On September 20, 2019, Blue Innovation, a drone (small unmanned aerial vehicle) venture, announced a new drone model "ELIOS2" intended for indoor facility inspections (Photo 1). The price is around 5 million yen and sales will start in mid-December.
Photo 1 The spherical drone "ELIOS2" announced by Blue Innovation
The ELIOS2 and the conventional "ELIOS1" have a carbon spherical guard that covers the entire aircraft, including the propeller and camera, making it resistant to collisions with obstacles. 40 centimeters in diameter. It can stably fly in narrow spaces such as sewage pipes, pipelines, and inside boilers to perform inspection work.
The ELIOS1, which was launched in June 2018, is used for inspection work in various industries such as plants, steel, shipbuilding, and construction. On average, Blue Innovation staff go to the site two to three times a week to assist companies that have introduced the system, such as helping with piloting and formulating flight plans. It is said that about 100 sites have received such support so far.
The new ELIOS2 has improved attitude control and shooting functions compared to the previous model. By using visual sensors and infrared sensors installed in seven places, it is possible to fly while maintaining a constant distance from structures and walls. If the aircraft hits an obstacle and tilts more than 45 degrees, it also has a function to reverse some propellers and return to a stable posture. In addition, it is equipped with a 4K camera and a high-brightness LED light to enhance inspection video and image shooting functions.
President Takayuki Kumada says, "There is no doubt that ELIOS2, which has greatly improved its functions, will bring about major innovations in indoor inspections" (Photo 2). Furthermore, President Kumada is enthusiastic about the release of the new product, saying, "I want to triple the number of sites using ELIOS2."
Photo 2 Takayuki Kumada, President of Blue Innovation, aiming to expand the use of indoor inspection drones by announcing ELIOS2