CyPhy Works is looking to take the intuitive approach of UAVs like the DJI Phantom 3 and the 3D Robotics Solo and kick it up a notch with the crowdfund hopeful, the CyPhy LVL 1. The goal of CyPhy’s Kickstarter campaign is to create a drone that anyone can fly with little chance of crashing.
“This is really the first drone for everybody,” says CyPhy Works CEO Helen Greiner, who ought to know a thing or two about robotics. She was the co-designer of the Roomba, iRobot’s popular self-managing vacuum cleaner.
Using what they call “Level Up” technology, the LVL 1 drone won’t tilt. The idea is that it can be completely stable, right out of the gates, allowing users to focus on aiming and shooting with the integrated 8MP HD camera with 90-degree tilt. Advanced users will be pleased to know that the feature can be disabled to allow for loops and other ambitious moves. The idea behind removing tilt, however, makes some sense. Controls could be simplified, the need for a complex gimbal system was eliminated, and the device could be lighter and more nimble as a result.
Other cool features of the 1.75lb UAV include user-defined geo-fencing, 20+ minutes of flight time, follow and waypoint navigation and smartphone control.
For more information about the CyPhy LVL 1 check out their Kickstarter page.
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