Description: First Person View (FPV) is a piloting mode for drones that allows the operator to experience flight from the perspective of the camera mounted on the drone. This technique provides a real-time view of the surroundings, enabling the pilot to have more intuitive and precise control over the drone. The FPV experience is akin to being inside the drone, as the pilot can see what the drone ‘sees’, adding an exciting and immersive dimension to flight. To achieve this experience, goggles or screens are used to display the live feed from the drone’s camera, allowing the pilot to navigate and maneuver with a sense of immersion. FPV technology has evolved over time, incorporating improvements in image quality, latency, and range, making this mode increasingly accessible and popular among drone enthusiasts. Furthermore, FPV is not limited to recreation but has also been integrated into various professional applications, expanding its relevance in the field of drone technology.
History: The history of First Person View (FPV) dates back to the early days of drone technology in the 2000s when the first video transmission systems began to be implemented in unmanned aircraft. However, it was from 2010 onwards that FPV gained popularity among enthusiasts, thanks to the availability of more affordable and accessible equipment. Key events such as drone racing competitions, which began to emerge in 2014, further fueled interest in this mode, leading to the creation of communities and events dedicated to FPV.
Uses: First Person View (FPV) is used in a variety of applications, ranging from entertainment to professional uses. In the recreational realm, pilots enjoy the immersive experience of flying drones in races or explorations. In the professional sector, FPV is applied in cinematography, where drones are used to capture stunning aerial shots. It is also employed in infrastructure inspection, such as telecommunications towers and power lines, allowing technicians to conduct visual assessments without the need to climb. Additionally, FPV is used in precision agriculture, where drones equipped with cameras can monitor crops and assess plant health.
Examples: A notable example of FPV use is in drone racing competitions, where pilots navigate through complex circuits at high speeds, using FPV goggles for a clear and real-time view. Another example is the use of FPV drones in film production, such as in the movie ‘The Drone’ (2019), where aerial shots were employed to create dynamic scenes. Additionally, in the industrial inspection realm, companies have developed FPV drones that allow technicians to conduct visual inspections of hard-to-reach structures.
