Elsight’s Halo, an AI-powered connectivity solution for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), is set to enable beyond visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) inspections for Event 38, a UAV manufacturer, and AviSight, an infrastructure inspection provider.
A lightweight, highly reliable communications system, Elsight’s solution will allow precise data collection during extensive oil and gas pipeline inspections over challenging terrain.
Halo’s AI-driven software combines multiple IP links into a secure connection, utilizing public and private cellular networks, satellite systems, and RF technologies to maintain continuous drone communications, even in harsh environments.
Elsight Halo enables UAVs to conduct operations with continuous transmission of high-bandwidth video and data to the command-and-control center (C2), ideal for disaster response, surveillance, deliveries, and long-endurance remote inspections.
To address the operational and economic challenges of data collection from major pipelines, AviSight CEO Suzanne Herring selected the optimal vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone and BVLOS connectivity solution that provided high bandwidth, low latency, strong redundancy, and a reliable link.
Event 38 Unmanned Systems’ E455 is a fixed-wing, VTOL drone weighing 55 lbs with a 2.5-hour flight endurance powered solely by battery. It is built to support a wide range of payloads, including mapping sensors, LiDAR, and EO/IR surveillance equipment, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as extended pipeline inspections
CEO of AviSight, Suzanne Herring, commented, “AviSight’s reputation is dependent on our ability to provide accurate, timely and consistently critical infrastructure inspections through the use of unmanned arial systems in a cost-effective manner.
“In a technology market that is rapidly developing, it is essential to remain innovative in our systems methodology while also embodying the challenges of an efficient execution of the mission. With C2 linkage being a primary priority for our BVLOS missions, it was essential to find a partner with the capabilities to maintain communications throughout our volatile terrains.
“Elsight has provided us with the ability to maintain C2 through vast wetlands, mountainous regions, and remote areas. While Event 38’s E455 has given us the ability to fly extensive linear inspections efficiently and more cost effectively.
“We sought the right combination to maintain command and control over more than 2,000 miles of pipeline inspections in a variety of terrains. Event 38 and Elsight enabled us to overcome terrain and distance challenges and provide precise data to our customers ensuring their regulatory compliance.”
Jeff Taylor, CEO of Event 38 Unmanned Systems, added, “The high bandwidth and low power usage of the Elsight Halo paired with the E455 open endless possibilities of inspections over long distances and rugged terrain that were not possible previously. Our E455 VTOL was able to get closer to the pipelines with the help of Elsight.”
Yoav Amitai, CEO of Elsight, stated, “Working with Event 38 and AviSight has been very fulfilling from both technological and business perspectives. Our Halo was designed for mission-critical goals, particularly, in difficult situations.
“Elsight optimizes the use of drones in many industries with reliable BVLOS connectivity for operational effectiveness. At the same time, we enable industry growth by using only one operator to control a drone fleet from remote locations anywhere. This is how we see our Halo as a market catalyst for drones in pipelines, and inspections in many industries, in which removing the human element delivers better and safer results.”