Drones have proven to be solutions in times of emergency, specifically by providing rescue workers with a set of eyes in the sky, by delivering aid, and serving as temporary communications networks when those have been destroyed.
And now another valuable step has been taken. Researchers at the University of Texas (UNT) have tested and demonstrated a drone-based cell phone network system that provides coverage miles away.
When a tornado or hurricane hits, the storm not only brings down buildings but can also interfere with the communication infrastructure. This leaves workers relying on these networks to find a solution and provide temporary relief.
The team calls this the “first-ever drone-provided cell service” and makes use of their airborne communication technology. Deemed Aerial Deployable Communication System, it is the first of its kind and was successfully tested in Waxahachie, Texas. In order to demonstrate the process, the researchers fixed the system to a drone and sent it up 400 ft (121 m). They then programmed the cellular technology to tune into the bandwidth assigned to first responders, providing them with a flying replacement for the damaged cell towers.
“We demonstrated a portable communication system that can be attached to a drone,” said Kamesh Namuduri, an associate professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering at UNT. “The system, with just 250-milliwatt transmit power, is capable of providing instant cellular coverage up to two kilometers during disaster-relief operations. If the system is scaled with a 10-watt transmit power, the system can provide cellular coverage to the entire city of Denton [Texas].”
The team of researchers plans to present the results in August at the 2017 Global City Teams Challenge Expo in Washington, D.C., and also demonstrate the communication system.
Via New Atlas
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