Acoustic & Optical Detection

Acoustic Detection

Usually, a microphone, or microphone array (lots of microphones), which detect the sound made by a drone and calculate a direction. More sets of microphone arrays can be used for rough triangulation.

Pros: 

Medium cost, doesn’t normally locate but can provide drone direction

Cons: 

Doesn’t work as well in noisy environments, very short range (max. 300-500m)

Optical Detection

Conventional View

Essentially a video camera. As well as standard daylight cameras, optical sensors can be infrared or thermal imaging.

Pros: 

Provides visuals on the drone and it’s (potential) payload, can record images as forensic evidence for use in eventual prosecution.

Cons: 

Difficult to use for detection by itself, high false-alarm rates, mostly poor performance in dark, fog, etc.

Tracking and Classification

  • SkyHunter – Patented optical detection, tracking and classification system from Rinicom
  • New and innovative approach: 2 EO/IR cameras in conjunction with 2 corresponding AI algorithms
  • World leading performance (for 30 x 30 cm drones):
  • Detection range – 1.5 km
  • Classification range – 1 km
  • Rapid installations, portability

 

  • SkyPatriot – Patented optical detection, tracking and classification system from Rinicom
  • New and innovative approach
  • World leading performance (for 30 x 30 cm drones):
  • Detection range – 1.2 km
  • Classification range – 800 m
  • Rapid installations, low cost, portability

 

Which
Sensor
to Choose?

By relying on just one detection method it can be possible for a drone to be missed. For example, when using conventional radar, it can be difficult to detect low-flying drones or distinguish drones from birds. Or if the drone is obscured by buildings or trees, an optical sensor will struggle to pick it up. By augmenting the radar and optical sensors with spectrum monitoring, the security team have a much clearer picture of any potential drone activity.

 

However, spectrum monitoring isn’t the answer in all scenarios. RF detection will only work when there are RF signals present. There are drones that can operate without any radio control signal and can fly using pre-programmed GPS waypoints. In these scenarios it is essential to have a comprehensive suite of sensors working together to maximize detection probability, minimize false alarms and optimize geolocation uncertainty.

What is the
Solution
?

  • Multiple sensor types  –  ensures early detection
  • Distributed sensor and effector network
  • Minimal false alarms  –  improves operational efficiency
  • Integrated security workflow  –  enables quicker response times
  • Flexible and scalable architecture provides future-proof solution

 

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