1. Abstract / Summary
Teledyne FLIR’s SkyRanger R70 unmanned aerial system (UAS) has been enhanced with Doodle Labs’ NM-915-2G transceiver, operating at 900 MHz. This integration significantly improves the drone’s communication capabilities, ensuring robust, long-range, and low-latency data transmission essential for mission-critical operations.
2. Background
The SkyRanger R70 is a versatile UAS designed for demanding applications, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and search and rescue. Its modular architecture allows for various payload integrations, necessitating a communication system that can handle diverse operational requirements.
3. The Program or Mission Need
Operators required a reliable communication link to support high-throughput data transfer for real-time video streaming and telemetry over extended distances. The existing communication systems faced challenges in maintaining connectivity in complex environments.
4. The Evaluation Landscape
The market offered several communication solutions, but few met the stringent requirements for range, bandwidth, and resilience needed for the R70’s diverse missions.
5. Selection Criteria
The ideal communication solution needed to:
- Operate effectively at 900 MHz for optimal range and penetration.
- Support high data throughput for real-time video and control signals.
- Be lightweight and compact to fit within the R70’s design constraints.
- Demonstrate resilience in challenging environmental conditions.
6. Why the Partner Chose Doodle Labs
Doodle Labs’ NM-915-2G transceiver was selected for its proven performance in similar applications, offering the necessary range, data rate, and reliability. Its compatibility with the R70’s architecture facilitated seamless integration.
7. Solution Overview
The NM-915-2G transceiver was integrated into the R70, providing a robust communication link operating at 900 MHz. This setup ensured stable connectivity for transmitting high-definition video and telemetry data over long distances.
8. Program or Mission Win
Post-integration, the R70 demonstrated enhanced operational capabilities, maintaining reliable communication links in various environments, thereby increasing mission success rates.
9. Platform or System Highlights
- Enhanced Range: Effective communication over extended distances.
- High Throughput: Supports real-time HD video streaming and telemetry.
- Robustness: Maintains connectivity in diverse environmental conditions.
10. Performance Validation
Field tests confirmed the integrated system’s ability to sustain high data rates with low latency, meeting all mission requirements.
11. Strategic Impact
The successful integration of Doodle Labs’ transceiver has positioned the SkyRanger R70 as a more capable and reliable UAS, enhancing its appeal for critical operations.
12. Looking Ahead
Teledyne FLIR plans to continue collaborating with Doodle Labs to explore further enhancements, including integrating additional frequency bands and advanced communication technologies.