DJI Launches Phantom 4 RTK Globally

DJI, a world leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, has announced the global rollout of the Phantom 4 RTK, a high-precision aerial survey drone that combines centimetre-level navigation and positioning with a high-performance imaging system to improve survey efficiency and accuracy, reducing operational difficulty and cost.

A new RTK module was integrated directly into the drone improving image metadata. Combined with the RTK positioning module (GPS L1 L2, GLONASS L1 L2, Galileo E1 E5a and BeiDou B1 B2), it potentially reduces the number of Ground Control Points (GCP) needed to zero, which could save 75% in set-up time. A GNSS module is also installed to maintain flight stability in signal-poor regions such as dense cities. Combining both modules, the Phantom 4 RTK optimises flight safety while ensuring the most precise data is captured for complex surveying, mapping and inspection workflows.

The RTK module can provide positioning accuracy of 1cm+1ppm (horizontal), 1.5cm+1ppm (vertical), and the drone can get 5cm absolute horizontal accuracy of photogrammetric models. The Phantom 4 RTK can be integrated into any workflow, with the ability to connect its positioning system to the D-RTK 2 Mobile Station, NTRIP (Network Transport of RTCM via Internet Protocol) using a 4G dongle or a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Gather Accurate Data with TimeSync

To take full advantage of the positioning modules, the TimeSync system was created to continually align the flight controller, camera and RTK module. Additionally, TimeSync ensures that the Phantom 4 RTK records factory-calibrated lense parameters alongside position, altitude and other data onto each photo, matching the positioning data to the centre of the camera's CMOS sensor and thus optimising the results from photogrammetric methods.

Precise Imaging System

The drone is equipped with a 1" 20mpxl CMOS sensor. The mechanical shutter makes mapping missions or regular data capture seamless as the Phantom 4 RTK can move while taking pictures without the risk of rolling shutter blur. Due to the high resolution, the drone can achieve a Ground Sample Distance (GSD) of 2.74cm at 100m flight altitude.

In areas with lack of RTK coverage, the drone allows for the use of Post Processed Kinematics (PPK). All operation-relevant data is stored on a Micro-SD card in a unique folder for each mission. The consistency of the data reduces the time needed to validate the data and results in an efficient post-processing workflow with minimal to no manual adjustments.

Stable Flights

The Phantom 4 RTK's delivers 720p video transmission feeds at up to 7km, which is ideal for mapping larger sites, and a flight time of up to 30 minutes. If the area is too large to map on a single battery charge, the Operation Resumption function of the GS RTK app automatically resumes the mission after the battery has been replaced. It is also compatible with the DJI Mobile SDK, opening its functions to automation and customisation through a mobile device.

Purpose-Built Flight Planning Application

A GS RTK app allows pilots to control the drone with two planning modes - Photogrammetry and Waypoint Flight - alongside a more traditional flight mode. The planning modes let pilots select the drone's flight path while adjusting overlap rate, altitude, speed, camera parameters and more, offering an automated mapping or inspection workflow. The planned flights are easily repeatable, letting teams collect the same data across different periods to track site progress and easily detect changes.

Seamless Compatibility

The Phantom 4 RTK is compatible with the D-RTK 2 Mobile Station, providing real-time differential data to the drone and forming an accurate surveying solution. The Mobile Station's rugged design and OcuSync transmission system ensures users can gain centimetre-level accurate data even in challenging conditions.

The retail price of a Phantom 4 RTK is €5,700. For more details visit www.dji.com/phantom-4-rtk