# HuRT,DEcKARD&MAYPLLC WilliamC. Hurt,Jr. WilliamH. May, III 

### * MichaelD. Kalinyak www.hdmfirm.com THEEQUUSBUILDING 127WESTMAIN STREET LEXINGTON,KENTUCKY 40507

**Telephone~** (859)

**254~0000**

**Facsimile~** (859)

**254~4763** 

### May4, 2015 U.S. Department ofTransportation, Docket Operations West Building Ground Floor, RoomW12-140 1200NewJerseyAve., SE Washington, DC 20590 MatthewR. Malone AaronD. Reedy **James L Deckard Jacob K. Michul *AlsolicensedinIndiana **Alsolicensedin Tennessee

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### Re: Exemption Request Under Section 333 oftheFAA Reform Act and Part 11 'ofthe Federal Aviation Regulations Dear SirorMadam: Pursuant to Section 333 ofthe FAA Modernization and Reform Act of2012 (the "Reform Act") and 14 C.P.R. Part 11, Evolmagery, LLC ("Evolmagery") hereby applies for an exemption from the Federal Aviation Regulations ("PARs") listed below and discussed in Appendix A to allow commercial operational of its sUASs for the purposes of aerial photography, filming, photogrammetry, surveying, agricultural modeling, crop monitoring, aerial mapping and environmental studies. Attached as Appendix B is a summary ofthis request. This exemption seeks to cover use ofthe following airframes, all ofwhich will weigh less than 12 pounds includingpayload and energy sources: i. 3D Robotics X8 ii. 3D Robotics Aero iii. 3D Robotics Y6 iv. Othermodels to be addedbyfuture amendment to this exemption. The objective ofEvolmagery's aerial photogrammetry and surveying operations is to provide high quality 3D imaging, mapping and spatial analysis for a variety of commercial, public, and residential uses, specificallytargeting:
• Volumetric analysis ofmining stockpiles • TopographicMapping • Precision agriculture services • Constructionplanning & 

### inspection
Hurt, Deckard & May, PLLCHURT,DECKARD

### & MAYPLLC



### • Environmental analysis and consulting (e.g. erosion monitoring, aerial habitat assessments, streamrestoration) • Archaeological/cultural resource services Evolmagery's Mission Statement and Description ofServices is attached as Appendix C. With the landowner's permission, Evolmagery uses onboard cameras to capture high quality digital images that are mosaicked into detailed, digital customized maps of a surveyed area. Use of the sUAS's for aerial surveys reduces the need to operate conventional aircraft for the same purpose and provides very high quality imagery and spatial analysis at a fraction ofthe cost. These savings result in enhanced efficiency and productivityfor the affected activities, as well as environmentalbenefits. Operations under the exemption will be subject to strict operating requirements and conditions to ensure at least an equivalent level of safety to currently authorized operations using manned aircraft and under conditions as maybe modified by the FAA as required by Section 333. All operations shall be conducted in compliance with the attached operator's manuals and Flight Operations & 

### Procedures Manual (Appendix D). Equipment Specs and Owner's Manuals are collectively attached as Appendix E. As described herein, the requested exemption would authorize commercial operations ofthe sUAS's which are small in size (less than 12 lbs). The sUASs will be operated under controlled conditions at low altitude in airspace that is limited in scope, as described more fully herein; they will have automated control features, as described below. The sUAS's also will be operatedbyan individual who is a FAA licensed airman with at least a private pilot's certificate and third class medical. Finally, the airspace in whichthe sUAS will operate will be disclosed to the FAAin advance. Evolmagery respectfully submits that because the small, unmanned aerial vehicles will be used in lieu ofcomparativelyhazardous operations now conducted with fixed wing and rotary conventional aircraft, the FAA can have confidence that the operations will achieve at least an equivalent level or greater level ofsafety. Approval of this exemption would thereby enhance safety and fulfill the Secretary ofTransportation's (the FAA Administrator's) responsibilities under Section 333(c) ofthe Reform Act to "establish requirements for the safe operation of such aircraft systems in the national airspace system." Thename and address ofthe applicant are: Evolmagery, LLC Attn: JesseR. Robinson P.O. Box 54954 Lexington, KY 40555 Phone: (859) 263-4142 Email:jesse@evoimagery.comHURT,DECKARD

### & MAYPLLC



### Theregulations from which the exemptionis requested are as follows: 14 C.P.R. Part 21; 14 C.P.R. 45.23(b); 14 C.P.R. 61.113(a) & 

### (b); 14 C.P.R. 91.7(a); 14 C.P.R. 91.9(b)(2); 14 C.P.R. 91.103; 14 C.P.R. 91.109(a); 14 C.P.R. 91.119; 14 CFR 91.121 14 C.P.R. 91.151(a) & 

### (b) 14 C.P.R. 91.203(a) & 

### (b); 14 C.P.R. 91.405(a); 14 C.P.R. 91.407(a)(l); 14 C.P.R. 91.409(a)(l) & 

### (2) 14 C.P.R. 91.417(a) & 

### (b) Appendix A discusses each rule listed above and explains why exemptions pursuant to the proposal set forth inthis letter are appropriate, provide an equivalent level ofsafety, and are in thepublic interest. THE APPLICABLELEGAL STANDARD UNDERSECTION333 Evoimagery submits that grant ofthis exemption application for use ofits sUAS's in aerial photogrammetry and surveying will advance the Congressional mandate in Section 333 ofthe Reform Act to accelerate the introduction ofUASs into the national airspace system ("NAS") ifit canbe accomplished safely. This law directs the Secretary of Transportation to consider whether certain UASs may operate safely in the NAS before completion ofthe rulemaking required under Section 332 ofthe Reform Act. In making this determination, the Secretary is required to determine which types ofUASs do not create a hazard to users ofthe NAS or the public or pose a threat to national securityin light ofthe following:

**~** 

### TheUAS's size, weight, speed, and operational capability;

**~** 

### Operation ofthe UAS in closeproximityto airports andpopulated areas;

**~** 

### Operation oftheUAS withinvisual line ofsight oftheoperator. Reform Act § 333(a)(1). If the Secretary determines that such vehicles "may operate safely in the national airspace system, the Secretary shall establish requirements for the safe operation ofsuch aircraft inthe national airspace system."

### I d. § 3 3 3(c). The Federal Aviation Act expressly grants the FAA the authority to issue exemptions. This statutory authority, by its terms, includes exempting civil aircraft, as the term isHURT,DECKARD

### &MAYPLLC


### defined under §40101 of the Act, that includes sUAS's, from the requirement that all civil aircraft must have a current airworthiness certificate and those regulations requiring commercial pilotsto operate aircraft in commercial service: The Administrator may grant an exemption from a requirement of a regulation prescribed under subsection (a) or (b) ofthis section or any of sections 44702-44716 ofthis title ifthe Administrator finds the exemption is inthepublicinterest. The grant ofthe requested exemptionis inthe public interestbased onthe clear direction in Section 333 ofthe Reform Act; the additional authorityinthe Federal Aviation Act, as amended; the strong equivalent level ofsafety surrounding the proposed operations; and the significantpublicbenefit, including enhanced safety and cost savings associated with transitioning to UASs for aerial photogrammetry and surveying. Accordingly, the applicant respectfully requests that the FAA grant the requested exemption without delay. Mandatory Operating Conditions 

### Grant of the exemption to Evolmagery will be subject to the following mandatory conditions, which are based upon operating conditions set forth for operation ofUAS by public entitiespursuantto Certificates ofAuthorization, with additional restrictions:

**~** 

### The UASs will weigh less than 12lbs.

**~** 

### Flights will beoperated within line ofsight ofapilot and/or observer.

**~** 

### Maximum total flight time for each operational flight will be 12 minutes for multirotor operations and 32 minutes for fixed wing operations. Flights will be terminated at 20% battery power reserve should that occur prior to the 12 minute limit for multirotor operations or the 32 minute limit for fixed wing operations.

**~** 

### Flights will be operated at an altitude ofno more than 400 feet AGL

**~** 

### Minimum crew for each operation will consist ofthe UAS Pilot and Visual Observer.

**~** 

### The UAS pilot will be a FAA licensed airman with at least a private pilot's certificate and third class medical.

**~** 

### The UAS will only operate within a confined "Sterile Area" as defined in the FOPM. The FOPM requires the establishment of a "Security Perimeter" for the flight operations area.

**~** 

### A briefing will be conducted for planned sUAS operations prior to each day's flight(s). All personnel performing duties within the boundaries ofthe safety perimeter arerequired to attend.

**~** 

### For flights over 200 feet AGL, the operator will file a FAA Form 7711-1, orHURT,DECKARD

### & MAYPLLC


### its equivalent, as modified in light of the requested exemption, with the appropriate Flight Standards District Office ("FSDO").

**~** 

### The operator will file a NOTAM to the FSDO at least 24 hours prior to each flight.

**~** 

### The operator will obtain consent of all persons involved in any photographing/filming and ensure that only consenting persons will be allowed within 100 feet ofthe flight operation. This radius maybe reduced to 30 feet based upon an equivalent level of safety determination, as required under the FOPM. With the advanced permission ofthe FSDO, operations at closerrange canbe approved.

**~** 

### The Pilot and observer must be trained in UAS operations and have received current information on the particular UAS to be operated as required by the FOPM.

**~** 

### The observer and pilotwill at all timesbeable to communicatebyvoice

**~** 

### Operations to be conducted overprivate orcontrolled-accessproperty

**~** 

### Permission from land owner/controllerrequiredbefore commencing anyflight

**~** 

### The aircraft will notbeoperated overurban orpopulated areas

**~** 

### The aircraft will notbeoperated overheavilytrafficked roads

**~** 

### The aircraft will not be operated within 5 NM of an airport without preauthorization from the airport and the filing ofanyrequired NOT AM.

**~** 

### Operations to occur during Visual Flight Rules Meteorological Conditions (VMC)

**~** 

### Operations to occur during daylighthours

**~** 

### All required permissions and permits will be obtained from territorial, state, county or city jurisdictions, including local law enforcement, fire, or other appropriate governmental agencies

**~** 

### Ifthe UAS loses communications or loses its GPS signal, the UAS will have the capability to return to a pre-determined location within the Security Perimeter and land.

**~** 

### The UAS will have the capability to abort a flight in case of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies. In summary, applicant seeks an exemption from the FARs set forth above and in Appendix A to allow commercial operations of a small unmanned vehicle conducting aerial photography, filming, photogrammetry, surveying, agricultural modeling, crop monitoring, aerial mapping and environmental studies. Approval ofthe exemption allowing commercial operations ofthe Evolmagery sUAS's for photogrammetry and precision surveying work will enhance safetybyreducing risk. Conventional aerial survey operations, usingjet or piston-powered aircraft present risksHURT,DECKARD

### & MAYPLLC 

### Page- 6- associated with vehicles that weigh in

### the neighborhood of5,000 to 7,000 lbs, carrylarge quantities offuel, passengers, and, in some cases, cargo. Such aircraft must fly to and from the surveylocation. In contrast, Evolmagery sUAS'sweigh less than 12lbs. and are powered by batteries that eliminate a significant portion ofthat risk given the reduced mass and lack ofcombustible fuel carried onboard. The Evolmagery sUAS's are carried to the project location, not flown there. The Evolmagery sUAS's will carry no passengers or crew and, therefore, will not expose any individuals to the risks associated withmanned aircraft flights. Additionally, no national security issue is raised by the grant of the requested exemptions. Given the size, load carrying capacity, speed at which it operates, and the fact that it carries no explosives or other dangerous materials, the Evolmagery sUASs poses no threat to national security. The operation of the Evolmagery sUAS's, weighing less than 12 lbs. for photogrammetry and precision surveying in accordance with the strict conditions outlined above, will provide an equivalent level of safety supporting the grant ofthe exemptions requested herein, including exempting Evolmagery from the requirements ofPart 21. The Evolmagery sUASs' satisfaction of the criteria set forth in Section 333 of the Reform Act-size, weight, speed, operating capabilities, lack ofproximity to airports and populated areas, operation within visual line ofsight, and national security-andits showing ofan equivalent level ofsafety as it may relate to the requirement for a pilot's license, provide more than adequate justification for the grant of the requested exemptions allowing commercial operation of the Evolmagery sUAS's in the commercial photogrammetry and surveyingbusiness. Evolmagery is prepared to modify or amend any part ofthis request to satisfy the need for an equivalent level ofsafety. We look forward to working with your office. Please contactus at anytime ifyourequire additional information or clarification.HURT,DECKARD

### & MAYPLLC



### APPENDICES TABLE OF CONTENTS Appendix A. Exemptionrequest and equivalent level ofsafety showingsunder applicablerules subjectto exemption Appendix B. SummaryofRequest Appendix C. EvolmageryMission Statement Appendix D. Flight Operations and Procedures Manual Appendix E. sUAS OperationManuals 1. 

### Technical Specification Summary 2. 3DRobotics X8 Manual 3. 3D Robotics X8 Checklist 4. 3D Robotics Aero Manual 

### 5. 3DRobotics Aero Checklist 6. 3D Robotics Y6 Manual 7. 3D Robotics SafetyManualAPPENDIXA EXEMPTIONREQUEST AND EQUivALENTLEVEL OF SAFETY SHOWINGS UNDER APPLICABI,E RULES SUBJECT TO EXEMPTION 

### Evolmagery requests an exemption from the following regulations as well as any additional regulations that maytechnically applyto the operation ofits sUAS's: 14 C.F.R. Part 21, SubpartH: Airworthiness Certificates 14 CFR § 91.203(a)(1) 

### Subpart H, entitled Airworthiness Certificates, establishes the procedural requirements for the issuance of airworthiness certificates as required by FAR §91.203 (a) (1). 

### Given the size and limited operating area associated with the aircraft to be utilized by the Applicant, an exemption from Part 21 Subpart H meets the requirements ofan equivalent level ofsafety under Part 11 

### and Section 333 ofthe Reform Act. The Federal Aviation Act (49 U.S.C.§44701 (f)) 

### and Section 333 of the Reform Act both authorize the FAA to exempt aircraft from the requirement for an airworthiness certificate, upon consideration ofthe size, weight, speed, operational capability, and proximity to airports and populated areas ofthe particular UAS. In all cases, an analysis ofthese criteria demonstrates that the UAS operated without an airworthiness certificate, in the restricted environment and under the conditions proposed will be at least as safe, or safer, than a conventional aircraft (fixed wing or rotorcraft) operating with an airworthiness certificate without the restrictions and conditions proposed. The UAS to be operated hereunder is less than 55 lbs. fully loaded, carries neither a pilot nor passenger, carries no explosivematerials or flammable liquid fuels, and operates exclusivelywithin a secured and designated area. Unlike other civil aircraft, operations under this exemption will be tightly controlled and monitored by both the operator and under the requirements and in compliance with local public safety requirements. The FAA will have advance notice of all operations. These safety enhancements provide a greater degree ofsafety to the public andproperty owners than conventional operations conducted with airworthiness certificates issued under 14 C.F.R. Part 21, Subpart H. Lastly, application ofthese same criteria demonstrates that there is no credible threat to national securityposedbythe UAS, dueto its size, speed ofoperation, locationof operation, lack ofexplosive materials or flammable liquid fuels, and inability to carry a substantial external load. 14 C.F.R. § 45.23(b): Marking ofthe Aircraft 

### Theregulationprovides: Whenmarks include onlythe Roman capital letter "N" and the registration number is displayed onlimited, restricted or light-sport category aircraft orexperimental or provisionally certificated aircraft, the operator must also display on that aircraft near each entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station, in letters not less than 2 inches nor more than 6 inches high, the words "limited," "restricted," "light-sport," "experimental," or "provisional," as applicable.
liPage

### The sUASs have no entrance to the cabin, cockpit, or pilot station on which the word "Experimental" can be placed. Given the size ofthe UAV, two-inch lettering will be impossible. The word "Experimental" will be placed onthe forward fuselage incompliance with§ 45.29(f). The equivalent level ofsafety will be achieved by having the sUASs marked on their fuselages as required by § 45.29(f) where the pilot, observer, and others working with the UAV will see the identification ofthe UAS as "Experimental." 14 C.F.R. § 61.113(a) & (b): Private PilotPrivileges and Limitations; Pilot in Command; Commercial PilotPrivileges and Limitations. 

### Pilot in Command Sections 61.113 (a) and (b) limit private pilots to non-commercial operations. Because the UAS will not carry a pilot or passengers, the proposed operations can achieve the equivalent level ofsafety ofcurrent operations byrequiring the PIC operating the aircraft to have a private pilot's license rather than a commercial pilot's license to operate a small UAS. Unlike a conventional manned aircraft, a UAS is remotely controlled by a ground-based operator. The operational area is controlled andrestricted, and all flights are planned and coordinated in advance. The level of safety exceeds that provided by a single individual holding a commercial pilot's certificate operating a conventional aircraft. The risks associated with the use of a UAS are so diminished from the level ofrisk associated with commercial operations contemplated by Part 61 allowing UAS use by a private pilot as the PIC exceeds the present level ofsafety sought by 14 C.F.R. §61.113 (a) and (b) 14 C.F.R. § 91.7(a): Civil aircraft airworthiness. 

### This regulation requires that no person may operate a civil aircraft unless it is in airworthy condition. As there will beno airworthiness certificate issued for the aircraft, shouldthis shouldthis exemption be granted, no FAA regulatory standard will exist for determining airworthiness. Given the size ofthe aircraft and the requirements contained in the FOPM for maintenance and use of safety checklistspriorto eachflight, an equivalent level ofsafety willbeprovided. 14 C.F.R. § 91.9(b)(2): Civil Aircraft Flight Manual inthe Aircraft. 

### Section 91.9 (b) (2) provides: No person may operate a U.S.-registered civil aircraft ... (2) For which an Airplane orRotorcraft FlightManual is notrequiredby §21.5 ofthis chapter, unless there is available in the aircraft a current approved airplane or Rotorcraft Flight Manual, approved manual material, markings, andplacards, or any combination thereof. The UAS, given its size and configurationhas no ability orplace to carry such a flight manual onthe aircraft, not only because there is no pilot on board, but because there is no room or capacity to carry such an item on the aircraft. The equivalent level of safety will be maintained by keeping the flight manual at the ground controlpoint where thepilot flying the UAS will have immediate access to it. 14 C.F.R. § 91.103: PreflightAction

21Page

### Section 91.103 requires eachpilot to preflight an aircraftbefore flight to insure the safety offlight. As FAA approvedrotorcraft flight manuals will notbeused, an exemptionis requested. However, an equivalent level ofsafety will beprovided. The PIC will take all actions, including reviewing weather, flight batteryrequirements, landing and takeoffdistances, and aircraftperformance data before commencement offlight. 14 C.F.R. § 91.109(a): Flight Instruction 

### Section 91.109provides that no personmay operate a civil aircraft (except a manned free balloon) that isbeingused for flight instructionunless that aircrafthas fully functioning dual controls. UAS andremotelypiloted aircraft, bytheir design do nothave fully functional dual controls. Flight control is accomplishedthroughthe use ofa controlboxthat communicates withthe aircraft via radio communications. The FAAhas approved exemptions for flight training without fully functional dual controls for anumber ofaircraft and for flight instructionin experimental aircraft. The equivalent level ofsafetyprovidedbythe fact that neither apilotnorpassengers will be carried inthe aircraft and bythe size and speed ofthe aircraft. 14 CFR § 91.119: Minimum Safe Altitudes 

### Section 91.119 establishes safe altitudes for operation of civil aircraft. Specifically, 91.119(c) limits aircraft flying over areas other than congested areas to an altitude of 500 feet above the surface, except over open water or sparselypopulatedareas. Inthose cases, the aircraft may notbe operated closerthan 500 feet to anyperson, vessel, vehicle, or structure. Because Evolmageryrequests authority to operate at altitudes onlyup to 400 AGL anexemptionis neededto allow such operations. The UAS will never operate higherthan400 AGL. It

### will also be operated inarestricted area within a securityperimeter, wherebuildings and peoplewillnotbe exposedto operations withouttheirpre- obtained consent. The equivalent level of safety will be achieved given the size, weight, speed, and material with which the Evoimagery sUASs are built. Also, no flight will be taken without thepermission ofthe land owner or those who control the land. Because ofthe advance notice to the landowner, all affected individuals will be aware of the survey flights. Compared to aerial survey operations conducted with aircraft or rotorcraft weighing far more than 12 lbs. and carrying flammable fuel, any risk associated with these operations will be far less than those currently allowed with conventional aircraft operating at or below 500 feet AGL. Indeed, the low-altitude operations of the UAS will maintain separation between these small-UAS operations and the operations of conventional aircraft thatmust complywith Section 91.119. 14 CFR91.121 Altimeter settings. 

### This regulationrequires eachperson operating an aircraft to maintain cruising altitude byreference to an altimeter that is set " ... to the elevation ofthe departure airport or an appropriate altimeter setting available before departure." As the sUAS may not have a barometric altimeter, butinstead a GPS altitude read out, an exemption may be needed. An 

### equivalent level of safety will be
3IPage

### achieved by the operator, pursuant to the Manual and Safety Check list, confirming the altitude of the launch site shown onthe GPS altitude indicatorbefore flight.
14 C.F.R. § 91.151(a) & (b): Fuel Requirements for Flightin VFR Conditions 

### This regulationprovides: (a) No personmaybegin a flight inan airplane under VFR conditionsunless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed- (1) 

### Duringthe day, to fly afterthat for at least 30 minutes; or (2) 

### At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes. (b) 

### No personmaybegin a flight in arotorcraftunderVFRconditionsunless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first pointof intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed, to fly after that for at least 20 minutes. The batteries powering the sUASs provide approximately 15 minutes (3DRX8), 15 minutes (3DR Y6) and 40 minutes (3DRAero) ofpowered flight. Without an exemption from§ 14 CFR 91.151, the limitations proposed would prohibit their utility. Given the limitations on the UAS's proposed flight area and the location ofits proposed operations within a predetermined area, a longer time frame for flight in daylight or twilight VFR conditions is reasonable. Furthermore, in the unlikely event that the sUAS should run out ofbattery before returning, it would simply auto land at its current position at a safe speed. Safety will be ensured as all3DRUAS platforms provide audible and visual warnings to the PIC when the UAS experiences low battery voltage, the first warning occurring at approximately 33% remaining battery power, and again at approximately 10% remaining battery power. At the critically low battery level, sUAS's will descend and land automatically within the safety perimeter. Finally, recognizing its weight and construction material, therisks are less than contemplatedbythe currentregulation. Applicant believes that an exemption from 14 CFR §91.151(a) falls within the scope of prior exemptions. Operating the UAS, in a tightly controlled area where only people and property owners or official representatives who have signed waivers will be allowed, with less than 30 minutes ofreserve fuel, does not engender the type ofrisks that Section 91.151(a) was intended to alleviate given the size and speed ofthe small sUASs. Evolmagery believes that an equivalent level ofsafety canbe achievedby limiting multirotorflights to 12 minutes or20% ofbatterypower and by limiting fixed wing flights to 32 minutes or 20% ofbattery- whicheverhappens first .This restriction would be more than adequate to return the UAS to its planned landing zone from anywhere in its limited operating area. 14 C.F.R. § 91.203 (a) & (b): Carrying Civil Aircraft Certification and Registration 

### This regulationprovides as follows:

41Page

### (a) ...no personmay operate a civil aircraft unless it has ... an appropriate and current airworthiness certificate. (b) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless the airworthiness certificate required by paragraph (a) ofthis section or a special flight authorization issued under §91.715 is displayed at the cabin or cockpit entrance so that it is legible to passengers or crew. Evoimagery's sUASs fully loaded weigh no more than 10 lbs. As such, there is no ability orplace to carry certification and registration documents or to display them on the sUASs. In addition, there is no pilot onboardthe aircraft. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved by keeping these documents at the ground control point where the pilot flying the UAS will have immediate access to them. The FAA has issued numerous exemptions to this regulation. 14 C.F.R. §

### 91.405(a); 407(a)(l); 409(a)(l) & 

### (2); 417(a): Maintenance Inspections These regulations require that an aircraft operator or owner shall "have that aircraft inspected as prescribed in subpart E ofthis part and shall between required inspections, except as provided in paragraph (c) ofthis section, have discrepancies repaired as prescribed inpart 43 ofthis chapter...," and others shall inspect ormaintainthe aircraft incompliance with Part43. Maintenance will be accomplished by the operator pursuant to the flight manual and operating handbook. An equivalent level ofsafety will be achieved because the UAS is very limited in size and will carry a small payload and operate only in restricted areas for a limited period oftime. If mechanical issues arise the UAS can land immediately and will be operating from no higher than 400 feet AGL. The operator will ensure that the UAS is in working order prior to initiating flight, perform required maintenance, and keep a log of any maintenance performed. Moreover, the operator is the person most familiar with the aircraft and best suited to maintain the aircraft in an airworthy conditionto providethe equivalent level ofsafety. An equivalent level of safety will be achieved because maintenance and inspections will be performed in accordance withthe UAS Manufacturer's UserManual. As provided inthe FOM, the operator will ensure thatthe UAS is inworking orderprior to initiating flight and performrequired maintenance needed.

SIPageAPPENDIXB: SUMMARY OF EVOIMAGERY SECTION 333 EXEMPTION REQUEST Pursuantto 14 C.F.R. Part 11, the following summaryis providedfor publication inthe Federal Register, should itbe determinedthatpublicationis needed: EvolmageryLLC seeks an exemption from the following rules:

14 C.P.R. Part21; 14 C.P.R. 45.23(b); 14 C.P.R. 61.113(a) & (b); 14 C.P.R. 91.7(a); 14 C.P.R. 91.9(b)(2); 14 C.P.R. 91.103; 14 C.P.R. 91.109(a); 14 C.P.R. 91.119; 14 CFR91.121 14 C.P.R. 91.151(a) & (b) 14 C.P.R. 91.203(a) & (b); 14 C.P.R. 91.405(a); 14 C.P.R. 91.407(a)(l); 14 C.P.R. 91.409(a)(l) & (2) 14 C.P.R. 91.417(a) & (b)

# APPENDIXC EVOIMAGERYMISSION STATEMENT

## ~~~ 

# EVOIMAGEPY MISSION STATEMENT Evohnagery, LLC is an innovative consulting firm that integrates the latest available technology with photogrammetry and mapping for today's 

### evolvingenvironment. At Evohnagery we develop extremely detailed custom maps and images, and extrapolate valuable infonnation for ourclients. These images represent features in 

### real-time; a

### vitalasset for industries that face changing environments orneed 

### exceptionally accurate data. 

## ABOUTUS Our devoted staff includes anumberofprofessionals who possess backgrounds inengineering, mining consulting, GIS/geospatial analysis, natural resource management, business, ecology, state and federal regulations, forestry, botany, wetland science, hydrology, and cultural resources/archaeology. Our client base includes onlyprivate sector entities distributed across several states and in different physiographic and geographic regions. Weunderstand the complicated and delicate situations which may arise when working with construction, mining, and natural resources, and we seek to 

### simplify and

### streamlineprojects to meet ourclient's goals, and resolve challenges with 

### efficient,dynamic and

### pragmatic solutions. Evohnagery can manage, coordinate, ormonitor all stages ofa project through completion or offer individual services tailored to meet 

### uniquerequirements. With an 

### innovativeapproach,foresightinto tomoiTow's challenges, apassion for ourjob, and a strong commitmentto high quality service, we strive to achieve success and provide our clients with 

### timely and 

### cost-effective solutions.

(859) 263 4142 info(iX1cvoimagcry.com P.O. Box 54954 Lexington, KY 40555

## SERVICES**~~~ EVOI~AGERY**  Evolmageryprovides a variety ofservices to industries that include: mining, agriculture, constmction, land development, quanies, real estate, andnatural resources. Our

### multifaceted and extensive experience facilitates Evoimagery's unique abilityto provide customizedprojects based on ourclient's needs, enabling them to make

### informed financial andbusiness decisions, identify and

### mitigaterisk, and

### capitalizeon investments. We workhardto understand our client's goals and concerns, and remain cun·ent on industrytrends and regulatory changes. 

## Our comprehensiveservices include: MINING SOLUTIONS
• Volumetric Services (stockpile, overburden, yardage placement) • Monthly CostAnalysis • Valuation Services • Active and As-MinedMaps • Profile and Cross Sections • ConstmctionPlanning • Refuse Mapping MAPPING SERVICES
• Aerial Imagery and GIS Analysis • Topographic/ContourMapping • Digital Tenain and ElevationModels • Land Use Planning and Management • Digital Otihophotography • Spatial Analysis • 3D Imagery ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
• Natural Resource Management and Planning • Regulatory Compliance Services • StreamRestoration and Mitigation • HabitatAssessments • ErosionMonitoring/Coastal Planning • Archaeological/Cultural Resource Services • Crop Consulting/ Agricultural Services



## "Mapping the Future ofTechnology"

(859) 263 4142 info(!L)C\'Oimagcry.com P.O. Box 54954 Lexington, KY 40'555

# EVO IMAGERY L_



# FLIGHT OPERATIONS AND PROCEDURES

P.O. Box 54954 Lexington, KY40555 (859) 263-4142TABLE OF CONTENTS 1.0 Introduction................................................................................................................................

### ! 2.0 Pre-flightInformation................................................................................................................2 3.0 Roles andResponsibilities .........................................................................................................4 4.0 Flight Operations .......................................................................................................................5 5.0 EmergencyResponses ...............................................................................................................7

ListofAppendices Appendix A ......................................................................................................Pre-flight Checklists Appendix B ........................................................................................................... Maintenance Log Appendix C .................................................................................................................ConsentForm

i

### 1.0 INTRODUCTION This manual provides Evohnagery, LLC's protocol and procedures for the operations ofsmall unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS). It includes pre-flightinformation and steps, roles and responsibilities, flight operations procedures, securityperimeters, flight phases, required maintenance, training, and emergencyprocedures. Pre-flight checklists are provided 

### in Appendix A, Appendix B contains a maintenance log, and apropertyaccess consent form can be found 

### inAppendix C.

Page 1 of7

### 2.0 PRE-FLIGHT INFORMATION FlightLocations All flights will takeplace overprivate orcontrolled access areas. This will includereceiving anynecessarylandowner orcontrollerpermissions (see consent form inAppendix C). Pre-flightFiling Noticeto Airmen (NOT AM) willbe filed priorto everyproject. Form 7711-1, orits equivalent, as modifiedinlight ofthe exemption, will befiled withthe appropriate Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) priorto everyprojectthat occurs above 200' AGL. Pre-flightBriefing A briefing will beconducted forplanned sUAS operationspriorto eachday's flight. All personnel performing duties withintheboundaries ofthe safetyperimeter are requiredto attend. Consent ofPersons Involved The operatorwill have consent ofall persons involved and ensurethat onlyconsenting persons will be allowed within 100 feet ofthe flight operation. Thisradius maybereducedto 30 feet basedupon an equivalent level ofsafety determination. Other Permits Allrequiredpermissions andpermits will beobtained from territorial, state, countyorcity jurisdictions, includinglocal law enforcement, fire, orother appropriate governmental agencies. Pre-flight Checks Thepre-flight checklist andusermanuals are included inAppendices A and B, respectively. These andthe flight operations manual willbekept on-site at all times, and will befollowed priorto poweringupthe sUAS. Thepre-flight checkwill includevisual inspectionofthe entire airframe for wear andtear and anypotentialproblems.
• Check all electronics connections • Inspect airworthiness ofairframe, engine(s), propeller(s) and avionics • Confirmmaximumbatterycharge • Runway/launch site clearofunnecessarypersonnel anddebris Post-StartUp Checks Follow the specificpre-flight checklist for the sUAS to beused. This includes butis not limitedto:
• Confirmthat all servos, propellers, and flight control surfaces are responsive • Conduct enginerun-up to verifyfunctionality andbalance ofmotors andpropellers • Verifyproperoperation and functionality ofautopilothardware and software • Verifyradio communicationlink signalbetween sUAS andground station • Verifyradio communicationlink signalbetween sUAS andhandheld controls • Verify GPS positionlock and HDOP onprimary and secondary GPS receivers • Calibration and verification ofcompass functionality Page 2 of7• Calibration andverification ofairspeed sensor functionality • Calibration and verification ofaltimeterfunctionality • Confirmationandtesting ofall failsafe functionality o Geofencebreachfailsafe o Communicationloss failsafes o Maximum altitudebreach failsafe o Lowbatteryfailsafe o GPS failure failsafe o Compass failure failsafe Visual Observer and PilotIn Command Communication TheVO and PIC mustbe ableto communicateverbally at all times. Electronicmessaging or texting is notpermitted during flight operations. VO mustnotperform anyotherduties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other air traffic andothergroundbased obstacles/obstructions and is notpermittedto operatethe cameraorotherinstruments. The VO and PIC will have apre-flightbriefmgto discuss anypotential hazards and address any questions about communication and duties. Airports No flights would occurwithin 5NMofan airport withoutpreauthorizationfrom the airport and the filing ofanyrequiredNOT AM's. Maintenance Logs The includedmaintenance log (Appendix B) will beused and anyupdates, repairs, orother work done to the sUAS wouldberecorded onthe logs. Required Maintenance Each sUAS willbemaintainedfollowing the manufacturers guidelines. In addition, pre and post flight inspections willbeconducted aftereachflight. If, at anytime, a defect orlack of functionality is detected, the sUAS willbeplaced out ofserviceuntil thereplacement of defective parts canbemade and test flights are conductedunder controlled conditions. Atnotime willtemporarymodifications ofthe defectivepartsbe considered acceptableremedies. Defectiveparts areto be destroyed afterremoval from the sUAS. Flight logs will bereviewed and evaluated after eachflight and anyincidents willbelogged andreported.

Page 3 of7

### 3.0 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES sUAS Pilotin Command (PIC) A sUAS PIC will be an FAA licensed airman with at least a private pilot's certificate and third class medical, andwill have completed all sUAS training andrequirements stated inthis manual. Responsibilities will include: • Filing ofanyflight plans required • Formulating flight plans utilizedduring autonomous flights, ensuringthat altitude, speed, and obstacle clearance are set at the safestpossible setting • Field assemblyofthe sUAS (ifrequired) • Conductpre-flightinspections ofsUAS • Complete and save all applicable checklists • Maintaining a flight log for each flight, andreviewing logpost-flight • Operation ofthe sUAS. This mayincludetakeoff, landing, initiating autonomous flight, oremergencyprocedures. • Monitors the state ofthe sUAS- altitude, speed, roll, pitch, battery strength, radio signal strength, etc. during manual and autonomous flight • During emergency situations, ensures the sUAS diverts to the correct area • Issues all commandsto the s UAS • Issues flight terminationcommand Visual Observer (VO) • VO willnotperform any otherduties beyond assisting the PIC with seeing and avoiding other airtraffic and other groundbased obstacles/obstructions and is not permittedto operatethe camera or any otherinstruments. Training The Pilot and observermustbetrained in sUAS operations andhavereceived current informationontheparticular sUAS to beoperated. All manufacturermanuals willbe reviewed and trainingwill takeplace to ensure sufficient control anduse ofthe sUAS. All traininghours will belogged.

Page 4 of7

### 4.0 FLIGHT OPERATIONS FlightTimes X8- MaximumFlightTime 15 minutes Aero
- MaximumFlightTime40 minutes Y6- Maximum FlightTime 15 Minutes 

### Weight The weight ofthe sUAS will beless than 12lbs. 

### VisualLine ofSite Flights willbe operatedwithin line ofsight ofapilot and/or observer. 

### FlightElevation Flights willbe operated at an altitude ofno more than400 feet AGL. 

### MinimumCrew Minimum crew for each operationwill consist ofthe sUAS Pilot andVisual Observer. 

### SterileArea The sterile area will consist ofthe confined areathatthe sUAS will operate during the mission. This areawill be containedwithin a "fence"that willprovidethe securityperimeter the sUAS willbeunable to travel beyond. 

### Populated orHeavily TraffickedAreas The aircraft is neverto be operatedoverurban, populated, orheavilytrafficked areas. All flight perimeters wouldbeverifiedto not containpopulated orheavilytrafficked sites such as highways orresidentialneighbourhoods. 

### FlightConditions Operations would occur duringvisual flight rules meteorological conditions (VMC) as well as during daylighthours only. ThePIC is prohibited from beginning a flight unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enoughpowerto fly atnormal cruising speedto the intended landingpoint and landthe UAwith20%batterypower remaining. 

### Post-startup Checks Verifythatthe specificpre-flight checklist for the sUAS has beenconducted. This includes butis not limitedto:
• Confirmthat all servos, propellers, and flight control surfaces are responsive • Conduct enginerun-up to verifyfunctionality andbalance ofmotors andpropellers • Verifyproperoperation and functionality ofautopilothardware and software • Verifyradio communicationlink signalbetween sUAS and ground station • Verifyradio communicationlink signalbetween sUAS andhandheld controls • VerifyGPS positionlock andHDOP onprimary and secondaryGPS receivers • Calibration and verification ofcompass functionality • Calibration and verification ofairspeed sensor functionality • Calibration and verification ofaltimeterfunctionality Page 5 of7• Confirmation and testing ofall failsafe functionality o Geofencebreachfailsafe o Communicationloss failsafes o Maximum altitudebreachfailsafe o Lowbattery failsafe o GPS failure failsafe o Compass failure failsafe FlightPhases 

### Takeoff andFlightPhases • Takeoffwillbeconductedmanuallyto ensure full control inthe eventofa system failure • At an elevationof30meters AGL, the PIC will re-checkthe functionality and responsiveness ofthe sUAS to all commands. This will be carried out inmanual (stabilize) and loitermodes • After functionality check, the PIC will increasethe elevationofthe sUAS to the desired flight altitude at a rate of2 meterspersecond orless invertical climb • Oncethe sUAS reaches the desired altitude, thePIC will verifythatcommunication links are active with a strong signal, and that there are no warningspresentfrom the autopilot • PIC will sendthe commandto the sUAS to beginthepre-loadedmission • ThePIC and observerwill maintainvisual contactwiththe sUAS at all times. When the sUAS nears the edge ofline ofsight, a ReturnTo Launch (RTL) commandwillbe initiatedbythe PIC • Whilethe sUAS is tracking to waypoints the pilotwill ensurethat: o The sUAS maneuvers correctly o No deviation greaterthan 5 meters in any direction from programmed flight path o GPS maintains strongposition signal and low HDOP o Signal strength on all radio communication links remains above 40 percent 

### Landing • Landingundernormal conditions willbe conductedmanuallyandunder full control ofthe PIC • Autonomous landings maybeconducted during emergency situations only

Page 6 of7

### 5.0 EMERGENCYRESPONSES Unpredictable Obstacle orEmergency The sUAS will havethe capabilityto abort a flight incase ofunpredictedobstacles, system failures, oremergencies. This willbe accomplishedbybuilt-inand manual triggers that will initiate a landing sequence withinthe safetyperimeter (termination). Loss ofRadio Communication • Occurs ifbothradio communication devices sendno signal for more than 10 seconds o Ifcombinedwith a loss ofGPS, the sUAS will terminate o Iftheradio communicationlink fails during manual flight, the sUAS will returnto the launch location, loiterfor one minute, andterminate Loss ofGPS • Ifthe GPS reports a loss oflock onbothreceivers during autonomous flight for more than 3 seconds, terminationwill beinitiated • Termination canbe cancelledbythe PIC byplacing the sUAS inmanual mode and landing ina safe location Failure ofAutopilot • Flight terminationwill beimmediately activated Loss ofengine power • Ifa loss ofengine(s) occurs during autonomous flight, the PIC may attemptto manually landthe sUAS in a safe locationwithinthe safetyperimeter. • Ifthe PIC is unable to regain control, terminationwillbe activated immediately Geofence breach • Ifthe fence surroundingthe safety areais breached, immediateterminationwill occur at thepoint ofthebreach. Point ofContact Shouldtherebe anyquestions orconcerns that arise during theseprocesses andprocedures, contactJesse Robinson at 859-263-4142.

Page 7 of7

### AppendixA Pre-flightChecklistsX8 Pre-flight Checklist

# FLIGHT CHECKLISTS (3DRX8/X8+)

Date
Project#
Operator

Observer (s)In Office, Pre-Flight Tasks Task Initials Prefetch Base Maps Build Preliminary Flight Plan Charge UAV Batteries Charge Camera Batteries Charge Laptop Print Field Map Load GCP's On LaptopEquipment Checklist
Item

**~** Initials PPE (Site Specific Sets) 1/person UAV 1 Backup UAV 1 Batteries 6+ BatteryTester 2 Charger 1 Lipo Bags 2+ Power Inverter 1 Radio Transmitter 2 Telemetry Link Set 2 Tripod 1 Ground Control Station 1 12ft. USB Cable 1 GOPRO/Gimbal or 2 Canon/Mount 2 SD Cards 3 Micro SD Adapter 2 Spare Parts/Tools Kit 1 Soldering Kit 1 Table 1 Targets/Panels Varied Launch Pad 1Site Safety Checklist Task Initials Site Specific PPE Used Notify On-Site Personnel Identify Highest Obstruction No Highways In Flight Path No Populated Areas in Path Enable Failsafes as Required Secure Launch/Land Site {SOm) No Overthead Obstruction
Transmitter Batteries Above 10v Winds below 15 mph
UAV Inspection Props Secure Motors Secure MotorWires Secure Pixhawk Connections Secure Compass Connections Secure Datalink Connections SecureFlight Checklist Task Initials Inspect UAV Again Start Mission Planner TransmitterSwitches All Down/Off Power On RC Transmitter Attach BatteryTo UAV Check Balance With Battery Place UAV on LEVEL Surface Power Up UAV Do nottouch UAV {15 seconds) Ensure Battery Wire/Prop Clearance Connect Telemetry Verify "Home" Location Check MP Voltage Check MP Heading Check MP Time Set "Home" By Clicking Home Button Verify Mode Switches Calibrate Compass Verify Calibration By Moving UAV Load Mission {GOPRO)Set Time On GoPro Via App {GOPRO) Mount GoPro to Gimbal {GOPRO) Press shoot button {1pic/2seconds) (CANON) Lock SD Card {CANON) Take Test Pictures {CANON) Press Play To Load CHDK {CANON) Press shoot button to start {CANON) MountTo UAV
Ensure Launch Area Is ClearLaunch UAV Test All Controls Set To Loiter and Monitor MP/UAV Behavior Verify No Warnings Or Error Messages Climb to Altitude Start Mission
Land And Disarm UAVPost Flight Checklist
Task Initials Download Photos Verify Photo Quality Download Log From Pixhawk Geo Refernce Photos
Verify Correct Flight Path Verify Correct Elevation
Proceed To ProcessingY 6 Pre-flight Checklist

# FLIGHT CHECKLISTS (3DRY6)

Date Project#
Operator

Observer (s)In Office, Pre-Flight Tasks Task Initials Prefetch Base Maps Build Preliminary Flight Plan Charge UAV Batteries Charge Camera Batteries Charge Laptop Print Field Map Load GCP's On LaptopEquipment Checklist
Item

**~** Initials PPE (Site Specific Sets) 1/person UAV 1 Backup UAV 1 Batteries 6+ BatteryTester 2 Charger 1 Lipo Bags 2+ Power Inverter 1 Radio Transmitter 2 Telemetry Link Set 2 Tripod 1 Ground Control Station 1 12ft. USB Cable 1 GOPRO/Gimbal or 2 Canon/Mount 2 SD Cards 3 Micro SD Adapter 2 Spare Parts/Tools Kit 1 Soldering Kit 1 Table 1 Targets/Panels Varied Launch Pad 1Site Safety Checklist Task Initials Site Specific PPE Used Notify On-Site Personnel Identify Highest Obstruction No Highways In Flight Path No Populated Areas in Path Enable Failsafes as Required Secure Launch/Land Site {SOm) No Overthead Obstruction
Transmitter Batteries Above 10v Winds below 15 mph
UAV Inspection Props Secure Motors Secure MotorWires Secure APM Connections Secure Compass Connections Secure Datalink Connections SecureFlight Checklist
Task Initials Inspect UAV Again Start Mission Planner Transmitter Switches All Down/Off Power On RC Transmitter Attach BatteryTo UAV Check Balance With Battery Place UAV on LEVEL Surface Power Up UAV Do nottouch UAV (30 seconds) Ensure Battery Wire/Prop Clearance Connect Telemetry Verify "Home" Location Check MP Voltage Check MP Heading Check MP Time Set "Home" By Clicking Home Button Verify Mode Switches Calibrate Compass Verify Calibration By Moving UAV in all directions Load Mission Download Mission from UAV to verify path (GOPRO)Set Time On GoPro Via App (GOPRO) Mount GoPro to Gimbal (GOPRO) Press shoot button (1pic/2seconds) (CANON) Lock SD Card (CANON) Take Test Distant Landscape Pictures (CANON) Press Play To Load CHDK (CANON) Press shoot button to start (Distant Landscape) (CANON) MountTo UAV
Ensure Launch Area Is ClearLaunch UAV Test All Controls Set To Loiter and Monitor MP/UAV Behavior Verify No Warnings Or Error Messages Climb to Altitude Start Mission
Land And Disarm UAVPost Flight Checklist
Task Initials Download Photos Verify Photo Quality Copy Log From Laptop Geo Refernce Photos
Verify Correct Flight Path Verify Correct Elevation
Proceed To ProcessingAero Pre-flight Chekclist

# FLIGHT CHECKLISTS (3DRAERO/AERO-M)

Date Project#
Operator

Observer (s)In Office, Pre-Flight Tasks Task Initials Prefetch Base Maps Build Preliminary Flight Plan Charge UAV Batteries Charge Camera Batteries Charge Laptop Print Field Map Load GCP's On LaptopEquipment Checklist
Item

**~** Initials PPE {Site Specific Sets) 1/person UAV 1 Backup UAV 1 Batteries 6+ BatteryTester 2 Charger 1 Lipo Bags 2+ Power Inverter 1 Radio Transmitter 2 Telemetry Link Set 2 Tripod 1 Ground Control Station 1 12ft. USB Cable 1 GOPRO/Gimbal or 2 Canon/Mount 2 SD Cards 3 Micro SD Adapter 2 Spare Parts/Tools Kit 1 Soldering Kit 1 Table 1 Targets/Panels Varied Launch Pad 1Site Safety Checklist
Task Initials Site Specific PPE Used Notify On-Site Personnel Identify Highest Obstruction No Highways In Flight Path No Populated Areas in Path Enable Failsafes as Required Secure Launch/Land Site (SOm) No Overthead Obstruction Transmitter Batteries Above 10 v Winds below 15 mph Servos Secure UAV Inspection Props Secure Motors Secure MotorWires Secure APM Connections Secure Compass Connections Secure Datalink Connections SecureFlight Checklist
Task Initials Inspect UAV Again Start Mission Planner Transmitter Switches All Down/Off Power On RC Transmitter Attach BatteryTo UAV Check Balance With Battery Place UAV on LEVEL Surface Power Up UAV Do nottouch UAV (30 seconds) Ensure Battery Wire/Prop Clearance Connect Telemetry Verify "Home" Location Check MP Voltage Check MP Heading Check MP Time Set "Home" By Clicking Home Button Verify Mode Switches Calibrate Compass Verify Calibration By Moving UAV in all directions Load Mission Download Mission from UAV toverify path (GOPRO)Set Time On GoPro Via App (GOPRO) Mount GoPro to Gimbal (GOPRO) Press shoot button (1pic/2seconds) (CANON) Lock SD Card (CANON) Take Test Distant Landscape Pictures (CANON) Press Play To Load CHDK (CANON) Press shoot button to start (Distant Landscape) (CANON) MountTo UAV
Ensure Launch Area Is ClearLaunch UAV Test All Controls Set To Loiter and Monitor MP/UAV Behavior Verify No Warnings Or Error Messages Climb to Altitude Start Mission
Land And Disarm UAVPost Flight Checklist Task Initials Download Photos Verify Photo Quality Copy Log From Laptop Geo Refernce Photos
Verify Correct Flight Path Verify Correct Elevation
Proceed To Processing

### AppendixB MaintenanceLogUAVMaintenancePersonPerformingMaintenanceDate&TimeofMaintenaceUAVUnit#MostRecentFlightProjectDescriptionInspectUAVforanyvisibledamage/wearRemoveDustInsureLandingGearSecureInsurePropsSecureInsureMotorsSecureInsureMotorWiresSecureInsureCompasssConnectionsSecureInsureDatalinkConnectionsSecureCalibrateCompassCheckforSoftwareUpdatesRepairs/ChangesmadetoUAVduringthisMaintenance:

### Appendix C ConsentForm

## Permission to Collect Aerial Imagery over Property By signing this permission, the signer consents to aerial image collection by Evolmagery, LLC (Evolmagery) of the project site or facility, to the extent necessary, areas adjacent to the site or facility, This permission allows Evolmagery staff to enter upon and around such property in order to collect aerial imagery over the' project site or facility, without prior notice, during daylight hours, Monday through Sunday. If Evolmagery staff should wish to collect imagery at any other times, Evolmagery staff will so notify the applicant and will obtain a separate consent for such a collection. Imagery collection may take place regardless of whether the signer or an agent is present. In the event that the project site or facility is posted with any form of "posted" Or "keep out" notices, or fenced in with an unlocked gate, this permission authorizes Evolmagery staff to disregard such notices or unlocked gates at the time ofthe collection. The signer further agrees that during imagery collection, Evolmagery staff may capture physical characteristics of the site including, but not limited to, taking measurements of the project site or facility. The following rules apply during the execution of all imagery collection done by Evolmagery staff under this permission: ,.I' 1. Flight Operations. A Pilot in Command (PIC) will be in control of all aerial imaging assets. All flights will occurwithin line of sight and include a trained Visual Observer (YO). 2. Rights to data/imagerv being collected. Data/imagery, and other information conceived, developed, or produced in the course of this permission shall remain the property of Evolmagery. The signer and agent maintain unlimited rights to modify and disseminate all data/imagery and information. 3. Compliance with Laws. In the course of performance hereunder, the Parties shall comply with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations. 4. Costs/Liability Limitation. Except in the event of a Party's gross negligence or willful misconduct; the aggregate liability of a Party to the other Party for claims, damages, costs, actions, or liabilities arising from or related to this Agreement, regardless of the legal theory of recovery, shall in no event exceed the actual out-of-pocket costs ofthe injured Party incurred in the performance ofthis Agreement. Permission is granted for aerial imagery collection of property located atthe following address(es):
Bysigning this form, I affirm underpenaltyofperjury thatI am authorized to give consent to entryby Evolmageryas describedabove. *
Print Name and Title Signature Date 

### *The signer ofthis form must be an individual or authorized representative ofa legal entity that: • owns fee title and is in possession ofthe property identified above; maintains possessory interest in the property through a lease, rental agreement or other legally binding document; or • is provided permission to act on behalfofan individual or legal entity possessing fee title or other possessory interest in the property forthe purpose ofconsenting to imagery collection ofsuch property

# APPENDIXE sUAS OPERATIONMANUALS

# APPENDIX E.l. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION SUMMARIESTechnical Specifications Summary Evolmagery uses 3DRobotics sUAS. These systems are operatedby advanced flight controllers with safety features that prevent the systems from entering controlled airspace. Real-time system monitoring is provided at all times viatelemetry links connectedtothe ground control station and the PIC. 3DRobotics X8/+ Aircraft
• Battery: 4S 14.8V 10,000 mAh lOC • BatteryDimensions: 6.6 inx 2.6 in x 1.4 in (16.7 emx 6.5 emx 3.5 em) • BatteryWeight: 803 g • Weight without battery and payload: 3.83 lbs • Typical weight with battery and payload: 6.4 lbs • Autopilot hardware: Pixhawkv2.4.5 • Autopilot firmware: ArduCopter 3.2 • GPS: 3DRu-blox GPS with Compass (LEA-6H module, 5Hzupdate) • Ground StationRadio: 3DRRadio v2 (915 MHz or433 MHz) • Motors: SunnySky V2216-12 KV800 II • Controller: FlySky FS-TH9Xwith FrSkytelemetry module • Frame Type: X • Propellers: APC Propeller llx4.7 SF (4), APC Propeller llx4.7 SFP (4) • VehicleDimensions: 13.7 inx 20.1 in x 11.8 in (35 emx 51 emx 20 em) • Payload Capacity: 800 g (1.7lbs). Additional payloadpossible upto over lkgwith reduced flight time. • Vehicle WeightwithBattery: 2.56 kg (5.6lbs) • MaximumEstimatedFlight Time: 15 min • Speed minimum: 5 m/s, Max: 9 m/s • Maximum Ascent Speed: 3 m/s • Maximum Descent Speed 3 m/s 3DRAero/M Aircraft
• Pixhawk autopilot system • 3DRGPS+Compass • RC TigerMotor 2820 830kvmotor • RC TigerMotor 60AESC • Gemfan llx7propeller • Henge MD933 servos • Dubro control linkages • External LED indicator and USB port • Digital airspeed sensor • Average flight time: 40 min • Weight withoutbattery and payload: 5.7lbs • Typical weight withbattery and payload: 7.2 lbs • Payload capacity: 2kgTechnical Specifications Summary

• Wingspan: 1,880 mm • Maximum speed: 56 mph (90 kmh) • Minimum speed: 22 mph (35 kmh) • Internal payload volume: 280 cm3 

### 3DRY6 Aircraft
• APM2.6 Autopilot System • 3DRPowerModule withXT60 connector • 3DRu-blox GPS with magnetometer • 850 KVbrushless motors • 20 AmpESCs • 10x4.7 slow-fly APC propellers • 4S 6000 mAhbattery pack, battery charger and batterybag • Minimum speed: 5 rn!s, Maximum speed 9 m/s • Average flight time: 12-15 minutes • Payload capacity: 600 g • Weight without battery and payload: 2.71lbs • Typical weightwith payload: 4.62 lbs 

### 3DRX8- Gimbal Model- Tarot T-2DBrushless Gimbal
• Supply voltage polarity protection and voltage compensation • Motordrive end short-circuit protection • Workingvoltage: DC 7.4V

**~** 14.8V (Recommended 12V, three lithium battery) • Working current: 200mA-500mA (power supply voltage and the motorrelated) • Working environmenttemperature: -15 

### °C

**~** 65 

### °C • Processor: Dual32-bithigh-speed ARM coreprocessor • Sensor : Three axis :MEMS gyroscope and :MEMS accelerometers • Maximum angular rate :2000 o 

### I sec • Maximum acceleration : 16G • Control frequency: 2000Hz • Motordrive frequency: 20KHz (no noise smoothing driven) • Control accuracy: 0.1 o (Pixel Grade) • Control angle range: -45 

### °

**~** 45 o (roll), -135 o

**~** 90 o (tilt) • Pose solver algorithms :PTZ dedicated brushless motor decoupled EKF algorithm • Shooting equipment : GOPRO Hero 4 • Weight without camera :200gTechnical Specifications Summary


### 3DRX8/Y6/Aero Canon Camera Model- PowershotS1001110
• Weight 3.1oz (89g) • TotalPixels: Approx. 13.3 Megapixels • Effective Pixels: Approx. 12.1 Megapixels • FocalLength: 5.2 (W)- 26.0 (T) mm (35mm film equivalent: 24-120mm) • CMOS 1/1.7-inch • FocusingRange: Auto & Manual Focus: 1.2 in (3 em)
- infinity (W), 12 in (30 em)
- infinity (T) • Sensitivity: Auto, ISO 80/100/125/160/200/250/320/400/500/640/800/1000/1250/1600/2000/ 2500/3200/4000/5000/6400 (in P Mode) 

### TarotGimbal Camera Model- Go ProHero 4
• Type: Wide-angle lens • Weight: 3.1oz (89g) • Resolutions- (Default) Wide 4000 x 3000 7MP Wide, Medium 3000 x 2250 5MP Medium2560x 1920 

### Transmitter
• Model- Turnigy 9XorFlysky-TH9X • Frequency 2.4GHz • Operating Range- 1000mUnobstructed • Lowvoltage warning • Power 12VDC (1.5AA*8)

# APPENDIX E.2. 3D Robotics X8 Manual

## Unfold arms and legs Remove the bolt and thumb nut outside the folded arm. Rotate the arm into position, insert the bolt through the plate and the arm, and secure the arm in place with the thumb nut. slide arm

front arms travel position (blue) flight position

Rotate the legs into place and secure through the inner hole with the provided bolt and nut.

travel position 

# lo flight position

## Attach propellers Remove the rings from the propeller packages. Select the ring with the smaller internal diameter, and insert it into the back of the propeller hub.

Remove the nuts and washers from the motors. Add SFP propellers to the the front-left and back-right motors and SF propellers to the front-right and back-left motors with the writing on the propellers facing towards the sky.

Place the washer over the propeller, and secure the nut tightly on top. Always ensure that the propellers are fastened tightly to the motors before flying. 

## Charge battery Connect the charger to the power adapter cable and awall outlet. Connect the red cable to the + port and the black cable to the- port.

Set the charger to LiPo and 3A. 

# ~· SF 

### •si=P



# rr·~~~"~

,.,. ' 

# •::

LiPo 3AConnect the white connector to the 45 port. Join the two yellow connectors together.



# ~ **~!!!!!!!** 

# ..... Secure battery inside the guard bag while charging. Charge until the status indicator displays green.

red green 

# • • Charging Complete 

# A. Battery safety Protect battery from extreme heat, extreme cold, puncturing, and flammable surfaces. Always transport, charge, and store battery in the guard bag. Charge battery using adesignated LiPo balance charger only. Always monitor battery while charging. 4S

Flying with a low battery is asafety risk and can render battery unusable. Always discontinue use when you receive a low battery notification, and always fly with afully charged battery. Inspect battery for damage before takeoff and after landing. If you observe any swelling of the package or battery ceases to function, locate your local battery recycling center to dispose of battery. In the US and Canada, visit call2recycle.org to find a location. Do not dispose of battery in the trash.

## Flight modes On 3DR transmitters, use the two-position switch and the three-position switch shown below to select a flight mode. Spektrum mode switches FlySky mode switches two-position switch marked GEAR/MIX

**r=u~**__two-position switch three-position switch marked FLAP/GYRO Both switches must be set to the correct position to select a mode. The three-position switch can be set forward (away from you), center, and back (towards you). The two-position switch can be set forward and back. marked AIL D/R

Ifyou did not order an RC transmitter with your copter, visit 3dr.com/learn for instructions.
three-position mode switch two-position mode switch



# !JJ ® 

# r1 !JJ 

# r1
forward center back forward back (away from you) (towards you) (away from you) (towards you) In this manual, the position of the three-position switch is specified first and the position of the two-position switch is specified second. For example, "center/back" requires the three-position switch set to center and the two-position switch set to back. Stabilize mode Stabilize allows full manual control of altitude, position, and orientation without autopilot assistance. Use stabilize for acrobatic flying and to recover your copter. Loiter mode With automatic autopilot control of altitude, position, and orientation, loiter is the easiest way to fly. Just release the sticks and the copter will hover in place. position of switch: forward/forward forward/back no GPS lock required position of switch: center/forward GPS lock required before takeoffAltitude hold mode Set the left stickto center, and the copter will automatically hover at the current altitude. Adjust altitude and orientation with the left stick, and navigate with the right stick. Return to launch (RTL) Command the copter to achieve a minimum altitude of 15 meters, return to the launch point, hover for five seconds, and land. Use RTL to end your flight automatically. Autonomous mode Fly afully autonomous mission using a computer or Android device as a ground station. For instructions on planning and flying missions, visit 3dr.com/learn. 

# A. Flight safety position of switch: center/back no GPS lock required

position of switch: back/back GPS lock required before takeoff position of switch: forward/back GPS lock required before takeoff

Your copter has powerful motors and high-speed propellers. Never place your hands near propellers while the motors are armed or the safety button displays solid red. Always press and hold the safety button until it displays blinking red before handling. Always fly in an open area away from people and buildings; do not attempt to fly indoors or in a confined space. Do not fly over people, near airports, or in any situation that could pose a hazard to those around you. Always fly within your line ofsight and in compliance with local regulations. Your copter will not avoid obstacles on its own. As the operator, it is yourjob to recognize and avoid obstructions while flying. Always follow the preflight and postflight steps in the order described in this manual and the flight checklist, and remain attentive at all times while flying. Environmental factors, such as wind and GPS irregularities, can cause instability in flight. Your copter will attempt to compensate for these factors by automatically landing if it detects an unsafe flying condition due to loss of RC signal, loss of GPS signal, or low battery. To avoid potential hazards due to environmental factors, identify the boundaries of your flying area before takeoff, and recover the copter manually by switching into stabilize mode if it moves outside your designated flying area. If you observe any inconsistent behavior, land, and consult the troubleshooting guide at 3dr.com/learn. Always use an RC transmitter as a primary or backup control system when flying. Ensure that the transmitter is turned on any time the copter is powered. If contact with the transmitter is lost during flight, the copter will land and display a blinking yellow light. If the copter is more than 2 meters (6.5 feet) from the launch point, it will return to launch (RTL) before landing. Autopilot-positioned flight modes (loiter, autonomous, and return-to-launch) require an active GPS signal. If GPS signal is lost during flight, the copter will land and display a blinking blue and yellow light with a high-high-high-lowtone. Always choose an unobstructed fly'1ng area to improve s'1gnal strength. When the battery reaches 25% of its remaining charge, the copter will land and display a blinking yellow light with a quick repeating tone. If the copter reaches the low battery limit during a mission, it will return to the launch point before landing.

## Flying Select an open area for flying, away from people and buildings, and remember to bring the flight checklist and afully charged battery. Follow these steps every time you fly. 

### 1 Turn on the transmitter. Set the left stick fully down, and select aflight mode. Check that the propellers are tight, the antennas are vertical, the GPS mast is vertical, and all the components are secure.



### 2 Attach the battery to the underside of the copter using the velcro straps, and join the yellow connectors.



### 3 Determine the boundaries of your flying area before takeoff, and select a level, unobstructed space as a launch point. Place the copter at the launch point with the blue arms facing away from you, and stand back. 

### 4 Check Pixhawk's LED. Ifyou plan to fly only in stabilize or altitude-hold modes, wait to see the blinking blue light. Ifyou plan to use loiter, autonomous, return-to-launch, or other GPS-required modes during your flight, wait to see the blinking green light, indicating GPS lock, before arming. **'"·~·-·-··**.... ••'"·----
;,,...,..

### 5 The safety button indicates when the copter is safe to handle. When you're ready to fly, press and hold the safety button until it displays solid red. This indicates that the copter is now active.



### 6 To arm the motors, hold the left stick down/right until the motors spin.



### 7 Control your copter in flight using the transmitter's left and right sticks. Use the left stick to control throttle (power) and yaw (rotation); use the right stick to control roll (left and right movement) and pitch (forward and backward movement). Navigate by orienting the copter with the blue arms facing forward.


### 8 After landing, disarm the motors by holding the left stick down/left until the motors stop. 

### 9 Press the safety button until it displays blinking red to make the copter safe to handle. 

### 10 Once the motors are disarmed, disconnect the battery. Once the copter is powered off, turn off the transmitter. safety button

## Learning more Visit 3dr.com/learn for more instructions on flying, configuring, and using aground station with your copter.



## Resources To learn more about the APM:Copter platform, including adding new flight modes and flying autonomous missions, visit copter.ardupilot.com.

**~**



# ~APM /(COPTER 

## Support For customer support, contact us at help@3dr.com or call our support line at +1 (858) 225-1414 Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm, PST.

# APPENDIXE.3. 3D Robotics X8 ChecklistGo outside to an open area!

See the Operation Manual for complete instructions. 

# 1 Power on controller; set to STD and RTL OFF.



# 3 Place the X8 at 

# 4 Press and hold safety launch point. button until solid red. 

# •••• Choose aclear launch point, and face the X8 away from you. The motors are now active.
Stand back! 

### LED
• • • • Initializing, hold the X8 level 

# 0.0. Acquiring GPS, please wait 

# 0.0. Autopilot ready, GPS locked • 

# •

•••• Armed 

### SafetyButton 

## Flight Checklist



# 5 Check LED. 

# o•o• 

# 2 Connect charged battery. Hold the X8 still and level while powering on.

# ~ 6 Arm motors. 

# ®0

Hold left stick downright until motors spin.

Loss of RC signal, automatic landing

### )~ Low battery, automatic landing

### )~ Loss of GPS signal, switch to manual Pre-arm safety check failure 

# 0 • 0 • Motors inactive, safe to handle 

# •••• Motors active, deactivate before handling (see reverse) 

### Flight Modes Standard position (altitude ho.ld mode) STD fly manually Auto mode AUTO 

# P Loiter mode LTR
I hover Return to launch RTL

. . . .. . . ..

### Controller Flight Data Press and hold the DN button to access the flight data screens. Press DN again to toggle between screens. GPS status**(~~~~~~** connection strength

altitude in meters speed in m/s (' meters from launch point /-
..-.

::1 flight time**<~n**
current latitude 

### <:c current longitude altitude in meters**/~.~**


### Flight**[_~** current flight mode GPS signal strength in# of satellites flight battery level (14-16.8 V) flight battery mAh consumed since armed 

### f.\ End yourflight at 14.1 V.**~** Do not exceed 8,000 mAh for afully charged X8+ battery (80% of available capacity).**~·~·,** controller battery level (9-12 V) 

# @0®0@0

Postflight Raise left stick above Set left stick to center Move left stick left center to take off and to maintain altitude. and right to rotate. gain altitude.

Use right stick to fly forward, backward, left, and right. Lower left stick below Set left stickfully down to



## 1. Disarm motors. 

# 2 Press safety button. 

# eoeo center to descend. land when near the ground. 

# 3 Disconnect battery. 

# 4 Poweroff controller. 

# ®0**~** Hold left stick down- Press and hold until

# APPENDIXE.4. 3D Robotics Aero Manual

# AERO Congratulations on your purchase of an Aero! Please read the following sections ofthis manual to get started with your new autonomous aircraft. 1 Meet the Aero 2 Safety 3 Charge battery 4 Setup 5 Manual mode 6 Stabilize mode


# Meet the Aero 7 Fly-by-wire mode 8 Command modes 9 Missions 10 Preflight steps 11 Takeoff & landing 12 Postflight steps

nose fl I



### r f-- body left wing 

# X . •



### ~motor tail boom____.,

tail right wing2 

# airspeedsensor --------t.J



# ~::::::i:::::;::::nt _______ v_

.. -' 

# (underwings) J!\ 

# i 

# leftaLn 

# f rightaileron
'•

# rudder

elevator

Ifthe terms above are unfamiliarto you, visit 3dr.com/learn, and dive into the exciting world of planes with our Introduction to Flying Fixed-Wing Aircraft. 

# RCtransmitter

Spektrum

Ifyou did not order an RC transmitter with your Aero, visit 3dr.com/learn for instructions. FlySky

# A Safety Before you fly, always determine the boundaries ofyour safe flying area. If the Aero moves outside the designated area or exhibits instability in flight, switch to fly-by-wire mode and land the plane manually. The Aero will not avoid obstacles on its own, including during missions. As the operator, it's your job to recognize and avoid obstructions while flying. Always be ready to regain manual control ofthe plane in the event ofan unsafe situation. Spinning propellers can cause serious injury. The safety button indicates the status ofthe motorto help you prevent hazardous contact with the Aero's high-speed propeller. When the Aero is powered on, the safety button will blink red; the motor is inactive and the propeller is safe to handle. When you're ready to fly, press and hold the safety button until it shows solid red. This indicates that the motor is active and the propeller can spin if armed. To make the propeller safe to handle again, press and hold the safety button until it blinks red. 

# ••••

**~** ,....-· 

# f...... visual line ofsight 

### 0

400ft (120m) Always fly below 400ft (120m) and within your visual line of sight. Don't let the Aero get too far away from you; make sure you can always see its orientation. Don't fly in low light, heavy wind, rain, or other conditions that might impede visibility.

Smiles(8km) Always fly at least five miles (8 km) away from airports and other areas where pilots operate manned aircraft.

0000 

# ,

... .//'
ILJ

**~** 0000 

# ·····*

<>

**~** c:=+:...
<> Always fly at least 100feet (30 m) away from people, vehicles, and buildings. Make the safety of people and property your first priority! Ifthe Aero looses contact with the RC transmitter, it will return to the launch point automatically and enter into a circle pattern above the launch point, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED. Ifthe battery reaches 33% of its remaining charge, the Aero will return automaticallyto circle above the launch point, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED and a quick repeating tone. 34 

## Charge battery The Aero is powered by a rechargeable lithium polymer (LiPo) battery. Store the battery at half charge, then charge fully before flying. Batteries must ship at half charge, so please charge before your first flight. Each full battery provides approximately 40 minutes of flight time. 

# II battery charger

Connect the charger to the power adapter cable and a wall outlet. Connect the red cable to the + port and the black cable to the - port. 

# •

Set the charger to LiPo and 3A.

LiPo 3AConnect the white connector to the 4S port. Join the two yellow connectors together. Secure the battery inside the guard bag while charging, and charge until the status indicator displays green.



# ~ **~!!!!!!!** 

# ..... 45 

# • • Charging Complete

guard bag 

# A Battery safety Protect the battery from extreme heat, extreme cold, puncturing, and flammable surfaces. Always transport, charge, and store the battery in the guard bag. Charge the battery using adesignated LiPo balance charger only. Always monitorthe battery while charging. Flying with a low battery is asafety risk and can render the battery permanently unusable. Always fly with afully charged battery. Inspect the battery for damage before takeoff and after landing. If you observe any swelling of the package or the battery ceases to function, locate your local battery recycling center to dispose of the battery. In the US and Canada, visit call2recycle.org to find a location. Do not dispose of the battery in the trash. 56 

## Setup Follow these instructions to take the Aero from travel configuration to flight configuration. 

### 1 Slide the horizontal stabilizer into the vertical stabilizer along the orange groove. Make sure not to stress any of the components on the tail
.



## • horizontal stabilizer

vertical stabilizer

complete tail assembly On the top of the horizontal stabilizer, open the blue clasp at the end ofthe servo rod. 

# t ... r_ ......._ ...



# ~Insert the pegs on the clasp into the open space in the servo horn, and close the clasp.

servo horn

Slide the blue rubber ring over the clasp to secure it in place.

Turn the plane over and insert the provided tail screw into the horizontal and vertical stabilizers.



# ®



# ·~-­ 

# • 

# 1
tail screw


### 2 Locate the wing spar (long rod) and the two wings. Slide awing onto the spar.

78 Slide the other wing onto the spar. Do not twist the wing or the spar so as not to stress the foam.

o I

**,.----~---"'4** , .. , complete wing assembly
Locate the two cables inside the electronics compartment marked AILE. Connect these cables to the two cables on the wings marked AILE. (Either ofthe wing cables can connect to either of the plane cables; the order doesn't matter.)

Place the wings over the body of the Aero with the foam squares fitted into the matching space in the electronics compartment. Make sure not to pinch the AILE cables.



# ~· 1*/

**f-~** 

## I : wings placed onto the body of the AeroLocate the four large rubber bands. Use the bands to secure the wings to the body of the Aero by the four orange knobs on the body around the wings. Attach two ofthe bands to the two knobs on one ofthe short sides and opposite knobs on the opposing side.



# ~ add second band



# .

**~**

Repeat on the other short side with the remaining two rubber bands, resulting in two pairs of opposing right triangles.



# ~· add third band 

# r--------7 add fourth band 

# v.

complete band assembly 910

### 3 Locate the rings inside the propeller package. Remove the ring with the second-largest internal diameter, and insert it into the back of the propeller hub.

Remove the nut and the washer from the motor, add the propeller with the writing on the propeller facing towards the nose of the plane, add the washer and the nut over the propeller, and tighten the nut.



# ··~The tail boom arrives attached to the Aero. Follow these instructions to remove the tail boom for travel. Disconnect the RUDD and ELEV cables inside the electronics compartment.

Remove the screws on the body and the tail indicated below.



# ~ El, El ----· body



### ,~



# ~· tail

Pull out the tail boom to remove. To reattach, reverse these steps.

1112 

## Setting flight modes On 3DR transmitters, use the two-position switch and the three-position switch shown below to select aflight mode. Spektrum mode switches

FlySky mode switches two-position switch marked GEAR/MIX three-position switch marked FLAP/GYRO available positions 0, 1, 2 three-position switch marked F MODE available positions N, 1, 2 two-position switch marked AIL D/R available positions 0, 1

The two-position switch activates one of the two groups of modes then the three-position switch selects the specific mode within the group. The three-position switch can be set forward (away from you), center, and back (towards you). The two-position switch can be set forward and back. three-position mode switch two-position mode switch

forward center back forward back (away from you) (towards you) (away from you) (towards you)The Aero includes six flight modes. Manual mode, two assisted flight modes (stabilize and fly by wire), autonomous mission mode, and two command modes (loiter and return to launch). The following sections ofthis manual describe the behavior of each mode. The Aero's six modes are assigned to your transmitter's mode switches according to model. 

## Flight modes on Spektrum With GEAR/MIX set to MIX, set FLAP/GYRO to: 0 for AUTONOMOUS 1for FLY BY WIRE 2 for RETURN TO LAUNCH With GEAR/MIX set to GEAR, set FLAP/GYRO to: Ofor MANUAL 1for STABILIZE 2 for LOITER 

## Flight modes on FlySky With AIL D/R set to 0, set F MODEto: Nfor RETURN TO LAUNCH 1for FLY BY WIRE
With AIL D/R set to 1, set F MODE to: 2 for AUTONOMOUS
N for LOITER 1for STABILIZE 2 for MANUAL

1314 

# Manual mode Fly with fine-tuned manual control without autopilot assistance. Manual mode gives you the most direct input to the control surfaces, resulting in precise in-flight adjustment. Try manual mode ifyou're an experienced RC plane operator. 

### @ no GPS lock required

Manual mode RC controls

throttle



# yow~



# ~mil

Throttle up 

# $() f- ' I



### ~·-~_

# ...·-+

Throttle down 

# (@)0

.

# .

**~--~---"·**
Throttle fully down 

# {ij)O .. ""-y

**--=~---~·~··** 

# .... Increase motor speed.

Decrease motor speed
.

Stop motor.Yaw left

### ~ 

# €>0 •' ,, Turn left. '•]'._



# '\

Yaw right 

# 1 

# €}0 '•**i~~** /,' Turn right. 

# l

Pitch up I

### ~ 

# 0®**'f',~-->** Pitch up.


# .. ,..--------· e:,.
Pitch down**·~** 

### ;.. 

# 0® o;:·

### --:~~-/· Pitch down
. 

# ..........

Roll left

# 0~ Roll left.

Roll right 

# O€} Roll right.

1516

## Stabilize mode Stabilize mode provides manual control with an added autopilot safeguard: Release the right stick and the Aero will automatically return to a level flying orientation. Use stabilize mode for the freedom of manual control with return-to-level stabilization. 

### @ no GPS lock required

Stabilize mode RC controls
throttle



# yow~


# ~mil

Throttle up 

### t- I



# ®0 ..

**~** 

# ------ *· 

# ··-+ Increase motor


## -- speed.
Throttle down 

## ,., 

# ... Decrease motor 

# \@)0 .r;: ..,..__..,_ a#?·-, 

# ....... speed.

Throttle fully down 

# ®0 ... c:;

**--~:·** Stop motor.Yaw left



### ~ 

# €)0 •' ,, Turn left. '''!'--.



# '\

Yaw right 

# 1 

# €>0 ';, ,, _.{' 

# l Turn right.

Pitch up I



### ~



# 0~ \" Pitch up.

**,~** 

# ..

# ---- ,:,
Pitch down 

### • fa, 

# 0® **~**



## ---~~~. Pitch down.



### ~
Roll left 

# O€) Roll left.

Roll right 

# O€} Roll right.

Roll and pitch center 

# 0® ..

**.:;'---~~-'** Automatically level
. 1718 

## Fly-by-wire mode Let the autopilot manage the control surfaces, and navigate based on where you want the Aero to fly. Fly-by-wire mode* (FBW) is the easiest way to fly and is the recommended mode for new fliers. *APM:Piane mode FBWA 

### @ no GPS lock required

FBW mode RC controls throttle



# yow~

Throttle up 

# ®0 .. e;

Throttle down



# ~0 

# ..

**~·**

Throttle fully down 

# (ij)O **~** stabilized pitch



# ~ otoblli"d mil

' I

**--~** 

# .__.

**,_,_~-·>~**

**~**

**-~~-~--··,** Increase motor speed.

Decrease motor speed.

Stop motor.Yaw left



### ~



# ~0 •' '· Turn left. 

# \\

Yaw right 

# 1 

# €}0 ,, 

# ;? Turn right.

Pitch up I



### ~ 

# 0(@) \" 

## : '. Pitch up.

**~~** 

# .. ..-----

**~·**
Pitch down 

# .. ,.. 

# 0® "''

--- .' I

**·~·~.··.** Pitch down
. 

# ..........
Roll left



# 0~ Fly to the left.

Roll right 

# O€} Fly to the right.

Roll and pitch center 

# 0®

. I 

# .. :::;·

**--':'"~~~--·** Automatically level. 19

## Command modes Use command modes to enter into an automatic flight pattern. Once set to a command mode, the Aero will continue to follow the specified pattern until otherwise directed. Command modes require GPS lock prior to takeoff.

Loiter mode: GPS-positioned circling » The Aero will enter into a circle pattern with a radius of 60 meters at the current altitude. » Move the right stick to adjust the position of the circle. 

# 8 GPS lock required

Return-to-launch mode: circling over launch point » The Aero will return to the position where it acquired GPS lock and enter into a circle pattern at an altitude of 100 meters. 

# 8 GPS lock required

20

## Missions Use aground station computer with the provided Telemetry Radio to fly afully autonomous mission. To download software and learn how to plan a mission, visit 3dr.com/learn.

laptop ground station with 3DR Telemetry Radio

Once you have saved a mission to the Aero, ensure that the autopilot acquires GPS lock during the preflight steps, and take off in manual, stabilize, or fly-by-wire mode. Fly to the approximate altitude of the first waypoint, and switch into autonomous mode to start the mission.
To fly a mission with automatic takeoff and landing, visit 3dr.com/learn for instructions. 

# 9 GPS lock required



# A. Do not set the Aero to autonomous mode without following the mission planning instructions at 3DR.com/learn. 21

## Preflight steps Select an open area for flying, away from people and buildings, and remember to bring the flight checklist and afully charged battery. Follow these steps every time you fly.

flight checklist 

### 1 Before flying, examine the Aero to ensure that all components are secured in flight configuration.

» Check that the wings, tail, and tail boom are fully assembled and securely attached.

22 » Check that the propeller is secured tightly to the motor.
» Check that the servo rods are secured to the servo horns with the blue clasps.



# ill~-- _I_



# ~

...... £/:



# -~

tail servos 

# I wing servosCheck that the airspeed sensor is secured to the side of the Aero and the tube is free from obstructions.

airspeed sensor 

# •

If any ofthe components or assemblies in these checks are not secure, tighten the screws or use CA glue (super glue) to secure the components to the foam. Power on the RC transmitter, and set the throttle fully down.



### 2 Open the battery compartment by sliding the knob on the orange switch and lifting out the foam lid.



# - .... l \

23Secure a charged battery to the velcro strip within the marked lines, and attach the yellow connectors. 

# A Hold the Aero still and level while it powers on.

Secure with the velcro strap. Close lid by aligning the orange notches at the nose.



### 3 With the battery connected and the lid secured, check that the Aero is correctly balanced for flight. Hold the Aero with one finger on each ofthe clear, plastic balancing points shown below. These points indicate the Aero's center of gravity. 

# l



# ~r ......

**~a~ ~s~~** 

# ....
24Ifthe plane balances on your fingers, then the center of gravity is correct. If it won't balance, adjust the position of the battery until you can balance the plane on two fingers as shown below.



# --·

4 Check the LED for the status of the autopilot. If you plan to use loiter, return-to-launch, autonomous, or any other GPSrequired modes during your flight, wait to see the blinking green light, indicating GPS lock, before proceeding. If you plan to fly only in manual, stabilize, or fly-by-wire modes, you may proceed when you see the blinking blue light.



## ~LED

I 

### .., 

# e e.. Initializing, please wait 

## 0.Oe Autopilot ready, no GPS 

### 0.

## Oe Autopilot ready, GPS locked


### 5 To arm the motor, press and hold the safety button until it displays solid red. 

# I

**~--+safety** button

J 'A 

### 0.

## Oe Inactive, motor disarmed 

## e e ee Active, motor armed

25

### 6 Place the plane on the ground, and set the mode switches to select manual mode. Move each of the sticks as shown, and check for the corresponding movement of the motor or control surfaces.

26 Raise the throttle slightly until the motor spins, then immediately set the throttle back to fully down position. 

# \@)0

**~** 

# 'f' Motor spins. 

# A Do not raise the throttle more than just enough to spin the motorwhile the plane is on the ground, and do not place your hands in the way of the propeller while the motor is armed.
Pitch down 

# 0® Elevator tilts down.

Pitch up 

# 0\@) X ! 

# t Elevator tilts up.Roll left 

# O€>

Roll right 

# O€}

Yaw left 

# €)0

Yaw right 

# €}0 . '

• i 

### •, 

# X 

# r 0**~** i

1 

# X 

# r 0 Left aileron tilts up, right aileron tilts down
.

Left aileron tilts down, right aileron tilts up.

Rudder tilts left.

Rudder tilts right.

2728

### 7 Set the mode switches to stabilize, and hold the plane in front of you. Move the plane as shown, and check for the stabilization response from the control surfaces.

Test: Tilt the plane left. Result: Left aileron tilts down, right aileron tilts up.

Test: Tilt the plane right. Result: Left aileron tilts up, right aileron tilts down.

Test: Tilt the plane down. Result: Elevator tilts up.

Test: Tilt the plane up. Result: Elevator tilts down.

## Takeoff 

# &landing Now you're ready for takeoff! If you're new to planes, we recommend having afriend help you launch the Aero. Have your friend throw the Aero while you control the transmitter. We recommend setting the Aero to fly-by-wire mode for takeoff. Find a launching area with at least 100 feet of clear space in front of you. Face into the wind, and hold the Aero at the center of gravity. Raise the throttle to center position to start the motor. Be careful not to place your hand in the way of the propeller!

throttle center 

# ®0

Hold the Aero above your head, run, and throw the plane at an upwards angle.

Once launched, the Aero will require immediate adjustment with the transmitter to navigate away from the ground and up to the desired altitude. Pitch up (right stick down) and add any other necessary controls based on wind, speed, and terrain.
29When you're ready to end your flight, follow these steps to land:
» Fly a circle pattern above your landing area. » Come in on afinal approach, flying into the wind at an altitude of 20 to 40 meters. » When the plane reaches an altitude of 10 meters, set the throttle fully down to turn offthe motor and glide down on a 15 to 20 degree down-pitch angle. » When the plane is one meter above the ground, pitch up (flare) to land the Aero on the body of the plane instead of the nose.



# A.

30 wind direction

**~·------------------------**
throttle fully down 

# $0

•. .• 1-

<; . .............___ . , , I 

### .........__ 10m ············· pitch up 

# 0®

····\- ' I 

### -,; 

# ___... **~---······**

After stopping the motor at an altitude of 10 m, keep your thumb on the throttle stick in fully down position to ensure that the motor does not accidently spin during landing.

## Postflight steps 1 To disarm the motor, press and hold the safety button until it displays blinking red.



# ~--+safety button

J


### 2 Disconnect battery



### 3 Turn off transmitter. 

### 0 

# e 0 

# e Inactive, motor disarmed 

## e e ee Active, motor armed

Your flight is now complete. Always following the preflight and postflight steps described in this manual when you fly.

31

## FPV/OSD video Ifyou received an FPV/OSD video system with your Aero, visit 3DR.com/learn for instructions on operating your video system. 

## Learning more Visit 3DR.com/learn for more instructions on flying, configuring, and using a ground station with the Aero. To learn more about the APM:Piane platform, including adding new flight modes and flying autonomous missions, visit plane.ardupilot.com.

**~**



### ~PM 

### PLANE 

## Support For customer support, contact us at help@3DR.com or call our support line at +1 (858) 225-1414 Mondaythrough Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm, PST.

32

# APPENDIXE.5. 3D Robotics Aero Checklist

# ~;:)~ 

# ,Ae;ro Elight Checklist Preflight 

# 1 Go outside to an open area, and inspect aircraft. » 

### Wings and tail attached » 

### Tail boom secured » 

### Servos and rods secured » 

### Airspeed sensor secured » 

### Propeller tight » 

### Transmitter on 

# 3 Check LED for blinking blue (no GPS) or blinking green (GPS locked). 

# oeoe® 

# oeoe 8 

# 5 Check manual controls. » 

### Throttle » 

### Pitch up and down » 

### Roll left and right » 

### Yaw left and right 

# 2 Connect charged battery. » 

### Hold aircraft still while powering on. » 

### Secure lid. » 

### Check for balanced center of gravity. 

# 4 Press and hold safety button until solid red. 

# •••• 6 Check autopilot stabilization. » 

### Pitch up and down » 

### Roll left and right


# LED 

# •••• oeoe Initializing, please wait 

# oeoe Autopilot ready, no GPS Autopilot ready, GPS locked

I 1 1"1

# Flight Control 

# 0 (ij)O 

# 0® 0 motor on

motor off

pitch down
pitch up 

# Flight Modes

Spektrum With GEAR/MIX set to MIX, set FLAP/GYRO to: 0 for AUTONOMOUS 1for FLY BY WIRE 2 for RETURN TO LAUNCH With GEAR/MIX setto GEAR, set FLAP/GYRO to: 0 for MANUAL 1for STABILIZE 2 for LOITER 

# Postflight RC mode 2 only 

# €>0 0 

# 0

FlySky

# 0 yaw left

yaw right

roll left

roll right

With AIL D/R set to 0, set F MODEto: N for RETURN TO LAUNCH 1for FLY BY WIRE 2 for AUTONOMOUS With AIL D/Rset to 1, set F MODE to: N for LOITER 1for STABILIZE 2 for MANUAL 

# 1 Press and hold safety button until blinking red. 

# oeoe Disconnect battery.

# APPENDIXE.6. 3D Robotics Y6 Manual

# Unfold arms and legs Remove the bolts and thumb nuts outside the blue arms. Rotate the blue arms into position, insert the bolts through the plates and the arms, and secure the arms in place with the thumb nuts. slide arms into position



# ~

travel position flight position


## Rotate the legs into place and secure through the inner hole with the provided bolt and nut. front arms (blue) secure with bolts



## rear arm (black)

# Attach propellers Remove the rings from the propeller packages. Select the ring with the smaller internal diameter, and insert it into the back of the propeller hub.

Remove the nuts and washers from the motors. Add SFP propellers to the the front-left and back-right motors and SF propellers to the front-right and back-left motors with the writing on the propellers facing towards the sky.



## Place the washer over the propeller, and secure the nut tightly on top. Always ensure that the propellers are fastened tightly to the motors before flying. 

# Charge battery Connect the charger to the power adapter cable and a wall outlet. Connect the red cable to the 

## + port and the black cable to the - port. SFP 

# ··si=····-

Ill

I'' ;



# ..... !i. 

# 0 

# ISFP 

# ......... SF SFP 

# ...sf'..



# 0 red 

# 0 black

## Connect the white connector to the 45 port. Join the two yellow connectors together.



# ._~ **~!!!!!!!** 1
.. Secure battery inside the guard bag while charging. Charge until the status indicator displays green.

red 

# • Charging 

## guard bag 

# A Battery safety green 

# • Complete



## Protect battery from extreme heat, extreme cold, puncturing, and flammable surfaces. Always transport, charge, and store battery in the guard bag. Charge battery using a designated LiPo balance charger only. Always monitor battery while charging. 45



## Flying with a low battery is a safety risk and can render battery unusable. Always discontinue use when you receive a low battery notification, and always fly with afully charged battery.

# Flight modes On 3DR transmitters, use the two-position switch and the three-position switch shown below to select a flight mode.

Spektrum mode switches FlySky mode switches two-position switch marked GEAR/MIX three-position switch marked FLAP/GYRO 

## Both switches must be set to the correct position to select a mode. The three-position switch can be set forward (away from you), center, and back (towards you). The two-position switch can be set forward and back. If you did not order an RC transmitter with your copter, visit 3dr.com/learn for instructions.
three-position mode switch two-position mode switch



# ~ ® 

# 0

**~** 

# 0
forward center back forward back (away from you) (towards you) (away from you) (towards you) 

## In this manual, the position of the three-position switch is specified first and the position of the two-position switch is specified second. For example, 1/center/back" requires the three-position switch set to center and the two-position switch set to back. 

## Stabilize mode Stabilize allows full manual control of altitude, position, and orientation without autopilot assistance. Use stabilize for acrobatic flving and to recover vour cooter. 

## position of switch: forward/forward forward/back no GPS lock required

### Altitude hold mode Set the left stick to center, and the copter will automatically hover at the current altitude. Adjust altitude and orientation with the left stick, and navigate with the right stick. 

### Return to launch (RTL) Command the copter to achieve a minimum altitude of 15 meters, return to the launch point, hover for five seconds, and land. Use RTL to end your flight automatically. 

### Autonomous mode Fly a fully autonomous mission using a computer or Android device as a ground station. For instructions on planning and flying missions, visit 

### 3dr.com/learn. 

# A Flight safety position of switch: center/back no GPS lock required

position of switch: back/back GPS lock required before takeoff position of switch: forward/back GPS lock required before takeoff

Your copter has powerful motors and high-speed propellers. Never place your hands near propellers while the motors are armed or the safety button displays solid red. Always press and hold the safety button until it displays blinking red before handling. Always fly in an open area away from people and buildings; do not attempt to fly indoors or in a confined space. Do not fly over people, near airports, or in any situation that could pose a hazard to those around you. Always fly within your line of sight and in compliance with local regulations. Your copter will not avoid obstacles on its own. As the operator, it is yourjob to recognize and avoid obstructions while flying. Always follow the preflight and postflight steps in the order described in this manual and the flight checklist, and remain attentive at all times while flying. Environmental factors, such as wind and GPS irregularities, can cause instability in flight. Your copter will attempt to compensate for these factors by automatically landing if it detects an unsafe flying condition due to loss of RC signal, loss of GPS signal, or low battery. To avoid potential hazards due to environmental factors, identify the boundaries of your flying area before takeoff, and recover the copter manually by switching into stabilize mode if it moves outside your designated flying area. If you observe any inconsistent behavior, land, and consult the troubleshooting guide at 3dr.com/learn. Always use an RC transmitter as a primary or backup control system when flying. Ensure that the transmitter is turned on any time the copter is powered. If contact with the transmitter is lost during flight, the copter will land and display a blinking yellow light. If the copter is more than 2 meters (6.5

# Flying Select an open area for flying, away from people and buildings, and remember to bring the flight checklist and a fully charged battery. Follow these steps every time you fly. 

# 1 Turn on the transmitter. Set the left stick fully down, and select a flight mode. Check that the propellers are tight, the antennas are vertical, the GPS mast is vertical, and all the components are secure.



# 2 Attach the battery to the underside of the copter using the velcro straps, and join the yellow connectors.



# 3 Determine the boundaries of your flying area before takeoff, and select a level, unobstructed space as a launch point. Place the copter at the launch point with the blue arms facing away from you, and stand back. 

# 4 Check Pixhawk's LED. If you plan to fly 

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# 5 The safety button indicates when the copter is safe to handle. When you're ready to fly, press and hold the safety button until it displays solid red. This indicates that the copter is now active.



# 6 To arm the motors, hold the left stick down/right until the motors spin.



# 7 Control your copter in flight using the transmitter's left and right sticks. Use the left stick to control throttle (power) and yaw (rotation); use the right stick to control roll (left and right movement) and pitch (forward and backward movement). Navigate by orienting the copter with the blue arms facing forward.


# 8 After landing, disarm the motors by holding the left stick down/left until the motors stop.

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## safety button

# Learning more Visit 

## 3dr.com/learn for more instructions on flying, configuring, and using aground station with your copter.



# Resources To learn more about the APM:Copter platform, including adding new flight modes and flying autonomous missions, visit 

## copter.ardupilot.com.

**~'**



# ~APM //COPTER 

# Support For customer support, contact us at 

## help@3dr.com or call our support line at 

## +1 (858) 225-1414 Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm, PST.

# APPENDIXE.7. 3D Robotics SafetyManualWe give away a new IRIS+ every month! *Email



# - - =:! 

# DroneSafety
it (HTJP://3DROBOTICS.COM\ > DRONE SAFETY

Drones can be hazardous ifoperated incorrectly. Ifyou are new to drones, we recommend learning on a mini-drone to first learn the ropes. Make safetyyour first priority, and always follow these best practices. 

# Handling

Spinning propellers can cause serious injury. Become familiar with your drone's arming procedure, and always disarm before handling the propellers. On 3DR RTF (ready-to-fly) and other Pixhawk-powered vehicles, the safety button provides an additional safety measure by blocking powertothe motors while the button is disabled (blinking red), allowingyou to handle the drone safely. When flying, always make sure to keep a safe distance between yourselfand the drone. Don't take off with the drone facing towards you orfly directly overyour head. It is yourjob to ensure the safety of the people around you; make sure that spectators maintain a safe distance from your drone at all times. 

# Visual LineofSight**~-** ······ 

# •.... ····· 

# r visualline ofsight Maintainingvisual contact with your aircraft is the best assurance ofa safe flight. Don't let the drone get too far away from you; keep it where you can easily see its orientation from the ground. This is called your visual line ofsight and prevents a situation where you cannot recover the drone safely. Flying within visual line ofsight is also a good way to ensure thatyour radio signals (from the RC and telemetry radio systems) aren't blocked by buildings or other obstructions. Ifyou can't see through it, it's likelythat your radio signal can't either. 

# Under400Feet

400ft (120m)
Keep your drone flying below 400 feet (120 meters) altitude to avoid conflict with full-scale, manned aircraft and maintain visual line ofsight. To give you an idea of how high that is, the Statue of Liberty is 300 feet (93 meters) tall. 

# 100Feetfrom People,Vehicles,and Property

Always maintain at least 100 feet (30 meters) between your drone and people, vehicles, and buildings. This rule is important forflying near crowds, buildings, and roads due to potential hazards from unplanned landings.

# 5MilesfromAirports

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To prevent conflict between your drone and manned aircraft, always fly at least five miles (eight kilometers) away from all airports and other locations where manned aircraft are in use. Research your area to find all areas of restricted airspace nearyou. 

# Failsafes Afailsafe is a pre-programmed behavior designed to prevent a crash in the event ofan unsafe situation. All ArduCoptervehicles include a GPS failsafe activated by default. 3DR RTF copters are also preset with radio control (RC) and low batteryfailsafe behaviors.



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### Loss ofGPS signal

Ifthe drone looses GPS signal in aflight mode that requires GPS (loiter, auto, return-to-launch, guided), it will land automatically, indicated by a blinking blue and yellow status LED and a high-highhigh-low tone. Always fly outside in an open area to improve GPS signal strength. 

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### Loss ofRC signal

Ifthe drone looses contact with the RC transmitter, it will land automatically, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED. If it looses RC signal during a mission, it will return to the launch point before landing.**~** 0000 Low battery

Ifthe battery reaches 25% charge, the drone will land automatically, indicated by a blinking yellow status LED and a quick repeating tone. Ifthe battery runs low during a mission, the drone will return to the launch point before landing. 

# Commonsense Your common sense is the best failsafe. Always be ready to regain manual control ofthe drone in the event ofan unsafe situation. Before you fly, determine the boundaries ofyour safe flying area. Ifthe drone moves outside the designated area or exhibits instability in flight, switch to stabilize mode and land the drone manually. Rememberthat, despite specific regulations, flying recklessly or creating an unsafe situation forthe public is always illegal. As the operator, you take responsibility forthe behavior ofyour drone at all times. Visit Know Before you Fly (http:/

**/knowbeforeyoufly.or~/)** for more information about drone safety. Please fly with adult supervision ifyou are under 18 years ofage.
back to Learn (http://3drobotics.com/learn/)



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### bscri Copyright© 2014 3D Robotics Inc., All Rights Reserved