Drop test with Automatic Inflating Life ring carried by DJI Phantom.
The band holding the life ring sagged, causing the Phantom to be heavier on one side. After dropping the full life ring with CO2 cartridge, the Phantom climbed quickly and drifted to the opposite side. The drop mechanism needs to better center the load of the life ring.
The Phantom was steered toward the pool deck, behind the photographer, who made brief contact while the Phantom was being labeled. Landed and flipped on landing with no damage.
The life ring inflated automatically approximately 3 seconds after hitting the water.
Conclusions:
Phantom is more sensitive to weight distribution than the larger drone, and centering the load is critical.
Life ring drop mechanism worked correctly, and was dropping using the gimbal pitch lever. Servo buzzed after being set to the drop (open) position.
The life ring inflated after about 3 seconds after landing in the water near the swimmer. The swimmer was able to use the inflated ring to float with no difficulty, and easily fit inside the inflated ring.
This was the first all up test of the riptide system carried by a DJI Phantom. The test was successful and revealed opportunities for improvement of the Riptide system.