German UAV specialist Avilus has selected Volz Servos to provide high-precision actuation systems for its new unmanned helicopter, the Wespe.
The platform is designed to deliver exceptional agility, rapid directional changes, and strong endurance. The unmanned helicopter is intended for demanding logistics scenarios, including land-based, offshore, and naval applications. These operational environments require steering components that can respond rapidly and operate reliably under all conditions.
Avilus Head of Design Daniel Dollinger, said, “We use the most powerful duplex actuators from Volz Servos to equip our systems safely and reliably.”
The actuators integrated into the Wespe are developed specifically for flight-critical use cases where maximum reliability is essential. Their redundant two-channel design enables continuous operation even if one channel should fail. All major components, including electric motors, control and communication electronics, and power supply, are duplicated within the system. Furthermore, the position sensor features a three-channel architecture utilizing 2-out-of-3 voting logic.
Integrated sensors provide detailed diagnostic data, such as current consumption, supply voltage levels, and temperature readings. This system transparency is vital for enabling the Wespe’s fully automated flight operations. With no direct piloting input and only mission supervision, the helicopter must respond quickly and safely at ranges of up to 300km.
Dollinger said, “We are committed to the Made in Germany seal of quality. In Volz, we have found a trusted partner who speaks our language and understands our goals. We aim to further expand our cooperation with a view to additional platforms.”
CEO Phillipp Volz added, “Volz and Avilus both produce ‘Made in Germany’, so this reflects the market trend towards secure, Western supply chains. Our cooperation is characterized by open technical feedback and direct communication between the technical management teams of both companies.”
