Elios 3 vs. Elios 2: Comparing Flyability's Drone Solutions

As the Elios 2 approaches its retirement, now is the perfect time to upgrade to the Elios 3. In this article, we’ll explore the similarities and differences between these two drone solutions to help you make an informed decision.

 

Shared Features of Elios 2 and Elios 3

Purpose-Driven Design

Both the Elios 2 and Elios 3 are engineered for close-up inspections in hazardous and confined spaces. They share the same mission-driven philosophy, delivering key advantages:

 

  • Protect workers by keeping them out of dangerous environments while completing critical inspection tasks.

  • Enhance maintenance decisions with high-quality data.

  • Cut costs by minimizing downtime and optimizing operations.

 

Patented Collision-Resilient Technology

Both drones are built with Flyability’s patented collision-resilient technology, allowing them to bump into obstacles and recover gracefully. This feat is accomplished through advanced motor and flight controller designs that enable independent thrust reversal in milliseconds.

 

Innovative Inspection Payload

Equipped with a specialized payload, both drones offer cutting-edge tools for inspection:

4K Camera: The Elios camera delivers an impressive resolution of 0.18 mm/px at 30 cm, nearly matching the clarity of human observation. Unlike manual methods, the data captured is systematically recorded and easily retrievable. Moreover, the Elios 2 and Elios 3 feature the industry’s first oblique lighting system, allowing users to mimic traditional inspection techniques by casting shadows to reveal surface imperfections.

Distance Lock Functionality: Inspectors can maintain a precise distance from beams or welds, ensuring consistency during inspections.

 

Key Differences Between Elios 2 and Elios 3

 

Although the Elios 2 remains a reliable tool for confined space inspections, the Elios 3 represents a significant leap forward, introducing enhanced data collection capabilities, superior ease of use, and compatibility with modular payloads. As the third-generation Flyability drone, the Elios 3 elevates indoor inspection to a new level.

 

Developed over four years of rigorous engineering, the Elios 3 has undergone extensive testing across more than 200 missions. Feedback from users has shaped its evolution, resulting in the integration of FlyAwareâ„¢, a proprietary SLAM engine paired with a brand-new LiDAR payload. These innovations enhance performance, versatility, and stability.

New Features of the Elios 3

The Elios 3 builds upon the strengths of the Elios 2 while introducing several groundbreaking advancements:

 

  • Easier Piloting: Even novice pilots can master complex missions with minimal training thanks to intuitive controls and enhanced stability.

  • Advanced Reporting: Data collected during inspections is visualized in a 3D representation of the inspected asset, simplifying analysis and decision-making.

  • Real-Time Awareness: The drone’s position and trajectory are displayed live, giving pilots unparalleled situational awareness.

  • Mission Mapping: Create highly accurate point clouds of hard-to-reach areas using the drone’s mapping capabilities.

  • Thickness Measurements: Perform precise ultrasonic thickness measurements in challenging environments, supported by high-resolution A-scans.

  • Modular Payloads: The Elios 3 supports a variety of add-ons, ensuring flexibility for diverse applications.

Survey-Grade Mapping in Hazardous Areas

Equipped with a powerful LiDAR sensor, the Elios 3 captures shadowless, high-precision point cloud data for creating survey-grade 3D models. Inspectors can now map spaces as large as 80 cm in diameter, making it possible to tackle even the most demanding inspection tasks. The Surveying Payload, an OS0-128 Rev 7 model from Ouster, paired with Faro Connect software, ensures mapping accuracy of ±1.0 cm with a drift of ±0.1%. This payload excels in complex environments like mines and industrial plants, offering a range of 100 meters for thorough scanning.

Ultrasonic Thickness Measurement (UT)

The Ultrasonic Thickness Payload, developed in collaboration with Cygnus Instruments, transforms the Elios 3 into a flying UTM gauge. It enables precise thickness measurements in confined or elevated spaces, aligning with Flyability’s commitment to keeping personnel safe. Measurements taken with this payload can be labeled within the 3D point cloud, facilitating localization and reporting.

Real-Time Situational Awareness

Thanks to its onboard LiDAR and FlyAwareâ„¢ SLAM algorithm, the Elios 3 generates a real-time 3D map of its surroundings. This empowers pilots with superior positional awareness, enabling them to:

  • Plan optimal routes for safe returns.

  • Assess inspection coverage instantly.

3D Live Reporting

Using Inspector 5, the companion software for the Elios 3, inspectors can visualize points of interest (POIs) in a high-resolution 3D map. Stakeholders can navigate from one POI to another, gaining a comprehensive view of defects within their assets. This feature supports strategic planning, monitoring, and maintenance activities.

User-Friendly Design

Engineered for ease of use, the Elios 3 operates smoothly in complete darkness and dusty environments. Its SLAM-based stabilization system combines data from three VIO cameras and a LiDAR sensor to counteract unpredictable movements, ensuring stable flight under challenging conditions. This stability, coupled with other user-friendly features, makes the Elios 3 accessible to pilots of all skill levels.

Future-Proof Platform

With its dual payload ports, the Elios 3 is designed to accommodate additional modules addressing specific industry needs. Recent additions include the RAD payload for radiation sensing, the Surveying Payload, and the Ultrasonic Thickness Payload. More payloads are in development, reinforcing the Elios 3’s adaptability and future-readiness.

  • For a detailed comparison, refer to the infographic below.

New Use Cases for the Elios 3

The Elios 3 expands the scope of applications beyond those of the Elios 2. With its SLAM engine, LiDAR payload, and advanced software, the Elios 3 opens up exciting new possibilities:

Hazardous Area Mapping

From underground mines to inaccessible infrastructures, the Elios 3 maps hazardous areas without exposing workers to danger. Its GPS-denied flight capability and collision-resilient design ensure accurate scans of even the most challenging environments.

Volume Tracking and Reconciliation

With its LiDAR payload, the Elios 3 measures large volumes with millimeter precision in minutes. This improves inventory management and reduces risks associated with stockpile collapses, particularly valuable for industries like cement production where accurate tracking is essential.

Georeferencing and Data Alignment

The Elios 3’s LiDAR solution offers rapid, high-resolution 3D data capture. Post-processing aligns this data with GPS coordinates, enabling precise hazard identification and change tracking over time. This capability enhances safety and operational efficiency in critical sectors.

Comparison Chart: Elios 2 vs. Elios 3

This chart highlights the primary distinctions between the two drones. For full technical details, visit the Flyability Knowledge Base.

Upgrade Now!

After five successful years of service, the Elios 2 is nearing its end of life. The Elios 3, with its enhanced capabilities and adaptability, is the smarter choice. To encourage upgrades, Flyability is offering a limited-time trade-in program until September 30, 2024. Don’t miss out—contact your local sales manager or reseller today to secure your discount. Upgrading early not only grants access to advanced features but also ensures savings. Reach out now to take advantage of this opportunity!

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