This project, with file number MIG-20241011, has been subsidized by the CDTI – Centre for Technological Development and Innovation – through the call of the Missions Program and co-financed by the European Union (NextGenerationEU) with funds from the Recovery and Resilience Mechanism (RRM).

 

Skyfusion

Autonomous navigation for drones, beyond GNSS

 

Skyfusion is an ambitious research and development project that seeks to create an autonomous navigation system for drones (UAVs). This system will enable drones to fly safely and efficiently, even in adverse situations where GPS signals are unavailable or weak. To achieve this, it uses an innovative combination of technologies:

• Advanced sensors: LiDAR, radar, ultraviolet (UV) sensors, and short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensors.
• Artificial intelligence: Sensor fusion algorithms and autonomous navigation.
• Computer vision: Visual odometry (VSO) and LiDAR/RADAR point cloud reconstruction.

The fusion of data from LiDAR, radar, UV and SWIR sensors allows a complete image of the environment to be created, ensuring accurate and safe navigation. This combination of technologies offers numerous advantages, such as:

• Greater autonomy: Drones will be able to operate in remote areas or in environments where GPS signal is limited.
• Enhanced safety: The system will ensure flight stability and safety in all conditions.
• Greater efficiency: More efficient and sustainable air operations will be possible.
• Diversity of conditions: The system will operate in diverse conditions, day and night, in fog and clouds, and in diverse environments.

At ASENSE, we contribute our experience in the design and development of advanced optical systems, with a particular focus on the use of Doppler LiDAR sensors and their integration into an optical system optimised for UAVs.

 

 

Skyfusion will drive the development of safer, more efficient and versatile autonomous drones, opening up new possibilities for applications such as goods transport, infrastructure inspection, surveillance, security and emergency response.

The project results are expected to culminate in a prototype that allows autonomous navigation both day and night, even in conditions of reduced visibility due to fog, clouds and, in some cases, smoke, thus solving a technical and functional need that has not yet been addressed. Replacing manned operations with UAVs could reduce operating costs by eliminating the need for crew and optimising fuel consumption through more direct and efficient routes. Similarly, thanks to this project, it is hoped that operations currently carried out by manned aircraft will be able to be performed safely and efficiently by autonomous aircraft.

The Skyfusion project responds to the growing demand for unmanned aerial solutions that can operate in complex environments without relying on ground infrastructure, paving the way for safer and more efficient flights in the future.

The experience and knowledge of each member of the consortium are fundamental to the success of Skyfusion, a project that is making a difference in the autonomous navigation sector. At ASENSE, we are proud to be part of a project that drives innovation in the aerospace sector and contributes to the creation of a safer and more sustainable future.

First Flight Tests of the Skyfusion Project