This Ingenious Drone Recharges On The Go
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Drones have come a long way since the first model that barely lifted two feet (60 cm) off the ground was unveiled in 1907. Modern quadcopters can soar to high altitudes and perform a wide range of tasks. However, their capabilities are often curbed by limited battery life.
To overcome this limitation, Professor Emad Ebeid and his team at the University of Southern Denmark have developed an innovative technology. It enables drones to recharge their batteries directly from overhead power lines.
When the drone’s battery runs low, an internal computer uses radar sensors and cameras to find the nearest power line. The drone then flies beneath it and attaches itself using a specially designed gripper. Once securely connected, a magnetic circuit activates, allowing the drone to draw power from the line. This process is similar to how wireless chargers power phones. After recharging, the quadcopter can resume its tasks.
The drone, unveiled in March 2024 at the IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation, is still in the prototype stage. However, in tests conducted, a 9.5-pound (4.3 kg) version successfully recharged itself five times and stayed airborne for over two hours.
Professor Ebeid believes that once fully developed, these drones could revolutionize various industries. He is especially enthusiastic about using them for power line inspections and maintenance. This process, which currently relies on helicopters and ground crews, is inefficient and costly. These drones will greatly improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
Resources: Fastcompany.com, NewAtlas.com
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50 Comments
- nintendokid10 monthsI wish it cold deliver mcdonalds
whaleng10 monthscool
y3144710 monthsDo they sell these?
minty4ur10 monthsNo, as this is just a prototype.
punkinlee10 monthsI want one.- punkinlee10 monthsThis is amazing!
- holago10 monthsWow!
- holago10 monthsI wonder if you can ride on it
- nintendokid10 monthsin the heavier versions you probably can
ddm58454111 monthsi wonder if your going to be able to etach a gopro on it
sukuna10 monthsprobably u just need to attach a clip on for a GoPro I think
ilovenuggies11 monthsI think it helps us by having a understanding about the future
user198711 monthsThis can literally change the future.- sukuna10 monthsI don't think it will effect the future to much