Description: Onboard systems in drones refer to the various equipment and technologies installed directly on unmanned aerial vehicles, enabling their operation and execution of specific tasks. These systems include, among others, cameras, sensors, navigation systems, and processing units. Cameras can be of different types, such as optical, thermal, or multispectral, and are essential for capturing images and data in real-time. Sensors, on the other hand, can measure environmental variables such as temperature, humidity, or air quality, and are crucial for applications in research and monitoring. Additionally, navigation systems, which may include GPS and other positioning devices, allow the drone to move accurately and autonomously. The integration of these onboard systems is fundamental to maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of drone operations, as they enable the collection of valuable data and the execution of complex tasks without direct human intervention. In summary, onboard systems are the technological heart of drones, allowing these machines to perform a wide variety of functions across various fields, from aerial photography to precision agriculture.
History: Onboard systems in drones have evolved significantly since their inception in the 1910s, when the first unmanned aerial vehicles were used for military purposes. However, it was in the 1990s that drone technology began to develop rapidly, driven by advances in electronics, miniaturization of components, and satellite navigation systems. From 2000 onwards, the use of drones expanded to commercial and recreational applications, leading to the integration of more sophisticated onboard systems, such as high-definition cameras and advanced sensors.
Uses: Onboard systems in drones have a wide range of applications, including aerial photography, surveillance, precision agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and environmental data collection. In agriculture, for example, drones equipped with multispectral sensors can monitor crop health and optimize resource use. In infrastructure inspection, drones can access hard-to-reach areas, providing detailed images and real-time data.
Examples: A practical example of onboard systems in drones is their use in precision agriculture, where multispectral cameras are used to assess crop health and detect irrigation issues. Another example is the use of drones in power line inspection, where thermal cameras are employed to identify hot spots that could indicate electrical failures.
