Mitigation of Major Electromagnetic Interference problems for Drones and Robotics Systems

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is a major challenge for drones and robotic systems. Drones are limited by weight and size, and robots often have very noisy frequency converters. In addition, drones and robotics systems often include very sensitive measurement equipment and receivers, and the coexistence with noisy components and harsh electromagnetic environments is a challenge, and especially drones are vulnerable to jamming. Multiple drones and multiple robots working together make it even more challenging.

The projects aims to map mandatory requirements, make general guidelines for designing for compliance, and investigate whether the legally mandatory requirements
ensure complicated systems to function acceptably in their electromagnetic environment. The research in EMI mitigation for advanced drone and robotic systems are scarce, and critical lack of knowledge about EMC (ElectroMagnetic Compatibility) and radio communication requirements has been identified among drone and robotics companies. Thus, there is an urgent need for more research. Electromagnetic interference and non­compliance can be an obstacle for full utilisation and standard EMI mitigation does not fit this area.

The purpose is of the project is to:

• Increase the participants knowledge about mandatory legal requirements including
  necessary test facilities and auxiliary equipment.
• EMC test of standard components making the industry able to focus on the right
  challenges during the project.
• Investigate standard components EMC performance under various condition and
  changes in implementation making the participants capable on integrating
  components in various systems.
• Investigate typical problems and EMI­mitigation for drones, where e.g., heavy
  materials are excluded.
• Typical interference problems and mitigation technics in systems where robots and
  sensitive measuring equipment must co­exist.
• Making a guideline for EMC­-correct design of drones and systems with robots,
  including the payloads.

The project aims to overcome EMI challenges and non-compliance issues that can hinder the full utilisation and performance of drones and robotic systems. By improving understanding and providing guidelines for EMC and EMI mitigation, the project seeks to facilitate the development of robust and reliable systems that meet electromagnetic compatibility standards.

FORCE Technology

The University of Southern Denmark

Odense Robotics

The Ministry of Higher Education and Science has financed this project with 500.000 DKK.

The project runs from January 2023 to June 2024.

Do you want to get involved or hear more? Do not hesitate to reach out to Ole Georg Andersen.