The Draganflyer is the coolest way to take photographs

August 31st, 2008

This malevolent-looking contraption is the Draganflyer X6, and just the thing you need for scaring the kids next door and poking your nose where it’s generally not wanted — or you could just use it as an aerial camera platform for taking photographs that you’d have to hire construction crane to take any other way.

This X6 is a remotely-controlled device designed to carry wireless still and video cameras. It uses three double rotors for lift and the central hub features a vibration absorbing chassis for securing the camera of your choice. Because of the double rotor system the X6 can even stay airborne if one of the rotors loses power.

It can move in all directions and can be instructed to hold a GPS position even in a light wind.

Here are some of the specs:

Weight & Payload
- Helicopter Weight: 1,000g (35oz)
- Payload Capability: 500g (18oz)
- Maximum Gross Take-Off Weight: 1,500g (53oz)
Flight Characteristics:
- Climb Rate: 7m/s (23ft/s)
- Descent Rate: 4m/s (13ft/s)
- Turn Rate: 90°/second
- Cruise Speed: 10km/h (6mph)
- Maximum Speed: 50km/h (30mph)
- Minimum Speed: 0km/h (0mph)
- Launch Type: VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing)
- Maximum Altitude: 640m (2,100ft)
- Maximum Flight Time: 25 minutes
- Sound at 1m (3.28ft): 65dB
- Sound at 3m (9.84ft): 60dB

Even more amazing is that the whole mechanism despite being a meter across when assembled, can be folded into a 5.5 inch diameter tube when in transit.

Here are some photographs: