Iris Automation unveils new collision-avoidance solution for drones

Iris Automation has launched a new computer vision detect-and-avoid solution, known as Casia, for the commercial drone industry.

The collision-avoidance solution will enable beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations for autonomous vehicles.

Casia is designed to detect other aircraft and uses machine learning to classify them. According to the company, the software will provide the ‘eyes and brain’ for drones. It also possesses the ability to make intelligent decisions about the threat posed by other aircraft and trigger automated manoeuvres to avoid collisions.

A combination of both hardware and software, Casia features artificial intelligence algorithms and software in a self-contained supercomputer that is equipped with a machine vision camera.

Iris Automation CEO Alexander Harmsen said: “Casia is the critical piece our industry has been dreaming about for years – finally allowing us to use drones to their full commercial potential.

“By unlocking BVLOS flight with Casia, operators all over the world will be able to use their aircraft in every conceivable scenario.”

Prior to the commercial launch, Iris subjected the technology to testing, with more than 7,000 real-world test flights and mid-air collision scenarios and 40,000 encounters in simulation.

The company also conducted an early adopter programme for the Casia technology, involving more than 30 participating beta customers from five countries.

Iris Automation is also working with regulators to make drones safer and accessible.

The firm also announced that it will offer customer support during Part 107 waiver writing and regulatory approval processes to enable them to obtain the necessary permissions for their unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operations.