Commercial drone applications have become increasingly popular in recent years, revolutionizing the way we approach various industries. Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that can be remotely controlled or programmed to fly autonomously. With the dawn of the metaverse, drones will make an impact in biological, technological and physical fields.

A report from Droneii reveals that the drone applications continue to expand as cost go down and the technology progresses. They have a wide range of application methods, from most popular  aerial photography and filming to mapping and surveying, inspections, delivery and spraying/seeding.

Researches from Drone Analyst suggests that the innovative uses of drones will expand most in the civilian and commercial sectors. Drones are impacting industries such as energy, utilities, agriculture, logistics and other growing fields. The report also estimates an annual growth of 20%, outpacing that of military use.

The development of drones is an ongoing process, and regulations to govern their usage are still in progress. The worldwide drone market is expected to expand significantly in the upcoming years, with a projected market value of 279 billion U.S. dollars by 2032. Additionally, drones are currently utilized in numerous countries worldwide, with China and the United States being the primary players in the market.

As drone uses for business flourish, those who fail to take advantage will face difficulty keeping up with the competition that’s recognizing the importance of unmanned machines as data capturing devices. If you’re still on the fence about drones and their practical applications, the following information demonstrates their full capabilities.

Drone Application Methods

Conducting an extensive examination of a sizeable infrastructure, charting and surveying a vast expanse of land, or employing drone-based aerial photography or filming in line of human presence not only accelerates the process but also enhances safety and yields superior quality data.

In order to better comprehend the diverse range of applications in the drone industry, it is useful to categorize them based on the methods employed in various sectors. This approach enables a more structured and organized analysis of the numerous uses of drones in different industries.

Surveying and Mapping

surveying drone application

Drones have revolutionized the way surveying and mapping is done. With their ability to capture high-resolution images and create 3D models, drones are now being used in various industries such as construction, mining, and agriculture. These industries use drones to survey and map large areas that would be time-consuming and expensive to cover manually. Drones can also be used to create topographic maps, contour lines, and volumetric measurements.

The selection of data sensors and surveying software has a significant impact on the type of deliverables that can be produced through drone surveying. There is a wide range of deliverables with diverse applications: 2D Orthomosaic Map, 3D Orthomosaic Map, 3D models, Thermal Map, Lidar Point Cloud, Multispectral Map.

Photogrammetry and Lidar are two popular techniques used for mapping with drones. Both techniques involve the use of specialized sensors to capture data, which is then processed to create detailed maps and 3D models.

Photogrammetry is the process of capturing images from multiple angles and using specialized software to stitch them together into a single, seamless map or 3D model. This technique is especially useful for capturing detailed information about the surface of the Earth, such as the location of buildings, roads, and other features. Photogrammetry can be performed using a variety of cameras, including traditional DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and even specialized drones with built-in cameras.

Lidar, on the other hand, is a technique that uses lasers to measure distances between objects on the ground and the drone. By bouncing laser beams off the ground and measuring the time it takes for the beams to return, Lidar sensors can create highly accurate maps and 3D models of the terrain. This technique is especially useful for mapping areas with complex topography, such as mountains, valleys, and forests.Both Photogrammetry and Lidar have their advantages and disadvantages. Photogrammetry is generally less expensive and easier to use than Lidar, but it may not be as accurate for certain types of terrain. Lidar, on the other hand, is more expensive and requires specialized equipment, but it can provide highly accurate data even in challenging environments.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is a example of an organization that leverages drone technology to streamline the process of collecting surveying data. Specifically, NOAA employs drones to map coastlines and nearshore waters, a task that traditionally requires the use of vessels. A study conducted by the NOAA demonstrated that drone-based surveys of large marine areas can be completed in a fraction of the time required for traditional vessel-based surveys. Moreover, the data obtained from drone-based surveys was found to be more precise than that collected through traditional methods. This highlights the potential of drones to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of surveying and mapping efforts

Inspection

inspection using drones

Solar Farm Inspection 

Drones have become an essential tool for inspection purposes. They can access hard-to-reach areas and provide a close-up view of the object being inspected. Drones are being used for inspecting infrastructure such as cell phone towers, bridges, power lines, solar farms and wind turbines. They can also be used for inspecting buildings, roofs, pipelines or agricultural lands. Drones equipped with thermal cameras and specialized sensors can detect heat signatures and identify areas that need attention.

In numerous cases, a drone inspection entails a comprehensive visual examination, in which the drone’s camera serves as the inspector’s eyes. The drone is deployed to gather visual data, which is subsequently analyzed in detail by the inspector. While some preliminary review may be conducted on-site, the majority of the visual inspection work is carried out during the thorough analysis of the collected data.

Besides visual inspection, uav platforms utilize various sensors for data collection. For example, thermal imaging is an effective technique for identifying leaks, faulty structures, and energy loss, and can accomplish this task in a fraction of the time it would take to manually inspect a property. The use of drone thermal imaging is particularly advantageous in detecting areas that are susceptible to malfunction in the future.

Photography and Filming

using drones for photography filming

Drone Photography Art

Drones enhanced the visual experience and made aerial professional photography and filming more accessible and affordable. Drones are capable of capturing breathtaking aerial footage that was previously only achievable through the use of helicopters or planes, but at a significantly lower cost. This translates to substantial savings on production budgets. Drones equipped with high-quality cameras can capture high-resolution images and videos that are used in various industries such as film, real estate, tourism, and advertising. 

It’s important to mention FPV method as one of the most uniqe way drones are being utilized in art form. First-person view (FPV) drones have emerged as a unique and innovative way to capture stunning aerial footage in the film industry. This method allows filmmakers to provide a first-person pilot perspective and create dynamic and immersive shots that were previously impossible to achieve.

FPV drones are equipped with specialized cameras and video transmitters that allow the pilot to see what the drone sees in real-time, providing a seamless and immersive experience for the viewer. This technique has been utilized in various films and music videos, enabling filmmakers to capture breathtaking shots that would have been difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional filming methods.

FPV drones have also been used in extreme sports and action sequences, allowing filmmakers to capture the adrenaline-fueled action from a unique and captivating perspective. Overall, the use of FPV drones in the film industry has opened up new avenues for creative expression and has revolutionized the way aerial footage is captured and presented on-screen.

Spraying and Seeding

drone-uses-crop-spraying

Crop Spraying DJI Agras

Drones are now being used for precision agriculture. They can be equipped with sprayers and seeders to apply pesticides, fertilizers and seeds. Agriculture drones are designed to fly over crops and spray them with precision and accuracy, ensuring optimal coverage and minimal waste. The use of drones for crop spraying has several benefits, including reduced costs, increased efficiency, and improved safety for farmers and workers.

One of the key advantages of crop spraying drone solutions is their ability to operate in challenging terrain and hard-to-reach areas. This is particularly useful for farmers who have large or irregularly shaped fields, or who need to spray crops in areas that are difficult to access using traditional equipment.

Drones can cover large areas quickly and accurately, reducing the time and cost of traditional methods. By utilizing thermal imaging and various sensors, they can also be used to monitor crop health and growth, enabling farmers to make informed decisions in a timely manner.

Drones have emerged as a key component of the next-generation farming, also known as smart farming, which represents a holistic, software-centric approach to traditional farming practices.

Delivery

drone-delivery-applications

Medical kit delivery by Drone

Drones are being tested for delivering packages and goods. They can access remote areas and deliver goods quickly, reducing delivery times and costs. Drones can also be used for delivering medical supplies and equipment to areas that are difficult to reach. However, there are still regulatory and safety concerns that need to be addressed before drone delivery becomes a widespread practice.

Medical drone delivery involves the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to transport medical supplies, equipment, and medications to areas that are difficult to access by traditional means. These drones are equipped with specialized sensors and software that enable them to navigate through challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions, ensuring that medical supplies are delivered quickly and efficiently.

Industries Using Drones

Commercial drones have become increasingly popular in various industries due to their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and ability to perform tasks that would otherwise be difficult or dangerous for humans. Here are some of the industries that have embraced the use of commercial drones:

Energy and Utilities

The energy sector encompasses a wide range of drone activities that are involved in providing essential utilities such as electricity, oil, natural gas, steam supply, water supply, and wastewater disposal.

Commercial drones have revolutionized the way energy utilities operate. In example, they are used to inspect power lines, wind turbines, and solar panels. Drones equipped with thermal cameras can detect and locate any faults or damage in the equipment, which can be repaired quickly. This saves time and money for energy companies and reduces the risk of accidents.

Construction

The Construction sector is composed of establishments primarily engaged in the construction of buildings or engineering projects such as highways and utility systems. This sector also includes establishments primarily engaged in the preparation of sites for new construction and those primarily engaged in subdividing land for sale as building sites.

Drones are used in the construction industry to survey sites, create 3D maps, and monitor progress. They can also be used to inspect buildings and bridges for damage or wear and tear. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can help construction companies detect potential safety hazards and prevent accidents.

Agriculture and Forestry

The Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting sector involves drone activities that are focused on growing crops, raising animals, harvesting timber, and harvesting fish and other animals from farms, ranches, or their natural habitats.

Read More:Drones in Forestry: Revolutionizing Forest Management

The use of commercial drones in agriculture and forestry has increased dramatically in recent years. Drones equipped with multispectral cameras can capture data on crop health and growth, which can help farmers optimize their yields. In forestry, drones are used to survey areas for tree health, detect forest fires, and monitor wildlife populations.

Scientific Educational

Drones are used in scientific research and education to study wildlife, monitor weather patterns, and explore remote areas. They can also be used to collect data on the environment, such as air and water quality. They can provide real-time data on temperature, humidity, wind speed, and other weather variables, helping scientists and meteorologists better understand weather patterns and predict severe weather events.

One of the main uses of drones in scientific research is to study wildlife. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can be used to capture footage and data on animals in their natural habitats, providing scientists with valuable insights into their behavior and ecology. This is particularly useful for studying endangered species or animals that are difficult to observe in the wild.

Mining and Aggregate

Drones are used in the mining and aggregate industry to survey sites, monitor stockpiles, and inspect equipment. They can also be used to create 3D models of mines and quarries, which can help mining companies optimize their operations and reduce costs.

The use of drones in mining and aggregate operations has also been shown to enhance safety by eliminating the need for workers to perform hazardous tasks such as climbing onto stockpiles or inspecting equipment at heights. The data collected by drones can be analyzed using advanced software and machine learning algorithms, providing mining companies with insights that can inform their strategic planning and decision-making processes.

Safety and Security

Drones are used in safety and security to monitor crowds, inspect buildings, and patrol borders or assist search and rescue teams. They can also be used to detect and locate hazardous materials, such as gas leaks or chemical spills. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can help law enforcement agencies respond quickly to emergencies and prevent crime.

Law enforcement drones in safety and security applications has become increasingly prevalent, with many government agencies and private organizations recognizing the significant advantages they offer in terms of safety, security, and efficiency.

Read More: Firefighter Drones – How Drones are Being Used for Helping Fire Departments

Warehousing and Intralogistics

Drones are used in warehouses and intralogistics to improve efficiency and reduce costs. They can be used to monitor inventory, inspect equipment, and transport goods. Drones equipped with sensors can help warehouse managers optimize their layouts and improve safety.

Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can quickly and accurately scan barcodes and RFID tags, allowing warehouse managers to keep track of their inventory in real-time. This not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of errors in inventory management.

Real Estate

Drones are used in the real estate industry to create virtual tours of properties, capture aerial photos and videos, and inspect roofs and other hard-to-reach areas. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can help real estate agents and buyers make more informed decisions.

In today’s hot real estate markets, drones are almost guaranteed to be requested for serious shoots. Drones offer a unique perspective on the property, allowing the agent or realtor to showcase the beauty and surroundings of the lot. With their ability to capture aerial photos and videos, drones can help a listing jump off the page and grab the attention of potential buyers. By using drones, real estate photographers can provide a more comprehensive view of the property, highlighting its unique features and setting it apart from the competition.

Insurance

Drones are used in the insurance industry to inspect damage from natural disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires. They can also be used to assess property damage and investigate claims. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can help insurance companies process claims more quickly and accurately.

Furthermore, drones can be used to investigate claims and detect potential fraud. By using drones to inspect damage and collect data, insurance companies can identify any discrepancies or inconsistencies in the claim, helping to prevent fraudulent claims and reduce costs.

Art and Entertainment

Drones are used in the art and entertainment industry to create stunning aerial displays and light shows. They can also be used to capture footage for films and commercials. Drones equipped with lights and sensors can help artists and performers create unique and memorable experiences operating drone swarms.

For example, drone light shows can be synchronized with music and other special effects to create a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for concert-goers. Similarly, drones can be used to create interactive art installations and exhibits, adding a new level of engagement and interactivity for viewers.

Information News

Drones are used in the news and media industry to capture footage of events and report on breaking news. They can also be used to provide aerial views of cities and landscapes, which can enhance storytelling. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can help journalists and news organizations provide more comprehensive coverage.

They can provide a safe and efficient way for journalists to gather information and report on events from a distance. This is especially important in situations where access is restricted or dangerous for human reporters.

Healthcare

Drones are used in the healthcare industry to transport medical supplies, such as blood and vaccines, to remote areas. They can also be used to monitor patients and deliver medication. Drones equipped with cameras and sensors can help healthcare providers provide better care to patients.

One of the main uses of drones in the healthcare industry is to transport medical supplies, such as blood and vaccines, to remote areas. Drones can reach areas that are difficult or impossible to access by traditional means, providing critical medical supplies to patients in need.

Furthermore, drones can be used to respond to emergencies and provide medical assistance in remote or hard-to-reach areas. For example, drones can be used to transport defibrillators or other life-saving equipment to the scene of an emergency, providing critical care to patients in need.

Summary

Commercial drone applications have transformed various industries, from energy and utilities to agriculture, logistics, and healthcare. Drones have a wide range of applications, including surveying and mapping, inspection, photography and filming, spraying and seeding, and delivery.

The use of drones has increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved safety in various industries. As the technology continues to develop, the worldwide drone market is expected to expand significantly in the upcoming years.

However, regulations to govern their usage are still in progress, and safety and privacy concerns need to be addressed. Overall, drones have the potential to revolutionize industries and provide better service to customers.