SenseFly was founded in 2009 and quickly established itself as a prominent name in the realm of civil drones and drone solutions. As a subsidiary of Parrot company, SenseFly leverages advanced technology to provide innovative solutions for various industries. The eBee stands out as one of its flagship products, offering a reliable and efficient platform for aerial data collection.
The eBee series is known for its ease of use, robust design, and high-quality data output. Whether you're involved in agriculture, surveying, or environmental monitoring, the eBee provides the tools you need to gather accurate and timely information. Its automated flight capabilities and user-friendly software make it accessible to both experienced drone operators and newcomers to the field.
Key Features
The eBee boasts a range of features designed to enhance its performance and usability. One of its standout features is its extended flight time, which can reach up to 90 minutes with the Endurance Extension. This allows for larger areas to be mapped in a single flight, reducing the need for multiple takeoffs and landings. The drone's compatibility with a diverse range of cameras, including the senseFly S.O.D.A. 3D, senseFly Aeria X, Parrot Sequoia+, and MicaSense RedEdge-MX, further expands its capabilities. Each camera is tailored for specific applications, allowing users to capture the data they need for their unique projects.
High-Precision on Demand (RTK/PPK) technology is another key feature of the eBee. This technology enables survey-grade accuracy down to 3 cm horizontal/5 cm vertical with GCPs or 1-5 m without GCPs. This level of precision is critical for applications such as land surveying, topographic mapping, and construction site monitoring. The eBee's Steep Landing technology allows it to land in confined areas with automatic linear landing and ~5m accuracy. This feature is particularly useful in environments where space is limited.
The eBee also comes with user-friendly eMotion flight planning software. This software simplifies flight planning and control, making it easy for users to set up and execute missions. The drone's automated flight and data capture processes further reduce operator workload and ensure consistent results. Finally, the eBee's lightweight and durable design ensures reliable performance in various environmental conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 96 cm - 116 cm |
| Weight | 0.69 kg - 1.6 kg |
| Max Flight Time | 45-90 minutes |
| Range | Up to 3 km nominal (up to 8km) |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 46 km/h |
| Landing Accuracy | ~5m |
| Ground Sampling Distance | Down to 1.5 cm/pixel |
| Horizontal Accuracy | Down to 3 cm with GCPs; 1-5 m without GCPs |
| Vertical Accuracy | Down to 5 cm with GCPs |
| Software | eMotion (flight planning & control) |
Use Cases & Applications
The eBee finds applications across a wide range of industries. In land surveying and topographic mapping, it provides accurate and efficient data collection for creating detailed maps and models. Urban planners use the eBee to monitor urban growth, assess infrastructure, and create 3D models of cities. In agriculture, the eBee is used for crop health analysis, enabling farmers to identify areas of stress and optimize resource allocation. Environmental monitoring is another key application, with the eBee being used to track deforestation, monitor water quality, and assess the impact of climate change. Finally, the eBee is used in construction site monitoring to track progress, identify potential hazards, and ensure compliance with regulations.
Strengths & Weaknesses
| Strengths ✅ | Weaknesses ⚠️ |
|---|---|
| Long flight time (up to 90 minutes) allows for mapping larger areas in a single flight. | Initial cost can be a barrier for some users. |
| Wide range of compatible cameras provides flexibility for diverse applications. | Requires trained personnel for optimal operation and data processing. |
| High-Precision on Demand (RTK/PPK) enables survey-grade accuracy. | Weather conditions can impact flight performance and data quality. |
| User-friendly eMotion software simplifies flight planning and control. | Processing large datasets can be time-consuming and require powerful computing resources. |
| Automated flight and data capture reduce operator workload. | Regulations regarding drone operation vary by location. |
Benefits for Farmers
The eBee offers numerous benefits for farmers, including time savings, cost reduction, and yield improvement. By providing timely and accurate data on crop health, the eBee enables farmers to optimize irrigation, fertilization, and pest control strategies. This leads to improved yields and reduced input costs. The eBee also helps farmers to identify areas of stress early on, allowing them to take corrective action before problems escalate. By enabling more sustainable farming practices, the eBee contributes to long-term environmental health.
Integration & Compatibility
The eBee is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing farm operations. It is compatible with various FMIS (Farm Management Information Systems) and precision agriculture equipment. Data collected by the drone can be easily imported into these systems for analysis and decision-making. The eBee also supports industry-standard data formats, making it easy to share data with other stakeholders.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How does this product work? | The eBee drone captures high-resolution aerial imagery using various compatible cameras. This imagery is then processed using photogrammetry software to generate orthomosaics, 3D models, and other geospatial data for analysis and decision-making. |
| What is the typical ROI? | The eBee can provide a significant ROI by reducing the time and cost associated with traditional surveying methods. It also enables more frequent and detailed data collection, leading to improved crop management, optimized resource allocation, and better informed decision-making. |
| What setup is required? | The eBee requires initial setup including battery charging, software installation, and flight planning. The drone is designed for easy deployment in the field. |
| What maintenance is needed? | Regular maintenance includes cleaning the drone, checking propellers for damage, and ensuring batteries are properly stored and charged. Firmware updates should also be applied as released by SenseFly. |
| Is training required to use this? | While the eBee is designed for ease of use, training is recommended to ensure safe and efficient operation. SenseFly and its partners offer training programs to help users get the most out of their drone. |
| What systems does it integrate with? | The eBee integrates with various FMIS (Farm Management Information Systems) and precision agriculture equipment. Data collected by the drone can be imported into these systems for analysis and decision-making. |
Pricing & Availability
Indicative price: The eBee Geo was priced around $10,000 USD in 2021, while the eBee X was around $406,375.00. The pricing of eBee drones can vary depending on the specific model, configuration, and any additional features or services included. Regional pricing differences and any applicable taxes or import duties can also affect the final cost. To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information for your specific needs, contact us via the Make inquiry button on this page.
Support & Training
SenseFly and its authorized dealers provide comprehensive support and training services for the eBee. These services include technical support, online resources, and in-person training programs. The training programs cover various aspects of drone operation, data processing, and maintenance. By investing in support and training, users can ensure they are getting the most out of their eBee drone and maximizing their return on investment.
