- A novel laser system transmits energy wirelessly to drones that fly for kilometers
- PowerLight tests air cargo technology aimed at increasing drone endurance
- Laser energy beam passes from laboratory components to integrated flight systems
PowerLight Technologies has introduced a laser-based wireless power system designed to keep drones flying for extended periods without needing to land to recharge.
The company said the technology can transmit kilowatts of power over distances approaching 2 km, allowing drones to receive power while in the air.
The system was developed under the Power Transmitted Over Laser to UAS program, which is partially supported by the United States Central Command.
A wireless power line in the air
The project has moved from working on individual components to testing integrated systems.
At the center of the setup is an autonomous ground transmitter capable of tracking an aircraft and directing a laser beam with enough precision to deliver power in flight.
The company described the concept as a wireless power line in the air, rather than a simple point-to-point transfer.
“This is much more than point-to-point energy transfer using a laser; we are building a smart mesh energy network capability,” said Tom Nugent, CTO and co-founder of PowerLight Technologies.
“Our transmitter communicates with the UAS, tracks its speed and vector, and delivers power exactly where it is needed. We have now successfully tested the tracking and power transmission algorithms, validating the core architecture needed for our upcoming flight demonstrations,” he added.
The transmitter combines beam control software with hardware designed to maintain kilowatt-level laser output.
Testing has verified precision optical tracking, long-range power delivery at altitudes up to 5,000 feet, and a layered security system intended for mixed-use airspace.
A lightweight integrated receiver completes the system.
Weighing about six pounds, the receiver captures non-visible laser energy and converts it into electrical energy to recharge the drone's batteries during flight.
The receiver also includes a control module that collects telemetry and supports a two-way optical data link between the aircraft and the ground station.
As part of the program, PowerLight is working with Kraus Hamdani Aerospace to integrate the technology into the K1000ULE long-endurance drone.
“The K1000ULE was designed to deliver endurance once considered unattainable. PowerLight's laser energy beam integration adds a new level of persistence, reshaping the operational reality of missions across the theater. A platform that does not need to land to refuel or reload is one that never blinks,” said Fatema Hamdani, CEO and co-founder of Kraus Hamdani Aerospace.
PowerLight said fully integrated flight tests are planned for early this year, with demonstrations intended to demonstrate sustainability in flight loading.
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