Drones

Description of the technology

Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are flying vehicles that do not require a pilot on board. They are controlled remotely or can operate autonomously based on programmed instructions. Drones are widely used in many sectors, including photography, agriculture, logistics, rescue, surveillance, and the military.

Mechanism of action

  • Drones are based on a combination of navigation systems, motors, and sensors. The drone is usually controlled remotely by an operator or autonomously based on pre-programmed routes. GPS and LIDAR systems enable the drone to pinpoint its position and avoid obstacles, while advanced sensors collect data, which is processed in real time.

Implementation of the technology

Required resources

  • Drones: Different types of drones tailored to specific tasks, from surveillance drones to delivery drones.
  • Sensors and cameras: Various types of sensors, such as cameras, infrared sensors, and LIDAR, for data collection.
  • Software: Systems for drone control, mission planning, and analysis of collected data.
  • Communication infrastructure: Networks for data transfer between drones and the central control system.
  • Power supply: Charging and battery replacement systems that enable drones to operate for long periods of time.

Required competences

  • Drone piloting: Ability to remotely control drones or program their autonomous missions.
  • UAV systems engineering: Competence in drone design, installation, and maintenance.
  • Data analysis: Ability to analyse data collected by drone sensors, such as images or environmental measurements.
  • IT infrastructure management: Competence in operating communication systems and processing data from drones.
  • Cybersecurity: Knowledge of safeguards against cyber attacks on drone control systems and their infrastructure.

Environmental aspects

  • Energy consumption: Drones, especially those powered by electricity, consume energy and their flight time depends on battery capacity.
  • IT equipment recycling: Drones consist of advanced electronic systems that require proper recycling at the end of their life.
  • Emission reduction: Drones can replace traditional means of transport, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Resource optimisation: In agriculture, drones can accurately apply fertilisers and pesticides, reducing the use of chemicals.
  • Noise pollution: Intense drone use can lead to noise pollution in some areas.

Legal conditions

  • Airspace regulations: Drone flights must be conducted in accordance with national airspace regulations (example: flight restrictions in prohibited zones).
  • Data protection: Camera-equipped drones must comply with privacy and data protection laws, such as GDPR (example: recording in public places).
  • Flight safety: Drones must meet safety standards to minimise the risk of collisions and other hazards (example: technical certificates for aviation equipment).
  • Export regulations: The export of advanced drones may be subject to restrictions and require permits (example: export restrictions on military technology).
  • Environmental protection: Drones used for commercial purposes must comply with environmental regulations (example: protecting natural areas from noise).

Companies using the technology