Disaster Response and Observation Network (DRON)
Published:
Video: Flight Test Video
Posters: Spring 2026
DRON is a proof-of-concept initiative at TURTLE Robotics that aims to leverage unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to gather intelligence during structural fires. Collaborating with the software subteam, I research and implement ROS 2 Humble, PX4, and MAVROS frameworks within simulation environments to support a UAV swarm platform designed to assist first responders with real-time visual data and autonomous mapping.
- Researched and implemented ROS 2 Humble, PX4, and MAVROS frameworks in simulation environments.
- Supported UAV swarm platform development for real-time visual data, mapping, and first-responder assistance.
- Focused on reducing human exposure during disaster response missions.
I. Wilhite, C. Ambroziak, A. Briggs, R. Kato, O. Bhatt, L. Breedlove, V. So, R. Shah, M. Shi, J. Shouba, O. Thomas, C. Weatherspoon, and D. Wheaton, “Disaster Response Observation Network (DRON),” TURTLE Robotics, Spring 2026. [Conference Poster].