Buying a drone and taking to the skies can be an expensive, considered process. First you have a bunch of different manufacturers to choose from, along with plenty of possible accessories. Once that’s sorted you need to be sure that registration is taken care of, and that you aren’t flying somewhere you shouldn’t. Then you’ve got to somehow practice without flying your expensive new drone straight into the ground.
This can all be a lot of hassle, but in the end it’s usually worth it. However, quite a few new pilots are involved in accidents, which can sometimes lead to expensive damage or worse, a drone so broken it will never fly again.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ME8AP4E3v80
To an extent crashes are inevitable, and don’t only happen to new pilots. That’s the problem that ParaZero is trying to solve. The company has developed a range of emergency parachutes for drones which that are effective at very low altitudes and deploy in under a second. The system works without any intervention from the pilot, and will deploy in the case of battery failure or low power.
The SafeAir products have been designed primarily for hobbyists keen to keep their drones safe, and the first parachute to hit the market will be for the 3DR Solo. The company has worked with DJI in the past, too, and eventually hopes to expand its products into the premium and professional markets. Think of it as a kind of sky airbag.
Speaking with TechCrunch, Eden Attias, CEO of ParaZero, said, “It’s clear that drones are set to play a major role in our future, whether they are used as aerial cameras, rapid delivery systems, or for private enjoyment. In light of this, ensuring that these devices are operated safely and protecting individuals and property on the ground is paramount,” said Attias. “Our system provides a reliable solution for the industry, just like an airbag, that acts automatically, whether there is a critical malfunction or a loss of power. Most importantly, our system works rapidly and at very low altitudes ensuring maximum effectiveness.”
A few months ago ParaZero began fundraising in an effort to scale up its operations. The team will be exhibiting its parachute technology at XPONENTIAL, along with a global community of leaders in intelligent robotics, drones and unmanned systems powered by AUVSI, between May 2-5, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, New Orleans, LA.
Malek Murison is a freelance writer and editor with a passion for tech trends and innovation. He handles product reviews, major releases and keeps an eye on the enthusiast market for DroneLife.
Email Malek
Twitter:@malekmurison
Subscribe to DroneLife here.
[…] lower insurance premiums. If you’re interested in witnessing SafeAir up close and personal, DroneLife reports it will be showcased at XPONENTIAL, a convention showcasing the latest in robotics, drones, […]