Fixed Wing

A fixed wing plane using the same battery as a multi-rotor has at least double the flight time. The reason for this is that an airplane floats along on its wing. The propeller provides just enough thrust to push it forward to create lift to avoid stalling. A helicopter or multi-rotor uses thrust for lift. This uses a lot more energy. There are literally dozens of planes available for the surveying industry.

There are a few key disadvantages to airplanes compared to rotary aircraft.

• Airplanes need more room to take off and land. Airplanes cannot ascend or descend rapidly. Clearing vegetation like trees is an issue. Also, even without trees, the landing zone is much larger whether they slide, roll or parachute in for a landing.
• Takeoffs and landings are directional. They should take off and land into the wind. This is often a problem due to the environment. An urban area usually does not have the room for takeoffs, landings, ascents and descents. There are fixes to these issues. Catapult launches, parachute recoveries, stall techniques, tight spirals, plane & rotary wing combos which take off like a rotary wing then transition to horizontal flight on a wing, etc.
• Many fixed wing planes cannot be hand launched. They are often pushed to their maximum weight so as to extend their range and wind penetration. These must have an assisted launch. Smaller and lower wing loading planes can be hand launched though they can have issues operating in high winds or carrying heavy cameras.

Therefore, airplanes are usually used in more rural areas where make shift runways are available.

A common mapping plane is the eBee which uses a point and shoot camera. It is small and light weight. It costs tens of thousands of dollars. It is very refined and has logged many hours of surveying. It is hand launched. Wingspan is under 4’. Weight is under 3 lbs.

The RF-70 is another common surveying plane. It weighs about 10 lbs., is bungee launched, and can carry multiple sensors.

While the more traditional looking aircraft with the propeller in the front is more efficient, a rear facing motor is quite common. Having the motor in the rear decreases the chance of damage to the propeller and motor during normal and hard landings.

Most do not use a landing gear. Landing gear are easily damaged in unimproved landing zones. They also add drag and weight which reduces efficiency. Most aircraft belly land.

Some aircraft use parachutes for landing. Problems with parachutes:

• Drift in the wind. Can land on a rock or tree stump which will cause damage.
• Must replace the parachute often due to wear
• Must pack the parachute carefully to deploy properly
• Extra weight
• Extra complexity to open the hatch
• Can get caught in a powerline or top of a tree

Advantage is that if there is a mechanical failure of the aircraft such as loss of power, or a wing breaks off the parachute can be deployed to lessen the impact. If it lands on a car or other personal property, damage will be less.