Course Lock?
- Thread starter parkgt
- Start date
Yes as a general flight mode. It is on several models currently when using Hyperlapse. The code is there just not accessible as a general flight mode.
I ask Google AI: Why is there no course lock function on the DJI Mavic 3?
You're right to note that the DJI Mavic 3 doesn't have the traditional "Course Lock" function that some older models had
.
Why was it removed?
While DJI hasn't explicitly stated the reason, the general consensus among users and experts is that it was likely a strategic decision related to DJI's move away from restrictive flight features, such as their complete removal of geofencing. This shift may be driven by factors such as:
While you can't use Course Lock for standard video recording, the Mavic 3 does offer some related features within its Hyperlapse mode.
The absence of Course Lock on the Mavic 3 is likely a deliberate decision by DJI to align with their strategy of shifting more control and responsibility to the drone pilot. While there are some alternative features for specific scenarios, you'll need to explore manual flight and potentially third-party apps to achieve the full range of flight and camera control previously offered by Course Lock.
You're right to note that the DJI Mavic 3 doesn't have the traditional "Course Lock" function that some older models had
.
Why was it removed?
While DJI hasn't explicitly stated the reason, the general consensus among users and experts is that it was likely a strategic decision related to DJI's move away from restrictive flight features, such as their complete removal of geofencing. This shift may be driven by factors such as:
- Liability: By removing features that could potentially be misinterpreted or misused by pilots, DJI can shift the responsibility for safe and compliant flight onto the operator.
- Complexity: Maintaining a constantly updated database of restricted airspace for features like geofencing requires significant resources. Eliminating it allows DJI to streamline its operations and standardize drones across different regions.
While you can't use Course Lock for standard video recording, the Mavic 3 does offer some related features within its Hyperlapse mode.
- Hyperlapse Course Lock: This mode allows you to lock the drone's orientation and fly in a straight line while recording a hyperlapse video. However, this is specific to hyperlapses and doesn't provide the ability to record straight video with free camera movement, according to one user on the Mavic Pilots forum.
- Waypoints: This feature allows you to pre-program a flight path with specific waypoints and settings, including camera angles. While useful for repeatable shots, you'll need to manually control the camera during the flight if you want to adjust the angle or pan.
- Manual Flight with Gimbal Control: You can manually fly the drone in a straight line using the joysticks and simultaneously control the camera's panning and tilting. Holding your finger on the RC screen and moving it left/right allows you to maneuver the camera sideways.
The absence of Course Lock on the Mavic 3 is likely a deliberate decision by DJI to align with their strategy of shifting more control and responsibility to the drone pilot. While there are some alternative features for specific scenarios, you'll need to explore manual flight and potentially third-party apps to achieve the full range of flight and camera control previously offered by Course Lock.
What third party app are of any real value these days now that one can't use Litchi or Dronelink? AI doesn't really know either and DJI isn't saying.
Care to explain the differences for those "less informed" than you?
- Course Lock maintains a constant direction, while Cruise Control maintains the speed and direction set by the control sticks.
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With Course Lock once the direction of travel is set, changes in yaw will not change the Course - Course Lock.
With Cruise Control only the speed is set any stick input will alter the direction of travel.
Course Lock is great for dolly shots. Set the course and then yaw all that is desired without altering the path.
With Cruise Control only the speed is set any stick input will alter the direction of travel.
Course Lock is great for dolly shots. Set the course and then yaw all that is desired without altering the path.
That's a common misconception. With Cruise Control, all stick inputs are locked, not just speed. You can do an orbit with Cruise Control that slowly rises or descends, locking all stick inputs.
You can also simulate course lock by manipulating the the location of the Home Point and engaging RTH, while you fully control the gimbal.
That is not at all my experience using Cruise. Yawing produces orbits not dolly shots.
The point being that Course Lock is very useful and not anywhere near the same as Cruise.
jephoto
Well-Known Member
That’s how I use it. I do lots of Dolly shots when shooting for school websites. Cruise control is the way to go.
I used to use Course lock w/my Phantom 4 Pro all the time. Cruise control definitely is not the same, but you can use it essentially the same way. I do miss being able to rotate the camera in flight while maintaining the locked course but I deal with it.
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