How Can We Reconstruct a Drone Crash?

Our accident investigation and reconstruction experts were able to recreate the drone accident using recorded video and flight data. Leveraging the expertise of a certified Exponent drone operator, we evaluated the drone's controls and flight characteristics to determine how the drone handled in flight and specifically when operated near water and other obstacles. We were also able to plot the drone's path and discern any external factors that may have contributed to the incident. 

Our aeronautical engineering team examined the drone, including its flight stability software and hardware, and conducted flight tests. With an extensive background evaluating aerial vehicles and their flight characteristics, Exponent experts were able to look for any design flaws in the drone's construction that may have contributed to the accident. 

Our team examined a large quantity of data representative of the accident and test flights. We applied our understanding of the vehicle and control systems to display a graphical representation that was key to explaining the accident, overlaying live joystick controller positions onto video footage from the drone itself. By overlaying the flight data onto recorded video, Exponent was able to determine that the drone responded to the operator's commands as designed, including the commands for it to descend into the pool, after which it became uncontrollable and crashed.