3D Robotics

Overview

3D Robotics, now operating as 3DR, is an American company that designs and manufactures electronic systems for unmanned vehicles, drones, and UAVs, with a focus on open-source and open hardware-based autopilots. Originally known for consumer and hobbyist drones, it pivoted around 2015-2016 from manufacturing complete UAVs to enterprise software for industries like construction, engineering, and mining, and now emphasizes autopilot electronics.¹²⁴⁶

History

3D Robotics was founded in 2009 by Jordi Muñoz and Chris Anderson. It initially specialized in small UAVs for consumers and hobbyists, releasing products like the Solo Drone in 2015. In 2016, the company ceased drone manufacturing and shifted to enterprise software and open-source platforms. It later refocused on electronic systems for UAVs.¹⁴

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are designed and manufactured in the United States, with operations based in Chula Vista, California. The company specializes in electronics rather than full drone assembly, which was discontinued in 2016.²⁶

Notable Products

• Solo Drone - Consumer quadcopter released in 2015 for aerial photography with GoPro integration.
• Aero-M UAV - Fixed-wing drone for mapping in farming, construction, and conservation.
• Pix4D Software - Photogrammetry tool for creating geo-referenced maps from drone images.
• Ardupilot-based Autopilots - Open-source flight control systems used in various UAVs.

Reputation

3D Robotics is recognized by enthusiasts for its early contributions to open-source drone technology like Ardupilot, influencing the global UAV community. Professionals value its pivot to reliable enterprise software and electronics, though some note challenges during the 2015-2016 transition from consumer hardware. Criticisms include the discontinuation of popular drone models like Solo.⁴⁵