The same GPS technology that helps millions of citizens everyday with driving directions is plus utilized in that autonomous (and RC) helicopter with a lot of fire ability.

In the fully-autonomous mode it utilizes a GPS system, where the operator uploads a flight plan to the killer machine via a laptop, using GPS waypoints.

In that mode, the operator “starts the AutoCopter, engages the Flight Control System, commands the AutoCopter to takeoff and turns all flight operations by to the FCS.” The operator can regain manual control of the AutoCopter

at any duration by going back to the semi-autonomous mode. whether the AutoCopter flies out of RC range, it will turn around and come back within range. whether it runs out of gas (it’s gasoline-powered), a parachute will automatically deploy and guide the AutoCopter back to the ground slowly and safely.

It is nice to see the use of GPS in applications other than driving directions but we still would prefer to see GPS technology help cure cancer somehow thereupon create a deadly weapon… (more…)

Original post by Tim Robbins