FLIR Systems is collaborating with with drone manufacturer DJI Innovations and will release their first joint product, the DJI Zenmuse XT stabilized camera. The unit will feature FLIR’s thermal imaging technology for DJI’s Inspire 1 and Matrice aerial platforms.
Using FLIR thermal imaging on small drones brings new capabilities to dozens of commercial applications, including search and rescue, firefighting, agriculture, wildlife protection and the inspection of energy infrastructure, bridges and buildings.
Combining DJI’s Zenmuse stabilized micro-gimbal technology with FLIR’s Tau 2 thermal imaging camera core, developers say the Zenmuse XT will expand the possibilities for commercial drone operators and infrastructure inspectors, according to FLIR.
“FLIR and DJI today support many of the same commercial applications,” said Andy Teich, president and CEO of FLIR. “FLIR is thrilled to work with DJI to deliver these customers a plug-and-play thermal imaging solution for DJI’s established ecosystem of unmanned aircraft and related apps while expanding our collective opportunities in the rapidly-growing commercial drone market.”
The addition of thermal imaging provides users the ability to see in complete darkness, measure temperature remotely and see through obscurants like smoke, dust and light fog. Its integration with DJI’s Lightbridge live video downlink system and the DJI GO app will also give drone operators real-time control and recording during flight.
“DJI’s collaboration with FLIR in thermal imaging signals our intent to innovate in sectors where technology can be a game-changer,” said DJI CEO Frank Wang. “The result will be joint, best-in-class solutions that are intuitive and easy to use.”
Zenmuse XT will be available in early 2016 at both DJI and FLIR dealers.♦
