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Integrasys Optimises Satellite Communications for UAV Operations 

 
17 July 2018

Integrasys have collaborated to integrate Satmotion Pocket, the auto-commissioning system from Integrasys, into Acorde’s Block-Up Converters (BUCs) for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). 
 
This joint integration makes it possible for operators to receive the benefits of Satmotion Pocket in a UAV environment. The integration of the solution within Acorde’s BUCs enables UAVs to operate more efficiently, optimising energy consumption due to increased signal pointing accuracy. UAVs are able to automatically connect to the right satellite, therefore using less energy and minimising potential interference caused by inaccuracies in pointing. 
 
Manuel Lobeira, CEO, Acorde, commented: “UAVs are notoriously challenging for satellite communications by their very nature, especially given the constant movement. Satmotion Pocket is extremely simple to use, making it the perfect solution to integrate into our BUCs for UAVs, which we know are often operated by those who may not consider themselves experts in satellite communications. We look forward to working with Integrasys to instigate further user testing of this integration in real-world scenarios.” 
 
Satmotion Pocket is a useful application for measuring Copol, Xpol and ASI, and feeding this information back to the user in a readable format. By detecting any anomalies before they become a problem, the tool prevents any disruption to the satellite signal and limits the possibility of service-degrading disruption. It is also available as a mobile app. 
 
Alvaro Sanchez, General Manager, Integrasys, said: “This integration benefits both the UAV and satellite operator. From the former’s perspective, integrating Satmotion Pocket into the BUCs from Acorde reduces the output of wasted energy by automatically and accurately connecting to the correct satellite every time. It also means the UAV operator is less likely to cause interference by connecting to the wrong satellite which would require the intervention of the satellite operator. It’s an exciting development for the UAV industry and the wider satellite community.” 
 
Martin Coleman, Executive Director of the Satellite Interference Reduction Group added: “It is really important that we consider errors in the transmission environment, something Integrasys and Acorde are doing with this integration. The potential for interference caused by UAVs is a major concern for the satellite industry. It’s really important that we maintain the most reliable satellite communications service possible so that satellite remains the most attractive option to users. The integration between Satmotion Pocket from Integrasys, and the BUCs from Acorde, means operational efficiency and optimization of energy consumption, both of which will help prevent any potential disruption to satellite signals.”