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# Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Flight & Maintenance Manual

Rev - NEW

STRATIS IMAGING, INC.

June 2015Page 2 of 24 TABLE OF CONTENTS

I. INTRODUCTION & PURPOSE.............................

................................................... ...................... 3

II. UAV BASIC DESCRIPTION..............................

................................................... .......................... 3

III. UAV PARTS AND ACCESSORIES..........................

................................................... ................... 4

IV. UAV OPERATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS ....................

................................................... ....... 7

V. UAV OPERATIONAL FREQUENCIES ........................

................................................... ............. 8

VI. UAV BASIC OPERATION GUIDE ..........................

................................................... ................... 9

VII. PRE-FLIGHT PREPARATION .............................

................................................... .................... 14

VIII. SITE CHECKS ........................................

................................................... ..................................... 15

IX. PRE-FLIGHT UAV INSPECTION ..........................

................................................... .................. 16

X. FLIGHT TEST........................................

................................................... ...................................... 17

XI. OPERATIONAL FLIGHT .................................

................................................... ......................... 18

XII. POST FLIGHT ........................................

................................................... ..................................... 19

XIII. BATTERY USAGE & CHARGING...........................

................................................... ................ 20

XIV. TRANSPORTATION INSTRUCTIONS ........................

................................................... ........... 21

XV. CONFIGURATION CHANGES..............................

................................................... ................... 21

XVI. UAV MAINTENANCE ....................................

................................................... ............................ 22

XVII. UAV REGULATIONS ....................................

................................................... ............................. 23

XVIII. DEFINITIONS........................................

................................................... .............................. 24Page 3 of 24

I. Introduction & Purpose

The purpose of this document is to provide instruct ions on how to operate the Stratis Imaging Unmanned Areal Vehicles (UAV) during commer cial operations. This includes a description of the UAV configurations as well as all operational information for the UAVs to be used for commercial operations. This do cument is for use by anyone involved in the flight operations including the Pil ot in Command (PIC) and the associated Visual Observer (VO). The pilot and visual observe r are required to know the contents of this document and must submit changes to these docu ments if any discrepancies are found. Additionally, this document must be availab le electronically or in written form to the pilot and/or visual observer during UAV flight operations.

II. UAV Basic Description

The two Stratis Imaging UAVs covered in this flight manual are the following:

• Stratis Model 1: A quadcopter built on a DJI Flame wheel F450 frame and running the Pixhawk flight controller

• Stratis Model 2: A hexacopter built on a Tarot Iron Man 680 Pro frame and running the Pixhawk flight controller

These UAVs are configured to work with the followin g:

• Control transmitter: FrSky Taranis X9D / X9D plu s

• Control receiver: FrSky X8R / L9R

• Telemetry: 3DR Telemetry Radio 915Mhz

• Video transmitter: FatShark 5.8ghz Cased FCC A/V Transmitter

The Stratis Model 1 is based on the popular and hig hly proven DJI F450 frame and utilizes the Pixhawk flight controller running the popular APM flight control software.
This same software serves as the basis for 3D Robot ics commercial UAV offerings and was the flight controller used by the Canberra UAV team to win the 2014 Outback UAV Challenge.Page 4 of 24

The Stratis Model 2 is based on the Tarot 680 Pro c arbon fiber hexacopter platform, which is a popular and robust platform for aerial c inematography. Along with the Pixhawk flight controller running APM flight contro l software, this combination has proven popular for use in commercial applications r anging from aerial cinematography to mapping and research and development. The use of s ix outrunners gives this platform redundancy in the event of a single motor failure. The 680 Pro frame is also capable of folding to improve ease of transportation.

III. UAV Parts and Accessories

The following is a description of the basic UAV par ts and accessories:

Aircraft frame / chassis

The Stratis Model 1 is built on the DJI F450 frame, which is constructed of glass fiber and polyamide nylon. It is a quadcopter with a fix ed design.Page 5 of 24

The Stratis Model 2 is built on the Tarot 680 pro f rame and is constructed of carbon fiber, fiber reinforced nylon and composite PCB circuit bo ard. It is a hexacopter with a foldable design.

Flight Control Transmitter

The flight control transmitter is an FrSky Taranis X9D operating at 2.4Ghz and running the open-source OpenTX transmitter software. The T aranis features FrSky's proprietary Advanced Continuous Channel Shifting Technology. A CCST shifts the frequency hundreds of times per second to ensure there are no signal conflicts or interruptions.Page 6 of 24

Flight Control Computer

Our flight control computer is the popular “Pixhaw k” designed by the PX4 openhardware project. It features advanced processor and sensor technology from ST Microelectronics® and a NuttX real-time operating s ystem, delivering high performance, flexibility, and reliability for controlling any au tonomous vehicle. It is the all-in-one unit, combining FMU and IO into a single package. With ha rdware floating point unit and SIMD. The Pixhawk project started in 2009 and is being further developed and used at Computer Vision and Geometry Lab of ETH Zurich (Swi ss Federal Institute of Technology) and supported by the Autonomous Systems Lab and the Automatic Control Laboratory.

Our Pixhawks run the widely used ArduPilotMega “APM ” Flight Stack (also known as “Ardupilot” or “Arducopter”.) APM is an open sourc e unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) platform, able to control autonomous multicopters, fixed-wing aircraft, traditional helicopters and even ground rovers. APM is an award winning platform that won the 2012 and 2014 UAV Outback Challenge competitions. APM is also the basis for most of 3D Robotics commercial UAV offerings, including the ir popular IRIS and Solo product
lines.

Stratis UAVs utilize the industry leading uBlox NEO -M8 series GPS receivers. The NEO-M8 series feature concurrent reception of GPS/Q ZSS, GLONASS, and BeiDou. They are capable of providing a position accuracy a s good as 2.0m Circular Error Probability (CEP). The NEO-M8 series also feature an industry leading -167 dBm navigation sensitivity.

To reduce potential interference eminating from the high-current wiring, telemetry and video transmitters onboard the UAV, all Stratis GPS are installed on a mast providing at least 5” of separation from other electronics on th e UAV.

Telemetry Receiver / Mission PlannerPage 7 of 24

Real-time flight telemetry is displayed using an An droid tablet running the Tower app (also known as DroidPlanner 3). This software disp lays critical flight data (speed, GPS status, battery status, etc.) and also provides the primary interface for programming automated flight paths.

Additional parts and accessories

Propellers: Propellers are constructed of carbon f iber. Propellers for the Stratis Model 1 are 10” in length and propellers for the Stratis Mo del 2 are 13” in length.

Batteries: Stratis UAVs use Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries with at least a 20C discharge rating and having XT60 power connectors. The Stratis Model 1 uses 3S LiPo batteries and can operate in a 1 or 2 battery confi guration. The Stratis Model 2 uses 6S LiPo batteries and can also operate in a 1 or 2 bat tery configuration. In the 2 battery configurations the LiPo batteries are connected in parallel to roughly double the total charge capacity.

IV. UAV Operational Characteristics

The UAVs to be used in operations will operate with in the below conditions and with the
below stated characteristics:

Stratis Model 1 Stratis Model 2

Operating Temperature -10°C ~ 50°C (14°F ~ 122°F) -10°C ~ 50°C (14°F ~ 122°F)

Total Drive Power 600W 1400WPage 8 of 24

Consumption at Maximum

Throttle at Maximum Total Weight

Supported Battery 3S LiPO in 1P or 2P configuration 6S LiPO in 1P or 2P configuration

Hovering Accuracy (GPS
Mode) Vertical: ± 0.8m. Horizontal:

± 2.5m Vertical: ± 0.8m.

Horizontal: ± 2.5m

Max Yaw Angular Velocity 200°/s 200°/s

Max Tilt Angle 35° 35°

Max Ascent / Descent Speed 6m/s 6m/s

Max Flight Velocity 10m/s 11m/s

Diagonal distance (motor
center to motor center) 450mm 680mm

Number of rotors 4 6

Weight 1000g (2.2 lbs) 1900g (4.19 lbs)

Weight with battery (1P / 2P) 1400g / 1800g (3.08lbs/3.97lbs) 2700g / 3500g (5.95lbs / 7.72 lbs)
Max additional payload (1P /
2P) 500g / 100g (1.1 lbs / 0.22 lbs) 1300g / 500g (2.87 lbs / 1.1 lbs)

Max total weight (incl. battery and payload) 1900g (4.19 lbs) 4000g (8.82 lbs)

V. UAV Operational Frequencies

The following are the UAV operational frequencies f or the flight controller, telemetry, and image feedback from the camera:

Flight Control:

• Control frequency / Working Frequency: 2.4 GHz ISM

• Control Channel Numbers of Transmitter: 16

• Communication Distance: >1.5km

• Receiver Sensitivity: > - 100 dBm

• Power Consumption of Transmitter: < 20 dBm

• Working Current/Voltage: 100mA @ 5V

Telemetry (Bi-Directional):

• Telemetry Transmitter Frequency: 915 Mhz ISM

• Communication Distance: >1.5kmPage 9 of 24

• Receiver Sensitivity: > - 100 dBm

• Power Consumption of Transmitter: <= 20 dBm

• Working Current/Voltage: 100mA @ 5V

Camera / Live Video to Monitor:

• Video Transmitter Frequency: 5.8 Ghz ISM

• Communication Distance: >200m

• Receiver Sensitivity: > - 100 dBm

• Power Consumption of Transmitter: <= 20 dBm

• Working Current/Voltage: 100mA @ 5V

Note: All frequencies are used in compliance as pe r FCC Part 18 rules for operating in the specified ISM frequency bands

VI. UAV Basic Operation Guide

The following section describes the basic functions and operation of the Stratis UAVs. This includes the transmitter configuration, the fl ight modes, telemetry data, and camera recording system.

Transmitter Configuration:

The UAV control transmitter is configured as follow s:Page 10 of 24

Switch A (SA) – The primary mode switch having the following settings:
1. (UP) Stabilize flight mode
2. (CENTER) Flight mode as configured by Switch B (SB)
3. (DOWN) Flight mode as configured by Switch C (SC)

Switch B (SB) – Selects flight mode when SA is in p osition 2 (CENTER)
1. (UP) Altitude hold flight mode
2. (CENTER) Loiter flight mode
3. (DOWN) Land flight mode

Switch C (SC) – Selects flight mode when SA is in p osition 3 (DOWN)
1. (UP) Auto Mission flight mode
2. (CENTER) Return to Launch (RTL) flight mode
3. (DOWN) Land

Left control stick – Controls throttle and yaw
1. (UP / DOWN) Throttle
2. (LEFT / RIGHT) Yaw

Right control stick – Controls pitch and roll
1. (UP / DOWN) Pitch
2. (LEFT / RIGHT) Roll

Power Switch – Controls control transmitter power

Digital Trim Switches – Used to compensate for mino r drift when in stabilize mode. In general these should be centered.

UAV Flight Control Modes

The following is an overview of the flight control modes used by Stratis UAVs:

Flight Mode Brief Description GPS Dependency

Stabilize Manual flight control NO

Altitude Hold UAV maintains a consistent altitude w hile

allowing roll, pitch, and yaw to be controlled
as in Stabilize mode NO

Loiter UAV automatically attempts to maintain the

current location, heading and altitude YES

RTL Automatically Return to Launch YES

Auto Mission Follow a pre-programmed mission script YES

Land Immediately and automatically land the UAV YESPage 11 of 24

The following is a detailed description of flight m odes:

1. Stabilize Mode

• Pilot’s roll and pitch input control the lean angle of the UAV. When the pilot releases the roll and pitch sticks the vehicle auto matically levels itself.

• Pilot will need to regularly input roll and pitch c ommands to keep the vehicle in place as it is pushed around by the wind.

• Pilot’s yaw input controls the rate of change of th e heading. When the pilot releases the yaw stick the vehicle will maintain it ’s current heading.

• Pilot’s throttle input controls the average motor s peed meaning that constant adjustment of the throttle is required to maintain altitude. If the pilot puts the throttle completely down the motors will go to thei r minimum rate and if the vehicle is flying it will lose attitude control and tumble.

• The throttle sent to the motors is automatically ad justed based on the tilt angle of the vehicle (i.e. increased as the vehicle tilts ov er more) to reduce the compensation the pilot must do as the vehicle’s att itude changes.

Always switch into a manual mode such as stabilize if the GPS-governed autopilot fails
to control the vehicle.

2. Altitude Hold Mode This mode operates identically to Stabilize mode wi th the exception that throttle is managed according to the following rules: 1) If the throttle stick is in the middle (40% ~ 60%) the vehicle will maintain the current
altitude. 2) Outside of the mid-throttle deadzone (i.e. below 40 % or above 60%) the vehicle will descend or climb depending upon the deflection of t he stick. When the stick is completely down the UAV will descend at 2.5m/s and if at the very top it will climb by 2.5m/s.

Note that Altitude Hold mode does not rely on the G PS and is thus safe to use in situations where GPS signal is weak.

Warning: In Altitude Hold mode the flight controlle r uses a barometer which measures air pressure as the primary means for determining a ltitude (“Pressure Altitude”) and if the air pressure is changing in your flight area, the U AV will follow the air pressure change
rather than actual altitude.

3. Loiter Mode Loiter Mode automatically attempts to maintain the current location, heading and altitude. The pilot may fly the UAV in Loiter mode as if it were in Stabilize mode. Releasing the sticks will continue to hold position

.

• The pilot can control the UAV's position with the c ontrol sticks.

• Horizontal location can be adjusted with the the Ro ll and Pitch control sticks with the maximum horizontal speed being 5m/s. When the pilot releases the sticks the copter will slow to a stop.Page 12 of 24

• Altitude can be controlled with the Throttle contro l stick just as in AltHold mode

• The heading can be set with the Yaw control stick

Loiter is a GPS-dependent mode, so it is essential that GPS lock is acquired before attempting to use this mode.

4. Return to Launch (RTL) When RTL mode is selected, the UAV will return to t he home location. The UAV will first rise to an altitude of 50ft before returning home or maintain the current altitude if the current altitude is higher than 50ft.

RTL is a GPS-dependent mode, so it is essential tha t GPS lock is acquired before attempting to use this mode.

RTL will command the UAV to return to the home posi tion, meaning that it will return to the location where it was armed. Therefore, the hom e position is always supposed to be your UAV’s actual GPS takeoff location, unobstructe d and away from people. For UAV if you get GPS lock and then ARM your UAV, the home position is the location the UAV was in when it was armed. This means if you execute an RTL in UAV, it will return to
the location where it was armed.

Warning: In RTL mode the flight controller uses a b arometer which measures air pressure as the primary means for determining altit ude (“Pressure Altitude”) and if the air pressure is changing in your flight area, the UAV w ill follow the air pressure change
rather than actual altitude.

5. Auto Mission In Auto mode the copter will follow a pre-programme d mission script stored in the autopilot which is made up of navigation commands ( i.e. waypoints) and “do” commands. AUTO mode incorporates the altitude cont rol from AltHold mode and position control from Loiter mode and should not be attempted before these modes are flying well. All the same requirements apply inclu ding ensuring that vibration levels and compass interference levels are acceptable and that the GPS is functioning well including returning an HDOP of under 2.0.

• If starting the mission while the UAV is on the gro und the pilot should ensure the throttle is down, then switch to the Auto flight mo de, then raise the throttle. The moment that the throttle is raised above zero, the UAV will begin the mission.

• If starting the mission from the air the mission wi ll begin from the first command the moment that the flight mode switch is moved to Auto. If the first command in
the mission is a take-off command but the vehicle i s already above the take-off
command’s altitude the take-off command will be con sidered completed and the vehicle will move onto the next waypoint.

• At any time the pilot can retake control from the a utopilot by returning the flight mode switch to another flight mode such as Stabiliz e or Loiter. If the pilot then switches to AUTO again, the mission will restart fr om the first command.Page 13 of 24

• During the mission the pilot’s roll, pitch and thro ttle inputs are ignored but the yaw can be overridden with the yaw stick. This all ows the pilot to for example aim the nose of the UAV (which might have a hard mo unted camera on it) as the UAV flies the mission. The autopilot will attempt to retake yaw control as the vehicle passes the next waypoint.

• Missions can be entered, amended through the Missio n Planner’s Flight Plan screen or through the Tower app running on the Andr oid Tablet.

• Missions should normally have an RTL as their final command to ensure the UAV will return after the mission completes. Alter natively the final command
could be a LAND with a different location. Without a final RTL or LAND command the UAV will simply stop at the final waypo int and the pilot will need
to retake control with the transmitter.

6. Land LAND Mode attempts to bring the UAV straight down

.

• UAV immediately descends to 10m using the Altitude Hold controller

• Upon reaching the ground the copter will automatica lly shut-down the motors and disarm the copter if the pilot’s throttle is at min imum.j

• Land Mode uses the GPS to hold position. If the GP S signal is lost, then Land mode will continue to attempt to land without GPS p osition hold.

• As Land mode makes use of the GPS for positional in formation, you should also be prepared to switch back to Stabilize Mode or Alt itude Hold mode for manual recovery if necessary.

UAV Telemetry Monitoring

UAV telemetry monitoring is performed by using the Tower application running on a
Android tablet with the 3D Robotics V2 900Mhz telem etry transmitter attached via micro USB. The tower app displays live telemetry data fr om the UAV along with a map of the area and the position of the UAV.Page 14 of 24

The telemetry screen of the Tower app displays the following information:

• Error and warning messages from APM flight controll er

• GPS Horizontal Dilution of Precision (HDOP)

• Telemetry signal strength

• Battery status

• Flight mode

• Compass heading

• Ground speed

• Air speed

• Climb rate

• Altitude

Camera Operation and Video Monitoring

Camera configuration For cinematography applications the camera should b e configured accordingly:

• A neutral density filter should be installed and se cured on the camera lens

• Recording at 1080p at 30fps or 60fps

• Set for cyclic recording of 3 minute segments

• Set for manual color balance with sunlight setting

• NTSC video out selected and enabled

• Start recording prior to takeoff

Video monitoring Stratis UAVs are equipped with a 5.8Ghz FCC-license d video transmitter. Use of the remote video monitor is straightforward and involve s only powering it on and selecting the video channel matching that of the specific UAV being used.

Note : It is important that the UAV NOT BE PICKED UP OR MANUALLY MOVED after it has been powered on. Doing so will likely result in a warning message preventing you from arming the UAV for flight. If a warning m essage appears it must be cleared prior to takeoff. Typically this is done by power cycling the UAV and waiting an
additional 2-3 minutes for a solid GPS lock.

VII. Pre-Flight PreparationPage 15 of 24

Prior to the client visit or any operational flight , the following steps are to be taken by the pilot and visual observer to ensure readiness for t he operational flight:

1. Weather Assessment

- The pilot and/or VO must check the weather forec ast to ensure that conditions are suitable for safe flight for the agreed date. If the weather will not be acceptable, then the flight mus t be rescheduled.
2. Flight Plan – The pilot must create a flight plan, either elec tronically or in written form, that describes the intended mission. The VO must be aware of the flight plan and it is recommended that this fli ght plan be reviewed by the
client.

 If the flight plan will be pre-loaded into software for an automated flight, then load the program at this time.
3. Airspace Review – The pilot must review the site location and ensu re that there are no risks to interfering with any controll ed airspace. Further, the operations must be conducted at least 5 miles from any airport. IF WITHIN 5 MILES OF AN AIRPORT: The airport must be notified of the flight plan per government regulatory requirements.
4. Safety Assessment

– The pilot and visual observer must assess the si te for safety, including power lines or other interference s that can cause a potential problem. This may include power lines, vegetation, geologic features, or population centers. Any safety issues need to be ad dressed in the flight plan. Abort procedures are to be reviewed and discussed.
5. Permissions – The pilot and/or VO must ensure that the client’s permission has been granted for the planned flight. Operation s cannot be conducted without proper client authorization. Permissions m ust be in writing as part of the client contract agreement.

6. UAV Transportation : Ensure that the UAV and batteries are prepared properly for transportation to the operational site . (See the enclosed transportation requirements section in this documen t).

VIII. Site Checks

Upon arriving at the operational site, the followin g procedures are to be followed to ensure that the site is ready and safe for the inte nded operation. The UAV PIC and or VO are responsible to make sure that these checks have been conducted except where noted.

1. Ensure that the appropriate client authorization ha s been obtained by the clients or authorized agents of the client prior to an operational flight. Operations cannot be conducted without proper clien t authorization.
2. The PIC must review the flight plan to ensure that the plan can be performed safely. The PIC must also review the flight plan w ith the VO.
3. Ensure that the site is clear of any unauthorized p ersonnel.
4. Review the site to check for any safety hazards tha t may be present such as power lines or other items that may interfere with the safety of the planned flight.Page 16 of 24 5. Operate only if the weather is permissible for a sa fe operational flight.

6. The PIC must ensure that the Visual Observer is ava ilable, and can perform his or her duties to ensure a safe flight. Note th at no one may pilot the UAV who does not meet the FAA regulations for UAV opera tional flight. The pilot and VO are responsible to ensure that he/she is not impaired in any way that may affect the safety of the operation.

7. Ensure that the Flight Manual and appropriate permi ssion documentation are available to the pilot and VO prior to flight.

IX. Pre-Flight UAV Inspection

It is the UAV operator (the pilot in command) respo nsibility to ensure that the UAV is in good operational order. The following steps need t o be conducted on the UAV to be used prior to the operation:

1. Battery Charge - Make sure that the transmitter b attery and flight battery are charged sufficiently to complete the flight such th at there will be at least 5 min of battery life remaining at the end of the flight.
2. Battery Installation - Ensure that the battery is p roperly installed and is secure.
3. UAV Inspection - Check that all parts of the multi- rotor are in good condition before flight. Check for any loose wires and secur e if necessary. Do not fly with aging or broken parts. Please see the Maintena nce Manual for proper
maintenance of the UAV. Ensure that the UAV is not overloaded. It must be below the maximum takeoff weight.
4. UAV Camera - Check the camera and check that the camera mounting is secure and ready for flight. Check that the camera lens is clean.
5. Propellers - Check that the propellers and the moto rs are installed correctly and firmly before flight. Make sure the rotation di rection of each propeller is

correct.
6. Landing Gear – Check that the landing gear is rea dy for operational flight including checking for any wear or cracks.

7. Transmitter – Turn on the transmitter. Ensure that it’s communicating properly with the UAV.
8. Flight Plan Set-Up – If the flight will be automate d using a software program, load the Flight Plan. Or if the program has been p re-loaded, verify that the program is correct.
9. Compass and GPS – Check the Compass and GPS to ensu re that they are ready for operational flight. This includes checki ng the telemetry feed to be sure that there are not indicated faults. Any indi cated fault of the Compass or GPS must be cleared prior to flight.
10. Antennae – Check that antennas are securely attache d prior to takeoff. Physically inspect any twist-on SMA connectors to ensure they are completely engaged.
11. Initial UAV Power On– Turn on the UAV and check for proper operation. Do
not ARM the UAV at this time.Page 17 of 24

12. Telemetry - Check that the UAV telemetry data is pr operly displayed on the telemetry monitoring Android Tablet running the Tow er app. At a minimum the following date must be displayed during flight:

a. Airspeed
b. Altitude (AGL in feet)

c. Battery Voltage
d. GPS HDOP

e. Flight Mode
13. Camera Video – Ensure that the camera is recording video by checking for the recording icon on the remote video monitor.

 Upon completion of these checks, and that the UAV a nd UAV transmitter are airworthy, the flight test and the operational flig ht can then be conducted.

*UAV Operational Cautions*

 Make sure to switch on the transmitter first, then power on the multi-rotor before takeoff. Power off the multi-rotor first, then swit ch off the transmitter after landing.

 The fast rotating propellers of the UAV will cause serious damage and injury. Always fly the multi-rotor 3m or above away from yo u and away from unsafe conditions, such as obstacles, high-voltage lines, etc.

 Always keep the compass module away from the magnet . Otherwise it may damage the compass module and lead the aircraft to work abnormally or even be
out of control.

X. Flight Test

The following flight maneuvers and checks must be c onducted prior to the operational flight to verity UAV readiness. Note that the UAV must be within visual line of site during any flight maneuvers.

1) Power on the UAV and physically ARM it by holding d own the red flashing button
on the UAV. Move to a safe distance. 2) Wait at least three minutes to allow the GPS time t o establish a lock. Then, using the telemetry display, check HDOP reported by the GPS. Make sure its less than 2 which indicates good GPS coverage. 3) Additionally, check the following using the telemet ry display: a) Verify that there are no warnings on telemetry b) Verify battery voltage is sufficient for flight. 4) Using the controller, select Stabilize mode and rem otely ARM the UAV by holding the left control stick in the lower right corner. 5) Slowly start increasing the throttle, keeping the U AV on ground. Check that the propellers spin uniformly and in the correct direct ions.Page 18 of 24

6) Take off from ground and hover at 6 ft in stabilize mode. Ensure that the UAV takes
off at less than 50% throttle. If more than 50% th rottle is needed for takeoff, the UAV is overloaded and you should not attempt flight

. 7) Switch to Loiter flight mode. Ensure that the UAV stays in place for 20s. without wandering more than 8 ft. Be prepared to switch to Stabilize mode for recovery should the UAV suddenly change direction. Monitor GPS HDOP during this time to
ensure it does not rise above 2. 8) Systematically check yaw, pitch and roll capability . Move the UAV controls to check left, right, forward and back for full responsivene ss. UAV should respond uniformly to both forward/back and left/right control inputs. 9) Bring UAV back to landing. 10) Remotely disarm the UAV by holding the left control stick in the lower left position. 11) Check the telemetry to ensure no faults are found.

Upon completing a flight:
1. Remotely disarm the UAV by holding the left control stick in the lower left position until the disarmed tone is heard
2. Approach the UAV and physically disarm it by holdin g down the red button until it starts flashing.
3. If a camera is in use, power down the camera.
4. Power down the UAV
5. Switch off the transmitter

Once the preflight preparation, site checks, UAV in spection and flight test have been performed, the UAV is ready for operational flight.

XI. Operational Flight

To begin the operational flight, follow the followi ng steps:

1. Ensure that the Operational Site Check is complete.
2. Complete the UAV preflight inspection
3. Complete the UAV flight test

 Perform the UAV operational flight per flight plan.

Important: The UAV must adhere to the following requirements during operations:

 The UAV speed must stay unter 87 kts or 100 mph

 The UAV altitude must not exceed 400 ft AGL.

 Visual line of site (VLOS) to the UAV must be maint ained at all times to both the
PIC and VO.

 The PIC and VO cannot switch duties mid-flight.

 End the flight with at least 5 min of remaining bat tery life. The UAV must be at least 500 feet away from non participants

 No flights are permitted over water.Page 19 of 24

Unsafe Conditions Unsafe conditions take a variety of forms. Both th e VO and the PIC are responsible for monitoring for unsafe conditions and taking appropr iate actions.

The VO must indicate to the PIC if they have observ ed an unsafe situation. Unsafe situations observable by the VO might include:
1. The UAV is within 500 feet of non participants
2. Changes in weather (such as wind) that are beyond a cceptable limits for the UAV
3. Discovery of obstacles in the flight path (such as power lines) which were not observed and discussed prior to takeoff
4. Any UAV audible alarms or erratic UAV behavior as o bserved by the VO
5. Any UAV components become visibly loose or detached

The PIC must also constantly monitor for unsafe sit uations. Unsafe situations experienced by the PIC might include:
1. The UAV does not respond to control inputs
2. The UAV is moving in a manner inconsistent with the control inputs
3. The telemetry system has displayed warning or error messages 4. Telemetry is showing an HDOP above 2 while operatin g in a GPS-dependent flight mode
5. During Auto Mode, the UAV flies in a manner inconsi stent with the programmed flight plan.

If an unsafe condition occurs, the PIC and VO must follow the following abort procedures:
1. The PIC should immediately switch to Stabilize flig ht mode and take manual
control of the UAV.
2. The VO should maintain a safe distance from the UAV and ensure that others also
maintain a safe distance.
3. If the UAV is over a safe landing area, immediately land the UAV. Immediately disarm and power off the UAV.
4. If the UAV is not over a safe landing area, then re turn to the launch point and land
the UAV.

XII. Post Flight

Upon completion of the operational flight, the foll owing steps must be taken:

1. Inspect the UAV for any damage that my have occurre d during flight. Faults must be logged with appropriate action to be taken prior to the next flight. Maintenance issues are to be noted for appropriate follow up.
2. Note any faults that may be present in the telemetr y data. Faults must be cleared prior to the next operational flight.
3. The Pilot and/or VO must ensure that the operationa l site is left in good condition.
4. Inspect and clean the camera lens if necessary.Page 20 of 24

5. Properly stow the UAV parts and accessories.

If an unsafe condition occurred during flight, the following additional actions must be
taken:
1. All occurrences of unsafe conditions and emergency landings should be documented and reported to the Stratis main office. Date, time and location of the incident must be recorded, along with all relevant details.
2. If the UAV has behaved erratically causing an unsaf e condition while operating in a GPS-dependent mode, the PIC should cease use of G PS-dependent modes at this location and fly only in Stabilize or Altitude Hold modes.
3. If the UAV has behaved erratically causing an unsaf e condition while operating in
Stabilize or Altitude Hold modes it should be immed iately returned to the Stratis main office for analysis by Stratis engineering. All Telemetry and Data logs for the flight should b e saved for analysis by Stratis engineering.

XIII. Battery Usage & Charging

The following is the procedure for battery charging :

 It is extremely important you only use a charger sp ecifically designed for charging the Lithium Polymer cells which are used o n Stratis Imaging's UAVs. All new chargers now come with a balancing feature which is essential for both safety and battery life reasons.

 The stated operating voltage of a typical Lithium P olymer cell is from 3V to 4.2V when fully charged. Discharging cells below 3 volts will invariably cause irreversible damage and charging above 4.2V is dang erous.
 Prior to charging, the UAV battery charger should b e configured for 'LiPo' battery chemistry and the balanced charging feature should be enabled. The charger should be configured for a peak cell voltage of 4.2 V, at which point the charger
will cut off.

 The battery charger should be connected to the batt ery by both the balanced charging cable as well as the power output cable. B e sure that the correct polarity (RED = POSITIVE, BLACK = NEGATIVE) is observed when connecting battery packs to charger. The battery charge rate s hould be set to 1C. This means that a 2200mAh battery should be charged at no more than 2.2A and a 5000mAh battery should be charged at no more than 5A.

Some important points about charging UAV batteries:

 Batteries should NEVER be left unattended while cha rging.

 Be absolutely sure that the Lithium Polymer charger settings are correct for the battery pack being charged – both voltage and curre nt settings.

 Lithium Polymer must be CHARGED and STORED in a fir e-safe container such as a Lipo Sack or a Metal Container such as a milit ary ammo can.Page 21 of 24

 Do not charge batteries near flammable items or liq uids.

 Keep a dry fire extinguisher nearby or a large buck et of dry sand, which is a cheap and effective extinguisher.

 Never charge inside an automobile even when parked.

 Never try charging a pack that has been crash damag ed, you run the risk of fire! Cells that are obviously swollen or have physical d amage should never be used and careful disposal is required, especially if the cells are swollen.

 KEEP BATTERIES AWAY from children and pets at ALL t imes.

Battery storage instructions are as follows:

 UAS batteries should be stored in a sealed metal co ntainer at a temperature of
between 5oC & 27oC. If UAV batteries are to be stor ed long term they should be charged such that their voltage is between 3.8-3.85 V per cell prior to storage. This “storage voltage” is necessary to ensure long batte ry life.

 Regardless of duration of storage it is important t o take precautions against battery fires when storing or transporting Lithium Polymer (LiPo) batteries such as are used on Stratis Imaging's UAVs. It is Strati s Imaging's policy to always transport and store UAV batteries in a sturdy seale d metal container such as a military ammo can.

XIV. Transportation Instructions

The following are the UAV transportation Instructio ns:

 Prior to transport, all UAV batteries should be dis connected from the UAV and placed in a sealed metal container such as a milita ry ammo can. UAV batteries should always be transported separately from the UA V itself, and they should always be transported in a sealed metal container.

 UAV should always be transported in a protective ca se designed to protect them from damage while in transit. If the UAV is a model that has foldable outrunners, the outrunners should be folded prior to placement in the protective case. While placing the UAV in the case, care must be taken to ensure that propellers are not nicked or bent, and that the frame is not under str ess in any way during transport.

 Upon arrival at the site, the UAV should be careful ly unpacked and inspected. Extend the UAV outrunners (if supported on this mod el) and ensure that all of the motors are level with one another and that the prop ellers are firmly attached and spin easily. Extend (if supported) the landing gear and ensure that it is firmly in place. Check the flight controller for loose wiring

.  If any visible problems are found do not attempt fl ight! Contact the Stratis Imaging home office to determine next steps, which might include field repairs or return of the UAV to the home office for repair.

XV. Configuration ChangesPage 22 of 24

This document reflects the current UAV configuratio ns. If there are significant changes to the configuration of the UAV or UAV accessories that affect the safety of flight or significantly affect the UAV flight characteristics , then operations are not permitted until the UAV configuration is tested for operational wor thiness. Additionally, the pilots and visual observes must be trained on the new configur ation and the flight manual is updated to reflect these changes. Note that a significant change is defined as one that affects the described operation of the UAV per this manual or a change that affects the basic characteristics of flight that may cause an unsafe condition.

XVI. UAV Maintenance

After 20 flight hours , a more comprehensive maintenance check is require d beyond what is done post flight. The following actions mu st be conducted.

1. Conduct the following steps when the UAV is powered off and the battery
unattached.

1. Structural Check & Maintenance – Review the UAV str ucture, camera, transmitter, and all accessories for any cracks, lo ose wires, or loose components. Repair any issues that affect the UAV performance. Tighten any loose components.
2. Landing Gear – Check that the landing gear is rea dy for operational flight including checking for any wear or cracks.
3. Outrunners – Inspect each outrunner for cracks and / or structural damage. Replace any damaged outrunner components.
4. Propellers – Check that the propellers and the moto rs are installed correctly and firmly. Ensure that the propellers s pin freely. Ensure the rotation direction of each propeller is correct. I nspect the propellers for cracks or deformations such as bends, warps or miss ing chunks. If cracks or deformations are found the propellers must be re placed.
5. Propeller balance – Remove the propellers and check for balance using a propeller balancing tool. Adjust propellers for op timum balance as
needed.

6. Motors – Check the motors for debris or physical da mage. Manually spin the motors and check for smooth operation. If nois es or clicking is heard while spinning the motors then motor bearings shoul d be replaced. If the motors show cracks or other physical damage they sh ould be replaced.

7. Flight Controller – Insure the flight controller is securely mounted and that all wires leading to it are firmly connected and ha ve sufficient slack to permit the flight controller's anti-vibration mount to function.
8. GPS – Ensure that the GPS is firmly attached and th at GPS wiring is sound and connectors are firmly in place.
9. Control Radio – Ensure that the control radio is fi rmly attached and that all wiring is sound and connectors are firmly in pl ace.Page 23 of 24 10. Telemetry Radio – Ensure that the telemetry radio i s firmly attached and that all wiring is sound and connectors are firmly in place.
11. Live Video Feed Radio - Ensure that the live video feed radio is firmly attached and that all wiring is sound and connector s are firmly in place.
12. Antennae – Check that antennas are securely attache d. Physically inspect any twist-on SMA connectors to ensure they are comp letely engaged.
13. Batteries –Visually inspect the batteries for any d amage. If batteries are swollen or have crash damage they should be safely discarded.
14. UAV Camera - Check the camera and check that the ca mera mounting is secure and ready for flight. Check that the camera lens is clean.

2. Conduct the following steps when the UAV powered an d with battery attached:
1. Telemetry data checks – Ensure that telemetry data is being received and displayed. Review any telemetry data for prior fau lts. Ensure that they are cleared. Check the battery charges.
2. Transmitter – Check all transmitter control switche s to ensure proper operation. Use the telemetry display to verify tra nsmitter operations.
3. Battery – Check that batteries have correct voltage when charged.
4. Motor Test – With the propellers removed, arm the U AV and test motor spin. Observe and listen to each motor individuall y for buzzing or other signs of impending bearing failure. Replace bearin gs if any signs of bearing failure are observed.
5. Radio Fail Safe – Ensure that control radio failsaf e has been configured in accordance with the instructions on the APM Copter website: (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/configuration/thr ottle-failsafe/ ) With the propellers removed, test the Radio Failsafe operati on. Note that Stratis UAVs are configured to automatically go to Land mod e in the event of
loss of radio contact.

6. Calibrations – Using the Mission Commander software , perform the compass, accelerometer and radio calibration proced ures as described in APM Copter's “Mandatory Hardware Configuration” ins tructions (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/initial-setup/con figuring-hardware/ )

7. Compass and GPS – Check the Compass and GPS to ensu re that they are ready for operational flight. This includes checki ng the telemetry feed to
be sure that there are not indicated faults.
8. AutoTune – In a clear field setting, perform the AP M Copter AutoTune procedure as described on the Ardupilot website (http://copter.ardupilot.com/wiki/autotune/ )
9. Camera – Ensure that the camera is properly recordi ng video. Clean the
camera lens.

XVII. UAV Regulations

The instructions within this manual are compliant w ith the required FAA regulations, but additionally, the flight operations personnel are e xpected to know them as a qualificationPage 24 of 24

for operating UAVs. The regulations around UAVs c an be found at https://www.faa.gov/UAV/ . Further, demonstrated knowledge of these regulat ions are a part of the PIC and VO training plan and qualificat ions.

XVIII. Definitions

The following are definitions of terms used in this manual:

PIC – Pilot in Command
UAV – Unmanned Aerial Vehicle. Also called Aerial – Unmanned Areal System or

Drone. VLOS – Visual Line of Sight
VO – Visual Observer