Transforming Construction: Skycatch and DJI Team Up for High-Precision Custom Drones
Innovative Drones to Enhance Komatsu’s Smart Construction Services
In a groundbreaking partnership, Skycatch, a leader in commercial drone data solutions, and DJI, the foremost manufacturer of civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, have come together to deliver a new fleet of high-precision custom drones specifically designed for Komatsu’s Smart Construction initiatives. This collaboration stands out as it marks the first time DJI has engaged in creating bespoke drones for a partner.
The Skycatch Explore1 drone is engineered to autonomously survey job sites, producing precise 3D maps and models that will be instrumental in Komatsu’s projects. This innovative drone technology promises to enhance operational efficiency by providing data critical to the optimization of robotic earth-moving equipment during construction activities. Utilizing the data collected, Komatsu aims to ensure that its equipment can accurately dig, bulldoze, and grade according to digital construction plans, streamlining the construction process.
Revolutionizing Site Surveys
According to Chikashi Shike, Executive Officer of the Smart Construction Division at Komatsu, the introduction of the Explore1 drone revolutionizes how site surveys are conducted. “Conducting a site survey with traditional methods could take hours,” Shike noted, adding, “With the implementation of Explore1, users can now perform surveying swiftly and effortlessly, making it feasible to conduct drone surveying daily.” The automation of takeoff, landing, and flight route setup eliminates the need for Ground Control Points (GCPs), allowing for the immediate generation of 3D data to provide a comprehensive visual overview of construction sites.
Advanced Technology and Robust Integration
The Explore1 drone is built on DJI’s adaptable Matrice 100 enterprise drone platform and is part of Skycatch’s High Precision Package. This suite includes the Edge1 RTK base station, a powerful ruggedized computer capable of processing drone images locally into accurate 3D models, regardless of location or wireless connectivity. Together, these advancements empower construction firms to produce precise maps and point clouds, identify costly mistakes, and anticipate project delays, potentially saving them tens of thousands of dollars weekly.
Strategic Advantages Through Collaboration
“Being the first company to integrate into DJI’s manufacturing process will deliver incredible value to our customers worldwide,” stated Christian Sanz, CEO of Skycatch. This partnership marries DJI’s prowess in hardware manufacturing and aerial technology with Skycatch’s expertise in data processing and client relations, resulting in a powerful solution tailored for enterprises across the globe.
Jan Gasparic, DJI’s Head of Enterprise Partnerships, expressed excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing that the Explore1 embodies DJI’s commitment to providing unmatched drone platforms that cater to diverse industry needs. “Our partnership with Skycatch has resulted in a best-in-class software and hardware solution for aerial surveying,” Gasparic remarked, indicating that this merger has the potential to elevate customer experiences and redefine industry standards.
See the Innovation in Action
For those interested in learning more about Skycatch’s High Precision Package, the Explore1 drone and its companion technologies will be showcased at Japan Drone 2018, taking place at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. Attendees can visit the DJI booth located at C 23 for a closer look.
For more information and media resources, including photos and product sheets, you can download the Press Kit.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Farah Wahab, Product Marketing Manager – farah@skycatch.com
Michael Oldenburg, Senior Communication Manager – pr.us@dji.com
