The use of UAVS in USA'S security by an engineering education approach.

The main purpose of this publication is to encourage the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by an engineering education approach for the protection of USA's borders and territories, in addition to providing citizens with extra safety measures and surveillance. Using a quadcopter based platform and training to undergraduate students, this paper explores the different features that a four-rotor UAV can add to the nation's safety. At this exact moment, our coasts are being remotely monitored by satellites as well as constantly patrolled by security officers and soldiers. However, there is a limit to the security that can be reached by these. In the case of satellites, though they've been the base of many security advancements, they cannot penetrate in certain terrains, something that can be solved by the use of UAVs. And, though the brave men and women in charge of guiding our coasts and safety are giving their best, they're only human and can use the help of these machines, especially in dangerous situations. But, they're many more cases in which these devices might prove useful. Take for example an emergency such as an earthquake or tsunami. These machines can help warn people of the situation and lead them to safety, as well as help localize victims. The latter can be done by incorporating heat-sensors along with the microphone and camera used for reconnaissance. The use of UAVs might just be what is needed to guarantee the safety of American citizens. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]