Andhra University (File Photo)
Visakhapatnam: Graduates and scholars from Andhra University engineering College developed a prototype motor for drones for the first in the country. The group formed into a startup company-Technorama last year, which is a part of Andhra University Incubation Council, A-Hub and embarked on indigenisation of components of drones, mostly focusing on the motors, which is the prominent component of a drone .
Explaining the features of the motor developed by this group, Prof Mallikarjuna Rao, mentor of the Startup and head of the department of electrical engineering, AU Engineering College, said the prototype is seamless integration with Electronic Speed Controllers (ESCs) to improve safety, control and responsiveness.
The motor has high torque providing strong rotational force for improved maneuverability and lifting capabilities and it maximizes power output while minimizing energy consumption to extend flight time and improve overall drone performance.
"A drone fitted with this prototype motor travelled at a speed of 55 kmph which would be highly useful in emergencies,’’ the professor told this correspondent on Monday. The motor has an efficiency of 92 to 95 percent with more endurance whereas the Chinese motor's efficiency was marked at 85 to 87 percent.
He said indigenization of drone systems is crucial for self-sustainability, affordability, availability, and serviceability. By developing indigenous technologies, Technorama is not only contributing to the national economy but also ensuring that India remained competitive in the global drone market. The company's efforts align with the government's vision of making India a global drone hub by 2030.
He said India's drone market is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by diverse applications in defense, surveillance, agriculture, healthcare and more. The market size was estimated at USD 1.20 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 4.87 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 22.15 percent.
The government's Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme and liberalized drone rules are further propelling this growth. Globally, the commercial drone market is projected to reach USD 54.6 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 7.7 percent. The market is expanding across various industry verticals, including construction, agriculture, energy and entertainment. Technological advancements and the integration of AI and ML are driving the adoption of drones in commercial applications.
However, despite the growth in the domestic market, India still relies heavily on imported drones and components. The import value of drones has been a significant concern, prompting the government to implement policies that encourage local manufacturing and innovation.
Indigenization of drone systems is crucial for self-sustainability, affordability, availability, and serviceability. By developing indigenous technologies, Technorama is not only contributing to the national economy but also ensuring that India remains competitive in the global drone market. The company's efforts align with the government's vision of making India a global drone hub by 2030.
Technorama team comprises T Neelakanteswara (head drone division), Rama Jayalakshmi, Dr Rajesh and Dr Gautham.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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