Drone Acronyms
Vertical Take Off and Landing. Multi rotor craft, as opposed to fixed wing, offer the advantage of being able to take off and land on the spot rather than requiring the space of a runway.
Unmanned Aerial System / Vehicle. Another term for a drone.
Small Unmanned Aerial System. One of the very many alternative terms for a drone.
Standard Scenario. Standard scenarios are meant to simplify the activities required to the UAS operators. They are defined types of UAS operation in the ‘specific’ category, for which mitigation measures have been determined after a risk assessment is carried out by EASA or by the competent authority
Return to Launch / Return to Home. A command that can be given to the drone to recall it to its starting position.
Ready to Fly. A drone that is already assembled and ready to fly out of the box.
Remote Piloted Aerial System. The official term for drone used by the CAA
Recognised Assessment Entity. This is the replacement term for NQE under the new EASA legislation given to organisations who train and issue CAA-recognised certificates to drone operators
Permission for Commercial Operations. The CAA granted permissions that allow a pilot to fly their drone commercially.
Pre-Determined Risk Assessment. A set of circumstances that have been predefined and allow a simple declaration by the pilot in order to fly within.
Operating Safety Case. An additional set of CAA permissions allowing a pilot to operate their aircraft outside of standard permissions, at reduced distances for example.
Operations Manual. A document detailing everything about a pilot’s business model and operation that must be up to date and submitted to the CAA on an annual basis to maintain a PfCO
Obstacle Avoidance System. Allowing an aircraft to detect obstacles or hazards and take automatic steps to avoid collision with them.
National Qualified Entry. An organisation given authority by the CAA to train pilots and pass them as qualified as part of the PfCO application process.
Notice to Air Men. A CAA issued time sensitive notice to all pilots to make them aware of unusual conditions or temporary hazards in the airspace.
Nautical Mile. Equivalent to one minute of latitude which is sometimes used as a measure of distance in aviation.
No Fly Zone – an area where flights are restricted or forbidden according to the law.
National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts. Nesta is an innovation foundation, based in the UK and supported by a financial endowment. They carry out a lot of research into how drones can be used to meet the challenges of today’s world.
Line of Sight. A requirement of current UK law and this means that the pilot can see their aircraft with the naked eye while flying
Lithium Ion Polymer Battery. The most commonly used type of battery used in a drone because of the high transfer rate meaning extremely fast energy release is possible.
Light Detection and Ranging. This is a method of survey that measures the distance to a target by illuminating it with pulses of light and measuring the pulses that are reflected back. Common uses for LIDAR would be sea floor or forest mapping and it has recently found a use in precision agriculture.
Instrument Flight Rules. IFR means that a pilot can fly using just the data supplied by the aircraft’s instruments, rather than using visual information. The other set of regulations are VFR (Visual Flight Rules)
International Civil Aviation Organisation. A specialised group working as part of the United Nations that establishes the principles of civil aviation around the world and plans for its safe and ordered growth.
High Intensity Radio Transmission Area. An area that can interfere with your drone electronics.
General VLOS Certificate (Visual Line of Sight). This is the most likely direct replacement for the PfCO. The GVC is a remote pilot competency certificate which provides a single qualification that is suitable for VLOS operations within the Specific category. The GVC is acceptable for all VLOS operations conducted under a published STS (standard scenario) or PDRA (pre-determined risk assessment) and, in most circumstances, it will be considered an acceptable level of remote pilot competency within an operational risk assessment for any other VLOS operation
Global Positioning System. A collection of satellites that work together to allow the position of the drone to be calculated
Geographical Information System. The system that captures and stores geographical data to allow it to be manipulated and presented in various ways.
Flight Restricted Zone. Areas where flights require special or additional permissions from the relevant authorities such as the areas surrounding airfields.
First Person View. A forward facing camera on the drone allows the pilot to fly as if they are actually on board the aircraft – a technique commonly used in drone racing.
Field of View. The amount of environment visible through the camera lens.
Forward Looking Infra Red. Cameras that detect infrared radiation usually from a heat source and translate this into visual data.
Flight Level. A surface of constant atmosphere pressure which is related to a specific pressure datum, 1013.2hPa, and is separated from other such surfaces by specific pressure intervals. Altitude above sea-level in 100 feet units measured according to a standard atmosphere
Flight Controller – the drone’s brain which is used to stabilise and control the aircraft.
Federal Aviation Administration. The CAA equivalent in the USA overseeing civil aviation.
Extended Visual Line of Sight. A distance of over 500 metres which is the standard range of Visual Line of Sight where the pilot can extend the range by using a second spotter to watch the aircraft and communicate with the pilot.
Electronic Magnetic Interference. When an electronic device enters the vicinity of an electromagnetic field in the radio frequency spectrum of another device, EMI can be caused. This is a type of disturbance that can affect the control of the UAV by the pilot.
Electronic Conspicuity. An term for a range of technologies that transmit the position of the host aircraft to other airspace users operating compatible equipment
European Aviation Safety Agency – responsible for safety legislation in civil aviation across Europe. It carries out certification, regulation and standardisation as well as being in charge of investigation and monitoring.
DJI – the world’s leading manufacturer of drones based in China and thought to have manufactured more than two thirds of civil drones currently in use.
Carbon Fibre – commonly used material in construction of drone because of it’s strength and quality of being lightweight.
Civil Aviation Publication. Items published by the CAA all referenced with a unique number
Civil Aviation Authority. The CAA came into being as an independent regulator and public corporation in 1972, before which a body known as the Air Registration Board was responsible for regulating aviation.
Beyond Visual Line of Sight. Generally a pilot is legally obligated to keep their aircraft in their line of sight, that is visible to the pilot with the naked eye. Legislation is in motion to allow pilots to fly beyond their line of sight which is seen as key to unlocking services such as drone delivery.
British Model Flying Association. The BMFA is the National Governing Body for the sport of model flying. Its aims are to promote, protect, organise and encourage model flying within the UK
Battery Elimination Circuit. A circuit that is designed to deliver electrical power to other circuitry eliminating the need for multiple batteries.
All Up Weight. The total weight of the vehicle, including all necessary parts.
Air Traffic Control. The ground-based personnel and equipment concerned with controlling and monitoring air traffic within a particular area.
Aerial Photography – a blanket term for all photography taken from a UAV in flight.
Air Navigation Order – an Act of Parliament detailing the law as it relates to Civil Aviation in the UK
Autonomous Collision Avoidance System – this allows the drone to detect obstacles and reroute or hold position in order to avoid them.
A2 Certificate of Competency. The new certification under EASA legislation. The A2 CofC is a remote pilot competency certificate primarily intended to assure safe operations of unmanned aircraft close to uninvolved persons. The certificate assures an appropriate knowledge of the technical and operational mitigations for ground risk (the risk of a person being struck by the unmanned aircraft
Thermography
ZNE – Zero Net Energy – when a building or structure generates as much energy as it consumes usually through a combination of renewable energy techniques including solar power.
Thermal inspections should be conducted by qualified and certified thermographers who specialise in solar panel inspections. These professionals possess the expertise and knowledge required to accurately interpret thermal images, identify anomalies, and recommend appropriate actions.
Common signs of moisture problems include musty odors, water stains, peeling paint, warped surfaces, and mold growth on walls or ceilings.
STA – Solar Trade Association – A UK body working to promote the benefits of solar energy and make it easy for both domestic and business customers to adopt.
Solar Tracker – mounting hardware used in power plant installations that allow movement in the solar panels so they can follow the sun during the day and maximise output.
Solar Tiles / Shingles. Thin film like PV strips that can be directly applied to the roofing under felt just like regular tiles / shingles. They are less efficient than solar panels and degrade over time but they are cheaper and more versatile.
Solar Inverter. Takes the Direct Current (DC) by a solar panel or array and converts it to Alternating Current (AC) that can be used by homes and businesses.
Solar Efficiency. The percentage of sunlight captured and converted into electricity via the solar panels.
Solar Design Company. A specialist company that can design solar installations that are optimised for energy production.
Solar Canopies. Solar arrays that are mounted on the ground but at a height that allows the ground beneath to still be used – for car parking for example.
PV – Photo Voltaic – the name for the technology that converts sunlight to energy
Polycrystalline – a solar cell made of silicon off cuts oriented in different directions.
Off Grid – having no dependence on the electricity grid at all.
O & M Operations Maintenance – Ongoing maintenance needs of a solar system including cleaning, repairs, maintenance, monitoring and bill management
Mounting Hardware. The mounting equipment used to secure solar panels to roofs or ground based installations.
Monocrystalline. A cell made from a slice of single-crystal silicon, oriented in one direction.
MCS Microgeneration Certification Scheme. A quality assurance scheme certifying solar installers. If you wish to obtain a FIT certificate for your home, you must use a MCS accredited installer.
KWh – Kilowatt Hour. A measure of energy based on using 100 watts per hour.
KW – Kilowatt. A unit of measurement of electrical power equal to 1000 watts.
Yes, dew point analysis is beneficial for all types of buildings, including residential, commercial, and industrial structures, to assess moisture risks and ensure structural integrity.
Interconnection Agreement. The agreement between a home owner and the utility companies allowing them to connect their solar panels to the grid and receive a credit for surplus electricity provided.
The frequency of thermal inspections depends on several factors, including the age of the system, the local climate conditions, and any previous maintenance or repairs. As a general guideline, it is recommended to conduct inspections at least once a year. However, if you notice any sudden changes in energy production, visible damage, or other concerns, it’s advisable to schedule an inspection promptly.
Building thermography surveys should be conducted periodically, with the frequency depending on factors such as climate, building usage, and maintenance history.
The duration of a thermal inspection depends on the size of the solar system and the complexity of the installation. Typically, inspections can be completed within an hour for domestic installations and a full day for large commercial solar farms. However, larger or more intricate systems may require additional time.
Building owners can prevent moisture problems by implementing proper ventilation, insulation, and drainage systems to control indoor humidity levels and minimize condensation risk. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are also essential in preventing moisture-related issues.
Grid. The network of equipment that connects the suppliers and consumers to deliver the electricity – including the cables, pylons, poles and connectors.
Ground Mounted Solar – Solar arrays at ground level usually in large installations for commercial purposes such as solar farms.
FIT – Feed In Tariff. A government scheme that rewards the producer an amount per unit of electricity generated and fed back into the Grid . The scenme closed to new applications at the end of March 2019.
EPC – Energy Performance Certificate. A certificate that gives a property a rating from A through G according to its energy efficiency.
Yes, dew point analysis combined with thermography surveys can identify hidden moisture problems by detecting temperature differentials indicative of moisture infiltration.
Balance of System – the Parts that go to make up a solar system apart form the panels – such as inverters, wiring, mounting systems…
Just as multiple solar cells make up a solar panel, panels can be wired together to form a solar array.
Yes, reputable thermographers should carry insurance coverage to protect against any unforeseen circumstances during the inspection process. It is essential to work with insured professionals to ensure both your safety and theirs.
Amorphous – thin-film PV cell made from non-crystalline structure with a more glassy structure.
A to G
European Aviation Safety Agency – responsible for safety legislation in civil aviation across Europe. It carries out certification, regulation and standardisation as well as being in charge of investigation and monitoring.
DJI – the world’s leading manufacturer of drones based in China and thought to have manufactured more than two thirds of civil drones currently in use.
Carbon Fibre – commonly used material in construction of drone because of it’s strength and quality of being lightweight.
Civil Aviation Publication. Items published by the CAA all referenced with a unique number
Civil Aviation Authority. The CAA came into being as an independent regulator and public corporation in 1972, before which a body known as the Air Registration Board was responsible for regulating aviation.
Beyond Visual Line of Sight. Generally a pilot is legally obligated to keep their aircraft in their line of sight, that is visible to the pilot with the naked eye. Legislation is in motion to allow pilots to fly beyond their line of sight which is seen as key to unlocking services such as drone delivery.
Balance of System – the Parts that go to make up a solar system apart form the panels – such as inverters, wiring, mounting systems…
British Model Flying Association. The BMFA is the National Governing Body for the sport of model flying. Its aims are to promote, protect, organise and encourage model flying within the UK
Battery Elimination Circuit. A circuit that is designed to deliver electrical power to other circuitry eliminating the need for multiple batteries.
All Up Weight. The total weight of the vehicle, including all necessary parts.
Air Traffic Control. The ground-based personnel and equipment concerned with controlling and monitoring air traffic within a particular area.
Just as multiple solar cells make up a solar panel, panels can be wired together to form a solar array.
Aerial Photography – a blanket term for all photography taken from a UAV in flight.
Air Navigation Order – an Act of Parliament detailing the law as it relates to Civil Aviation in the UK
Amorphous – thin-film PV cell made from non-crystalline structure with a more glassy structure.
Autonomous Collision Avoidance System – this allows the drone to detect obstacles and reroute or hold position in order to avoid them.
A2 Certificate of Competency. The new certification under EASA legislation. The A2 CofC is a remote pilot competency certificate primarily intended to assure safe operations of unmanned aircraft close to uninvolved persons. The certificate assures an appropriate knowledge of the technical and operational mitigations for ground risk (the risk of a person being struck by the unmanned aircraft
H to P
PV – Photo Voltaic – the name for the technology that converts sunlight to energy
Polycrystalline – a solar cell made of silicon off cuts oriented in different directions.
Permission for Commercial Operations. The CAA granted permissions that allow a pilot to fly their drone commercially.
Pre-Determined Risk Assessment. A set of circumstances that have been predefined and allow a simple declaration by the pilot in order to fly within.
Operating Safety Case. An additional set of CAA permissions allowing a pilot to operate their aircraft outside of standard permissions, at reduced distances for example.
Operations Manual. A document detailing everything about a pilot’s business model and operation that must be up to date and submitted to the CAA on an annual basis to maintain a PfCO
Off Grid – having no dependence on the electricity grid at all.
Obstacle Avoidance System. Allowing an aircraft to detect obstacles or hazards and take automatic steps to avoid collision with them.
O & M Operations Maintenance – Ongoing maintenance needs of a solar system including cleaning, repairs, maintenance, monitoring and bill management
National Qualified Entry. An organisation given authority by the CAA to train pilots and pass them as qualified as part of the PfCO application process.
Notice to Air Men. A CAA issued time sensitive notice to all pilots to make them aware of unusual conditions or temporary hazards in the airspace.
Nautical Mile. Equivalent to one minute of latitude which is sometimes used as a measure of distance in aviation.
No Fly Zone – an area where flights are restricted or forbidden according to the law.
National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts. Nesta is an innovation foundation, based in the UK and supported by a financial endowment. They carry out a lot of research into how drones can be used to meet the challenges of today’s world.
Mounting Hardware. The mounting equipment used to secure solar panels to roofs or ground based installations.
Monocrystalline. A cell made from a slice of single-crystal silicon, oriented in one direction.
MCS Microgeneration Certification Scheme. A quality assurance scheme certifying solar installers. If you wish to obtain a FIT certificate for your home, you must use a MCS accredited installer.
Line of Sight. A requirement of current UK law and this means that the pilot can see their aircraft with the naked eye while flying
Lithium Ion Polymer Battery. The most commonly used type of battery used in a drone because of the high transfer rate meaning extremely fast energy release is possible.
Light Detection and Ranging. This is a method of survey that measures the distance to a target by illuminating it with pulses of light and measuring the pulses that are reflected back. Common uses for LIDAR would be sea floor or forest mapping and it has recently found a use in precision agriculture.
KWh – Kilowatt Hour. A measure of energy based on using 100 watts per hour.
KW – Kilowatt. A unit of measurement of electrical power equal to 1000 watts.
Interconnection Agreement. The agreement between a home owner and the utility companies allowing them to connect their solar panels to the grid and receive a credit for surplus electricity provided.
Instrument Flight Rules. IFR means that a pilot can fly using just the data supplied by the aircraft’s instruments, rather than using visual information. The other set of regulations are VFR (Visual Flight Rules)
Q to Z
ZNE – Zero Net Energy – when a building or structure generates as much energy as it consumes usually through a combination of renewable energy techniques including solar power.
Vertical Take Off and Landing. Multi rotor craft, as opposed to fixed wing, offer the advantage of being able to take off and land on the spot rather than requiring the space of a runway.
Unmanned Aerial System / Vehicle. Another term for a drone.
Small Unmanned Aerial System. One of the very many alternative terms for a drone.
Standard Scenario. Standard scenarios are meant to simplify the activities required to the UAS operators. They are defined types of UAS operation in the ‘specific’ category, for which mitigation measures have been determined after a risk assessment is carried out by EASA or by the competent authority
STA – Solar Trade Association – A UK body working to promote the benefits of solar energy and make it easy for both domestic and business customers to adopt.
Solar Tracker – mounting hardware used in power plant installations that allow movement in the solar panels so they can follow the sun during the day and maximise output.
Solar Tiles / Shingles. Thin film like PV strips that can be directly applied to the roofing under felt just like regular tiles / shingles. They are less efficient than solar panels and degrade over time but they are cheaper and more versatile.
Solar Inverter. Takes the Direct Current (DC) by a solar panel or array and converts it to Alternating Current (AC) that can be used by homes and businesses.
Solar Efficiency. The percentage of sunlight captured and converted into electricity via the solar panels.
Solar Design Company. A specialist company that can design solar installations that are optimised for energy production.
Solar Canopies. Solar arrays that are mounted on the ground but at a height that allows the ground beneath to still be used – for car parking for example.
Return to Launch / Return to Home. A command that can be given to the drone to recall it to its starting position.
Ready to Fly. A drone that is already assembled and ready to fly out of the box.
Remote Piloted Aerial System. The official term for drone used by the CAA
RE Renewable Energy – Energy generated from renewable sources such as solar, wind and tidal power.
Recognised Assessment Entity. This is the replacement term for NQE under the new EASA legislation given to organisations who train and issue CAA-recognised certificates to drone operators