A customised low-cost ultralight aircraft for survey, filming and animal tracking in wild environments.
This proposal draws on the extensive technical developments of Ad-G 323041 LOCATE to commercialise the know-how to build a low-cost aircraft with integrated aerial survey, filming and tracking technology capable of operating in low-infrastructure environments. These requirements are common to many applications and there is currently no affordable off-the-shelf solution. Our product is unique, providing a technologically-advanced integrated data collection system controlled by a single pilot. Modular technology enables buyers to select options relevant to their own operation and minimise start-up costs. With operating costs of approximately €30/hour, our product will make sophisticated aerial survey, filming and tracking accessible to researchers, NGOs, government and commercial operators, delivering impact through high-resolution, high-quality information at low cost for infrastructure survey (eg pipeline, rail/cabling and flood plain survey) and conservation (habitat change, wildlife density), land and habitat management (national parks, game reserves). This aerial survey platform fills a market niche between drones (limited by payload and range) and commercial operations (high cost, require infrastructure, lack of flexibility). We will: DOCUMENT the structural modifications and specification for fitting out the aircraft with the equipment payload specified; REFINE the on-board systems set-up and mission planning system; DOCUMENT the options for modular on-board technology; DEVELOP a costing model for building, equipping, fitting out and operating the aircraft and licensing of IP; UNDERTAKE market analysis and research and communicate with potential suppliers and users; PREPARE a comprehensive portfolio for uptake by potential commercial partners. The project team includes three aviation/industry members experienced in bringing innovative technologies to this market.