Inspenet, September 19, 2023.
South African aeronautical technology company Cloudline has conceived autonomous solar-powered airships , especially suitable for delivery operations in remote locations. These aircraft are not only powered by solar energy, but to rise they use helium gas, a light and non-polluting element. In addition, they have the capacity to travel up to 200 km or remain in flight for 12 hours on a single charge.
Unlike drones, which have a restricted capacity, these autonomous airships can transport loads of up to 100 kg. This has opened the door to collaborations between Cloudline and various entities, such as the World Food Program in South Africa and Mozambique, medical supply companies in Kenya, and medical diagnostic services in Namibia. Instead of selling the airships, Cloudline offers a delivery service, allowing them to maintain and constantly update the technology and operating systems of these aircraft .
With the initial funding, Cloudline has managed to obtain approval from regulatory authorities in South Africa. Right now, they are focused on improving user satisfaction and expanding the possibilities of commercial applications.
About the uses of Cloudline autonomous airships
Infrastructure monitoring
Inspection of crucial high voltage lines that are essential for the distribution of renewable energy.
Ability to fly at low altitudes and moderate speeds, offering high quality and precision images.
It carries various payloads with multiple sensors that improve information collection, overcoming the restrictions of ground surveillance and helicopter flights.
Mapping and surveying
Use in mapping and surveying large areas with a resolution that exceeds 20 times that of satellites.
It offers real-time information and collects highly accurate spatial data.
Perfectly suitable for purposes such as urban planning, precision agriculture and scientific research.
Ability to cover vast areas, especially in distant regions, using solar energy.
Environmental data capture
A highly effective tool to obtain information about climate change and its effects.
They are equipped with a variety of sensors designed to evaluate air quality, water quality and soil pollution.
They can access regions affected by natural disasters in order to provide crucial information in real time.
Its design is discreet and non-invasive, which minimizes its impact on communities and natural environments.
Wildlife management and conservation
Non-intrusive monitoring of species in their natural environments and recording of their movements.
Identification and monitoring of illegal actions, such as poaching or deforestation, with the ability to send immediate alerts to the competent authorities.
Significant contribution to biodiversity and ecosystem conservation plans.
Eco-friendly option for wildlife management instead of using helicopters, resulting in cost savings and reduced carbon emissions.
“We are delighted to bring to market a greener, safer and longer-range form of aerial autonomy, with innovative economical units that unlock new use cases around the world.” Spencer Horne, founder of Cloudline.
Source and photo: https://ecoinventos.com/cloudline-comienza-a-operar-dirigibles-autonomos-solares-para-transporte-de-carga/
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