Editorial: Drones, Coming to Your Neighborhood Soon
By Ed DownsMore and more, those of us in contemporary aviation, especially GA pilots, are likely to encounter drones. The passage of FAR 107 last year formalized the registration, pilot certification standards, and operational parameters of drones, eliminating the complex exemption process that had been in place. This has caused a near explosion in the use of these devices for what most would consider “commercial operations.” While hobbyists with model airplanes may still enjoy their passion without becoming involved in the federal bureaucracy, those using drones for any form of business or commercial operations (which are very broadly defined under FAR 107) must be certificated and follow strict rules of flight.
Having acquired my own FAA UAS Certificate last year and teaching two UAS pilot classes (one for a municipal utility provider), it is becoming apparent that what we generically refer to as “drones” are entering the mainstream of legitimate aviation. At this point, let me be technically correct. While the term “drone” tends to refer to all machines that fly or hover without a pilot onboard, the true term that should be used is UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) or UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). “System” implies a pilot is constantly involved per FAR 107, while “vehicle” implies autonomous operation. For the sake of this editorial view, let’s just call them “drones.”
This writer initially intended to look at the negative side of drone operations, wishing to inform our GA side of aviation as to what is going on and how to avoid problems. However, a recent visit to the new home office of my electric service provider, Central (Central Electrical Cooperative) changed the original plan. While chatting with Customer Service, I asked if Central planned to implement drone operations. To the surprise of this writer, it was discovered that Central is already using drones and planning to expand operations. The discussion soon led to an invitation to meet with David Swank, CEO of Central and Todd Hiemer, PE, Executive VP of Engineering. This appeared to be an excellent opportunity to obtain a real-world look at how drones are being used by non-aviation related companies that may have limited knowledge of the National Airspace System. In other words, how is the integration of drone technology into the NAS really going?Central Headquarters are in Stillwater, Okla. Stillwater is a small college town by most standards, with a population of about 40,000. But that count can nearly double when Oklahoma State University (Go Cowboys!) cranks up. Some communities served by Central have a population of under 400, meaning that this utility service is vital to rural Oklahomans. Founded in 1938, started as a private corporation to serve 141 farms, today, Central has grown to provide electrical service to more than 20,000 meters with more than 4,000 miles of electrical line. The service area covers approximately 2,000 square miles and includes parts of seven counties.Central has assets exceeding $200 million and employs approximately 90 people. Every member of Central Electric Cooperative is an owner of this business. Central is literally owned by those they serve. The cooperative model has been adapted throughout history to meet challenges within society. The USDA has defined this cooperative as “a user-owned, user-controlled business that distributes benefits on the basis of use.” A core principle of cooperatives is cooperating and collaborating with those who share common needs and a vision for meeting those needs. Cooperatives provide a community platform, enable new and joint investments, and create a networked community. Coops of diverse types are common in rural America and typically far more responsive than political bureaucracies run by political appointees… maybe something Washington DC should consider?Our meeting took place at the new headquarters of Central Electronics, a well-designed and especially attractive building with beautiful grounds. Having visited their old building, both customers and employees appreciate the improvement. When combined with supporting out-structures, this is a world-class facility. With CEO David Swank, VP of Business Development Hunter Robinson, and Executive VP of Engineering Todd Hiemer in attendance, it was clear I was talking with leaders in the power generation community that are both qualified and intent on providing the best energy services available. Mr. Swank initiated the conversation by stating the mission of Central, “Central has a vision of embracing change and capturing technology to remain relevant and responsive to our members as we strive to be the best energy provider in the country by creating the “Next Generation Utility.”The next hour or so would prove that they take that statement seriously. As our conversation continued, it was clear that these gentlemen have a clear understanding of what FAR 107 entails. All current drone missions are manned in accordance to the rules but include detailed monitoring from a mission Control Center, which this writer explored later. Mr. Swank continued, “We have unique challenges in a rural area. In a big city, there may be up to 30 homes, or users, within each mile of service, but in the country that may be down to just three to seven homes. This makes it particularly difficult to isolate problems. Additionally, many of our lines and towers are difficult to reach, with limited ground access. Service trucks can drive in, but heavy rains or snow can greatly impede a fast response. Even routine inspections present problems and can place crews in situations that challenge our strict safety standards. Drones are the answer to many of these challenges.”When asked about the actual management process involved when executing a drone mission, we took a trip to the downstairs Central Control Center, located in a tornado- safe structure. Frankly, it first struck this writer as if the Center was designed to be on a motion picture set. Large and comfortable, one entire wall was lined with huge viewing screens, upon which the entire grid could be displayed along with detailed information about every component on that grid. Drone operation can be monitored from this location, with Central Command seeing everything the drone and/or remote cameras mounted on ground equipment or towers can see. Every drone flight is fully monitored from this facility. But that is only the beginning. A short walk took us to a building with the title “Smart Energy Source” over the door. Here I must become critical, as the title over the door should read “Super Cool Energy Source.” This writer has not had so much fun playing with technology since a visit to NASA’s Mars Orion Spacecraft two years ago.Central’s drone tools make a new Cirrus 22 look antiquated! In front of this facility was Central’s fast response system, consisting of a fully decked out utility truck, massive trailer, and a fully enclosed side-by-side ATV that is nothing short of an all-terrain aircraft carrier. The ATV is equipped with both direct and satellite communication capabilities, enabling its high-mounted HD video camera to be fully controlled by the Command Center. The deck is equipped with drone-charging systems and drone controls. All drone images can be relayed through the ATV electronics to the Command Center. The drone operator can keep “eyes on” at all times and move as required to make sure visual contact is maintained. With FWD and a wench, this little machine can dig itself out of almost any hole it manages to get into. Control and monitoring of the drone is possible from insider the ATV Cab. Most cool is the name on the side, “Outage Responder,” surrounded by wild weather graphics that include tornadoes and lightning. I HAVE GOT TO GET ME ONE OF THEM! Step inside and one is invited into the “drone hangar.” I counted nine different drones sitting on a workbench, each being evaluated for function and usability in Oklahoma’s harsh weather conditions. One drone, small and quite portable, employs sensors like those now being used on auto-drive automobiles, allowing it to judge distance within an inch. This drone can be programed to follow a single powerline, or inspect a particular part of a tower structure. Outside the “hangar” was a large steel box with a complex antenna array protruding from one side, emblazoned with the logo “Air Solutions Center.” With the push of a button, the top of the container slides back to expose a drone inside the box. As motors continue to whir, the platform being occupied by the drone rises to the top of the box, positioning the drone for launch.The Air Solutions Center is intended to be placed in a variety of key locations, to be controlled by the Central Command Center. The Command Center can program a mission into the drone, which can then be launched remotely, with the drone automatically returning to its “regeneration” box for charging and receipt of the next command. Such operations will require an exemption from current FAR 107 restrictions, but it certainly looks as though Central has the tools in place to obtain such an exemption. Obviously, Central takes their mission statement seriously, especially the part that goes “embracing change and capturing technology.”As our discussion continued, it was clear that Central takes community responsibly to heart. Central has joined Oklahoma State University in studies to make sure their technologies fit in with existing operations in the National Airspace System. Plans are being developed to keep customers informed about drone operations that might be taking place in their region, with drones clearly lighted for easy identification. Given the rural nature of this writer’s ranch, I can even see programs wherein Central customers might become an integral part of observing drones and insuring that safety is maintained. Frankly, this writer was expecting to see a drone operation that is well intended but underinformed. That is certainly not the case with Central. To be sure, contemporary aviation training of key personnel could enhance airspace integration, but the technical skills and positive attitudes I saw would be welcome in any professional flight operation. Yep, this “old dog” did learn some new tricks, and the need to come up with a new Christmas “wish list.”
Having acquired my own FAA UAS Certificate last year and teaching two UAS pilot classes (one for a municipal utility provider), it is becoming apparent that what we generically refer to as “drones” are entering the mainstream of legitimate aviation. At this point, let me be technically correct. While the term “drone” tends to refer to all machines that fly or hover without a pilot onboard, the true term that should be used is UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) or UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). “System” implies a pilot is constantly involved per FAR 107, while “vehicle” implies autonomous operation. For the sake of this editorial view, let’s just call them “drones.”This writer initially intended to look at the negative side of drone operations, wishing to inform our GA side of aviation as to what is going on and how to avoid problems. However, a recent visit to the new home office of my electric service provider, Central (Central Electrical Cooperative) changed the original plan. While chatting with Customer Service, I asked if Central planned to implement drone operations. To the surprise of this writer, it was discovered that Central is already using drones and planning to expand operations. The discussion soon led to an invitation to meet with David Swank, CEO of Central and Todd Hiemer, PE, Executive VP of Engineering. This appeared to be an excellent opportunity to obtain a real-world look at how drones are being used by non-aviation related companies that may have limited knowledge of the National Airspace System. In other words, how is the integration of drone technology into the NAS really going?Central Headquarters are in Stillwater, Okla. Stillwater is a small college town by most standards, with a population of about 40,000. But that count can nearly double when Oklahoma State University (Go Cowboys!) cranks up. Some communities served by Central have a population of under 400, meaning that this utility service is vital to rural Oklahomans. Founded in 1938, started as a private corporation to serve 141 farms, today, Central has grown to provide electrical service to more than 20,000 meters with more than 4,000 miles of electrical line. The service area covers approximately 2,000 square miles and includes parts of seven counties.Central has assets exceeding $200 million and employs approximately 90 people. Every member of Central Electric Cooperative is an owner of this business. Central is literally owned by those they serve. The cooperative model has been adapted throughout history to meet challenges within society. The USDA has defined this cooperative as “a user-owned, user-controlled business that distributes benefits on the basis of use.” A core principle of cooperatives is cooperating and collaborating with those who share common needs and a vision for meeting those needs. Cooperatives provide a community platform, enable new and joint investments, and create a networked community. Coops of diverse types are common in rural America and typically far more responsive than political bureaucracies run by political appointees… maybe something Washington DC should consider?Our meeting took place at the new headquarters of Central Electronics, a well-designed and especially attractive building with beautiful grounds. Having visited their old building, both customers and employees appreciate the improvement. When combined with supporting out-structures, this is a world-class facility. With CEO David Swank, VP of Business Development Hunter Robinson, and Executive VP of Engineering Todd Hiemer in attendance, it was clear I was talking with leaders in the power generation community that are both qualified and intent on providing the best energy services available. Mr. Swank initiated the conversation by stating the mission of Central, “Central has a vision of embracing change and capturing technology to remain relevant and responsive to our members as we strive to be the best energy provider in the country by creating the “Next Generation Utility.”The next hour or so would prove that they take that statement seriously. As our conversation continued, it was clear that these gentlemen have a clear understanding of what FAR 107 entails. All current drone missions are manned in accordance to the rules but include detailed monitoring from a mission Control Center, which this writer explored later. Mr. Swank continued, “We have unique challenges in a rural area. In a big city, there may be up to 30 homes, or users, within each mile of service, but in the country that may be down to just three to seven homes. This makes it particularly difficult to isolate problems. Additionally, many of our lines and towers are difficult to reach, with limited ground access. Service trucks can drive in, but heavy rains or snow can greatly impede a fast response. Even routine inspections present problems and can place crews in situations that challenge our strict safety standards. Drones are the answer to many of these challenges.”When asked about the actual management process involved when executing a drone mission, we took a trip to the downstairs Central Control Center, located in a tornado- safe structure. Frankly, it first struck this writer as if the Center was designed to be on a motion picture set. Large and comfortable, one entire wall was lined with huge viewing screens, upon which the entire grid could be displayed along with detailed information about every component on that grid. Drone operation can be monitored from this location, with Central Command seeing everything the drone and/or remote cameras mounted on ground equipment or towers can see. Every drone flight is fully monitored from this facility. But that is only the beginning. A short walk took us to a building with the title “Smart Energy Source” over the door. Here I must become critical, as the title over the door should read “Super Cool Energy Source.” This writer has not had so much fun playing with technology since a visit to NASA’s Mars Orion Spacecraft two years ago.Central’s drone tools make a new Cirrus 22 look antiquated! In front of this facility was Central’s fast response system, consisting of a fully decked out utility truck, massive trailer, and a fully enclosed side-by-side ATV that is nothing short of an all-terrain aircraft carrier. The ATV is equipped with both direct and satellite communication capabilities, enabling its high-mounted HD video camera to be fully controlled by the Command Center. The deck is equipped with drone-charging systems and drone controls. All drone images can be relayed through the ATV electronics to the Command Center. The drone operator can keep “eyes on” at all times and move as required to make sure visual contact is maintained. With FWD and a wench, this little machine can dig itself out of almost any hole it manages to get into. Control and monitoring of the drone is possible from insider the ATV Cab. Most cool is the name on the side, “Outage Responder,” surrounded by wild weather graphics that include tornadoes and lightning. I HAVE GOT TO GET ME ONE OF THEM! Step inside and one is invited into the “drone hangar.” I counted nine different drones sitting on a workbench, each being evaluated for function and usability in Oklahoma’s harsh weather conditions. One drone, small and quite portable, employs sensors like those now being used on auto-drive automobiles, allowing it to judge distance within an inch. This drone can be programed to follow a single powerline, or inspect a particular part of a tower structure. Outside the “hangar” was a large steel box with a complex antenna array protruding from one side, emblazoned with the logo “Air Solutions Center.” With the push of a button, the top of the container slides back to expose a drone inside the box. As motors continue to whir, the platform being occupied by the drone rises to the top of the box, positioning the drone for launch.The Air Solutions Center is intended to be placed in a variety of key locations, to be controlled by the Central Command Center. The Command Center can program a mission into the drone, which can then be launched remotely, with the drone automatically returning to its “regeneration” box for charging and receipt of the next command. Such operations will require an exemption from current FAR 107 restrictions, but it certainly looks as though Central has the tools in place to obtain such an exemption. Obviously, Central takes their mission statement seriously, especially the part that goes “embracing change and capturing technology.”As our discussion continued, it was clear that Central takes community responsibly to heart. Central has joined Oklahoma State University in studies to make sure their technologies fit in with existing operations in the National Airspace System. Plans are being developed to keep customers informed about drone operations that might be taking place in their region, with drones clearly lighted for easy identification. Given the rural nature of this writer’s ranch, I can even see programs wherein Central customers might become an integral part of observing drones and insuring that safety is maintained. Frankly, this writer was expecting to see a drone operation that is well intended but underinformed. That is certainly not the case with Central. To be sure, contemporary aviation training of key personnel could enhance airspace integration, but the technical skills and positive attitudes I saw would be welcome in any professional flight operation. Yep, this “old dog” did learn some new tricks, and the need to come up with a new Christmas “wish list.” 