China is revolutionizing drone technology with lasers capable of cutting metal.
A team of Chinese researchers, led by the scientist nicknamed “Crazy Li”, has succeeded in equipping small drones with powerful lasers capable of cutting metal. This development could radically transform the military and industrial applications of drones.
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The project, led by Li Xiao of the National University of Defense Technology under the auspices of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, resulted in the creation of a compact device allowing drones to project infrared laser beams intense. These lasers, with an initial power of 30 kW, can not only vaporize subcutaneous fat on contact but also cut materials as strong as metal.
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Overcoming technical challenges
Traditionally, producing a long-range laser beam required equipment the size of a truck, making its integration on platforms as small as consumer drones unthinkable. However, thanks to the innovation of Li and his team, these drones can now receive powerful laser beams from the ground and redirect them precisely towards enemy targets.
Redirection Mechanisms and Future Applications
The system uses two telescope-like tubes: one to receive the laser from the ground and the other to reflect it back to the target. This technology, guided by servo mechanisms for elevation and turntables for azimuth, allows the drone to navigate around obstacles like buildings and strike targets at their most vulnerable points.
Potential for Defense and Beyond
With the ability to detect targets and request laser support from the ground, these equipped drones could significantly accelerate response in combat scenarios, thereby increasing the effectiveness of military operations. Additionally, this technology could find applications in industrial sectors for tasks such as precise cutting of materials or even in rescue operations where quickly cutting through obstacles can be crucial.
Vibration Challenges and Needed Improvements
One of the main obstacles to the success of this technology is the vibrations generated during the flight of the drone, which can scatter the laser beam. The team is therefore working on vibration isolation technologies to minimize this problem and maximize laser precision.
Additional advances in China
This innovation joins a series of recent technological advances in China, including the launch of the world's first quantum satellite and advances in high-precision time synchronization on mobile devices, facilitating long-distance coordination and communication between intelligent weapons platforms.
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This development not only represents a leap forward in drone technology but also in how lasers can be used to expand operational capabilities in various fields. With such innovations, the future of laser applications in aerospace and beyond looks promising.
Source : https://www.scmp.com/news/china/science/article/3290461/chinese-laser-scientist-crazy-li-arms-small-drones-metal-cutting-beam
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