Intel kicked off Interdrone 2017 with CEO Brian Krzanich unveiling new products to address critical steps of the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) workflow. They’re designed to accelerate the path to generating actionable business insights while also extending the value Intel adds to the commercial drone industry. 

The first announced product was a new drone data analytics solution developed in partnership with DELAIR called Intel Insight Platform. This platform can generate 2D and 3D models, take measurements, and make annotations for sharing across teams, as well as running advanced data analytics, such as change detection and plant counting. Intel believes the cloud-based platform will help different commercial applications, such as inspections and surveying in construction, mining, precision agriculture, oil and gas. It will initially be available to select enterprise accounts.

“With Intel Insight Platform, we look forward to working with customers to manage large complex data sets and help provide them with automated analytics and uncover new insights,” said Anil Nanduri, vice president of Intel’s New Technology Group and general manager of Intel’s UAV segment.

Krzanich also explained how new technologies help enhance automated drones, like obstacle avoidance and pilot assistance function powered by Intel RealSense technology, flight planning automation with Intel Mission Control software, and automatic change detection with Intel Insight Platform.  

In a demonstration of an inspection mission with the Intel Falcon 8+ system, Krzanich explained how RealSense can help a pilot during complicated jobs by creating a “buffer zone” that keeps a constant distance between the drone and the object being inspected. This results in accurate data with consistent resolution and perspective of the photos.

During the same demonstration, Krzanich showed how Intel Mission Control software allowed a drone to fly the fully-automated mission, assisted by Intel indoor location technology for positioning, with a single press of a button. The captured data was then transferred to Intel Insight Platform where Krzanich showcased the software’s change detection feature after generating a 2D model. What the change detection algorithm does is check the 2D model for changes and then cycle them through in order, catching small anomalies. This allows inspectors to focus on just the areas reported where any change has occurred, saving time and effort.

Finally, Intel also announced a new program to support California-based Menlo Park Fire Protection District with its research and utilization of drone platform. They're working with the department to help them evaluate how UAVs can enhance and improve emergency response and critical responder situational awareness.

As we’ve previously detailed, Intel continues to show how important and productive drones are by investing in new and better technologies and solutions. These new products will undoubtedly help users understand how this technology can impact their business.