Tethered Drones Explained

Tethered drones, also known as “tethered aerial vehicles” or “tethered UAVs,” have become a revolutionary addition to the drone technology landscape. These unique machines have redefined how drones can be utilized, opening up new avenues for extended use cases. The tethering system not only grants them virtually unlimited flight time, but also adds an element of safety and reliability that is not seen in their free-flying counterparts.

In this article, we’ll delve into the world of tethered drones, exploring how they work, their advantages, various applications, challenges they face, and their potential for the future. We’ll see how they’re changing the status quo in various fields, from law enforcement to environmental monitoring, and discuss their potential to shape the future of drone technology.

Understanding Tethered Drones

Tethered drones are a type of drone system that are connected to the ground via a tether. The tethering system consists of a cable that connects the drone to the ground station. The cable is used to transmit data, power, and control signals between the drone and the ground station.

The components of a tethered drone system include the drone, the tether, and the ground station. The drone is usually a UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) that is equipped with a drone tether. The tether is a micro-tether that is typically made of Kevlar or other strong materials. The ground station is where the drone operator controls the drone.

One of the benefits of tethered drones is that they can stay in the air for long periods of time. This is because they are connected to a power source on the ground, which means that they do not need to rely on batteries. Tethered drones can also carry heavier payloads than regular drones, which makes them ideal for tasks such as aerial surveillance and data collection.

Tethered drones are also more stable than regular drones. This is because they are connected to the ground, which means that they are less affected by wind and other environmental factors. They are also less likely to crash, which makes them a safer option for certain tasks.

In conclusion, tethered drones are a type of UAV that are connected to the ground via a tether. They offer a number of benefits over regular drones, including longer flight times, greater stability, and the ability to carry heavier payloads. Tethered drones are ideal for tasks such as aerial surveillance and data collection, and they are a safer option for certain tasks.

Leading Tethered Drone Systems

In this section, we delve into some popular models of tethered drones in the market, focusing on their key features, pros, cons, and pricing information.

Elistair Safe-T 2 Tethered Drone Station

The Elistair Safe-T 2 is a tethered drone power station that supplies constant power, allowing for extended flight times. Compatible with multiple drones, including the DJI Matrice 300, it’s ideal for demanding missions, such as day-night aerial surveillance and telecommunication applications. The Safe-T 2 boasts a rugged design and IP54 weather resistance, but its tether may limit mobility, and it may not be compatible with all drone models. The manufacturer has not publicly disclosed its price.

LIFELINE Tethered UAV for DJI Drones

The LIFELINE Tethered UAV system is another tethered drone model designed specifically for DJI drones. It provides persistent power, which is particularly beneficial for live broadcasting and emergency response situations. Its compact and portable design makes it convenient to transport and set up. However, its compatibility is limited to DJI drones and its price point is relatively high, approximately $6,000.

ORION 2 Tethered Drone

The ORION 2 Tethered Drone is built for extended operations, providing up to 50 hours of uninterrupted flight time. It features an automated flight profile and rugged design with IP54 certification. Despite these advantages, its mobility is limited due to the tether, and it may require additional payload integration for specific applications. The manufacturer has not publicly disclosed the price.

Hoverfly Technologies Tethered Drone (SPECTRE)

The SPECTRE Tethered Drone from Hoverfly Technologies is designed for long-term operations, offering unlimited flight time due to its power over tether. It has the ability for tactical repositioning for either stationary or mobile missions, and features an intelligent automatic tether system. However, like other tethered drones, its mobility may be limited by the tether, and it might require additional payload integration for specific applications. The manufacturer has not publicly disclosed its price.

Purpose Of Tethered Drones

Tethered drones are a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that are connected to a ground station by a tether. The tether provides power and data transmission, allowing the drone to stay in the air for extended periods of time.

Tethered drones have a variety of purposes, including:

1. Aerial Surveillance

Tethered drones are often used for aerial surveillance, as they can stay in the air for long periods of time without needing to refuel. This makes them ideal for monitoring large areas, such as military bases, borders, and public events. They can be equipped with high-resolution cameras and other sensors, allowing them to capture detailed images and data.

2. Communications

Tethered drones can also be used to provide temporary communications infrastructure in remote or disaster-stricken areas. They can be equipped with radio or cellular equipment, allowing them to establish a temporary network for emergency responders, military personnel, or other users.

3. Environmental Monitoring

Tethered drones can be used to monitor environmental conditions, such as air and water quality. They can be equipped with sensors that measure temperature, humidity, pollution levels, and other parameters, allowing researchers and environmental agencies to collect valuable data.

4. Industrial Inspections

Tethered drones can be used to inspect industrial sites, such as oil rigs, pipelines, and power plants. They can be equipped with cameras and other sensors that allow them to inspect hard-to-reach areas and identify potential problems before they become serious.

Overall, tethered drones offer a range of benefits over traditional UAVs, including longer flight times, greater stability, and more reliable data transmission. They are a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of applications, from military surveillance to environmental monitoring.

Benefits of Tethered Drones

Tethered drones, also known as tethered UAVs, are unmanned aerial vehicles that are physically connected to and powered by a ground station. They have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their numerous benefits over traditional drones. In this section, we will explore the benefits of tethered drones and why they are preferred in certain scenarios.

Extended Flight Time

One of the main benefits of tethered drones is their virtually unrestricted flight time. Unlike traditional drones that rely on batteries and are limited by power constraints, tethered drones are powered by a continuous supply of electricity from the ground station, allowing them to stay airborne for as long as needed. This makes them ideal for applications that require persistent surveillance or monitoring, including aerial surveillance, data collection, traffic monitoring, or industrial site surveillance.

Safe Data Transfer and Ease of Use

Tethered drones not only enhance safety but also offer uninterrupted data links. Since they are physically connected to the ground station, they are less likely to crash or fly away. This reduces the risk of damage to the drone, nearby objects, or individuals. Moreover, the continuous link ensures no loss or interruption in data transfers, making tethered drones a reliable solution for data-heavy applications. Plus, their static nature simplifies their operation, removing the need for advanced drone flying skills.

Improved Surveillance and Situational Awareness

The extended flight time and steady data link allow tethered drones to significantly enhance surveillance capabilities. They provide real-time observation of events, thereby helping to detect potential security threats and coordinate responses efficiently. Tethered drones excel in various sectors like defense, public safety, private security, and event protection, where extended and uninterrupted vigilance is crucial.

Emergency and Industrial Applications

In emergency situations, tethered drones offer a bird’s-eye view of inaccessible areas affected by adverse weather or other conditions, assisting responders in spotting real-time danger and victims. For industrial sites, tethered drones serve as an effective deterrent against intrusions or incidents, offering real-time surveillance without time constraints.

Border Protection and Traffic Monitoring

When it comes to border protection, tethered drones prove instrumental in safeguarding vulnerable areas against illegal crossings and activities. Their ability to gather and analyze real-time data without interruption makes them highly effective for traffic monitoring as well.

Despite lacking some mobility compared to free-flying drones, tethered drones offer numerous benefits making them suitable for a wide array of industries and applications. The extended flight time, enhanced safety, improved surveillance, ease of use, and safe data transfer are just some of the factors making tethered drones an invaluable asset in today’s drone technology landscape.

Limitations Of Tethered Drones

While tethered drones offer many benefits, there are also some limitations to consider before deciding to use them.

Reduced Range

One of the most significant limitations of tethered drones is their restricted range of movement. The drone can only fly within the range of the tether, which can be limiting for applications that require long-distance travel or extreme heights. This makes untethered drones a better option for tasks such as search and rescue missions or aerial surveys covering a large area.

Reduced Mobility

Another limitation of tethered drones is their reduced mobility. The tether can restrict the drone’s movement, making it difficult to navigate in tight spaces or around obstacles. This can be a disadvantage in applications such as building inspections, where the drone needs to maneuver around complex structures.

Limited To Power Source

Tethered drones also have limited flight time. While untethered drones can fly for up to 30 minutes or more on a single battery charge, tethered drones need to remain connected to a power source at all times. This means that they can only fly as long as the power source can sustain them, which may not be sufficient for some applications.

Challenging To Set Up

Finally, tethered drones can be more challenging to set up and operate than untethered drones. They require a stable power source, a secure tethering system, and a trained operator to manage the drone’s flight. This can make them more expensive and time-consuming to deploy than untethered drones, which can be quickly launched from a remote location.

Overall, while tethered drones offer many benefits, they are not always the best option for every application. It is essential to consider their limitations carefully before deciding to use them.

Tethered Drones VS Normal Drones

Flight Time

Tethered drones have an advantage over normal drones when it comes to flight time. Tethered drones can stay in the air for hours or even days, as they are powered by a ground station. In contrast, normal drones have limited flight times, usually ranging from 20 to 30 minutes.

Range

Normal drones have a significant advantage over tethered drones when it comes to range. Normal drones can fly several miles away from the operator, while tethered drones are limited by the length of their tether cable. However, tethered drones can be used in areas where normal drones cannot, such as in areas with poor GPS signal or in areas with high winds.

Size

Tethered drones are generally larger than normal drones due to the additional equipment required for the tether cable and ground station. This can make them less portable and more difficult to deploy quickly. Normal drones, on the other hand, are typically smaller and more portable, making them easier to transport and deploy in the field.

Safety

Tethered drones are generally considered safer than normal drones because they are physically anchored to the ground. This means that they cannot drift away or crash into objects if they lose power or experience a malfunction. Normal drones, on the other hand, can be more dangerous as they are not physically anchored and can potentially cause damage or injury if they crash.

Cost

Tethered drones are generally more expensive than normal drones due to the additional equipment required for the tether cable and ground station. However, they can be more cost-effective in certain situations, such as when long flight times are required or when deploying in areas with poor GPS signal. Normal drones are generally less expensive and more widely available, making them a more accessible option for many applications.

In summary, tethered drones have advantages and disadvantages compared to normal drones. They have longer flight times, are safer, and can be used in areas where normal drones cannot. However, they are generally larger, less portable, and more expensive. Normal drones have longer range, are more portable, and are generally less expensive, but have limited flight times and can be less safe in certain situations.

Applications of Tethered Drones

Tethered drones have a wide range of applications in various industries, including military, public safety, agriculture, construction, and telecommunications. Here are some of the most common applications of tethered drones:

Military Usage

Tethered drones are increasingly being used in military applications for surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligence gathering. They can provide real-time video and data transmission, making them an ideal tool for military personnel to monitor and assess the situation on the ground. Tethered drones can also be used for border patrol, base defense, and low altitude satellite surveillance.

Public Safety and First Responders

Tethered drones are also used by public safety and first responders to assess emergency situations, gather real-time data, and monitor large crowds. They can be used to provide aerial surveillance during natural disasters, search and rescue operations, and firefighting. Tethered drones can also transmit live video feeds to command centers, enabling quick and informed decision-making.

Agriculture and Construction

Tethered drones are increasingly being used in agriculture and construction industries to monitor crop health, track livestock, and assess construction sites. They can provide high-resolution aerial imagery, enabling farmers and construction workers to identify potential issues and take corrective action quickly. Tethered drones can also be used to monitor large areas of farmland or construction sites, reducing the need for manual labour and saving time and money.

Telecommunications

Tethered drones are also used in the telecommunications industry to provide temporary communication towers during events or emergencies. They can be used to provide high-speed internet access, cellular coverage, and other communication services in remote areas where traditional infrastructure is not available. Tethered drones can also be used to provide temporary coverage during natural disasters or other emergencies, enabling people to communicate with each other and with emergency services.

In summary, tethered drones have a wide range of applications in various industries, including military, public safety, agriculture, construction, and telecommunications. They can provide real-time data and video transmission, enabling quick and informed decision-making. Tethered drones can save time and money, reduce manual labour, and provide temporary communication towers during events or emergencies.

Regulatory Considerations

When it comes to using tethered drones, there are certain regulatory considerations that need to be taken into account. In this section, we will discuss the FAA and EASA regulations that apply to tethered drone operations.

CAA Regulations

To put it simply, tethered drones are drones that stay physically connected to a person, the ground, or an object through a wire or cable while they’re flying. This tether could also be used to supply power to the drone.

The CAA views tethered drones just like they view any other drones or remotely piloted aircraft, and they all fall under the same basic regulations. However, the fact that these drones are tethered can be seen as a safety measure, which might make it easier to get operational permission.

If you wanted to use a tethered drone, you’d need to understand and follow specific rules depending on whether you’re flying in an Open category (lower risk) or Specific category (higher risk) situation. It’s a bit like driving a car – there are different rules for different circumstances, and you need to be aware of them to operate safely and legally.

In short, the CAA’s stance on tethered drones is that they are subject to the same regulations as all drones, but because they are physically tied down and can’t stray off course, they can sometimes get authorization easier than untethered drones.

FAA Regulations

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates all unmanned aircraft systems, including tethered drones. According to the FAA regulations, tethered drones are classified as a type of unmanned aircraft system that is operated using a tether. This means that the same rules that apply to other types of unmanned aircraft systems also apply to tethered drones.

One of the most important FAA regulations that applies to tethered drone operations is the requirement to obtain a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. This certificate is required for anyone who wants to operate a tethered drone for commercial purposes. In addition, tethered drones must also be registered with the FAA and flown within certain altitude and distance limits.

EASA Regulations

In Europe, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) is responsible for regulating unmanned aircraft systems, including tethered drones. The regulations that apply to tethered drones in Europe are similar to those in the United States.

Under the EASA regulations, tethered drones are classified as a type of remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS). This means that they are subject to the same rules and regulations as other types of RPAS. In order to operate a tethered drone for commercial purposes in Europe, operators must obtain a specific category of RPAS certification.

In addition to these regulations, there are also certain safety guidelines that must be followed when operating tethered drones. These guidelines include ensuring that the tether is strong enough to support the weight of the drone, avoiding flying the drone in high winds or adverse weather conditions, and maintaining a safe distance from people and property.

Overall, while there are certain regulatory considerations that need to be taken into account when using tethered drones, they offer a number of benefits that make them an attractive option for a variety of applications. By following the appropriate regulations and safety guidelines, operators can safely and legally use tethered drones to capture data, transmit live video feeds, and more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tethered drones offer numerous benefits that make them a valuable asset in various industries. Tethered drones provide a stable platform for aerial observation, photography, and low altitude satellite surveillance. They also provide a more extended flight duration than untethered drones, making them ideal for long-term operations.

Tethered drones are also useful in disaster management and construction monitoring, where they can provide real-time video streaming and field of view. They can also be used in traffic analysis and monitoring, identifying hot spots and potential traffic congestion areas.

The use of thermal technology in tethered drones makes them valuable in border patrol and surveillance. They can also be used in checkpoints to identify potential threats and provide a bird’s eye view of the borders. Tethered drones can also be used in the defence industry, providing a stable platform for payload delivery and protection.

Tethered drones are powered by ground stations, which provide a reliable power supply and control system. They are also protected from human error and crashing, making them a safer option than untethered drones. Tethered drones can be used in areas with limited power supply, as they can be connected to a generator or power lines.

In summary, tethered drones offer a stable and reliable platform for various industries, providing longer flight duration, protection from human error, and a reliable power supply. They are a valuable asset in aerial observation, photography, border patrol, and disaster management, among other applications.