The measure of: HG Robotics Vetal
Image credit: Cover Images
While fixed-wing drones can fly further and faster than multicopters, they typically require runways to take off and land. The Vetal flying-wing drone addresses this with a striking ‘tail-sitter’ design.
The Vetal drone, developed by Thailand-based company HG Robotics, was designed for tasks such as agricultural surveying and general surveillance, with tailored mission-control software. It features a foam-core/carbon-fibre-shell body, and its two motors are powered by a quick-swappable 12-Ah lithium-polymer battery.
Image credit: ,
According to the company, in forward flight the drone has a top speed of 90km/h and a cruising speed of 54km/h. It can carry a payload of up to 800g, which could comprise various types of sensors and/or cameras – these can all be mounted and removed via a quick-release mechanism.
Using a 4G/5G module, the Vetal can remain in contact with its operator up to a distance of 7km. As with most industrial drones, Vetal can also be remotely piloted in real time, or programmed to follow a pre-determined flight path, HG Robotics says. For the latter, it navigates using a combination of GPS and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).
HG Robotics Vetal: vital statistics
Dimensions: 700 x 1,300 x 1,000mm
Set-up time: <2 minutes
Maximum flight time: 60 minutes
Battery: 1
Maximum take-off weight: 4.6kg
Weight with no payload: 3.8kg
Cruise speed: 54km/h
Maximum speed: 90km/h
Max ascend/descend speed: 6m/s, 3m/s
Maximum wind resistance 15m/s (forward), 8m/s (hover)
Maximum operating radius (line of sight): 10km
Maximum operating altitude above mean sea level (AMSL): 2,000m
Length: 1m
Height: 0.7m
Wingspan: 1.3m
Sign up to the E&T News e-mail to get great stories like this delivered to your inbox every day.
