The Farming Express Apr4 | Page 65

The AVCN research centre (Artificial intelligence, Visual Communications & Networks), is a centre of research excellence at the University of the West of Scotland (UWS). Our work sponsored by RCUK Sustainable Network+ focuses on the investigation of suitable Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for disaster management, the preliminary development of experimental UAV platforms, and the development of visual and infrared imagery technologies for use on UAVs during flooding. The further development of a flood response system, based on innovative remote sensing, communications networking and cloud computing technologies could have massive benefits not just for society, but also the wider UK economy, by improving the response rate to floods and in turn significantly reducing the devastating impact floods can have. Employing the use across the UK of UAV technology developed by projects would enable relevant agencies including NERC CEH, SEPA/Environment Agency, Local Authorities, Utilities Companies and emergency responders etc. to gather their own real-time data and imagery and transmit it electronically to a central processing and dissemination platform. Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems Association (UAVS) is one of the longest established trade associations in the world dedicated specifically to the future of the UAV industry. At its heart, it represents its members, who come from all aspects of the industry, core business values within this emerging market promoting dialogue with government, the regulators and certification agencies. The aim of all its members is to ensure that safe, effective and integrated UAV operations for all classes of UAS within un-segregated airspace and UAVS provides one industry voice. UAVS provides a meeting point for industry to share its experiences and discuss the burning issues. This interaction promotes debate, encourages co-operation and strengthens the UK UAV community as a whole. Worthington Sharpe are the developers of the Wing Ground Control Station (GCS). The Wing GCS consists of a rugged transport case with foldable legs that transforms into an ergonomically designed outdoor workstation featuring the patented Wing 3D control device, telemetry, 24” outdoor screen, and laptop compartment. A 4-axis joystick and precision laser mouse are combined in the Wing to enable both manual piloting and mission planner editing with one hand. The other hand is free to operate aircraft systems and camera gimbal through the keyboard and secondary joystick. The Wing GCS offers a highly practical and innovative means of flying the mission, analysing and editing data, and delivering results - all without leaving the site. Zero Tech is a leading manufacturer of aerial photography equipment and Unmanned Aircraft Systems. The company provides its customers with the most advanced, efficient and safe solutions on the market. Zero Tech was the first company to use dual redundancy autopilot and safety parachute for multicopters and up to this day it is the only company that offers this unique solution. Zero Tech products are used by professionals across the globe in a wide range of industries.