DJI has recently launched the Matrice 4 Series of enterprise drones, which incorporate advanced AI capabilities, enhanced sensors, and a range of features intended to improve aerial operations in various sectors such as public safety, construction, and infrastructure inspection. This unveiling comes amidst ongoing scrutiny from the U.S. government regarding the use of drones manufactured in China.
The Matrice 4 Series features two models: the Matrice 4T and the Matrice 4E. Each model is equipped with state-of-the-art sensors designed for precision mapping and detailed inspections, operational both day and night. The Matrice 4 Series includes a medium telephoto camera with a 70mm lens that can identify small features from as close as 10 metres, as well as a long-range 168mm telephoto camera capable of capturing intricate details from a distance of 250 metres.
Among these advancements, the Matrice 4T comes with an infrared thermal camera that supports high-resolution imaging for specialised applications such as energy monitoring and search and rescue. The Matrice 4E is tailored for high-speed aerial mapping, featuring a 24mm wide-angle lens equipped with a mechanical shutter designed for quick snapshot intervals, facilitating efficient workflow for surveying and mapping needs.
Notably, the new series is tailored for enhanced public safety operations. Search and rescue missions may benefit particularly from the improved detection capabilities, which allow the drone to identify vehicles and vessels in challenging terrains. The drones can work alongside the DJI Pilot 2 app, which enables operators to efficiently map previously searched areas, ensuring thorough coverage during missions.
Christina Zhang, Senior Director of Corporate Strategy at DJI, spoke about the series' potential to revolutionise emergency response, asserting, “With the Matrice 4 Series, DJI is ushering in a new era of intelligent aerial operations. In equipping our industry-leading enterprise drones with AI, search and rescue teams can save lives faster.”
Furthermore, the Matrice 4 Series is adept at navigating low-light conditions, featuring an improved night mode alongside larger apertures ensuring superior visibility during aerial operations after dark. The drones are also equipped with six high-definition low-light fisheye lenses that enhance obstacle detection and navigation safety in urban environments.
The series introduces an array of accessories with multifunctional benefits. The DJI AL1 Spotlight can illuminate areas up to 100 metres, serving critical roles in nocturnal operations, while the AS1 Speaker can broadcast audio across a 300-metre radius, making it a key tool for public announcements or crowd control. The D-RTK 3 Multifunctional Station supports pinpoint positioning accuracy and extends imaging capabilities in remote locations.
In terms of safeguarding user privacy, DJI has implemented measures giving operators control over their data. Users must actively opt in to share media, and U.S.-based users are restricted from syncing flight logs with DJI servers. For sensitive operations, the Local Data Mode disconnects from the internet to prevent unintended data uploads.
The Matrice 4 Series is also outfitted with advanced safety features, including a self-developed RTK module providing enhanced flight control and obstacle detection, which helps minimise operational risks. This includes emergency features enabling the drones to assume flight within 15 seconds and even update return-to-home points via visual positioning without GNSS signals.
DJI offers comprehensive protection plans with coverage options such as free repairs, Flyaway Coverage, and access to technical support for the Matrice 4 Series.
The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4E drones are now available through authorised DJI Enterprise dealers, with the company providing further information on their official website.
Source: Noah Wire Services