Autonomous Development Drone Platform
The Autonomous Development Drone Platform is a cutting-edge UAV solution designed for AI-driven autonomy, precision navigation, and industrial applications. Featuring the Holybro X500 V2 frame and the AirVolute DCS-1 DroneCore Suite, this platform provides a versatile and robust foundation for research and development.
The DroneCore Suite offers advanced autopilot capabilities powered by NVIDIA Jetson Xavier NX or Orin NX, along with integrated FOC-based ESCs.
Key Benefits:
✅ Ideal for Developers, Researchers, and Defense Applications
✅ Supports GPS-Denied Environments with Advanced Perception
✅ Modular, Expandable, and Ready for Custom Sensor Payloads
✅ Includes Blue UAS components
Key Features & Components
1. Holybro X500 V2 Drone Frame
- High-Performance Carbon Fiber Airframe: Lightweight and durable, ensuring strength and agility
- Easy Assembly: Pre-cut frame with tool-less motor mounts for quick setup
- Large Payload Capacity: Supports multiple cameras, LiDAR, or custom payloads
- PX4 & Ardupilot Ready: Fully compatible with open-source flight stacks
2. AirVolute DCS-1 Autonomy Module
- Next-Gen AI Navigation & Autonomy System: Built for real-time AI processing
- Vision-Based Navigation: Operates efficiently in GPS-denied environments
- Obstacle Avoidance: Utilizes advanced SLAM and sensor fusion for precise navigation
- Edge AI Integration: Supports deep learning and computer vision applications
- 5G/4G Connectivity: Enables real-time cloud-based operations
Platform Specifications
Core Components
- SSD Storage: 1TB
- Processor: Jetson Orin NX (16GB)
- Onboard Power Board
The DroneCore Suite represents a generational shift in UAV technology with fully integrated Cube & Jetson, open architecture, and faster, smarter, more resilient UAS development.
Additional Features
- Autonomous Flight Planning: AI-powered route optimization for real-time decision-making
- Multi-Sensor Compatibility: Supports LiDAR, thermal cameras, and hyperspectral imaging
- Edge Computing Capabilities: Perform AI inference onboard without cloud reliance
- Customizable Payload Integration: Modular design allows for easy upgrades
Use Cases
📌 Defense & Surveillance: Autonomous patrolling and real-time monitoring
📌 AI & Robotics Research: UAV-based AI model testing
📌 Industrial Inspection: Smart infrastructure monitoring
📌 Smart Agriculture: AI-driven crop analysis
📌 Disaster Response: Search and rescue operations in complex environments
LightWare LiDAR Selection Guide
When selecting a LightWare LiDAR for your Holybro X500 V2 + AirVolute DCS-1, consider range, weight, and interface compatibility.
Best LightWare LiDAR Options for X500 V2 + DCS-1
| Model | Best For | Range | Weight | Interface | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SF20/C | Obstacle Avoidance, Collision Prevention | 100m | 35g | UART, I2C | Lightweight, fast refresh rate |
| SF11/C | Terrain Following, Precision Altitude Hold | 120m | 100g | Serial, I2C | Ideal for low-altitude UAVs |
| SF45/B | 2D Obstacle Detection, Mapping | 50m (Scanning) | 59g | UART, CAN | Mini-scanning LiDAR for drone autonomy |
| LW20/C | Long-Range Terrain Following, AGL Measurement | 100m | 90g | Serial, I2C | IP67-rated, weatherproof |
| SF30/D | High-Speed Obstacle Avoidance, Mapping | 200m | 120g | Serial | High-speed data output (20K readings/sec) |
| SF000/B | Indoor Navigation, Small UAVs | 50m | 8.8g | I2C, UART | Smallest LiDAR sensor for UAVs |
Recommended Setup for Different Use Cases
Basic Autonomy & Obstacle Avoidance:
✔ SF20/C – Small, lightweight, ideal for drones
✔ SF45/B – Scanning LiDAR for peripheral awareness
Precision Altitude Hold / Terrain Following:
✔ SF11/C – Long-range AGL measurement
✔ LW20/C – Reliable, IP67-rated for outdoor use
Advanced AI-Based Mapping / Obstacle Detection:
✔ SF30/D – High-speed, long-range detection
