Breaking Barriers: Falcon 4G Integrated on UAV - Revolutionizing Short-Range Chemical Detection from the Skies!

In the field of chemical detection, precision is crucial. The Falcon 4G, renowned for its 5 km detection range, faced a unique challenge: detecting chemicals from an ultra-close distance of 250 meters above ground. Our team successfully tackled this challenge by refining the system for a 200-meter range.

Improving Detection Capabilities:

During testing, long-range chemical reconnaissance detector Falcon 4G was integrated onto the Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER? S-100 UAS. This collaborative setup allowed the SEC Technologies’ team to assess Falcon 4G's performance comprehensively in real-world scenarios, showcasing its adaptability and effectiveness. All data were consolidated and displayed within a user-friendly software interface.

Challenges on Test Day:

SEC Technologies simulated challenging scenarios, creating a natural depression with pools and a spider apparatus emitting SF6 gas.

SEC Technologies conducted simulations involving challenging scenarios, including the creation of a natural depression with pools and a spider apparatus emitting SF6 gas. During the flight operations covering a wide area, our main aim was to find gas clouds. When we detect the cloud during our flights, we attempt to hover around the pinpointed location and ensure its presence. Once we succeeded, we tested the Falcon 4G at different speeds 5, 10, 15, and 20 knots and found that it consistently performed well. We also played around with the CAMCOPTER? S-100's height, ranging from 190 meters to 250 meters, and found success across all height settings.

Laser Intensity Adjustment:

Falcon 4G's long-range capability requires high CO2 laser intensity. This leads to saturation at short distances. Our team manually adjusted laser intensity and sensitivity levels to ensure precise targeting of gas clouds. To overcome size constraints and prioritize copter safety, our team innovatively and successfully designed a smaller flap which partially cover part of the detector receiver to shield it from returning ground signals.

Our dedication to excellence shines through in the enhancements we've made to Falcon 4G, highlighting our commitment to pushing boundaries and improving its capabilities. The thorough testing process underscores our steadfast commitment to ensuring Falcon 4G is reliable and effective in real-world situations. We're determined to exceed expectations, making Falcon 4G a technological standout in its field. As challenges arise, we innovate, leading us toward unparalleled precision in chemical detection.

*The project is funded by the Austrian defense research programme FORTE of the Federal Ministry of Finance and is executed in close cooperation with Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence.