Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Natural Resource Technology Program is a leader in the development of_x000D_ Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology for resource management applications. Saskatchewan_x000D_ Polytechnic acquired a mobile UAV-mounted LiDAR system in 2015. A manually piloted UAV was_x000D_ purchased, but it requires advanced training to operate and its use is compromised by flight-time restrictions_x000D_ owing to battery capacity and payload. Saskatchewan Polytechnic is working toward obtaining the DJI Matrice_x000D_ 600 Pro, a semi-autonomous UAV. The DJI Matrice 600 Pro will make LiDAR more accessible to_x000D_ Saskatchewan Polytechnic researchers and has the ability to conduct systematic and repeatable ground surveys;_x000D_ a key component of scientifically defensible research. It will also be an upgrade in terms of safety and_x000D_ reliability since it is equipped with a triple redundancy flight controller and three separate global navigation_x000D_ satellite antennae for geo-positioning. The DJI Matrice batteries also comply with airline dangerous goods_x000D_ restrictions, thus allowing research opportunities in distant locations, and the battery management system_x000D_ ensures a safe landing if one element of the battery array should fail. An upgraded LiDAR platform would_x000D_ contribute to future industry-driven research and the applied learning of our students. New opportunities for_x000D_ mobile LiDAR surveys are emerging in crime scene investigations, agriculture, engineering, and transportation_x000D_ and Saskatchewan Polytechnic is committed to maintaining its ability to support that expansion.