Scientists at Xidian University have created a system that allows a fleet of drones to stay in the air almost indefinitely. The key is a ground vehicle equipped with a microwave emitter that transmits energy to the drones in mid-flight, eliminating the need to land to recharge batteries.
GPS synchronization for on-the-go recharging 🛰️
The method uses a fixed-wing drone with receiving antennas on its underside. A ground vehicle with a microwave emitter aligns with the drone via GPS, maintaining synchronization even while moving. In tests, the drones flew for up to 3.1 hours at an altitude of 15 meters. The system allows recharging multiple drones by alternating their position over the vehicle, without interrupting the mission.
Goodbye chargers, hello flying microwaves 🔥
Now drones not only spy on your movements, but they also steal your microwave coverage. Neighbors are already wondering why their food heats up at half speed. But it's not all bad: if the system fails, at least you'll have a drone ready to serve as roast chicken. Science advances, and so does hunger.