Drone Deliveries: How Unmanned Traffic Management & Other Factors Can Make UAVs Safer

Cutting-edge sensors are also playing a pivotal role in making sky deliveries safer than ever.

As technology converges and innovations unfold, the dream of using the sky for deliveries is turning into reality.

Source : Getty

By Rimanshu Pandey

Imagine a world where packages are delivered through the skies, bypassing traffic and roadblocks. Thanks to remarkable technological progress, this futuristic vision is inching closer to reality. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), or drones, are evolving rapidly and have the potential to transform how we receive goods. Anticipated to surge by 78 per cent by 2030 (as per World Economic Forum data) the demand for urban last-mile deliveries is poised to introduce 36 per cent more delivery vehicles into the top 100 cities worldwide. To address the inefficiencies that currently plague last-leg logistics, an increasing number of logistics stakeholders are embracing the exceptional potential presented by drone technology.

While the idea of drones sharing the sky with planes and helicopters sounds exciting, safety must come first. With numerous drones potentially buzzing around, the risk of accidents or collisions is a real worry. Ensuring the safety of both airborne and ground operations is crucial before we see drones delivering our packages on a large scale. Below, we delve into the intricate realm of ensuring the safety behind these aerial deliveries.

What Is Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM)?

Think of UTM systems as digital air traffic controllers for drones. They manage the movements, routes, and interactions of these flying machines. Similar to traditional air traffic control, UTM systems ensure that drones can coexist harmoniously in the sky, avoiding mishaps and chaos. By leveraging advanced algorithms, real-time data, and communication networks, UTM systems pave the way for the seamless integration of drones, ensuring the skies remain a safe and organised haven for both innovation and transportation.

Advantages Of UTM

UTM offers several advantages that contribute to the safety and efficiency of sky deliveries:

• Navigating Controlled Airspace: UTM systems designate specific areas where drones can safely operate, preventing them from interfering with manned aircraft or other drones. This controlled environment minimises the risk of collisions and ensures smooth operations.
• Safeguarding Flights with Virtual Fences: UTM systems can establish virtual boundaries, or “geofences,” that restrict drones from entering prohibited or dangerous areas. This feature prevents drones from straying into sensitive locations, enhancing safety and security.
• Preventing Collisions with Other Drones and Aircraft: UTM systems actively monitor the positions and trajectories of all drones in the airspace, ensuring that they maintain safe distances from each other and from traditional aircraft. This collision prevention capability is vital for avoiding accidents.
• Streamlining Mission Planning: UTM systems facilitate efficient mission planning for drone deliveries. They consider factors such as weather conditions, airspace congestion, and delivery routes to optimise the journey. This results in faster and smoother deliveries

Next-Level Sensors

Cutting-edge sensors are playing a pivotal role in making sky deliveries safer than ever. These sensors can perceive the environment with remarkable accuracy, even in challenging conditions like bad weather. Advanced cameras, thermal imaging, and smart collision-avoidance algorithms empower drones to detect and navigate around obstacles, ensuring a safe delivery journey.

Harnessing The Power Of AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the force behind smarter drone operations. AI algorithms analyze real-time data, enabling drones to make split-second decisions based on changing situations. Machine learning helps drones predict and manage potential risks, making their operations safer overall. Drones can also learn from past experiences, continually improving their navigation and decision-making skills.

Regulations & Cooperation

To bring this vision to life, cooperation is key. Tech developers, regulatory bodies, and industry players are working together to establish rules that balance innovation with safety. Governments worldwide are crafting comprehensive regulations to guide the deployment of delivery drones. Collaboration between various stakeholders paves the way for advanced safety technologies.

As technology converges and innovations unfold, the dream of using the sky for deliveries is turning into reality. Unmanned Traffic Management (UTM) systems, cutting-edge sensors, and the integration of artificial intelligence are transforming sky deliveries into a safe and efficient option. The latest report by EY-FICCI, bearing the title “Making India the Drone Hub of the World,” paints a compelling picture of India’s soaring potential in the drone sector. Projections indicate that the manufacturing prowess of India’s drone industry could scale a staggering $23 billion by the horizon of 2030. As the report boldly posits, with judicious manufacturing strategies and strategic investments, India could conceivably ascend to the zenith of drone innovation, positioning itself as the global epicentre of drone technology by the very same year. While challenges like regulations and public acceptance remain, advancement in drone technology promises a more environmentally-friendly, expedited, and secure approach to transporting goods.

(The author is the Co-Founder and CTO of TSAW Drones)

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