The Skydio Dropper is an X10 attachment designed as a payload delivery system. It is optimized for the Restube Automatic (purchased separately) and enables the deployment of life-saving payloads in emergency response situations.

[note] In addition to this Dropper Getting Started article, please read the full Restube Automatic User Manual before use with the Dropper. [/note] 

Safety

[warning] KEY WARNINGS: Deviation from the guidance outlined in this resource may increase the likelihood of unsafe operation, including the risk of crash, equipment damage, or serious bodily injury/harm.

• Do not use Skydio Dropper with Restube in precipitation or inclement weather. The Restube Automatic is designed to deploy in water, meaning exposure to moisture may trigger unintended deployment and may result in a crash.
• Use only payloads that can be safely secured and released. Unsecured payloads, or use with other attachments, may increase propeller wear, reduce flight performance and handling, and could result in a crash or serious injury.

 [/warning] 

Operational Considerations

• Potential Reduced Flight Performance - Operating with heavier payload weights or multiple attachments will impact flight performance, including shorter flight time, decreased wind tolerance, lower altitude capability, and less responsive handling.
• Increased system wear - Frequent use of heavy payloads will increase propeller wear and may reduce battery lifespan. Using the Dropper with other attachments may further degrade performance and increase wear, especially in demanding conditions (e.g., high altitude).

How to install the Dropper attachment

[note] The drone may be powered on or powered off while installing Dropper. [/note]

Step 1 - Align the Dropper attachment with the right-side attachment bay (A3) of the drone.

Step 2 - Using the provided 2mm Hex Key, tighten the three captive screws to lock the attachment in place.

• 3x M2.5 Fasteners
• Ensure the screws are secure

The Skydio Torque Tool (included with Skydio Parachute or sensor package shipments) can also be used to tighten the three captive screws.

[note] The Dropper screws should be snug but not overtightened. [/note]

Step 3 - Where it says A3, gently lift the rubber gasket and rotate 180° down.

[caution] Do NOT pull off the gasket, as that could result in water ingress and damage to the drone. [/caution]

Step 4 - Plug in the Dropper USB-C cable with the cable pointing downward.

[caution] If the USB-C cable is not securely attached, the Dropper will not function. In addition, if left unplugged the cable may interfere with the propellers in flight and result in a crash. [/caution]

For Dock-based systems ONLY: Step 5 - Apply Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate to the 3x attachment screws.

Apply a single droplet of Vibra-Tite VC-3 Threadmate to the threads of each attachment screw. Before securing the attachment to the drone, allow the VC-3 to cure for ~30 minutes.

Step 6 - Verify the connection is fully seated and secured. 

How to load the Restube Automatic in the Dropper

Step 1 - Ensure the drone is on a flat surface and the striped bungee cord is in a relaxed state.

Step 2 - Flip the Restube over so that the logo is upside down.

Step 3 - Pull the striped bungee cord (attached to Dropper) out and away from the drone.

Step 4 - Press the Restube against the Dropper attachment so that the Restube logo faces outward away from the drone.

• The Restube water activator (black cap) should point toward the rear of the drone
• The water activator will sit under the arm of the drone

Step 5 - Pull the striped bungee cord up and around the Restube and secure fasten to the Dropper hook.

Step 6 - Inspect the cord and verify it is securely fastened and friction fit with the payload. Friction fit has been achieved when the cord applies enough tension to securely retain the payload without mechanical fastening, preventing movement or release during normal handling.

• Ensure the payload is snug and does not easily come loose 
• The cord should hold the payload firmly in place without clips or fasteners (friction fit)
  • Ensure the striped bungee cord is free of damage, does not sag, and fits snugly
  • If there is any damage, replace the cord (2 cords included in shipment) 
• A properly seated Restube will be centered and the striped bungee cord will resemble a wide ‘V’ shape

✅ Secure payload ✅

🚫 Unsecure payload 🚫

🚫 Example of a poorly seated Restube: 🚫

Ensure the Restube pull tab is properly secured and not dangling:

[warning] Failure to secure the Restube pull tab or other payload components within the payload dimensions may result in erratic movements, increased risk of loss of control, or crash. [/warning]

✅

🚫

[accordion heading="How to use Other Payloads"]

[warning] Only use payloads that can be safely secured and released. Unsecured payloads, or use with other attachments, may increase propeller wear, reduce flight performance and handling, and could result in a crash or serious injury. [/warning] 

While the Skydio Dropper is optimized for the Restube Automatic, you can deploy other payloads that meet the size and weight requirements and can be securely held in place.

Payload Specifications

To ensure safe and successful operation, any non-Restube payload must be held firmly in place without clips or fasteners and has friction fit. Friction fit has been achieved when the cord applies enough tension to securely retain the payload without mechanical fastening, preventing movement or release during normal handling.

Adhere to the following specifications:

[note] Review the Specifications for more detail. [/note]

Installing Other Payloads

Step 1 - Verify payload specifications

Ensure the payload meets the maximum weight and size limits listed above.

Step 2 - Position the payload

Place the payload against the Dropper so it is centered and balanced. The payload should be snug, but not so tight that it prevents smooth deployment.

Step 3 - Secure with bungee cord

Pull the striped bungee cord up and around the payload, centering it within the Dropper. Attach it to the hook. Ensure the payload is held firmly in place and has friction fit with the payload. 

• Friction fit has been achieved when the cord applies enough tension to securely retain the payload without mechanical fastening, preventing movement or release during normal handling.

Step 4 - Inspect the fit

Before flight, always inspect the payload to verify it is securely fastened. Verify the payload:

• Is snug and does not shift easily
• Is centered within the Dropper attachment
• Will not contact the propellers during flight

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Preflight

[note] Before the start of your shift, it is recommended to perform a test drop (not over water, people, or hazards) to ensure the Dropper attachment functionality. [/note] 

To operate the Dropper attachment, your flight system must be running Cayley software (or later).  Ensure your X10 system is running compatible software before attempting to use the Dropper attachment.

Step 1 - Perform a visual inspection of the drone and Dropper (per the Skydio X10 Operator Manual and your organization’s SOP) 

Step 2 - Load the Restube into the Dropper

Step 3 - Power on the drone and controller

Step 4 - (Optional) Enable Centerpoint (Global Settings > Display > Centerpoint ON)

Step 5 - Establish a launch zone, check airspace, and perform all standard drone preflight safety checks (following the Skydio X10 Operator Manual and your organization’s SOP) 

Inflight: How to deploy the Dropper

From a controller

Follow these steps to deploy the Dropper:

Step 1 - Descend to 25 ft (recommended) 

• Dropping from a higher altitude may negatively impact the precision of the drop (e.g., high winds may cause the dropped item to drift)   

Step 2 - Select the Dropper Quick Action icon (left side of the controller screen)

Step 3 - Select Look Down

Step 4 - Adjust the position of the drone so the target hash marks are directly over where you would like to drop the item

Step 5 - Press and hold to drop the Restube

From Remote Flight Deck

Step 1 - Descend to 25 ft (recommended) 

• Dropping from a higher altitude may negatively impact the precision of the drop (e.g., high winds may cause the dropped item to drift)   

Step 2 - Select the Dropper Quick Action from the menu in the center of the screen

Step 3 - Select Look Down 

Step 4 - Adjust the position of the drone so the target hash marks are directly over where you would like to drop the item

Step 5 - Press and hold to release the Restube 

Postflight

Step 1 - Inspect the Dropper attachment

Step 2 - If the Restube was deployed, load a new one or repack the Restube after it is fully dry, with a new CO2 can

Step 3 - Log the mission

• Include details such as time, location, or outcome
• Follow your organization’s SOP

Step 4 - If required, upload flight video/data

Step 5 - Notify the relevant authorities of the final mission status per your organization’s SOP

Restube Automatic Resources

• Restube Automatic User Manual (PDF)
• How To Pack: Restube automatic (video)

Maintenance 

Cord Inspection and Replacement

The Dropper cord may wear over time, especially with frequent use or when carrying heavier payloads.

Inspect the cord each time you load the Dropper to confirm it securely holds the payload and maintains a snug, friction fit.

Replace the cord if you notice any of the following:

• Visible damage
• Reduced tension or loosening
• The payload does not feel securely held

Use one of the included replacement cords.

How to replace the Dropper cord

Propeller Replacement

Review the following table for various attachment configurations and the recommended propeller replacement time. 

[accordion heading="Specifications"]

[note] At higher weights, expect deteriorated performance, including shorter flight time / reduced battery, increased propeller wear, potentially reduced wind tolerance and lower supported wind speeds and altitudes. To limit system wear and maximize flight time, we recommend minimizing time spent at top speed with a multiple attachment configuration that includes the Dropper + payload. Customers should always operate within their applicable operating guidelines and waivers, and follow updated maintenance guidance. [/note]

Attachment Weights

[/accordion] 

[accordion heading="FAQ"]

Can the Dropper attachment operate in precipitation?

Yes, the Dropper attachment is IP55 rated and can operate in precipitation, providing protection against water and dust. However, the Restube is designed and built to optimize for water contact and will automatically deploy when it comes into contact with water. For this reason, the Dropper should not be used in rainy conditions with the Restube.

• If the drone is unexpectedly caught in the rain, it’s recommended to land the drone and replace the trigger mechanism on the Restube before re-launching to reduce the possibility of the Restube deploying in flight.

Can I use Dropper with other attachments?

Yes. The Dropper can be used in conjunction with other attachments. Please note that at higher weights (e.g., Dropper + Payload + additional attachments), expect deteriorated performance including: shorter flight time, reduced battery life, increased propeller wear, reduced wind tolerance, and lower supported wind speeds and altitudes. Customers should always operate within their applicable operating approvals and follow updated maintenance guidance.

How is the Restube deployed during a rescue operation?

The Restube is deployed automatically upon water contact. Once the Dropper releases the Restube near the person in distress, it inflates on contact with water, providing immediate flotation support.

Does Dropper impact overall battery life or drone speed?

You will see a moderate reduction in battery life when using the Dropper attachment. Roughly 7 less minutes of flight when loaded with the Restube.

When the Dropper is installed, the drone will be limited to a top speed of 36 mph when flying manually. The maximum achievable speed during an autonomous Fly Here Now mission is 45 mph (with obstacle avoidance ON).

Does the Restube Automatic come with the Dropper?

No. You must purchase your own Restubes. There are many US based suppliers such as: Adorama, Omada Group, and other US based vendors. 

[/accordion] 




 

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