SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE
While not faster than a speeding bullet or more powerful than a locomotive, a new member of the Yellowknife RCMP detachment has the potential to help police officers with traffic investigations and search and rescue operations.
Chris John, a radio manager with the RCMP, controls the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during a demonstration flight on April 3. - Danielle Sachs/NNSL photo
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Yellowknife RCMP purchased the $25,000 remote-controlled helicopter in 2012. The Draganflyer X4-P can fly up to 120 metres in the air where it can take aerial pictures and video of the surrounding area. It's equipped with a mount that can fit any commercial camera, allowing police to use thermal or night vision cameras if there is a need, said Const. Todd Scaplen.
"It's not like buying a radio-controlled helicopter from the store for a couple hundred bucks," he said.
Chris John, a radio manager with the RCMP, is one of two trained operators for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
"In my opinion it's a direct replacement for helicopters. The benefits are the rapid deployment and cost savings," said John.
The UAV can fly directly above the scene, hovering in place only a metre or two above the ground. The attached camera sends low definition video that can be viewed immediately and takes high definition photos.
The biggest factors in using is the wind, that and the dexterity of the pilot`s fingers, said John. Weighing only 1.8 kg, the UAV can be difficult to control in strong winds. To keep the signal between the remote and the UAV, the operator has to be outside.
"I can't sit in a car and control it from there so outside in -30 C it can be tricky with heavy gloves on."
Scaplen said the UAV has been used in -30 C temperatures and it's been factory tested to -39 C. It's powered by lithium batteries, which allow for 10 to 20 minutes of flight time.
John said it's hard to estimate the lifespan of the machine because it depends on whether it crashes and wear-and-tear on the unit.
"After 10 years we'd probably need a replacement," said John.
"By then, the technology will probably be completely different," he said.
