Percepto, developers of on-site autonomous drone systems, has announced the launch of its Sparrow I, an autonomous drone specifically designed for industrial environments.The Sparrow I can conduct multiple missions and can operate around the clock, reducing both security and operational costs, including the need for on-site pilots and operators.
Sparrow I uses multiple advanced technologies, such as machine vision and AI, to conduct security, safety and inspection missions, collecting and analyzing data in real-time. Highly accurate and actionable information is then provided to customers enabling them to protect sensitive and strategic assets, such as oil and gas refineries, power plants, shipping ports and sea terminals.
“Sparrow I was designed specifically to operate in harsh industrial environments, a rarity in today’s drone landscape,” said Dor Abuhasira, CEO and co-Founder of Percepto. “Our goal was to make Sparrow I as useful as possible for our customers, providing them with an easy way to increase efficiency, minimize unexpected downtime and reduce risks to personnel. To achieve this goal, we developed Sparrow I to include permanent mounted sensors and a rechargeable battery, removing the need for any human intervention.”
Sparrow I is stationed on-site, housed in a self-contained base unit from where it launches and lands autonomously. The Percepto base shelters, charges, transfers data and conducts “health checks” on the drone when it is not running missions. The system is also designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow and dust, allowing it to operate year-round.
Sparrow I uses PerceptoCore, the Company’s patented processing module for drones. This cutting edge technology is already being used in leading defense industry drones and is available for the first time for commercial use with the release of Sparrow I.
Sparrow I at a glance:
- 40 min flying time with a full payload
- 8.5kg/19lbs weight (including standard payload)
- 2kg/4.5lbs maximum weight of individual mission payload
- 5km/3mi flying distance
- 130m/400ft maximum altitude (regulated)
- 75KpH/46MpH maximum speed
- 1062mm/42in dimensions (propeller tip: diagonal)
- Permanent payload of dual camera (day and night) and rechargeable battery
Frank Schroth is editor in chief of DroneLife, the authoritative source for news and analysis on the drone industry: it’s people, products, trends, and events.
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