Intel shares updates on Insight Platform, drone solutions at Xponential 2018

Intel’s Anil Naduri discussed some of the company’s updates at Xponential 2018. Photos by Allison Barwacz

Intel shared a number of updates at a presentation during AUVSI’s Xponential 2018, which took place April 30-May 3 in Denver. Among the company’s latest developments are its Insight Platform, Mission Control and Falcon 8+.

Intel Insight Platform

Intel’s Insight Platform is a digital asset management system that enables aerial data management and analysis. It allows customers to store, share and manage data that commercial drone systems collect. According to the company, the platform is designed to reduce costs, improve efficiency and fuel growth.

The Intel Insight platform takes the aerial data and can generate 2D and 3D models, take measurements and run data analytics.

“The asset-based approach allows you to tag repeated flights over the same location, and that provides a great foundation for you,” said Anil Nanduri, vice president and general manager of the Intel drone team.

Intel Mission Control

Intel’s Mission Control is the company’s next-generation flight planning software for its Falcon 8+ drone. According to the company, it is designed to increase workflow efficiency and enhance automation of drone flights for commercial missions.

Mission Control allows Falcon 8+ drone operators to create 2D and 3D flight plans for commercial surveying, mapping and inspection missions.

Intel Mission Control software is currently in beta testing with customers, Intel said.

Falcon 8+ drone

Intel revealed three new payloads for its Falcon 8+ at Xponential. Photo by Ryan Gerard

During the presentation, Intel revealed three new payloads, as well as distance hold and distance guard features, for its Falcon 8+ drone.

The three new payloads are designed for inspection, surveying and mapping applications. According to Intel, the Falcon 8+ also now boasts distance hold and distance guard features on the Intel Imaging and Duel Imaging payloads. The distance hold feature allows the drone to maintain and hold a set distance from certain obstacles during inspections, and distance guard is another obstacle avoidance feature.

The company also shared how the drone has assisted with natural disasters and safety inspections. The Falcon 8+ played a role in disaster relief for the Sonoma County fires, as well as data recovery following Hurricane Harvey in Houston.

The drone also assisted with a gas terminal inspection in Scotland, as well as with Arctic wildlife research.

“Drones are going to be the most transformative business technology in the coming generation,” Nanduri said.