Terry's Journey in Retirement

Chapter 664


Jan 22, 2024

Gimbal Motor Overload

what's a gimbal

It was cold 20 degree morning. Had nothing particular to do. Saw that Dutch Flyers Cycling Club was launching a bike ride in Vischer Ferry. Got out the door late and tried to capture the action. 


Got ahead of the racers and positioned self by the V. F. Amity Church to await their arival. Had to land to change batteries when they whizzed past. Relaunched and tried to track them down.


That's when the trouble began.


The last transmission from my vehicle was this. The proper functioning gimbal supports the front facing camera with a smooth gyroscopic motion.


Lost tracking of drone. Used the "find my drone" feature which led me into the brush. Not on the ground. Spotted 100 feet up in a Black Locust tree.


Oh I will get it, somehow. Perhaps it will blow down one day. Or a string - rope- saw attempt. In the mean time I have the backup drone to continue with.


I asked artificial intelligence Chat GTP how they would describe it and it was pretty cool:

Losing a drone into a 100-foot tall black locust tree can be a frustrating and challenging experience for any drone enthusiast. The excitement of navigating the skies suddenly turns into a test of problem-solving skills and patience. As the drone hovers near the towering black locust, one might feel a mix of anxiety and helplessness. The intricate branches and dense foliage create a labyrinth, making retrieval seem almost impossible. A myriad of thoughts rushes through the pilot's mind—how did this happen? Was it a technical glitch, or perhaps a misjudgment in flight? The sight of the drone entangled in the branches sparks a dilemma: should one attempt a risky climb to retrieve it or seek professional help? Climbing a 100-foot tree poses significant risks, including personal injury and further damage to the drone. On the other hand, seeking professional assistance may involve the use of specialized equipment, adding to the cost of this aerial misadventure. In the face of adversity, the drone pilot learns valuable lessons about responsibility and decision-making. It becomes a story to share with fellow enthusiasts, a cautionary tale of the unexpected challenges that can arise in the pursuit of capturing breathtaking aerial views. Ultimately, the experience serves as a reminder to approach drone flights with caution and a thorough understanding of the surrounding environment.

Shall I ask AI what is the likely outcome?