You have requested a machine translation of selected content from our databases. This functionality is provided solely for your convenience and is in no way intended to replace human translation. Neither SPIE nor the owners and publishers of the content make, and they explicitly disclaim, any express or implied representations or warranties of any kind, including, without limitation, representations and warranties as to the functionality of the translation feature or the accuracy or completeness of the translations.
Translations are not retained in our system. Your use of this feature and the translations is subject to all use restrictions contained in the Terms and Conditions of Use of the SPIE website.
17 October 2014DAZZLE project: UAV to ground communication system using a laser and a modulated retro-reflector
The advent of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has generated the need for reduced size, weight and power (SWaP)
requirements for communications systems with a high data rate, enhanced security and quality of service. This paper
presents the current results of the DAZZLE project run by Airbus Group Innovations. The specifications, integration
steps and initial performance of a UAV to ground communication system using a laser and a modulated retro-reflector
are detailed. The laser operates at the wavelength of 1550nm and at power levels that keep it eye safe. It is directed using
a FLIR pan and tilt unit driven by an image processing-based system that tracks the UAV in flight at a range of a few
kilometers. The modulated retro-reflector is capable of a data rate of 20Mbps over short distances, using 200mW of
electrical power. The communication system was tested at the Pershore Laser Range in July 2014. Video data from a
flying Octocopter was successfully transmitted over 1200m. During the next phase of the DAZZLE project, the team
will attempt to produce a modulated retro-reflector capable of 1Gbps in partnership with the research institute Acreo1
based in Sweden. A high speed laser beam steering capability based on a Spatial Light Modulator will also be added to
the system to improve beam pointing accuracy.
The alert did not successfully save. Please try again later.
Yoann Thueux, Nicholas Avlonitis, Gavin Erry, "DAZZLE project: UAV to ground communication system using a laser and a modulated retro-reflector," Proc. SPIE 9248, Unmanned/Unattended Sensors and Sensor Networks X, 92480P (17 October 2014); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2062610