Technology has enabled capabilities and possibilities that we couldn’t have even imagined just a few years ago. The inspiring journey of Malaysia’s very own drone startup Fourfang should illustrate that well. It’s a journey we we can all be proud of.
The company made its debut at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima) in 2017 with the launch of its impressive Venus 1.0 drone, equipped with fully autonomous, 24/7 flight and self-charging battery capabilities.
It all began with four young men who were passionate about aviation and aerospace technology.
For approximately two years, they went to work developing a drone that would go above and beyond expectations. They kept things on the low, deciding to only begin bringing their product to the attention of the public during the launch. Fourfang is now ready to take on the world! It’s an autonomous solutions specialist focusing on drone development and commercial application throughout various sectors including construction, infrastructure logistics, security and agriculture.
Meet Venus
According to Fourfang’s Chief Executive Officer Dr Lee Chian, for its two initial years, the team’s primary objective was the finalisation of a prototype. They developed the concept tactfully and eventually came up with Venus, although it took the dedicated team another two years to get the algorithm used for Venus right before officially launching it for the consumer market.
Drones have become increasingly visible in recent times, due to a variety of factors as well as useful applications. Photography has now benefitted from accessible aerial and bird’s eye view imagery made available through high-powered drones. Autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles are now used in numerous sectors for many commercial applications, analytical and data gathering features have been stepped up through the use of drone technology.
As exponential market growth continues, Fourfang’s determination may very well see them taking the lead in the industry.
Features
The team’s main designer, Eric Ta Yet, went above and beyond in trying to ensure that Venus was not only sturdy but sustainable and durable (able to withstand harsh weather). This drone has withstood numerous tests, including electrical tests. Testing was used to validate the strength of its mechanical functions and docking platform.
Venus can also reach amazing altitudes (approximately three kilometres high!)
Its battery is also strong enough to maintain such ambitious heights. Safety precautions have also been fortified according to the designer because, in extremely rough weather, the drone can pose a danger if it crashes.
AI is a large part of Venus. It’s an automated drone powered by high-tech components and, due to this, the risk of cybersecurity threats was a concern. Fortunately, cloud-based technology has been incorporated into Venus’s systems.
The Venus 1.0 can be used for security purposes (detect threats and alert users of any suspicious activity via their smartphones). The battery swapping capabilities that allow for continuous operation, with automatic battery switching features that only require 2 minutes to complete, will also be of benefit in various industrial or commercial applications.
Fourfang is part of a drone industry that you can expect to reach great heights (literally as well as figuratively). Drone developers, whether in Malaysia or elsewhere, should be inspired by their success to make their own mark on the drone scene as well.
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