Key Takeaways
- DJI has partnered with FLIR Systems to enhance aerial technology with thermal imaging capabilities.
- The integration of FLIR’s thermal imaging technology is aimed at expanding the potential applications of drones in various fields such as firefighting, agriculture, and inspections.
- The inaugural product from this collaboration, the Zenmuse XT thermal camera, is set to launch in early 2016 and will be compatible with DJI’s Inspire 1 and Matrice M100 platforms.
DJI and FLIR Join Forces to Revolutionize Aerial Technology
San Francisco, California – December 10, 2015 – In an exciting development for the drone industry, DJI, a leading name in unmanned aerial vehicle technology, has announced a strategic partnership with FLIR Systems, a pioneer in thermal imaging technology. This collaboration aims to fuse their strengths, paving the way for innovative aerial applications featuring advanced thermal imaging capabilities.
The synergy between DJI’s expertise in aerial platforms and FLIR’s cutting-edge thermal imaging technology is set to unlock new possibilities for drone usage in a variety of sectors. Firefighting, agriculture, and inspection services are just a few examples where this technology could yield transformative results. By integrating different sensory data into aerial systems, the partnership looks to enhance functionality and improve overall effectiveness in these critical areas.
DJI Founder and CEO Frank Wang expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, stating, “Almost every week we see new applications of our aerial technology. Adding thermal imaging as an additional sensor option for aerial platforms will open up new and innovative uses for our users, whether it’s gaining strategic insight into how their crops are growing or understanding the spread of fires more efficiently.”
Introducing the Zenmuse XT
The first product emerging from the DJI and FLIR partnership is the Zenmuse XT, anticipated to be the most powerful aerial thermal-imaging camera upon its release in the first quarter of 2016. Designed to integrate seamlessly with DJI’s renowned gimbal stabilization and Lightbridge video-transmission technology, the Zenmuse XT is set to elevate aerial photography and data collection to new heights.
The camera will utilize FLIR’s top-tier thermal imaging capabilities, boasting a resolution of 640×512, positioning it as a formidable tool for various applications. Notably, it will be fully compatible with DJI’s existing aerial platforms, such as the Inspire 1 and Matrice M100, offering a smooth transition for users already familiar with DJI equipment.
A Positive Step for Commercial Drone Applications
Andy Teich, President and CEO of FLIR, highlighted the potential of this partnership, indicating that it will accelerate their collective growth in the commercial drone market. “By creating a strategic collaboration that combines DJI’s world-leading drone technology and FLIR’s heritage in thermal imagers, we’re accelerating our growth potential in the commercial drone market,” he stated. “It’s truly a better together opportunity, and we’re excited to help celebrate the launch of the Zenmuse XT today, the first of many products to come under the collaboration.”
The Zenmuse XT represents a significant leap forward in the ways drones can be utilized, providing not just beautiful aerial footage but also crucial thermal insights that can be applied in real-time scenarios. Whether for enhancing the efficiency of agricultural practices or aiding first responders in crisis situations, this technology promises to be a game-changer.
For those interested in the innovative capabilities of the Zenmuse XT, further details can be found here.
With this groundbreaking partnership, DJI and FLIR are setting new standards for aerial technology, offering compelling solutions that address real-world challenges across various industries. As their collaboration unfolds, users can look forward to a new era of drone applications driven by thermal imaging advancements.
