With the release of the new CONDOR V8-PPK mapping drone, Munich (Germany) based Videographics Ingenieurgesellschaft mbH has built the tool for precise photogrammetric aerial mapping and surveying projects.

Introducing the CONDOR V8-PPK mapping drone, developed by Videographics mbH, CONDOR Multicopter & Drones GmbH and CADmium GmbH. Created as a centerpiece for the company’s UAV toolbox, the CONDOR V8-PPK is built for the most precise photogrammetric aerial mapping and surveying projects. Based on the CONDOR BOS-DRONE-V8, with KlauPPK’s industry-leading GNSS hardware and premium Sony cameras, this is the best of breed for high precision and efficiency in aerial mapping and surveying.

“We successfully generated an impressive knowledge base in the field of most precise GNSS-PPK direct georeferencing, and have a solid understanding of all aspects required for acheiving highly accurate results and efficient workflows.” says Stefan Warislohner, CEO of Videographics. “Besides KlauPPK modules and software, we have been able to provide our customers with workshops, training and all hardware and software components necessary. However a suitable aircraft (UAV) was missing. Fortunately, our cooperation with CONDOR Multicopter & Drones, now closes this gap with a great aerial system.”

This coaxial octocopter is designed on a lightweight, high-strength carbon fibre monocoque chassis and equipped with a Pixhawk PX4 flight controller. With only 5.2 kg take-off weight, (including a Sony Rx1RII and KlauPPK) the drone has an impressive flight time of over 30 minutes (standard Smart Battery Pack) which can even be extended to over 40 minutes with the XL-Smart Battery Pack with an intelligent dual Li-Ion power source. 

The KlauPPK system is installed inside the water and dust protected housing of the aircraft, powered directly from the drone, with easy access for any necessary action like measuring check shots on the ground. It is designed to record all GNSS and IMU information on just one memory device, in order to ensure a most efficient and smooth post processing workflow.

Users have the additional option of Klau Geomatics’ PPP System:
The near real time version (NRT) is compatible with MakeItAccurate no-base-station PPP post processing which automatically accesses correction data just a few minutes after the flight, enabling high accuracy anywhere, worldwide.
The advanced real time system (RT) receives correction data from satellites, powered by NovAtel Terrastar Pro-C correction service. Precise positions are computed in real time for highly accurate navigation of the UAV.

With over 2 km range, the Herelink RC technology ensures a safe and stable radio transmission for both the UAV control and live view (payload camera and integrated FPV camera). This powerful remote system includes an integrated display, offers full and simple control of the aircraft and payload and is extremely versatile, enabling the integration of powerful mission applications such as UgCS.

Available payloads for photogrammetry are either SONY’s RX1RII (42MP, 35mm) or SONY’s Alpha 6000 (24MP, 16mm, 20mm), and others such as PhaseOne. IR-thermal cameras and multi spectral cameras will follow. The camera/lens combinations (RGB type only) will be supplied pre-calibrated with calibration data to be entered directly into Agisoft or PIX4D. The payloads are controlled by a 2-axis encoded gimbal which includes all necessary connections – including direct power supply for the relevant camera, suited for extended missions.

Any data – imagery as well as flight logs or PPK data – will only be stored locally: The data is only yours.

For more information, visit Videographics HERE.