Anna University secures patent for Tethered Aerial Platform Invention

chennai: in a groundbreaking development, anna university's dr kalam advanced uav research centre, casr, has been granted an indian patent for its innovative "tethered aerial platform," a pioneering unmanned aerial vehicle (uav) tethered to the ground. this revolutionary technology introduces a novel flying methodology, using a kevlar-coated glass fiber cable to provide power to the drone from the ground, ensuring unlimited endurance and overcoming the constraints of traditional battery-powered drones.the patented tethered aerial platform allows for various applications, showcasing its versatility. it can function as a hybrid system, detachable for free flight, and excels in providing endless endurance, persistent surveillance, and aerial observation for beyond visual line of sight (bvlos) intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (isr) missions. dr k senthil kumar, professor and inventor at anna university, highlighted the platform's capabilities, including acting as an antenna for telecommunication purposes and aiding in firefighting in high-rise buildings.the prototype of the system was initially presented during aero india 2017 in bengaluru and has since been refined for diverse applications over the past six years. the technology has demonstrated its efficacy in vvip security, crowd surveillance, oil spill monitoring, and can be launched from shipboard, mobile ground vehicles, and fixed platforms.the tethered aerial platform's potential impact on armed forces is particularly noteworthy. when attached to ground offensive vehicles, it is poised to revolutionize tactical warfare, intelligence gathering, precision-guided munition strikes, and air support for ground troops. the technology is hailed as a game-changer, offering a network-centric operational approach, thereby reducing the risk to human life in critical defense operations.dr senthil kumar emphasizes the platform's role as a force multiplier and a low-cost solution to meet operational requirements. the technology not only outperforms traditional uavs but also has the potential to minimize the loss of soldiers' lives, addressing a crucial need for national defense. the tethered aerial platform stands out for its unmatched mission safety, operational cost efficiency, and diverse applications, making it a crucial tool for both military and civil purposes.the granted patent, effective for a term of 20 years from november 8, 2018, signifies a significant milestone in the realm of unmanned aerial systems and positions anna university at the forefront of technological innovation in this field.