Visionair: Unlocking the True Potential of Drone Systems through Power Management
Visionair, an Austria-based company, specializes in creating reliable power management systems and propulsion solutions for unmanned vehicles and robotics, primarily focusing on the defense sector. They empower UAV developers and manufacturers with tools and expertise that help monitor and optimize the various components of their drone systems. Visionair serves system integrators and developers by offering engineering consultancy services alongside their innovative products.
Historical Context and Product Evolution
Founded in 2014, Visionair initially aimed to build aerial platforms equipped with cameras for media productions, including 3D television sequences and films. That same year marked the introduction of Austria’s first drone regulations, which imposed redundancy requirements. As a result, drones were required to have multiple motors, propellers, autopilots, and power sources, ensuring safety should any component fail.
Capitalizing on Redundancy Requirements
The newly introduced legislation created a business opportunity for Visionair, as the market lacked professional power management systems at that time. Existing solutions were hobbyist-oriented, proving to be both inefficient and unsafe. In response, Visionair developed two robust power distribution solutions: the 900W and 1800W Power Distribution Units. These units effectively convert unregulated battery voltage into a range of regulated outputs suitable for small to medium-sized UAVs as well as larger vehicles. Although these redundancies increased weight and cost, they significantly enhanced safety and reduced crash incidents linked to power failures.
More Than Just Redundancy
Circular logic suggests that a single product to monitor various drone system components may suffice. However, this approach has two major drawbacks: a heavier unit can affect the drone’s center of gravity, and any damage to a single feature may render the entire system inoperative. Visionair thus opted to develop distinct products for each feature, ensuring greater monitoring capabilities of individual components. This approach facilitates safety and emergency automation within autopilot systems, thereby contributing to overall redundancy.
Expanding Product Range
Currently, Visionair’s offerings include power distribution units, generator control units, battery management systems, engine starters, and other crucial accessories that ensure fail-safe operation in mission-critical applications. As they refined their product line, drone manufacturers began approaching Visionair for assistance in testing their propulsion packages, which many lacked the expertise to evaluate independently.
Propulsion System Testing Innovations
In response, Visionair established a program allowing customers to send in their engines for the development of complete propulsion packages, enabling comprehensive testing and calibration. They assess numerous parameters to optimize efficiency and reliability, using specialized test cells to evaluate systems under various conditions, including the company’s products and unique RPM requirements. They address inefficiencies in the entire system, from engine power to servo function, which often goes unrecognized by typical drone users.
Comprehensive System Analysis
Visionair’s propulsion system testing solution encompasses mechanical loads and vibration testing, providing a tailored approach for each system setup and its performance during flight. Their objective is to enhance safety and reliability, providing peace of mind to operators and ensuring assets remain airborne with minimal risk. Their extensive expertise translates into time and cost savings for clients, alleviating the need for training, investments in testing equipment, and optimization efforts on their part.
