Description: An onboard camera is a device mounted on a drone that allows for capturing images and videos during flight. These cameras can vary in quality and features, ranging from basic models that record in standard resolution to high-definition cameras capable of filming in 4K or even 8K. The integration of the camera into the drone enables unique perspectives and angles of view that would be difficult to achieve with traditional filming methods. Additionally, many onboard cameras are equipped with image stabilization, which helps produce smoother and more professional recordings, even in unstable flight conditions. The connectivity of these cameras has also evolved, allowing for live video streaming to mobile devices or online platforms, further expanding their applications. In summary, the onboard camera is an essential component that transforms drones into versatile tools for visual content capture, offering a combination of mobility, flexibility, and image quality that has revolutionized various industries.
History: The use of cameras on drones began to gain popularity in the 2000s, when advancements in miniaturization technology and improvements in digital camera quality made it possible to integrate them into unmanned aerial vehicles. In 2006, the drone technology company DJI launched its first commercial model, the Phantom, which included a camera. Since then, the evolution of onboard cameras has been rapid, with improvements in resolution, stabilization, and connectivity, allowing for their use in various applications, from aerial photography to industrial inspection.
Uses: Onboard cameras are used in a wide variety of applications, including aerial photography and videography, infrastructure inspection, precision agriculture, surveillance, and search and rescue. In the film industry, drones equipped with cameras have revolutionized the way scenes are captured, allowing for spectacular aerial shots that previously required expensive filming equipment. In agriculture, drones with cameras enable farmers to monitor crops and assess plant health more efficiently.
Examples: A notable example of the use of onboard cameras is in film production, such as the DJI Inspire 2, which allows recording in 5.2K. In agriculture, drones like the Parrot Bluegrass are used for crop analysis and plant health monitoring. Additionally, in infrastructure inspection, drones like the senseFly eBee X are used to assess bridges and buildings, providing detailed images that assist in maintenance planning.
