Drone4: innovations in drone technology and hydrogen propulsion
Developments in the field of drones follow each other in rapid succession, with innovation and technological progress as keywords. Drone4, part of Machinefabriek Boessenkool in Almelo, is known for its leading innovativeness. At ESEF Maakindustrie 2024 in Utrecht, Drone4 will present its latest drone solutions, covering a wide range of applications.
Drone of size
Take, for example, the drone that will also be shown at the ESEF fair: the FireFighting drone. Whereas fire engines can extinguish up to about 25 meters, this drone has a much longer range. Think especially of poorly accessible places, such as emerging solar panel parks where calls for fire safety are growing. A Drone4 solution, thanks in part to multi-tasking features such as monitoring while extinguishing, can extinguish very quickly, precisely and powerfully in the right place. The so-called "fognail" can deliver up to 15 bar of water pressure. But these drones are also suitable for other logistical applications, such as placing solar panels or air conditioners on roofs where you can only get out with a mobile crane. Recently, a load test of as much as 150 kg was successfully performed. In addition, drones can be used to quickly deliver life-saving medicines to more remote areas.
Lightweight solution for higher limits
With drones, weight plays an important role. A 30-meter hose with a 38 mm diameter easily weighs 37.5 kg. For this reason, One Seven Pressurized Air Foam has long been looked at as an alternative. It is considerably lighter than water and suitable for heights of up to 400 meters. In short, it is a way to push boundaries.
The arrival of hydrogen-powered drones
At Drone4, electrically powered drones have reached a critical point. With each additional battery, the total weight increases, resulting in a shorter flight time. To address this problem, Drone4 is preparing to introduce the first drone powered by a hydrogen engine.
Innovation in hydrogen developments
Knowledge sharing around hydrogen developments is provided to Drone4 by H2 Hub Twente, the hydrogen platform where development, knowledge sharing and application are central. Drone4 also cooperates with a large number of parties, such as various cooperating regions. This cooperation focuses mainly on the further development of an optimal firefighting tool, covering all important aspects such as safety, applications, materials, personnel and efficiency.
Regulatory challenges
One point to note is that developments in the field of drones are moving much faster than regulations regarding safety standards and requirements. While there are clear regulations at the European level, they only apply up to 25 kg. In the Netherlands, additional requirements are added, making it unclear whether certain applications are allowed. The best solution is to have separate regulations for each sector with its own specific circumstances, in order to keep everything clear. This is being worked on, but unfortunately progress is slower than desired.
More information: drone4.eu
Register for free to visit ESEF Maakindustrie and visit Boessenkool's booth (booth number 03.B108) to learn more about this drone and other great innovations.[/column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
