Case Study: Central UAS & Ainstein’s US-D1 Radar Altimeter

Ainstein Radar Flying High with Central UAS

The aerial drones from Central UAS Technologies—PrecisionVision 35X, 40X, and 100X—are engineered for exceptional performance, meeting the rigorous demands of clients across diverse terrain and operational needs. In partnership with Ainstein, the drones have achieved real-time, terrain-following precision even across areas with significant elevation changes – all while applying sensitive chemistry with pinpoint accuracy. 

A cornerstone of this precision is the integration of Ainstein’s US-D1 radar, which has empowered Central UAS to achieve unmatched control and reliability.

Seamless Integration for Mission-Critical Terrain Following

In 2019, Ainstein partnered with the software and hardware engineering teams at Central UAS Technologies’ (formerly Leading Edge Aerial Technologies) to integrate the US-D1 radar into the PrecisionVision drone series. This collaboration enabled real-time terrain-following capability, critical for safe and effective application in dynamic environments.

“In Oregon, Central UAS was contracted to apply herbicides in extreme mountainous terrain to control weeds after a timber clear-cutting,” said Bill Reynolds, President of Central UAS Technologies. “We were flying 12 feet above ground level (AGL) and were able to maintain our altitude over rugged terrain while flying at 12 miles per hour, applying five gallons per acre.”

Broad Use Across Agriculture and Conservation

California has seen widespread use of Central UAS drones in ranch management for controlling invasive weeds that threaten native flora and fauna. For cattle districts, maintaining a healthy rangeland is crucial for cattle health and optimal weight gain. The PrecisionVision 40X, equipped with Ainstein radar, flew at 15 feet AGL, delivering five gallons of weed control per acre with no drift during application.

In the vineyard sector, Central UAS supports growers with precision spraying on grapevine leaves prior to grape development. These precision applications—typically a fungicide and insecticide mix—are deployed at 12 feet AGL, applying three gallons per acre. This targeted approach helps prevent mold and fungal disease, ensuring healthier vines and improved grape yields.

Reliable Performance Over 100,000 Acres

“With safety as the cornerstone of our aerial applications, the US-D1 radar from Ainstein has been a dependable partner,” Reynolds said. “Having treated over 100,000 acres across diverse and challenging terrains, the Ainstein US-D1 has performed flawlessly—without a single failure.”

For information about Central UAS Technologies, visit www.centraluastech.com.

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