5th VIPC Drone Responders Conference held at Virginia Busch Gardens

 

From the Floor of the National Public Safety UAS Conference

The National Public Safety Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Conference was held at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, March 12-13.  This annual event is hosted by DRONERESPONDERS, a non-profit created to unite aerial first responders, emergency managers, and search and rescue specialists so they can learn from one another and facilitate drone operations for public safety.

• Drone Technology in Public Safety: Trends and Life-Saving Applications 

At the Drone Responders Public Safety UAS Conference, Dawn Zoldi Founder and CEO at P3 Tech Consulting LLC, and Vern Sallee Axon Air Drone Strategist and former Chula Vista Police Department Captain and UAS Program Manager (ret.)   discuss the latest trends and applications of drone technology in public safety. With the sponsorship of Axon, the event showcases how drones can serve as first responders, providing real-time situational awareness and critical support to emergency services. A notable example of drone-assisted rescue was presented, where a vehicle fire victim was rescued in less than four minutes, just in time to avoid an explosion. The key points of the discussion revolve around the growing interest in Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs, the importance of networked solutions, and the advancements in autonomous capabilities. Additionally, the conversation highlights the growth of the conference, which attracted over 600 attendees and 60 exhibitors, emphasizing the value of collaboration and information exchange in this rapidly evolving field.

• Matrixspace's Compact Radar for Public Safety and Aviation 
• Matrixspace showcases a compact radar system, small as a paperback book, which can detect small planes, helicopters, drones, and ground objects up to 2.12 km away. This technology can replace human visual observers in airspace deconfliction, offering significant manpower reduction. The company also supports the upcoming law Tech connect workshop at auvsi exponential and has integrated with True Weather Solutions for weather-related concerns in public safety. To learn more, visit Matrixspace.com or contact Dan Oasa directly at daniel.oasa@matrixspace.com or 781-797-0511.  
• NIST, FAA, and Influential Drones' Emphasis on Training and Certification 
•  Dave Krauss from Influential Drones, representing National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), FAA Safety Team, and his own company, highlights the importance of standardized test methods for defining proficiency in the drone industry. Industry members must qualify equipment and each other using universal methods to move forward and enhance safety. Krauss can be reached through the Influential Drones website or at 856-281-7545 for further assistance in advancing the drone industry.  
• True Weather Solutions – Providing Digital Weather Data for DFR Programs 
•  True Weather Solutions, led by CEO Don Breece, aims to bundle affordable weather sensors with other necessary sensors for drone programs, creating a unified project and acquisition for ecosystem support. They emphasize the importance of having a weather plan in place for emergency response situations to avoid contributing to existing chaos. True Weather Solutions can assist in providing decision support and data to minimize weather-related challenges in public safety operations.

Public safety professionals share knowledge and experience at Droneresponders Conference in Virginia

News provided by EIN Presswire Mar 28, 2024, 1:00 PM ET

kxan.com

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Supported by VIPC, the event showcases advancements and strategies for lifesaving missions using drone technology

Through collaboration and innovation, we are leveraging drones and other unmanned systems to redefine the boundaries of emergency preparedness and response.”

— Chris Sadler, Director, Virginia Public Safety Innovation Center at VIPC

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA, UNITED STATES, March 28, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Public Safety Innovation Center (PSIC) and the Virginia Unmanned Systems Center at the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC) provided support for the Droneresponders National Public Safety UAS Conference. Taking place recently at Busch Gardens amusement park in Williamsburg, Virginia, the event was a gathering of first responders from around the nation who are utilizing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), also known as drones, to enhance their lifesaving missions.

“This conference serves as a vital platform for first responders to stay ahead of the curve with drone technology,” said Chief Charles Werner, the fire chief emeritus of the Charlottesville, Virginia, Fire Department and director and co-founder of the Droneresponders Public Safety Alliance. “We equip them with essential knowledge for advancing public safety UAS, including developing effective planning processes, identifying gaps and leveraging opportunities.”

Over 600 professional first responders and industry supporters participated in the two-day event, nearly doubling last year’s attendance. The conference featured more than 60 exhibits, showcasing cutting-edge UAS technology for public safety. They included UAS training simulators, remote identification tracking, airspace awareness systems and innovative aircraft platforms.

The conference programming focused on assisting public safety agencies in launching or advancing their drone programs. Presentations covered a wide range of topics, including the use of drones for emergency response, tactical and strategic intelligence, hazardous materials mitigation, and water rescue.

In addition, representatives from several public safety agencies shared first-hand accounts about the critical role of drones in recent emergencies. These incidents included a crane collapse in New York City and the Lahaina wildfire in Hawaii. Officials from NASA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also provided updates on technology advancements and policy issues related to UAS development.

“Through collaboration and innovation, we are leveraging drones and other unmanned systems to redefine the boundaries of emergency preparedness and response, said Chris Sadler, Director of the PSIC. “The insights that are provided by the real-world case studies, combined with the information about cutting-edge advancements, are empowering public safety professionals to better serve and protect their communities.”

The Droneresponders Public Safety Alliance is a non-profit program. It has partnered with NASA, MITRE and NIST to create the largest resource center and online global directory for public safety UAS. It also works with the FAA to advance information, resources and regulatory changes to enhance operations.

"This conference has come a long way since VIPC partnered with Droneresponders to organize a small gathering at a Virginia winery five years ago,” said Tracy Tynan, the director of the Virginia Unmanned Systems Center. “The explosive growth from the seeds planted in those vineyard rows is a testament to the transformative power of UAS technology in public safety. It's inspiring to see this community coming together to share their knowledge and experience to show what's possible."

About Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC)

Connecting innovators with opportunities. As the nonprofit operations arm of the Virginia Innovation Partnership Authority (VIPA), VIPC is the commercialization and seed stage economic development driver in the Commonwealth that leads funding, infrastructure, and policy initiatives to support Virginia’s innovators, entrepreneurs, startups, and market development strategies.

VIPC also collaborates with local, regional, state, and federal partners to support the expansion and diversification of Virginia’s economy.
Programs include: Virginia Venture Partners (VVP) | VVP Fund of Funds | Commonwealth Commercialization Fund (CCF) | Petersburg Founders Fund (PFF) | Smart Communities | The Virginia Smart Community Testbed | The Virginia Unmanned Systems Center | Virginia Advanced Air Mobility Alliance (VAAMA) | The Public Safety Innovation Center (PSIC)| Entrepreneurial Ecosystems | Regional Innovation Fund (RIF) | Federal Funding Assistance Program (FFAP) for SBIR & STTR | University Partnerships | Startup Company Mentoring & Engagement.

For more information, please visit www.VirginiaIPC.org. Follow VIPC on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn.

 

Former DOI Director on the Impact of the American Drone Security Act

Miriam McNabb

dronelife.com

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The DRONERESPONDERS National Public Safety UAS Conference kicked off in Williamsburg, VA this morning.  The conference opened with keynote addresses from industry thought leaders and change makers.

Among the topics most discussed by attendees and speakers was the issue of proposed bans on the use of federal funds to purchase drones made in China, including industry leader DJI.  Mark Bathrick, former U.S. Department of the Interior’s Director of the Office of Aviation Services (OAS) spoke about the practical impact that the American Drone Security Act and proposed bans on Chinese made drone technology.

The American Drone Security Act, included in the FY 24 National Defense Authorization Act, would limit the use of federal funds for drones on a “covered list” which includes all drones manufactured in China.  Bathrick’s presentation focused on the practical impacts that the Act has for public safety agencies.

Effective Immediately: Purchasing Drones Manufactured by “Covered Entities” with Federal Funds

Effective immediately, federal agencies are prohibited from purchasing drones manufactured in China (subject to some exemptions or a waiver process.)   The prohibition is for purchase with federal dollars: recreational flyers, private sector companies not working with federal customers, or (see below) state and local agencies not using federal dollars are not subject to the regulation.

What’s a Chinese drone?  The Question of “Associated Elements”

Functioning drone systems involve controllers, hardware, payloads, and more.  One of the critical open issues in interpretation of the Act is what exactly is covered.  The Federal Acquisition Security Council (FASC) has responsibility for determining exactly what’s prohibited.  While the ADSA refers to “associated elements” – i.e., payloads – a referenceable list of those associated elements has not been completed.

What About Operations of Chinese Drones?

The Act refers to both the purchase of new drones – effective immediately – and a prohibition of operation of Chinese drones, which has a 2 year timeframe for implementation.   After 2025, there are exemptions – and some loopholes.

Federal agencies including DHS, DOD, DOS, DOI are exempt under certain circumstances.  The wording of the Act leaves some loopholes, with a list of exempt operations OR the provision “that the subject UAS cannot transfer to or download data from a covered entity,” which could leave the agency some options on technology choices.   Other agencies such as DOT and FAA, NTSB, and NOAA are exempt from the Act for specific operations.

Waivers are also an option – but are not designed to be easy.  Waivers can only be applied for on a case-by-case basis and must come from the head of agency authority: waivers must be approved by OMB after consultation with FARC and require notification to lawmakers.

Federal ASDA-Compliant Strategies

Bathrick says that there are several strategies that federal agencies can use to implement drone technology: all of them have drawbacks but offer some options.

• Waivers
• Blue UAS – DOD sponsored program, limited access for manufacturers
• Green UAS – AUVSI sponsored programs, costs for manufacturers
• Agency-Qualified Non-Covered
• Drone and Data as a Service – outsourcing the issue
• Other programs – utilizing other federal employment programs

Advice for State and Local Public Safety Agencies

In the absence of state laws, the ADSA does not directly impact state and local public safety agencies unless they are utilizing federal funds to procure their drone hardware.  Bathrick says that first and foremost, it’s important for agencies to educate their leadership about the issues.

“Security is important,” says Bathrick.  “Support for the US industry is important, and they both deserve tailored solutions.”  Bathrick urges agencies to avoid “lazy” requirements: but to look into the specifics of what will work for their operations.

Agencies can also strategize to adjust federal grant vs. state and local funding strategies, for more flexibility.

And to protect programs and operations, says Bathrick, it’s critical to continue to communicate with stakeholders and communities. Bathrick recommends that agencies prioritize programs to educate officials with public safety program results, briefings on your mission risk profile, and “defense in depth” security strategies.

Read more:

• Exclusive Interview: DJI Officials Defend Data Security Policies Amid Chinese Drone Ban Concerns
• Controversy Surrounding Data Security of Chinese-made Drones Sparks Intense Debate
• CISA Issues Guidance on Chinese-Manufactured UAS, AUVSI Urges Action
• FY 24 National Defense Authorization Act Includes American Security Drone Act, Limiting Chinese-Made Drone Use

Counter UAS Update, From the Floor of National Public Safety UAS Conference

Miriam McNabb

dronelife.com

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The second day of the National Public Safety UAS Conference in VA began this morning with a series of sessions on some of the most critical issues facing the public safety community. One of those issues is the use of counter UAS technologies to keep unauthorized drones out of sensitive airspace, including the space over prisons where incursions are becoming more frequent.

While current counter UAS technology can detect, monitor and mitigate, the laws do not allow anyone to interfere with an aircraft except under very specific and very limited conditions, when Department of Justice personnel may be authorized to do so.  Public safety agencies or private industry, regardless of what infrastructure they may be responsible for protecting, are not authorized to take a rogue drone down.

Discussing the issue this morning was a panel of experts moderated by DJ Smith, the Virginia State Police Unmanned Aerial and CUAS Systems Program Coordinator and comprised  counter UAS Hub co-architect Tom Adams, DHS cUAS Analyst Mary Rupert, and Airspace Security Coordinator of the United States Capitol Police Robert Campbell.

Dark Drones and Airspace Awareness

Air domain awareness is the top priority of the DHS today, said Mary Rupert.  “We cannot set our security network up without UTM and airspace awareness… How can we protect our airspace if we can’t even see what’s out there?”

Will many agencies are currently using Aeroscope-based systems, these just aren’t enough, says Rupert. “We really need layered systems, so that we can see everything – not just DJI drones.”

Dark drones – those with RF signals disabled to make them more difficult to track – are an emerging threat.  Tom Adams says that to combat dark drones and other emerging trends, airspace awareness is complex. “It’s always going to have to be a layered approach,” he said.  “There’s no silver bullet.  There’s no one thing that will detect all drones… and you need to also look at tools that show crewed aircraft.”  A layered approach implies multiple technologies: ground-based tools like radar, acoustic tools, and software that can put all of that information into an understandable format.

Current Legislative Landscape: SB 1631

DJ Smith began the panel by stating that policy is the most critical aspect of cUAS today.   Despite the existence of sophisticated cUAS tools, law enforcement is not currently authorized to mitigate drone threats – and there is not a current process in place to determine how best to respond to drone threats and define prosecutable offenses.

Mary Rupert says that the legislative landscape around cUAS is in flux. “It changes depending upon who you ask on what day,”   she says.  Currently, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) are the only agencies that can conduct advanced drone detection and mitigation.  Within those agencies, only certain departments have authorization under narrow constraints, and that authorization must be continually renewed by extension. “That’s obviously insufficient,” said Rupert

Senate Bill 1631, currently introduced in the Senate, could help to expand authorities.  SB 1631 identifies 3 major gaps in current authority:

• gives TSA the ability to proactively protect airports from drone threats;
• grants critical Infrastructure providers such as power plants or chemical facilities the authority to utilize advanced drone detection;
• creates a pilot program for law enforcement to execute counter UAS authority.

DJ Smith points out that SB 1631 calls additionally for a system of national reporting, which could help protect the nation from a major terrorist incident.  “Looking back at 9/11, we know that missed some of the small things: small things that might have indicated that there was going to be an incident if they had been put together.”  National reporting on drone incidents: whether they are several incidents using the same drone, or several similar incidents in various areas, could also help to indicate a larger situation.

“Drones are cheap, they’re easy… and if we aren’t connecting the small incidents together with national reporting, we are going to be missing the small things,” said Smith.

While the legislation  – and the threats – are evolving, the best way for law enforcement agencies and those protecting critical infrastructure to stay current and educate themselves is to work together, the panel agrees.  “The Counter UAS is good, the authority is good – but its the relationships that are going to help us get through this,” says Robert Campbell.

Read more:

• Unauthorized Drones Bring Football Games to a Halt: New cUAS Technology Could Solve the Problem
• White House Summit on Advanced Air Mobility Addresses Security Concerns, and the Need to Authorize cUAS Systems
• AUDROS cUAS System: Capturing Intruding Drones in a Net
• Dedrone and Carahsoft Partner to Make Dedrone’s CUAS Tech Available to Public Sector

Highlights from NASA Langley’s Presence

By Ella Bennet

theubj.com

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The recent National Public Safety Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Conference, focusing on drone technology and its application for first responders, was held at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, Virginia, from March 12 to 13. Expert engineers from NASA Langley were amongst the participants, showcasing their research and engaging with attendees on how NASA’s innovations in drone technology can bolster public safety efforts.

At the conference, Ersin Ancel, the assistant branch head of the Aeronautics Systems Analysis Branch at NASA Langley, shared insights on how drones have revolutionized search and rescue missions. “Drones have reduced the search time in rescue operations dramatically—from days and hours down to minutes. Our work here at NASA is pivotal in assisting the aviation sector in enhancing the efficacy and safety of public operations,” explained Ancel.

The annual conference is organized by DRONERESPONDERS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing together aerial first responders, emergency service managers, and search and rescue personnel to exchange knowledge and foster the integration of drone operations for public safety purposes. DRONERESPONDERS holds a Space Act Agreement with NASA Langley as a part of the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate’s Airspace Operations and Safety Program (AOSP).

More than 500 professionals from across the nation were in attendance, receiving updates on NASA’s initiatives in System-Wide Safety, Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response, and Air Traffic Management Exploration.

What is the purpose of the National Public Safety Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Conference?

The conference aims to convene experts and professionals in the field of aerial first response to exchange expertise, best practices, and promote the integration of UAS technology to enhance public safety operations.

How is NASA Langley involved in drone technology for public safety?

NASA Langley’s participation involves showcasing research and technological advancements that support the development and deployment of drones in search and rescue operations, ultimately aiding the improvement of public safety.

Who organizes the Public Safety UAS Conference?

The DRONERESPONDERS organization is responsible for arranging the annual gathering. They collaborate closely with NASA Langley under the AOSP to facilitate the adoption of drone technology in public safety missions.

NASA Langley’s involvement in the Public Safety UAS Conference underscores the institution’s commitment to fostering ground-breaking technologies that can significantly improve search and rescue operations. By participating in such conferences, NASA Langley not only contributes to the field with its research but also helps to cultivate a community around drone technology that may lead to enhanced safety and efficiency for emergency responders nationwide.

NASA Langley Participates in Drone Responders Conference - NASA

nasa.gov

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Sondra Woodward

Apr 01, 2024

NASA Langley engineers presented their work at the conference and staffed a NASA information table, promoting the benefits of NASA technologies and research for drone responders.

“It’s exciting to see the effect drones have on search and rescue operations,” said presenter Ersin Ancel, assistant branch head for the Aeronautics Systems Analysis Branch within the Systems Analysis and Concepts Directorate. “For example, rescue times have been cut from days to hours to mere minutes. The successful deployment of these aircraft systems is how NASA helps the aviation industry improve public safety.”

DRONERESPONDERS has a Space Act Agreement with NASA Langley as part of the Airspace Operations and Safety Program (AOSP). 

More than 500 attendees, representing every state in the United States, learned about NASA’s work on System-Wide Safety, Advanced Capabilities for Emergency Response and Air Traffic Management Exploration.