Elios 3
The Elios 3 is a collision-tolerant indoor inspection drone manufactured by Flyability and launched in 2022. Designed for confined-space and GPS-denied environments, it features an Ouster LiDAR sensor, real-time 3D mapping via FlyAware SLAM, and a modular dual-payload system. The drone operates primarily under pilot control with optional autonomous assistance features available through a Premium software subscription.
Overview and Use Cases
The Elios 3 is an indoor inspection drone designed for environments where GPS is unavailable and collision risks are significant. It is engineered for confined-space inspection applications where traditional aerial platforms cannot operate effectively. The collision-tolerant design allows operation in complex industrial environments, storage tanks, and other enclosed or obstructed spaces.
Key Capabilities
- Real-time 3D Mapping: FlyAware SLAM engine enables simultaneous localization and mapping in GPS-denied environments
- LiDAR Sensing: Integrated Ouster LiDAR sensor for obstacle detection and spatial awareness
- Modular Payload System: Dual-payload configuration supporting interchangeable sensors
- Teleoperation: Primarily pilot-operated control system
- Autonomous Assistance Features (Premium subscription):
- Autonomous Repeat Flight
- Smart Return-to-Home
- Autonomous Return to Signal
- Designed as pilot workload reduction tools rather than full autonomy replacements
Specifications
Power Systems
- Standard battery configuration
- High-capacity battery option offering up to 50% extended flight time
- Tether Power Unit available for continuous power supply
Payload Options
- Ouster LiDAR (integrated)
- Ultrasonic thickness (UT) measurement payload (announced March 2024)
- Flammable gas sensor
- Modular dual-payload design allowing simultaneous sensor operation
Manufacturer
The Elios 3 is manufactured by Flyability, headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland. The company raised CHF 22 million in Series C funding in September 2022. The drone was launched in 2022 as part of Flyability's product line for indoor inspection applications.
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