Krossblade has done some upgrading to its SkyProwler, a VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) drone with retractable rotors, according to New Atlas. Now, the SkyProwler 2 is much speedier, lighter, and can run for longer periods of time.
The original SkyProwler has four sets of rotors that allow it to land and take off like a quadcopter and hover above a specific spot. However, if it has to move horizontally, the rotors shut off and two rear propellers do the work. The rotor arms have the option of retracting into the sides of the drone, like a switchblade, or if you’re using it as a quadcopter, the wings can be pulled off to make it lighter.
Now, the SkyProwler 2 contains these same features as well as an array of other upgrades. The second version can go at speeds of 80 mph and has a 10 mph-higher top fixed wing speed.
Other upgrades include a much flatter and more aerodynamic body, a 50 percent larger battery capacity, and a 20 minute longer endurance. It can also carry a three oz. heavier payload and has a 30 percent larger cargo compartment under the wings.
It’s landing gear stance has gotten more sturdy and secure for landing with a wider landing gear stance and only one tail piece, rather than two. There is also a longer radio control link of up to 10 miles because of an extendable antenna that’s built into the carrying case. This is linked to the remote control unit. Two table screens are integrated into the carrying case, one for video, if a camera is ordered, and one for telemetry.
Other design parameters include:
- VTOL motors: 4x ~150W, ~1,200rpm per input Volt, brushless electric
- Thruster motor: 1x ~500W, ~1,300rpm per input Volt, brushless electric
- Servos: digital, metal-geared
- Battery: 16V (4 cells), 6,000 mAh; can use smaller battery for shorter, more sporty flight or carry additional battery for > 1 hour flight time
- VTOL propellers: ~9 inch
- Thruster propeller: ~9 inch
- Materials: carbon fiber, 7075-T6 aluminum, light weight foam, ABS
- Wingspan: ~43inches/1,080mm
- Length of body w/o tail and nose cone: ~25inches/640mm
Krossblade is also working on a larger passenger-carrying aerial vehicle called the SkyCruiser.
Filed Under: Product design
