Surveillance Solution Enables Large-Scale BVLOS Operations

Drone technology provider UVT, has partnered with safety avionics technology innovator Iris Automation, to enable large-scale BVLOS operations for its customers, without the need for Visual Observers (VOs).

UVT’s customers include public safety, utilities and construction organizations, requiring large-scale, cost-effective technologies. The company offers end to end comprehensive drone services, from consultation, site surveys, hardware, software, operational and technical guidance to training, installation, support and the necessary regulatory permissions.

UVT is now offering Iris Automation’s Casia G ground-based air surveillance system to its customers. 

Casia G is a small, passive, low-power, weather-hardened device that can be installed anywhere with a clear view of the sky. Casia G detects cooperative aircraft using a built-in ADS-B receiver and non-cooperative traffic using Iris Automation’s patented computer vision system and artificial intelligence software. The system creates a volume of monitored airspace for safe operation, removing the requirement for individual VOs for each drone operation. 

Without an air surveillance solution like Casia G, BVLOS operations are restricted to very low altitudes or require additional personnel, such as VOs, on site. This limits the potential of the drones to be used for remote, automated operations, and can make UAS operations overly cumbersome, expensive, slow, and sometimes even dangerous for the drone operators and VOs.

Casia G can be installed in any location with a clear view of the skyline, including rooftops, extendable masts, water towers, cellular towers, or even a contractor tripod, without requiring any integration onto the drone. It alerts the remote pilot to any airborne intruder presenting a collision risk, who can then command the drone to move to a safe zone. An automated system such as Casia G also offers a superior level of observation to humans. 

Multiple Casia G nodes can be deployed to cover any sized operational area, creating a network of safe airspace for operating multiple drones from multiple launch points, all from one centralized management point.

Matt Rybar, VP Special Projects at UVT, said: “Integrating Casia G into our product suite is a game changer for us and our clients. It really does unleash a whole new level of scale while maintaining the degree of safety required for any airborne operation. Breaking the constraints of VOs makes these operations much more manageable and effective, particularly for public safety and law enforcement. We’re excited to see our clients take on ever more ambitious projects thanks to this partnership.”

Jon Damush, CEO at Iris Automation, said: “The engagements UVT undertakes with its customers are a perfect example of where Casia G can dramatically improve the whole scope and effectiveness of remote operations, particularly for Drone as a First Responder programs. Until now, DFR programs have been limited by the need for VOs. UVT is really leading the way in helping customers go to the next level by enabling them with cutting edge operational and safety technologies, as well as effective regulatory support.”