An Australian-invented remote controlled surveying helicopter is being used in oil and gas exploration, war zones, law enforcement, and… by a Perth real estate agent to sell property in WA.
The CyberQuad, invented by 27-year old Joshua Portlock and built by WA company Cyber Technology, is a 4-blade helicopter equipped with a high resolution still + video camera.
While the uses in law, war, and exploration are clear, the Perth real estate is using it to give potential property owners a bird’s eye view of the property and features in the greater neighbourhood.
The operator controls the craft using joy stick-like controls, and its output can be monitored through virtual reality-style video glasses, or through a standard monitor.
At $25,000 – $40,000 per unit, it’s much more than a toy. It requires a Civil Aviation Safety Authority certificate to operate, and, just like a real aircraft, requires log files and regular maintenance.
