Aug 26 2010
LaserMotive announced that it will showcase a remote controlled, laser-powered helicopter model at the AUVSI’s Unmanned Systems North America 2010 Conference in Denver, Colorado. The LaserMotive model is eye-safe, and it utilizes a tethered remote-controlled helicopter.
The laser-powered helicopter recorded the longest flight duration of about two hours in the lab tests conducted by the company. On all four days of the conference, the helicopter will fly all day long. The laser system utilizes the laser power beaming technology to offer a continuous power supply to the helicopter. The system is based on the technology developed by the company for the Power Beaming Challenge in 2009.
LaserMotive’s announcement is part of its strategic plans for the development of a complete laser power system for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAVs). The next step of the company is to demonstrate the power beaming technology for a free-flying, larger unmanned aerial vehicle.
LaserMotive’s President, Tom Nugent stated that the laser-powered unmanned helicopter flight was a significant development. He said that this advancement offers a solution to power the UAVs in flight without using fuels, as well as, it can expand their capabilities and open up new missions.