Reading time:
min

UgCS 5.6. Plan Smarter, Smoother & Safer Flights

UgCS: Flight Planning & Control
December 2, 2024

Today we announce the release of UgCS 5.6. Available now. It’s a significant step forward in drone flight planning software, providing industry-first features: DSM Integration and Experimental Trajectory Smoothing. Designed with feedback from expert drone pilots, UgCS 5.6 sets a new standard for precision and reliability. What’s New in UgCS 5.6?

Digital Surface Models (DSM) Integration

For the first time, UgCS supports Digital Surface Models (DSM). This feature lets you overlay surface data directly on the map and in the Elevation Profile window. With DSM, you can:

Visualize buildings, trees, and other surface objects in your flight plan.

Ensure the drone maintains a safe altitude above obstacles during terrain-following missions.

This advancement builds on UgCS’s legacy of being the first ground control software with DTM/DEM support, raising the bar for drone flight safety and precision.

Experimental Trajectory Smoothing

We’ve introduced a new, experimental Trajectory Smoothing algorithm to improve flight paths for tools like Area Scan, Photogrammetry, and LiDAR Area. With two customizable settings: Max Slope and Minimal Gap, that allow you to:

  • Limit vertical angles for smoother flight trajectories.
  • Avoid sudden dips or sharp inclines to protect sensitive sensors like magnetometers and LiDARs.

Note: This feature is experimental and can be enabled via the "Configuration -> Experimental Features" menu.

New Drone Support: IF800 Tomcat

UgCS 5.6 adds a dedicated vehicle profile for the Inspired Flight IF800 Tomcat drone, expanding compatibility for professional-grade equipment.

Streamlined Workflow Enhancements

  • Improved Elevation Profile Window. Elevation data now integrates DSM contours, providing a clearer overview of flight parameters at a glance.
  • Resilient CPU Performance. We’ve fixed a CPU usage bug, ensuring smoother operation during simulations with UgCS Emulators.
  • Optimized Network Handling. UgCS now gracefully manages server connection interruptions for a seamless user experience.
  • UI Improvements. The "Provide Feedback" button has moved to the bottom-right corner for easier access.

Why UgCS 5.6 Matters

These updates aren’t just about convenience, they’re about safety, efficiency, and data quality.

By integrating DSM, optimizing flight paths, and supporting industry-leading drones, UgCS 5.6 empowers pilots to deliver superior results while reducing risks.

Whether you’re conducting LiDAR surveys, powerline inspections, or complex photogrammetry missions, this update ensures UgCS remains your trusted partner in professional drone operations.

Experience the future of flight planning with UgCS 5.6. Update your software to unlock these powerful features and take your drone operations to the next level.

Safe flights and smooth data collection!

About
Solution Used
UgCS | Drone flight planning & control software

UgCS is the tool of choice to create and execute automated drone flights even in areas with complex terrain. UgCS supports data import from KML/CSV and the use of custom digital elevation models (DEM).