Are you looking to significantly improve the accuracy of your aerial imaging operations?
How about the overall quality of your flight?
If so, you’ve probably heard of Autel’s EVO II RTK series. If not, you’re in luck. We break it down for you in this article.
Let’s get right into it!
The RTK Module & Autel EVO II RTK Series
In August, 2021, Autel Robotics unveiled two major UAS: the Dragonfish VTOL and the EVO II RTK series.
The RTK series released two models:
Each differs slightly in imaging capabilities, but both integrate an RTK module add-on.
More on that soon.
EVO II vs. EVO II RTK
At first glance, the RTK drones seemed to be nearly identical to Autel’s already popular EVO II series UAVs.
Let’s start with what the two share:
- An impressive flight time of about 40-minutes for maximum productivity.
- A 720° omnidirectional collision avoidance for more straightforward aircraft navigation.
- A 5.59-mile transmission range for your videos.
- An advanced AI system for object tracking.
- Portability and foldability for more effortless movement and handling.
- High-resolution sensors that greatly enhance the quality of your thermal images.
- A wide range of color modes.
All that said, the Autel RTK module just might be the much-needed “cherry on top” for your use-cases.
In fact, it plays a vital role in boosting the accuracy of your operations by providing up-to-the-centimeter drone location tracking.
Advexure’s solution specialist and drone training expert Doug Wiedman, (AKA “the Quadfather”), breaks down why that’s so important.
“I use Autel’s RTK module mostly for photogrammetry,” Wiedman said.
“It’s a crucial component to doing comparisons over time. Let’s say you’re mapping the same strawberry field over and over again…you need those maps to line up almost perfectly because the plants should be in the same location for every mapping session. With [Autel RTK], I’m confident that the drone is consistently providing accurate data.”
How The Autel EVO II RTK Module Works
The Autel EVO II RTK module bolts right onto your EVO II RTK series drone.
When in place, it unlocks centimeter-level positioning accuracy.
RTK is an advanced GPS-correction technology that stands for real-time kinematic. It corrects location data in images during a UAV’s flight. And, it doesn’t require any post processing of the data location, or metadata.
While the majority of RTK works with GNSS signals to a base station, Autel’s RTK module uses Networked Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol (NTRIP), which basically provides RTK over a cellular line to a correction station.
Essentially, it’s receiving base station corrections across the internet via a local network. That network continuously observes the satellites and calculates position corrections, which are then sent via mobile network to the RTK module.
That means the drone’s position is constantly updated, and accurate down to the centimeter.
“As long as the cell coverage is fast and the corrections station is close, the Autel RTK module adds a lot more accuracy to the location of the drone’s photo,” Wiedman added.
“When I use it, the flight is more stable and I know that, say, my altitude is truly my altitude. And, when I use a third-party software like Pix4D, it helps me process and assemble the image…I know the location of the drone is more accurate because I’m using RTK.”
So, is it right for you? The next category will help you figure this out.
Industrial Applications
The Autel EVO II RTK module is responsible for providing precision, one of the most sought-after UAV features.
High-level accuracy is imperative for professionals in different occupational fields such as:
Surveying - if you are a photogrammetric surveyor, the RTK module integrating-Autel EVO II RTK series would be the best fit. Mapping accuracy is imperative, making accuracy levels a non-negotiable UAV feature.
Power line inspections- if you are an electrical engineer or technician, using the RTK module integrating-Autel EVO II RTK series would be the best way to achieve a win-win situation. Its use simultaneously enhances your safety and that of your team while working in such areas of high magnetic or compass interference.
Other professionals that may benefit include first responders in law enforcement and firefighting due to its high-resolution thermal imaging.
No matter your industry, though, you’ll want to work with other professionals to ensure the most accurate data possible.
“One thing I’ll add is that it’s highly recommended that you have ground control,” Wiedman said.
“Best practice is to work with a licensed engineer and/or surveyor to ensure that the data is accurate. They’ll set that ground control for you.”
Next Steps
If you’re still unsure whether this option will bring the desired accuracy levels to your aerial imaging operations, we’re here to help! Our value system strongly embraces and prioritizes your overall comfort and satisfaction with the drone technology you choose.
Our team of dedicated UAS experts at Advexure will ensure the provision of all the assistance you may need. Our committed agents work round the clock and are always on standby, ready to serve you.
If this article has triggered your UAV nerdiness (we know the feeling!), here is a more detailed piece to give you more insights on the Autel Evo II series as a whole: Ultimate Guide to Autel EVO II Models & Options.
Touch base with us to start an exciting journey toward improving accuracy during your aerial operations, by either opening the chat box or completing this form.
