![Disposable fiber-optic spool for aerial applications [UAV]](https://www.sedi-ati.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Thumb-spool-UAV-1.jpg)
The innovative concept behind our single-use fibre optic spool for aerial drones is that it is mounted directly under the drone.
Fiber opticSpools
Deployable fiber-optic spool for aerial applications
Maintain communication with your aerial drone in environments with strong electromagnetic interference or in shielded areas, thanks to a fiber optic link.
KeyFeatures
- Bidirectional ground/air link
- Lengths of 500 m, 1 km, 2 km, 5 km and 10 km
- Lightweight and compact
- High bandwidth for video and control transmissions
- Directly mounted on the aerial vehicle
- Fast, secure deployment
- EMI immunity and jam-proof
- Singlemode fiber 1310-1550 nm
- ST connector
- Custom designs
The optical fiber link deploys with no tension as the UAV flies
The innovative concept of our disposable fiberoptic spool for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) is that it is directly mounted onto the airborne drone.
Indeed, the deployable side of the spool is connected by an ST connector to the control station while the stationary fiber is connected to the UAV.
Thus, the fiber is not constrained since it unspools with no risk of tangling as the drone flies. Flying over trees, water, in circles, backward, or even around a pole is no problem. The optical fiber cable is never a leash for the drone.
Fast payload over long distances
The optical fiber is spooled with high precision, offering high-speed deployment over long distances of up to 10 km!
A very compact and lightweight solution
We offer three different packages in size depending on the required spool capacity. For instance, our smallest package can contain up to 1 000 m fiber length in a 64 mm long by 85 mm diameter box and weighs only 235 g.
A disposable system
The RBOB-UAV is a disposable system, meaning there is no possibility of reusing the deployed fiber. However, the fiber can be easily reconnected on the field with a simple field connectorization kit.
Diverse use cases
This technology allows real-time transmission of huge data flows from onboard high-resolution cameras and sensors. The optical fiber link guarantees a clear, high-definition image throughout the flight.
In addition, optical fibers enable UAVs to be guided without using radio waves. This is particularly useful in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference since fiber optics are insensitive to EMI. Therefore, it ensures that the drone is protected against radio-frequency jamming. Also, it is well suited to fly a drone in a shielded area.
As a consequence, possible uses range from 4K broadcasting to indoor explorations with shielded enclosures, concrete walls, etc. This concept thus has the potential for many civilian applications, such as pipeline inspection, sewage and wastewater network inspection, and mine and tunnel inspection.
Patents
France: patent n° FR 3131816 B1
International application: WO 2023/135062 A1