In April 2019, European drone maker Parrot launched ANAFI Thermal – a drone capable of capturing both live and recorded 4K HD video and thermal imaging of surfaces, structures and potentially dangerous areas for professional uses.
Relying on Parrot’s proven ANAFI drone platform, it comes equipped with a 4K HDR camera with a 21-megapixel Sony sensor, as well as a FLIR radiometric thermal-imaging camera, complete with 160×120 resolution and a temperature range of 14°F to 752°F (-10°C to 400°C). ANAFI Thermal’s gimbal can tilt vertically 90° upward or downward, giving professionals an “unprecedented field of view.” There is also a 3X digital zoom to allow pilots to examine hard-to-access areas without taking unnecessary risks. The drone’s visible and thermal light spectrum cameras are stabilized on three axes, allowing for sharp videos and clear pictures in any flight conditions. ANAFI Thermal is also ultra-compact while its folding design makes it easy to carry around.
The ANAFI Thermal is designed to profoundly revolutionize the way individuals in a wide variety of industries and trades operate, offering professionals a solution that adapts to their required needs. From rescue service providers and experts in civil security to public works professionals, energy providers and environmental preservation organizations, the ANAFI Thermal offers a robust mix of features, performance and software capabilities to meet the growing needs of a wide variety of professionals who can utilize drones to improve their operations and minimize risk.
The Parrot Skycontroller 3 remote control also provides a reliable Wi-Fi connection for over one mile, meaning operators can use the drone while maintaining a safe distance from at-risk or difficult-to-access areas. Images from the visible and invisible light spectrum can be viewed, analyzed and even merged with Parrot’s FreeFlight 6 app.
Additional performance features include:
- A 78-minute cumulative flight time (three batteries lasting 26 minutes each per charge)
- The ability to reach a top speed of 34 mph.
- Capabilities to withstand wind speeds of up to 31 mph, allowing the drone to operate in volatile conditions and environments.
- All-in-one packaging – giving users everything they need to get started right out of the box.
At the time of the announcement, Parrot’s ANAFI Thermal was selling for $1,900. Meaning, the price could be lower these days — yet, you can still get a capable drone that could be used by firefighters, the police force and other city services.
Takeaway
What makes it special is the ability to view thermal and RGB images of surfaces, structures, and at-risk areas as Anafi Thermal flies over or under them. These images are recorded by a Flir sensor (with a 160 x 120 resolution) which can measure heat between 14 and 752 degrees Fahrenheit (-10°C to 400°C). Drone pilots can measure the temperature of a specific part of an image, change color palettes, and more from Parrot's companion app.
Action point
Savvy cities have started embracing drones, using them for maintenance inspections and to assist in natural disaster zones, as well as for local government agencies like fire departments. Even the high-end drones like the Parrot Anafi Thermal won't break a bank for any city, yet their use could literally save lives, prevent damage and make for a better response to natural disasters, fires and more. In that sense, public officials could procure one of these as a tool that keeps their constituents safer.
Parrot has a relatively big distribution network but that doesn't mean you shouldn't contact them and explore ways of co-operation. If you can sell the Anafi Thermal to the municipalities your company serves, chances are they will listen. And you can get your cut of the sale. Mind you, this isn't only a fancy gadget, but a high-tech tool that could literally save lives — which, consequently, should be your pitch to local officials. You are selling them the solution that will help protect their constituents. That's something they will be able to sell, as well.