 May 14]; Available from: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-humanitarian-summit-nepal-drones-idUSKCN0Y7003</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Martin G. Drones aid SANDF disaster relief efforts in KwaZulu-Natal [Internet]. defenceWeb. 2022 [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/aerospace/aerospace-aerospace/drones-aid-sandf-disaster-relief-efforts-in-kwazulu-natal/</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Science and Technology Directorate. Feature Article: Unmanned Vehicles Could Lead in Dangerous Rescue Situations | Homeland Security [Internet]. 2022 [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/news/2022/06/09/feature-article-unmanned-vehicles-could-lead-dangerous-rescue-situations</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Covid in Scotland: Drones to carry Covid samples. BBC News [Internet]. 2021 Feb 23 [cited 2023 May 14]; Available from: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-56154503</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Frey T. Using Drones to Eliminate Future Forest Fires [Internet]. Futurist Speaker. 2018 [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://futuristspeaker.com/technology-trends/using-drones-to-eliminate-future-forest-fires/</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Partheepan S, Sanati F, Hassan J. Autonomous Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Bushfire Management: Challenges and Opportunities. Drones. 2023 Jan;7(1):47.&nbsp;</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Drone Amplified. Fire Management System Embedded to Drones [Internet]. Ignis by Drone Amplified. [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://droneamplified.com/ignis/</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Ocean Infinity. Our Technology - Ocean Infinity [Internet]. Ocean Infinity. 2022 [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://oceaninfinity.com/ourtechnology/</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Tabor A. Volcano-observing Drone Flights Open Door to Routine Hazard Monitoring [Internet]. NASA. 2022 [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: http://www.nasa.gov/feature/ames/volcano-observing-drone-flights-open-door-to-routine-hazard-monitoring</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Bonali FL, Tibaldi A, Marchese F, Fallati L, Russo E, Corselli C, et al. UAV-based surveying in volcano-tectonics: An example from the Iceland rift. Journal of Structural Geology. 2019 Apr;121:46–64.&nbsp;</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">eBee X mapping drone - Drones [Internet]. AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. [cited 2023 May 14]. Available from: https://ageagle.com/drones/ebee-x/</p></li></ol>

Critical to utilising uncrewed vehicles for disaster relief is the ability to coordinate vehicles into autonomous fleets and leverage live video links for real-time observation. 


How Uncrewed Vehicles are Rising to the Challenge of Natural Disasters

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