When I saw the name of Cleo Robotics**’** new drone, I couldn’t help but think two things: 1-What is a dronut? and 2-Boy, would Homer Simpson be confused! I soon discovered that the Dronut X1 is a drone shaped like a donut (get it…drone + donut = Dronut!). So clever. I can really appreciate their wit! Anyway, let me tell you about the safest drone ever.
This drone is the smallest in its category of drones (it can fit in the palm of your hand) and looks nothing like your typical drone. Cleo Robotics created this as a bi-rotor ducted drone and included 3D light detection and ranging (LiDAR; beams of light that hit an object or a surface and reflect back to the laser scanner to create a 3D picture of its environment), a 4K camera, and a global shutter camera for precise positioning. They also added advanced algorithms, and LED headlights, making the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) reliable in GPS-denied areas. With terrific autonomous capabilities, the Dronut X1 can accurately detect and avoid obstacles. This little guy can safely fly near people, animals, and highly sensitive equipment if you need it to, making it the safest drone ever. One more thing…the drone’s sensors allow it to be used in spaces with low light or with no light at all.
Designed and made in the US, the X1 was created with the goal of eliminating the need for individuals to enter dangerous and hard-to-reach environments. The rechargeable battery has a run time of 12 minutes and fully recharges in 40 minutes. Additionally, the X1 has a range of (0.6 miles (1-kilometer) depending on the environment. Believe it or not, the company says it can be controlled using an Android phone with little to no training.
So, what’s the catch? Well, if you’re looking for a drone that is budget-friendly, I wouldn’t put this one in that category. The Dronut X1 costs $9,800 and can be can only be ordered on Cleo Robotics website. Also, it is available commercially for law enforcement, industrial inspection, construction, and defense industries. I don’t know about you, but I don’t see the X1 in my family’s future and I’m certain that, while Homer Simpson would love the idea of a dronut, he may not go running to the computer to purchase one either. Maybe if (or when?) the price tag is slashed, but not before. Until then, if you’d like to see the Dronut X1 in action, there’s a YouTube video that allows you to learn more.
