Tech Briefing: Drone Technology

Topic: Drone Technology

Articles Referenced:

http://money.cnn.com/2017/09/23/technology/hurricanes-drones/index.html

https://phys.org/news/2017-09-drones-disaster-zones-lifesaver.html

Since drone-technology has taken the world by storm the flying objects seem to be the topic of great controversy. With foreign objects flying into the air many circumstances must be discussed that were not before regulated, such as, how do we regulate airspace in accordance with the normal laws in place on land? What does this mean for people’s privacy? How will this change the ways many businesses work and transport objects? How will this affect our country’s security and how we interact with other countries? How will this affect war tactics?

With much heat on the subject and great debate it is refreshing to see positive remarks being made about drones in recent news in regards to the numerous hurricanes that have hit in the last few weeks. As it turns out, drones have been able to help tremendously with disaster relief and medical responsiveness. Insurance companies have utilized these drones to assess the damage at a much more rapid rate than possible without drones which has allowed them to respond to the needs of those in trouble much faster as well. According to CNN, the usage of drones has allowed insurance companies to inspect upwards of 10 homes a day as opposed to just 3 without using drones. CNN also stated that Allstate has launched permanent drone damage inspection programs in 4 states: Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.

In addition to aiding the public in natural disasters, drones are now also able to assist in times of extreme distress. New technology has given drones the capability to detect human movements and vital signs in crowded areas, most notably war zones. This is remarkable and will allow drones to aid in many aspects of public security and medical aid. According to Phys, the drones can gauge various factors on a human from a distance as accurately as if a human was performing the test directly on another person themselves. They are also able to notice irregular heartbeats or abnormal vitals which could help catch terrorists or other suspicious persons in airports or high-traffic areas.

The possibility of drone usage continues to evolve. These advancements are sure to bring more controversy, although, I think it is nice drones are receiving some positive attention as they have served the public for good. I believe understanding and having an opinion on drone technology is important for both IT professionals, as it is likely to somehow become involved in their career at some point, and students who must voice their opinions on how they feel this technology can be used ethically as it evolves.

Questions:

What is your opinion on drones?

Do you believe the good aspects of them outweigh the bad or is it the opposite?

Do you feel your privacy is at risk now that drones are being used?

Do you think we have already taken this technology too far or are the advancements something you appreciate and think our society will benefit from?