Qualcomm and AT&T Testing Wireless How Networks Can Improve Drone Operations

Qualcomm and AT&T are researching how drones can operate on wireless networks now and in the future. They are exploring the issues with (and possible benefits) coverage, signal, strength and mobility across network cells and how they function in flight. The goal of the research is to assist in drone functions such  as Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) which will enable successful long range delivery, and remote inspection and exploration. In addition wireless technology has the potential to provide drones with more ubiquitous coverage, high-speed mobile support, robust security, high reliability and quality of service (QoS).

“The trial with a carrier with the reach and technology of AT&T is a significant step in the development of connectivity technologies for small unmanned aircraft systems (SUAS), including optimization of LTE networks and advancement of 5G technology for drones,” said Matt Grob, executive vice president and chief technology officer, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “Not only do we aim to analyze wide-scalable LTE optimization for safe, legal commercial SUAS use cases with beyond line-of-sight connectivity, but the results can help inform positive developments in drone regulations and 5G specifications as they pertain to wide-scale deployment of numerous drone use cases.”

“Many of the anticipated benefits of drones, including delivery, inspections and search and rescue will require a highly secure and reliable connection,” said Chris Penrose, senior vice president, IoT Solutions, AT&T. “With a focus on both regulatory and commercial needs, LTE connectivity has the potential to deliver optimal flight plans, transmit flight clearances, track drone location and adjust flight routes in near real-time. Solving for the connectivity challenges of complex flight operations is an essential first step to enabling how drones will work in the future.”

The UAS trials will be based on the Qualcomm® Snapdragon Flight™ drone development platform, which is designed to offer superior control and navigation capabilities. Already in use in some commercially available drones, the platform offers high fidelity sensor processing, precise localization, autonomous visual navigation and 4K videography all in an integrated, light-weight model suitable for consumers and enterprises.

Trials will begin later this month at Qualcomm Technologies’ San Diego Campus. Testing will take place at its FAA-authorized UAS Flight Center and test environment. The center contains “real world” conditions including commercial, residential, uninhabited areas and FAA controlled airspace. This facility permits testing of the use of commercial cellular networks for drones without affecting AT&T’s everyday network operations.