November 29, 2021
Ideas Taking Flight with Drones
at Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, North Carolina (November 29, 2021) — Introducing Develop Air to Elizabeth City State University, iVue Robotics delivered ECSU’s first of three Develop Air drones this past Monday, November the 22nd.
1704 Weeksville Rd, Elizabeth City, NC 27909
admissions@ecsu.edu | (252) 335 - 3400
info@ivuerobotics.com | (470) 239 - 3242
With this and the additional two Develop Air drones arriving in Spring 2022, ECSU students in UAS 250: Sensors and Payloads will be creating and modifying payloads for Develop Air. Thanks to its quick-release payload rail, it can carry up to three pounds.
As the semester closes, Professor Elton Stone is preparing students to use drones beyond photography and videography — encouraging projects in deliveries, networking, and more.
ECSU aviation students and Professor Elton Stone watch Jacob install propellers on ECSU’s new Develop Air.
ECSU aviation students observe Develop Air’s autonomous mission while Jacob monitors flight data.
Professor Stone shared, “In addition to GPS and autonomous flight, Develop Air helps students learn repair, building, and modification — skills that make them employable as drone technicians and developers.”
Student Jonathan Huber said, “I am looking forward to building payloads in class so we can take flight with them using Develop Air.” Students will 3D print parts such as side plates for sensors, FPV cameras, and power connectors.
iVue Robotics Founder, Jacob Andrews, presenting Develop Air projects including a flying fish feeder and flamethrower.
Develop Air will also teach drone repair. Students can swap damaged parts, 3D print replacements, or purchase parts online. Crash repairs, like landing gear, are part of the training.
Jacob Andrews added, “I am excited to see what these students create. While only a small developer community exists now, programs like this will build the foundation for the future of drones.”
ECSU and iVue Robotics are working to expand Develop Air into NC high schools, preparing students for drone careers. Payload creation challenges will begin in the 2022–2023 school year to inspire innovation and commercialization.
ECSU aviation students, Professor Elton Stone, and Jacob Andrews pose with Develop Air in ECSU’s UAS lab.