DESIGN NAME: Ezio
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Police Drone
INSPIRATION: Policing is a high-risk job, with officers facing a danger that is four times higher than the average profession. As police air fleets turn to drones to replace expensive helicopters, traditional quadcopters fall short, providing a mere 30 minutes of flight time and zero load capacity, severely limiting their usefulness. To improve the efficiency of law enforcement officers and reduce safety risks, there is a need for a new solution. That's why I am developing a vertical take-off and landing drone specifically designed for police work. With its enhanced capabilities, this drone will be able to assist officers in solving crimes and provide vital support during critical situations.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Ezio, the new and advanced police drone designed to help officers perform their duties more effectively and safely. This cutting-edge drone combines a bionic design with a vertical take-off and landing airframe, inspired by the eagle's fierce beak and streamlined body, resulting in superior endurance and load capacity compared to traditional quadcopters. With its extended flight time, quick response, and wide range of capabilities, Ezio is a valuable asset in various law enforcement activities, such as first response, first aid, aerial policing, and air tracking. Equipped with the latest technology, the Ezio drone is set to revolutionize the way officers operate in the field and deliver enhanced results.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: Ezio's advanced technology includes Bvlos (Beyond Line of Sight) operation, allowing for remote piloting without the need for visual contact. This technology ensures that the operator can safely control the drone from a distance, eliminating the need for officers to remain in potentially dangerous areas to operate the device. By incorporating this feature, the Ezio drone enhances both the safety and effectiveness of police operations, enabling officers to carry out their duties more efficiently and with greater precision.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project started in September 2021 in Savannah, USA, and finished in May 2021 in Savannah. The Savannah College of Art and Design awarded this project with a Grade A for its excellence as a graduation design.
|
PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Crafted with high-density Epo Foam and carbon fiber reinforcement, the Ezio drone is optimized for minimal air drag and weight. To ensure the best results, we recommend the one-piece airframe of the drone to be produced using 3D printing technology. With its unique combination of cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques, the Ezio is designed to deliver superior performance in the field.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: The dimensions of the Ezio police drone are optimized for maximum performance in a compact package, with a length of 1.55 meters, a height of 0.8 meters, and a wingspan of 2.5 meters. The drone is designed to handle a maximum take-off weight of 55 kilograms, ensuring that it can carry a range of equipment needed for police operations. With its sleek and streamlined design, the Ezio drone is built for speed, agility, and versatility, making it a top-performing tool for law enforcement.
TAGS: Ezio, Police drones, Vtol UAVS, Police air tool, Biomimicry
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: This project utilized mixed research and participatory design to develop a new generation of police drones for the purpose of facilitating the work of law enforcement officers and ensuring their safety. The research methodology comprised five distinct procedures: secondary research, literature review, case study, primary research (survey, expert interview, and video ethnography), and affinity diagram. The study participants included officers Nolan Connell and Blake Miller, who not only provided critical insights but also participated in user testing. Miller, in particular, is the commander of the aerial fleet in the Wylie Police Department.
CHALLENGE: Designing Ezio, a police drone, posed several challenges, especially in terms of research and airframe design. To ensure compliance with FAA regulations, I had to interview pilots with FAA approval and obtain permission to interview police officers. Fortunately, the commander of the Wylie city air fleet was available for an interview. When creating the airframe, I took both aesthetics and aerodynamics into consideration and sought the expertise of DJI's drone designers and engineers to evaluate and advise on my design.
ADDED DATE: 2022-05-29 00:51:28
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Chengjun Li, 2022.
|