As the drone industry has expanded over the last few years, so too have the demands placed upon the aircraft themselves. The use of next-generation sensors and payloads with complex data transmission requirements, as well as other advanced technologies, has fuelled the need for new interconnect solutions that can keep pace with this rapid development. These connectors must minimize size and weight while being able to withstand extreme levels of environmental stressors such as temperature, moisture, dust, shock, vibration and more.
UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) subsystems that require robust and reliable interconnections include:
- Engines and propulsion systems
- Batteries
- Cameras, sensors and other payloads
- Flight controllers, autopilots and mission computers
- Datalinks and communications
- Targeting and firing systems
Nicomatic has risen to the challenge and developed a comprehensive portfolio of connectors that meet the needs of even the most demanding rugged military- and aerospace-grade requirements. These solutions allow drone OEMs and system integrators to create advanced platforms that achieve leading ranges, flight endurances and carrying capacities.
Nicomatic’s industry-leading miniature and micro-connectors and interconnect solutions for drones and robotics include:
CMM Micro Connectors
These 2mm pitch micro-connectors are highly shock- and vibration-resistant, and are designed to meet or exceed the electrical and mechanical performance criteria of MIL-DTL-55302F and BS-9525-F0033 standards. High-power, high-frequency and low-frequency contacts can be mixed within the same connector, making this a highly versatile and modular solution.
DMM Micro Connectors
DMM connectors are designed to provide a more flexible alternative to Micro-D M83513 connectors, allowing a wider choice of arrangements with the ability to mix signal, power and coaxial contacts in up to four rows. The metallic connectors are designed to meet MIL-DTL-83513G standards.
DLMM Micro Connectors
With a lightweight metalized composite constructive and enhanced EMI protection, DLMM micro connectors can withstand temperatures from -55 °C to 125 °C, and provide a versatile and more cost effective alternative to standard metal Micro-Ds with up to 50% less weight.
AMM Micro Connectors
These rugged 1mm pitch connectors are designed for the most size- and weight-restricted drone applications, with a tough glass fiber composite housing and gold-plated signal contacts for enhanced longevity and performance.
EMM Micro Connectors
The aerospace-grade EMM connector family is ideal for high-speed data transmission applications such as Ethernet, USB 3 and SATA III. Allowing for any pin count from 4 to 60 signal contacts, the rugged connectors are 20% lighter than standard Micro-Ds and feature options for reversed contacts, integrated 90° back protection, and locking and guiding hardware.
OMM Micro Connectors
Nicomatic’s OMM micro circular connectors enable a high density of contacts within a small space, making them highly suited for SUAS (small unmanned aerial systems) and robotics applications. Providing an eight-position housing as standard, with custom six- and ten-position designs available upon request, they can save up to 50% of space weight compared to standard circular connectors.
Flat Flexible Cables (FFCs)
FFC (Flat Flexible Cable)
products enable robust board-to-board connections in tight and awkward spaces, and can survive over 20 million bend cycles at a bend radius of 50 mm. These rugged long-lifespan interconnects can be directly soldered or used with ZIF/LIF-type connectors, and provide a range of pitch options with up to 250 contacts.
Nicomatic is more than just a component vendor. The company has worked closely with leading industry figures, manufacturers, defense primes and technology developers to ensure that their connectors are at the forefront of what is possible for state-of-the-art UAV platforms.
By partnering with Nicomatic, you can be assured of fast turnaround times, prompt delivery and the highest quality standards. A team of expert engineers is on hand to match your requirements to specific solutions, offer technical support, assist with rapid prototyping, and much more.
To find out more about how Nicomatic’s rugged miniature connectors can elevate your drone and unmanned systems designs, get in touch.
