Compact Radar to Prevent Drone Collision

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Preventing collisions is vital for the safe operation of drones, especially in an urban airspace with many potential obstacles. Drones with obstacle detection and collision avoidance sensors have become more prevalent in both the consumer and professional sectors. In general, many drone models are equipped with sensors detecting objects at the front side, behind, and below to prevent drone collision.

Now, a new radar-enabled collision protection system is offered for consumer drones. The Radar Flight Control Module (RFCM) is comprised of a single-chip 24GHz radar with range measurement software. The radar responds acutely to its surroundings and can detect multiple objects, objects in open spaces, target distance and speed, and more.

The RFCM provides distance, warning and braking signals to the flight controller through a simple interface, allowing for integration on a wide range of drone products. When installed, the RFCM acts to prevent head-on collisions with everyday obstacles in the drone’s path.

The development is the result of a collaboration between Aurora Flight Sciences and  Socionext Inc., from the radar sensor technology field.

The radar collision protection system is available in small, lightweight and low-power packages designed specifically to meet the demanding needs of small drones, according to an announcement on Aurora’s website.