In recent years, the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, has become increasingly popular for a wide range of applications, from filmmaking and photography to surveying and inspection. However, the need for human operators to launch and control these drones has limited their effectiveness for certain use cases, such as remote monitoring or emergency response. Enter drone-in-a-box technology, which allows for fully automated drone operations without the need for human intervention.

Drone-in-a-box (DIB) systems consist of an enclosed station that houses a drone and a charging station, as well as a ground control system (GCS) that communicates with the drone and enables it to perform autonomous flights. DIB systems are designed to be installed in remote or difficult-to-access locations and can be programmed to perform a wide range of tasks, from routine surveillance and inspection to emergency response, and search and rescue missions.  

There are a growing number of companies creating DIB solutions. Here we'll showcase several companies that are redefining the limits of aerial autonomy.

Industry Leaders: Percepto

Percepto Air is a line of drone-in-a-box (DIB) solutions offered by Percepto that provides autonomous aerial surveillance and inspection capabilities for a wide range of applications. The Percepto Air product line includes three drone models (Percepto Air Max, Percepto Air Mobile, Percepto Air Max OGI) as well as the Percepto Base.

The three drone options form the “market leading DIB portfolio.” The Percepto Air Max and Air Max OGI, feature 24MP RGB and radiometric cameras. They are the only next-gen DIB solution that offers the option of an optical gas imaging (OGI) camera. The more flexible option in the fleet, is the Percepto Air Mobile. This model is designed for inspections, security, and other operations calling for mobility and resource-sharing.  

The Percepto Base is the command and charging center for the Percepto Air system, providing operators with real-time monitoring and control of the Percepto drone. The Base is equipped with a user-friendly interface that allows operators to easily program, schedule, and monitor drone flights. It also includes advanced AI analytics capabilities for processing and analyzing data captured from the accompanying drone.

Industry Leaders: American Robotics, Inc.

American Robotics offers an advanced DIB solution called the Scout System. This system provides fully autonomous aerial inspection capabilities for a variety of industrial applications. The products consist of a fully automated drone, a ground station, and a software platform for mission planning and data analysis.

The Scout drone is equipped with advanced sensors, including high-resolution cameras and LiDAR, allowing it to capture high-quality data from the air. It is also designed for fully autonomous operation, with the ability to take off, fly, and land without any human intervention. The drone is capable of conducting inspections over large areas and can operate in a range of environmental conditions, including wind and rain.

The ground station (Scoutbase) serves as an edge-computing command center for the Scout system, providing operators with real-time monitoring and control of the drone. It includes a user-friendly interface for mission planning, allowing users to easily schedule and customize inspection missions. The ground station also provides a secure storage space for the drone, allowing it to charge and perform maintenance operations when not in use.

The Scout software platform (Scoutview) provides advanced analytics capabilities for processing and analyzing data captured by the drone. It includes features such as machine learning algorithms for automated defect detection, 3D modeling, and custom data visualization tools. The software also provides data storage and sharing capabilities, allowing users to easily share inspection data with stakeholders.

The Scout System provides a range of benefits for a variety of industrial applications, including improved safety, enhanced productivity, and reduced costs. With its advanced sensors, autonomous flight capabilities, and robust software and hardware, the Scout System is a leading solution for fully autonomous aerial inspection. It is being used in a range of industries, including agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, to improve inspection efficiency and reduce downtime.

Industry Leaders: ICAROS

DIB solutions from ICAROS have the ability to fly independently either through tethered or untethered autopilot. The drones are capable of being released from our lightweight, easily transportable ground stations using any edge device, or can be automatically launched on a predetermined schedule or triggered by sensors on the ground.

Their untethered and autonomous DIB solutions are called Smart Aerial Monitoring Systems (SAMS). Each of these SAMS setups include lightweight and durable drone(s), mobile ground charging and drone protection station(s), and a proprietary fleet management and communication software for live video and real-time data monitoring.

The smaller drone model is known as the Falcon. The Falcon has an estimated flight time of 45 minutes, a range of 13 km, and a maximum payload of 2kg. The larger model is known as the Osprey. The Osprey has an estimated flight time of 55 minutes, a range of 20 km, and a maximum payload of 3 kg. Both models are rated to withstand all weather (rain, snow, fog). There are a range of sensors and cameras available through ICAROS to help clients accomplish their DIB plans.

The Easy Guard ground station is a state-of-the-art system designed for efficient drone operations. Its mobile and robust design allows it to be easily transported and used in various environments. The station is equipped with comprehensive long-term weather protection to ensure uninterrupted operations in all types of weather conditions. Its autonomous, cable-free electric self-charging technology eliminates the need for manual charging and enables the station to operate continuously. The ground station also features a precision landing mechanism, ensuring the safe and accurate landing of drones. With a short charging cycle of 35-45 minutes, the Easy Guard ground station maximizes operational uptime. Additionally, the station is equipped with wind and temperature sensors, ensuring optimal operational conditions. The ground station can operate independently of a power grid, making it a reliable and convenient option for remote locations. The Easy Guard also features internal and external cameras that provide operators with comprehensive visibility and situational awareness.

Easy RMS is a powerful software that enables remote control of both single drones and entire fleets. The software provides real-time delivery of HD video and monitoring data, which can be securely transmitted via radio and cellular communication. Easy RMS offers secure web access and an intuitive user interface for easy operation. The software also includes quick mission planning and real-time manual mission override, making it easy to adjust flight plans as needed. Smart geofencing tracker ensures safe and reliable drone operations. With multiple payload data, thermal imaging, and the ability to engage light and sound, Easy RMS is ideal for a variety of applications. The software also boasts advanced identification features that are currently under development.

Industry Leaders: Azur Drones

Skeyetech from Azur Drones, is an autonomous drone solution designed to enhance security over sensitive sites. It can be integrated with any security network to provide real-time HD video to security headquarters, allowing for quick situational assessments without putting operators at risk. The drone features a high level of reliability and safety due to double or triple redundancy of vital equipment and systems; along with waterproof design. The communication between the drone and its connected base is encrypted to ensure secure data transmission, and the video is directly integrated into the security network without going through a cloud. The drone has a highly stabilized brushless gimbal that includes a high-precision thermal camera and an HD visible camera with high zoom capabilities, making it ideal for day and night surveillance missions. Skeyetech offers a reliable and efficient DIB solution for enhancing aerial surveillance and security.