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Introducing the Dark Matter® hX and qD Gen 3

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:51:11 GMT

The Dark Matter® hX and qD Gen 3 are the new 2025 versions of our proven aircraft.

So, what's new?

On the exterior, our striking design bares a lot of resemblance to the first generation. We have also kept the modular aspects, providing better flexibility and future-proofing for our customers. But don't let that fool you in to thinking that's all we have changed.

Benefitting of years of customers feedback and continuous improvement as well as the industry development in avionics, sensors and batteries, these systems are better than ever!

The payload capacity is improved further thanks to our new bespoke drivetrain and stronger chassis.

These aircraft offer up to 84 minutes flight time each.

The aircraft are designed for quick deployment; assembly can be conducted in a couple of minutes in the field without the need of a single tool.

We can integrate gimballed EO, IR or dual sensor cameras to replace our previously fixed FPV camera, leaving the payload bay free for further sensors.

The platforms are compatible with a wide range of payloads from partners we have been working with over the years and new ones.

The systems can be configured with various tethers, cameras, Lidars or emergency response equipment, to name but a few.

These aircraft are therefore capable of conducting many aerial applications.

Made in the UK

The need for sovereign aircraft has never been stronger, and we are proud to say that the Dark Matter® hX and qD Gen 3 have been designed and developed in the UK and are manufactured there too.

Akhter-Clogworks Technologies Limited has recently moved to bigger premises in Yorkshire to increase production capacity and

we now have the facility to give demonstrations and conduct flight testing on our production site as well.

Quick deployment and tiltable fpv camera as standard

The aircraft are quick to deploy thanks to their quick assembly design and can be transported easily. The fully detachable components still allow for easy and quick

service and maintenance when needed.

As standard, the Dark Matter® hX and qD Gen 3 can carry a range of tiltable EO or EO/IR dual sensors cameras to replace our previous fixed FPV small camera.

The payload bay under the aircraft is left free for additional payloads.

There is still the option to have payload mounted on top of the aircraft for application such as under bridge inspection.

Modular Design

Like our previous versions, Dark Matter hX and qD Gen 3 have a modular design. The arms can be swapped as a whole for quick servicing and maintenance. The landing gear can be configured as a long leg set up, short leg set up, fixed landing gear and a tripod mounted landing system to assist the aircraft when landing on moving or uneven surfaces.

The larger payload capacity allows for more features and sensors to be added too, which can be needed for specific operational needs and as legislation evolves.

Individual user specifications can be applied at the point of order or can be made to order later on, providing maximum flexibility for our customers and their constantly growing list of requirements.

Great design, endurance and weather resistance

The aircraft is constructed from parts carefully selected for maximum efficiency and performance.

Every carbon fibre parts ensures the chassis is as lightweight and robust as possible.

The Dark Matter hX and qD Gen 3 aerodynamic shape also ensure optimal flight time of up to 84 minutes (with biggest battery and smallest payload).

Electronics components have been tested in harsh conditions to ensure robustness to the elements and metal CNC machined parts are made of aerospace grade aluminium.

The aircraft can be relied upon in wide operational conditions, with great resistance to strong wind and rain and can be flown on GPS or manually, even in GNSS denied environment.
The aircraft and long range controller are housed in a weatherproof flightcase for easy transportation.

Safety as a top priority

Whilst we have pushed the envelope in terms of performance and reliability, we have also but a huge focus on safety for the aircraft.
The navigation lights make the aircraft conspicuous by cleverly dispersing the light. We also have a green flashing light for night flying and Remote-ID options as necessary by legislation.
All our aircraft come with dual GPS modules as standard to offer GNSS redundancy.
The autopilot module also has three temperature controlled IMUs and two onboard barometers.

We have refined our landing gear retract system to ensure flawless results even while carrying heavy payloads.
The entire system from airframe to each individual component has been intentionally over-engineered to ensure our platforms can be as safe and reliable as possible for our pilots.
ADS-B options are available for our aircraft too. This, along with the improved lighting, allows the aircraft to be as conspicuous and as visible as possible to both local aircraft and ATC.

We can also integrate various parachutes and this extra safety feature is on top of the redundant six motor set-up of our hexacopter.

Modular design

The larger payload capacity allows for more features and sensors to be added too, which can be needed for specific operational needs and as legislation evolves.

Great design, endurance and weather resistance

The aircraft is constructed from parts carefully selected for maximum efficiency and performance.

Every carbon fibre parts ensures the chassis is as lightweight and robust as possible.

The Dark Matter hX and qD Gen 3 aerodynamic shape also ensure optimal flight time of up to 84 minutes (with biggest battery and smallest payload).

Electronics components have been tested in harsh conditions to ensure robustness to the elements and metal CNC machined parts are made of aerospace grade aluminium.

Safety as a top priority

We can also integrate various parachutes and this extra safety feature is on top of the redundant six motor set-up of our hexacopter.

GCS flexibility

Our Dark Matter aircraft are all Ardupilot based, harnessing the potential of an open source platform being developed by a global community.
With this, comes maximum flexibility for our customers, as some of the most popular GCS platforms are supported by our aircraft.

Our controller options tend to be android based, and offer radio frequency redundancy and a radio line of sight communication of up to 40km.

Want to know more?

At Akhter-Clogworks we pride ourselves on being able to deliver bespoke solutions for our customers.

Want to see what we can do for your operation? Do you have any specific questions around our products?

Email us at info@clogworks.com or call us on 0330 0432714 and one of the team members will be more than happy to help.

Introducing the Dark Matter® Star

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:46:24 GMT

The Dark Matter® Star is a foldable drone that has been designed specifically for intelligence gathering purposes.

Its acronym stands for:

- Surveillance

- Tactical

- Aerial

- Reconnaissance

The aircraft is foldable for quick deployment and can integrate EO, IR or dual sensor cameras as standard.

It boasts an AI module too to help the operator continuously monitor the video feed, as required.

Made in the UK

The need for sovereign aircraft has never been stronger, and we are proud to say that the Dark Matter® Star has been designed and developed in the UK and is manufactured there too.

It can be configured to have an all up weight below 4kg or be able to carry up to 6kg of payload.

This capability is unrivalled in its small form factor.

Akhter-Clogworks Technologies Limited has recently moved to bigger premises in Yorkshire to increase production capacity and

we now have the facility to give demonstrations and conduct flight testing on our production site as well.

Quick deployment, robustness and modularity

The aircraft is quick to deploy thanks to its foldable design and can be transported easily.

The Dark Matter Star can be set-up in less than two minutes from its flightcase.

The battery is slotted in ready to activate and only when the power button is pressed is it ready to perform its autochecks and take-off.

Ready to go at the press of a button!

The antennae are fully integrated to the design to maximise robustness and user friendliness.

The landing gear is ruggedised and tailored for a smooth take-off and landing, either on automatic or manual flight modes.

As standard, the Dark Matter® Star can carry a range of EO or EO/IR dual sensors cameras.

More options will become available soon.

Great design, endurance and weather resistance

The aircraft is constructed from parts carefully selected for maximum efficiency and performance.

Every carbon fibre parts ensures the chassis is as lightweight and robust as possible, the shape is aerodynamic and its construction method avoids unwanted oscillations while optimising damping.

The Dark Matter Star aerodynamic shape also ensures optimal flight time of up to 88 minutes (with biggest battery and smallest payload).

Electronics components have been tested in harsh conditions to ensure robustness to the elements and metal CNC machined parts are made of aerospace grade aluminium.

The payload bay offers additional weather protection to gimbals and cameras.

The aircraft can be relied upon in wide operational conditions and can be flown on GPS or manually.

This means it can carry aerial surveys planned as a mission or fly even in GNSS denied environment.
The aircraft and long range controller are housed in a weatherproof flightcase for easy transportation.

Great design, endurance and weather resistance

The aircraft is constructed from parts carefully selected for maximum efficiency and performance.

Every carbon fibre parts ensures the chassis is as lightweight and robust as possible, the shape is aerodynamic and its construction method avoids unwanted oscillations while optimising damping.

The Dark Matter Star aerodynamic shape also ensures optimal flight time of up to 88 minutes (with biggest battery and smallest payload).

Electronics components have been tested in harsh conditions to ensure robustness to the elements and metal CNC machined parts are made of aerospace grade aluminium.

The payload bay offers additional weather protection to gimbals and cameras.

The aircraft can be relied upon in wide operational conditions and can be flown on GPS or manually.

This means it can carry aerial surveys planned as a mission or fly even in GNSS denied environment.
The aircraft and controller are housed in a weatherproof flightcase for easy transportation.

GCS flexibility

Our controller options tend to be android based, and offer radio frequency redundancy and a radio line of sight communication of up to 40km.

Want to know more?

At Akhter-Clogworks we pride ourselves on being able to deliver bespoke solutions for our customers.

Want to see what we can do for your operation? Do you have any specific questions around our products?

Email us at info@clogworks.com or call us on 0330 0432714 and one of the team members will be more than happy to help.

New Strategic Partnership with GeoCue

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 15:35:13 GMT

Clogworks partners with GeoCue to enhance aerial mapping LiDAR offering

We are pleased to announce a new strategic partnership with GeoCue, a global leader in LiDAR acquisition and data processing solutions.

This partnership brings together GeoCue’s TrueView LiDAR and LP360 software solutions with Clogworks’ best-in-class Dark Matter range of multi-rotor UAVs, delivering a unique and highly efficient mapping and surveying solution to professionals around the world.

With the TV535 integrated to our Dark Matter hexacopter, our drones can offer up to 48 minutes flight time.

Clogworks can also integrate a wider range of TrueView LiDAR systems.

The partnership with GeoCue positions Clogworks to offer its customers advanced LiDAR scanning technology along with LP360—an industry-leading data processing software that offers quick turnaround and in-depth analytics. By combining these offerings, clients can benefit from an end-to-end data capture and analysis solution, backed by extensive training and customer support.

“For over a year, we’ve enjoyed great cooperation on UK projects with GeoCue, and we value their transparent approach to pricing and outstanding technical expertise,” said Laurence Opdam, Director of Clogworks Technologies Limited. “By becoming a TrueView hardware integrator, as well as offering LP360 software, we’re confident we can deliver the highest quality solutions for our customers. This new partnership will help us meet the growing demand for non-Chinese drone and LiDAR integrations worldwide.”

“Clogworks has demonstrated outstanding innovation and expertise in designing highly capable UAVs. Integrating our TrueView 535 sensor with their Dark Matter hX Gen 2 drone opens exciting possibilities for customers seeking fully integrated, high-precision LiDAR solutions,” said Vincent Legrand, Vice President of Global Sales at GeoCue. “We have already seen impressive performance in the field, and we look forward to providing surveyors, government agencies, and research institutions with an all-in-one approach that ensures accurate data capture and streamlined workflows.”

With this alliance, Clogworks will offer GeoCue’s TrueView products globally, ensuring seamless integration of LiDAR sensors to its Dark Matter UAV platforms, including the Dark Matter hX Gen 2 and the Dark Matter qD Gen 2.

Both companies are committed to ongoing research and development, delivering cutting-edge solutions for professional operators in surveying, engineering, and other geospatial applications.

About GeoCue

GeoCue brings geospatial experts the very best in drone, mobile and land surveying equipment, geospatial point cloud software, workflow, training, and support for high-accuracy LiDAR and Imagery mapping to help civil engineering and surveying professionals achieve successful data collection, processing, and management.

With TrueView LiDAR/Imaging sensors and LP360 point cloud data processing software we are the leader in LiDAR mapping processing in North America able to meet customers where they are in terms of technology adoption, budget, and resources.

For more information, visit https://www.geocue.com.

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks Technologies, founded in 2014 in Yorkshire, UK, specializes in delivering modular and adaptable carbon fiber drones that excel in challenging and complex environments. We combine the latest technology with in-house expertise to design and manufacture unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as well as provide operational services and consultation.

Dark Matter Integration of the Multispectral and Thermal Sentera 6X Series Sensors

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 19:15:40 GMT

Perfect combination for agriculture data capture and analysis

For drone operators interested in multispectral and thermal capability with high-res RGB data all in one sensor, Clogworks are proud to announce our drones can offer up to 52 minutes flight time with the range of Sentera 6X cameras, paired with a lightweight gimbal and quick release system.
We also integrate smoothly the incident light sensor with a quick release 3D printed solution.

The Sentera 6X multispectral camera has five 3.2MP global shutter multispectral imagers and one 20MP RGB imager all in one sensor. Combined with our drones, this sensor is ideal for season-long vegetation analysis utilizing science-grade, accurate radiometric multispectral imagery and high-resolution RGB.

Key use cases are:

• Mapping: Multispectral, RGB, DSM/Elevation

• Residue cover, carbon monitoring, and conservation practice verification

• Canopy development & senescence detection

• Crop health, damage, disease detection, nutrient status, and stress

• Stand count, emergence, and seed vigour

• Weed pressure and herbicide efficacy

• Leaf area index, plant growth, flowering, growth stage, plant size, uniformity, and biomass monitoring

Example of data obtained with a Sentera 6X multispectral on a Clogworks® Dark Matter® hX Gen 2 drone:

Clogworks can also integrate the Sentera 6X Thermal Pro camera, which has four 3.2MP global shutter multispectral imagers, one 20MP RGB imager and one 640 radiometric FLIR Boson imager.

Key use cases of the Sentera 6X Thermal Pro sensor are:

• Evaporation analysis

• Water stress prediction and monitoring

• Mapping: Multispectral, RGB, DSM/Elevation, Thermal

• Residue cover, carbon monitoring, and conservation practice verification

• Crop health, damage, disease detection, nutrient status, and stress

• Forest fire detection, active flame identification

• Soil and vegetation moisture levels

These sensors enable detailed data capture and analysis in agriculture, environmental monitoring and infrastructure management, which facilitate timely decision-making.

Sentera also offers the 65R sensor, the first ultra-high-resolution aerial sensor in its class to deliver seamless drone integration without compromising image quality. With 65 million pixels per frame (resolution: 9344 x 7000) of global shutter imagery, the 65R produces exceptional imagery to generate high quality individual photos, digital surface models (DSMs) or orthomosaics. It comes with lens option of 27mm as standard or 43mm.

Speak to us to know more about what sensor is best for your project!

About Sentera

Sentera is a leading innovator in drone sensor technology, dedicated to providing cutting-edge remote sensing solutions for various industries.

Specializing in high-quality sensors, they are prioritizing precision, reliability, and performance in aerial data collection applications. Offering a diverse range of sensors, from advanced multispectral sensors to high-resolution cameras, Sentera delivers unparalleled accuracy and performance.

Backed by industry expertise and a commitment to innovation, they empower clients in more than 45 countries to unlock new possibilities in data-driven decision-making.

For more information, visit https://www.senterasensors.com.

About Clogworks Technologies

Founded in 2014 in Yorkshire, UK, Clogworks Technologies design, develop and manufacture UAV solutions for professionals that operate in many different industries, including surveying. Our Dark Matter range of products is our best-seller and offers modular and adaptable highly efficient carbon fibre multi-rotor aerial drones. We can integrate different sensors/ payloads and develop solutions to meet the most demanding customers’ needs. We now also offer solutions especially suited to agriculture analysis and research.

Dark Matter Integration of the YellowScan Navigator Bathymetric Lidar

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 11:11:03 GMT

Perfect Combination for Green Lidar

Clogworks has integrated a range of YellowScan scanners previously to the Dark Matter range of UAVs.

this year, during CES 2024, YellowScan unveiled the Navigator, their first bathymetric laser scanner developed in-house.

With a weight of only 3.7kg (battery weight excl.), it can be integrated to our Dark Matter hX Gen 2, with maximum payload of 6kg, and offer a great flight endurance for surveying missions.

The Gremsy quick release adaptor allows for an easy integration of these sensors and we also integrate smoothly the Lidar antenna with a quick release 3D printed solution.

The great combination of the Dark Matter hX Gen 2 and Navigator was displayed at Oceanology International in London Excel on March 12-14, 2024.

Our hexacopter combined with the Navigator payload allows you to conduct bathymetric measurements in shallow waters, while ensuring continuity between underwater points and the surrounding terrain.

With a 44-degree field of view, the maximum angle for a green laser to perform underwater, this green Lidar can be flown at up to 100m AGL.

Besides, the Navigator features an embedded camera (global shutter) that can be used for colorization purposes.

Demonstration in the UK are planned later in the year. Please contact us to know more.

About YellowScan

Founded in 2012 in the South of France, YellowScan sell internationally and now have sales, customer training and support representatives around the globe. YellowScan design, develop and build Lidar solutions for professionals that require performance, robustness and accuracy. Their hardware and software solutions are easy-to-use data collection tools that come with training and support from their experts.

About Clogworks Technologies

Founded in 2014 in Yorkshire, UK, Clogworks sell our developed in-house UAV solutions and offer customer training all around the world. Clogworks Technologies design, develop and manufacture UAV solutions for professionals that operate in different industries, including surveying. Our Dark Matter range of products is our best-seller and offers modular and adaptable highly efficient carbon fibre multi-rotor aerial drones. We can integrate different sensors/ payloads and develop solutions to meet the most demanding customers’ needs.

Development Cooperation between Clogworks and Everdrone on the new E2 Drone

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 12:14:35 GMT

A Customised Dark Matter hX Gen 2

On 24th of October at the IDES 2023 show in California, Everdrone’s Game-changing Multi-purpose E2 Drone, set to Revolutionize Emergency Response, was introduced.

The INTERPOL Drone Expert Summit gathered lots of professionals and experts in public safety. During his talk, Everdrone’s CEO Mats Sallstrom gave a live demonstration on how E2 can play a leading role in emergency response. The multi-purpose drone can transmit live EO/IR video to emergency services, as well as deliver emergency medical equipment supplies.

E2 is based on our Dark Matter hX Gen 2 drone and has been further enhanced by Everdrone’s expert choice of sensors and safety equipment.

Our hexacopter was chosen after a thorough selection process. It is then customised for use in beyond visual line of sight urban drone deliveries for first responders with improved capability on its weather resistance and tuned response to Everdrone’s proprietory software to allow reaching areas of interest at speed via the safest route possible.

A lot of testing was performed to define and widen E2’s operational window.

Great and close collaboration between the two technical teams was instrumental to this development.

Customisation is key to customers’ successful operations and Clogworks are uniquely placed to offer this service, as we design, manufacture, assemble and fully test all our products in-house.

The Everdrone First on Scene™ service, with drone deliveries of AED units, has been validated in Sweden and Denmark and is in the process of being integrated into the response services of Air Ambulance Kent Surrey Sussex (KSS) in the UK.

High level of autonomy, all-weather operation and advanced safety features make Everdrone’s service designed to operate in just about all urban areas in Europe, with a potential reach of more than 99% of all inhabitants in Europe.

With a claimed averaged response times of two minutes, this state-of-the-art drone solution is expected live operational from Q2 2024.

About Everdrone

Everdrone is a leading provider of autonomous drone solutions, focusing on delivering life-saving equipment in emergency situations. The company’s flagship product, the Everdrone First on Scene Grid™, has made a significant impact in the life-saving industry through implementation in Sweden and Denmark.

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks Technologies is a UAV manufacturer offering modular and adaptable highly efficient carbon fibre multi-rotor aerial drones. We specialise in integrating different sensors/ payloads and developing solutions to meet the most demanding customers’ needs.

The Dark Matter hX Gen2 - a Great M600 Alternative!

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 15:08:53 GMT

Specifications Comparison

Are you still looking for a replacement for your DJI M600 drones?

Many companies have successfully integrated the M600 drone in their UAV operations since it was released in April 2016. You see it being used for LiDAR surveys, inspections, or even drone deliveries!

But DJI decided to discontinue it in 2021… Not the first time they stopped production and support of a popular product, and probably not the last time either!

As of 2023, you can still find companies trying to source and stock up on DJI M600 spares…

But this is not a long-term strategy!

In this article, we will cover the reasons why our Dark Matter hX Gen 2 is a great alternative to the DJI Matrice 600 / 600 Pro and why it actually trumps its performance in several ways.

About the Matrice 600

The M600 is a hexacopter is the <25kg category with heavy lift capacity of 6kg. The six rotors are there to give redundancy and extra stability compared to a quadcopter. It is not the only DJI hexacopter, as they offered a few products with this configuration before: the first one was the Flame Wheel F550 (ARF) in 2012, the S800, the S900 (getting bigger, as this number is for the diagonal wheelbase), then there was the M600 in 2016, and the Agras T30 (>25kg) in 2020.

To continue on the redundancy scheme, the Matrice 600 drone operates on multiple batteries (6 actually!) and once the A3 flight controller was released, you could get IMU redundancy and GPS-compass module redundancy.

For its intended use, the M600 has some great features like a retract system (with springs) giving a 360° field of view. It is compatible with multiple payloads, such as the DJI Zenmuse gimbal range (X5 and XT no longer in production) and the Ronin-MX (also no longer in production). The drone can still carry a wide range of cameras when these are still available.

Some people say the M600 was too customisable for DJI’s liking!

Drone performance is obviously key to any organisation and the specifications were pretty good, as follows:

M600 Specifications:

Country of Origin: China

Dimensions (unfolded, RTF): 1668mm x 1518mm x 759mm

Diagonal Wheelbase: 1133mm

Dimensions (folded): 437mm x 402mm x 553mm (excl. landing gear)

Propellers: Folding 21” carbon fibre (CW, CCW)

Weight: 9.6kg (with TB47S batteries)

6.0kg without batteries

Flight Time: 32mins without payload ( TB47S batteries )

16mins with 6kg payload (TB47S batteries)

Maximum payload: 6kg

MTOM: 15.5kg

Max pitch angle: 25°

Range: up to 5km

Maximum speed: 20m/s

Maximum ascent speed: 5m/s

Maximum wind resistance: 8m/s

Operation conditions: -10°C to 40°C

Can not fly in rain

For transportation and storage, the M600 benefits from being foldable and the TB47S batteries can be taken with you on most commercial flights, as they are below the 100Wh mark at 99.9Wh. If you have the bigger batteries TB48S (129.96Wh), you will get slightly improved flight times and can still transport them on some commercial flights.

The drone can be assembled and ready-to-fly in a few minutes.

So how does the Clogworks Dark Matter hX Gen 2 compare?

DMhX Gen2 Specifications:

Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Dimensions (RTF): 1565mm x 1432mm x up to 650mm

Diagonal Wheelbase (MtoM): 1067mm

Dimensions (packed): 830mm x 550mm x 430mm

Propellers: Non-folding 20” carbon fibre (CW, CCW)

Empty Weight: 6.0kg without batteries

Flight Time: 55mins without payload (with dual batteries)

32mins with 6kg payload (with dual batteries)

Maximum payload: 6kg

MTOM: 18.0kg

Max pitch angle: 45°

Range: up to 5-10km

Maximum speed: 20m/s

Maximum ascent speed: 6m/s

Maximum wind resistance: 12m/s

Operation conditions: -20°C to +45°C

Can fly in light precipitation

The Dark Matter hX Gen 2 has a slightly smaller footprint than the M600 but a massively extended endurance and operational window.

The drone can be assembled and ready-to-fly in a few minutes and easily transported in its flightcase in a boot of a car.

The Dark Matter hX Gen 2 is a hexacopter in the <25kg category with heavy lift capacity of 6kg. The six rotors are there to give redundancy and extra stability compared to a quadcopter. You can perform a controlled landing if you lose a motor in flight.

The Dark Matter hX Gen 2 drone can operate on one of two batteries as standard and we can tailor the configuration to fly on up to 5 smaller and easily transportable batteries (<100Wh).

You benefit from triple redundant temperature controlled IMUs and two GPS masts (RTK ready) as standard.

There is a FPV camera as standard, as well as a retract system giving a 360° field of view. It is compatible with a wide range of (non-DJI) payloads, such as DSLR cameras or dual sensor cameras in a range of gimbals, different LiDAR systems, and plenty of custom-developed payloads.

With a longer flight time with heavy payload, you can complete a typical 20 mins survey in one flight, with reserve for peace of mind.

With a wider operating window, you can minimise downtime and increase your return on investment by using your drone most days.

We love customisation and believe this is the only way for customers to get the best solution for their operations!

We offer a wide range of UAV controllers, including fully NDAA compliant ones.

As the legislation is evolving, we can cater for specific request, such as remote-ID or FTS (Flight Termination System) and parachute integration to name just a few options!

Finally, at Clogworks, we pride ourselves in customer service and support, with continuity over many years.

We have all the moulds and capacity in-house to continue providing spares for years to come. We can also upgrade your drone to newer electronics if required and we use agnostic batteries so that they are easy to source and ship.

We have customers operating the Dark Matter hX in different scenarios and many countries, from LiDAR surveys, inspections, surveillance on- or off-tether, communication relays, or even drone deliveries!

The ones who have replaced their M600(s) with our systems are over the moon with their new drone(s)!

If you want to know more, please contact us!

UAV LiDAR Scanning Webinar

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 11:25:41 GMT

RIEGL UK joined Clogworks to participate in an ARPAS-UK CPD webinar

UAV LiDAR Scanning

As the surveying community continue to adopt UAV-based surveying methods into their workflows, Clogworks and RIEGL UK created a webinar to highlight the fundamentals of UAV LiDAR scanning.
In this webinar, we discuss the things to consider when it comes to aircraft selection. Highlighting aspects like the levels of performance and redundancy required to effectively and safely lift a heavy LiDAR based payload.
We then explore the topic of "futureproofing" an aircraft, where we focus on the importance of being able to retrofit items further down the line of your operations. This allows customers to simply replace or add an item to the aircraft at a later date, ensuring they can continue to make good use of the aircraft without having to worry about it being outdated and needing to be replaced with an entirely new system altogether. This helps operators maximise their ROI and hugely reduces the need to replace their UAV systems every few years.

RIEGL UK also present the essentials of LiDAR scanning, highlighting the levels of precision & accuracy, comparisons with other forms of UAV-based surveying methods and what sets RIEGL apart from competitors in the LiDAR sector.

Jonathan also discusses mission planning and the variables to take into consideration to create the perfect LiDAR scan.

About ARPAS-UK

ARPAS-UK is the only industry trade association and professional body focused on the UK drone community. Founded in 2013, ARPAS supports members from start-up businesses to larger established operations, operators, manufacturers, software, and service companies through promotion of innovation and best practice.

About RIEGL UK

RIEGL is an international leading provider of cutting edge technology in airborne, mobile, terrestrial, industrial and unmanned laser scanning solutions. The company has been leading the market in pulsed time-of-flight laser radar technology in multiple wavelengths for over 40 years.

From the first inquiry, to purchase and integration of the system, as well as training and support, RIEGL maintains an out-standing history of reliability and support to their customers.

RIEGL UK Ltd brings all of the technology and developments from the head office in Austria to the UK and Ireland marketplace. The office which is located in York is fully dedicated to supporting the needs of the local customer.

About Clogworks Technologies

MOVE with Dark Matter

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 13:45:43 GMT

Manufacturer type training in the Philippines.

An archipelago that is both home to more than 100 million people and one of the most at risk locations of a climate shock makes the Philippines a location where rapid and efficient emergency response is critical to keep people safe.

This is where the Mobile Operations Vehicle for Emergency (MOVE) steps in.

MOVE is a multi-year project, unique to the Philippines and borne out of a partnership between the World Food Programme and the Department of Information and Communications Technology involving both Clogworks and Elistair.

It is a mobile operations hub and equipment set that is deployed to emergencies to assist humanitarians, government workers and UN operations.

The growing fleet of MOVE hubs include the Dark Matter hX in their inventories.
Our Aircraft can be used by engineers to fly over disaster-stricken areas to aid in response efforts and provide a birds eye view of the situation on the ground with the ability to zoom right in and enable a safe, co-ordinated response.
They can also carry communication equipment that provide an internet connection and cellular services over locations to help humanitarians, search and rescue teams and the community itself.

The quick release payload rails allow the aircraft to carry other types of payloads to support other activities like data collections, mapping and surveying.

Our CEO, Peter Opdam, was in Manila to train 8 Pilots (so far) on how to safely operate the aircraft both on and off a tether and using different payloads.

It is an absolute privilege to be involved in such a brilliant project with the potential to save lives and Clogworks would like to thank the UNWFP for the collaboration and organising everything required to make the training smooth and successful.
Peter was in awe of the students and their passion for the technology and how they could harness it to help save lives.

About the United Nations World Food Programme

The World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

About the DISC

The Department of Information and Communications Technology is the executive department of the Philippine government responsible for the planning, development and promotion of the country's information and communications technology agenda in support of national development.

About Elistair

Elistair designs and manufactures best in class tethering stations for use with commercial UAVs Their tether stations are field proven products, used by over 300 different organisations across 50 countries.

About Clogworks Technologies

A Roundup of 2022

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 10:29:00 GMT

As another year draws to a close, we invite you to take a look at four key elements that helped shape 2022 into a year to remember for Clogworks and our partners.

After releasing our second-generation Dark Matter platform with improved capabilities all round, we have been travelling to various locations around the globe showcasing our new products and training customers on the platforms. In parallel, R&D never stops and we were fully engaged in a project where we were in charge of designing and testing an entirely new drone for GPS-denied environment flights for AI inspection application. It's fair to say that it has been a very busy and successful year!

Scroll down to look at some of these key events in more details.

Dark Matter Gen 2 Release

Featuring improved reliability, increased safety and optimised performance, we proudly released our Gen 2 Dark Matter aircraft earlier in the year.
Including dual GPS modules, 3 separate temperature-controlled IMUs, 2 barometers and redundant power sources, our 2nd generation aircraft are our safest yet. They provide game-changing flight times, enabling our pilots to stay in the air for longer. Thanks to our ability to integrate virtually any payload, our aircraft can be used to cover a wide range of aerial applications, with just one platform.

United Nations World Food Programme Projects

R2C2

Following a successful demonstration in December 2021 where Peter, our CEO, travelled to Rome to demonstrate the effectiveness of the UNWFP ‘Rapid Response Connectivity Carrier’ (R2C2 for short), more trials followed. R2C2, the first solution of its kind, features a tethered Dark Matter hX able to carry a sizeable comms unit to deliver a strong Wi-Fi network that can simply be ‘popped up’ following a humanitarian crisis. This allows for effective communication for both emergency workers and civilians at a range of up to 3km ² with 24/7 coverage.

Search & Rescue

In June, Clogworks were involved in another United Nations World Food Programme research project in collaboration with the University of Portsmouth.
We were part of a large group of parties from around the world, including various rescue services to look at how drones can be best used after natural disasters. We demonstrated how the capability of our Dark Matter platform can be used to exploit better lighting and thermal sensors that lightweight aircraft often used in these instances.

Research Project on GPS-Denied Drone Inspection

The first part of the year brought together all consortium results from the UK government funded research project that Clogworks was leading on the development of a tailored solution for GPS-denied environment inspection with AI classifications.

Following a series of rapid prototypes, we created a small quadcopter platform, equipped with ultra-bright lights, sense and avoid capability and a high-definition camera capable of flying in GPS-denied environments.

The captured video was then fed into an artificial intelligence (AI) based program able to assess and classify damage in a fraction of the time compared to traditional means.

Manufacturer Type Training

As part of our Clogworks service experience, we offer comprehensive manufacturer-type training at our manufacturing facility and flying site, or at the customer site, if requested. Like other, well-known UAVs, Clogworks aircraft are easy to get to grips with. But we want our customers to be able to get the maximum potential from our drones. A combination of classroom-based training and hands-on flight training ensures that you will fly your UAV competently and confidently.

2022 has been a superb year for Clogworks & we have a lot of exciting projects in the pipeline that we look forward to sharing soon.
None of this could be achieved without the support of our new & existing customers. We would like to thank you for all your support and trusting Clogworks to provide your tailored aerial solution and we wish you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Nothing beats a cover story!

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 11:41:26 GMT

We feature on the front cover of the October edition of the International Design Engineer.

This article highlights how 3D printing is enabling Clogworks to design and manufacture customisable, lighter and more durable components when compared to traditional methods.
“We wanted to be able to create the CAD (designs), do all the research and development and create a high-end product almost entirely in-house and over the years, we’ve gained the people and equipment that allow us to make even better products. 3D printing is something I looked at many years ago, and now it’s an integral part of our product development." - Peter Opdam.

This technology not only allows to keep all of our research and manufacturing in-house, but it also enables us to rapidly design and manufacture components to help tailor our platform to our customers' exact requirements.

Dark Matter - Modular from the ground up

Our ability to customise virtually any component of our aircraft puts us in a unique position as a manufacturer.
Our completely modular airframe creates maximum flexibility, enabling our customers to effortlessly switch between components for more payload clearance and drivetrain options. This is then further complimented by our capacity to create custom 3D printed parts to build solutions to meet even the most specific customer requirements.

Click here to read the full article or click here to speak to us about custom integration.

We Made The List...Again!

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 14:11:44 GMT

The 2022 Drone Industry Insights Market Environment Map has been released and we find ourselves on it for another year!

The list, published by DII for the 1st time since 2019, clearly visualises the health of the drone industry by including an extra 379 companies.
Clogworks, a mainstay in the Drone Platforms section since 2018, are delighted to be listed amongst some of the best brands in the world. We also wish to congratulate our long standing as well as up and coming strategic and hardware partners who have also made the map of 1,076 separate business listed on the eagerly anticipated 'who's who' of the drone industry.

Following the release of our qD and hX gen 2 , working with our partners on a number of promising projects and taking part in some successful trials; the listing typifies the successful year Clogworks has had.

Introducing the second generation Dark Matter qD

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 16:20:05 GMT

With a re-designed, 30% lighter airframe combined with a 3Kg+ payload capacity and 55+ minute flight time, the DMqD Gen 2 is a perfect fleet addition for more demanding survey and inspection applications.

There has been a seismic shift towards UAV based applications in recent years, driven by their ease of use, increasing capabilities and constantly improving safety.

Naturally, as adoption increases, so does demand for more capable drones that can fly for longer whilst carrying heavier payloads.

The Dark Matter qD Gen 2 has been developed to not only meet, but exceed our pilots demands. Not just for present day, but for years to come.

Modular design

Like its bigger brother, the hX Gen 2 , the qD has a modular design. The arms can be swapped out for a more powerful drive train to provide more thrust and redundancy for bigger payloads, the legs can also be configured as a long leg set up, short leg set up, fixed landing gear and a tripod mounted lading system to assist the aircraft when landing on moving or uneven surfaces.

This enables the qD to carry a bigger variety of payloads and increases safety when flying in more challenging environments.

These individual user specifications can be applied at the point of order or can be made to order later on, providing maximum flexibility for our customers and their constantly growing list of requirements.

But the modular design benefits don't stop there. Virtually any part of our aircraft can be upgraded - meaning that when the next generation of autopilot systems are released, you don't have to replace the entire aircraft to have access to the latest features. We simply remove the old hardware and replace it with the newer hardware, allowing our customers to continue to make use of their perfectly operational aircraft as well as maximizing their ROI.

Cover more ground

The qD is available with different drive train options and it can also be flown with one or two batteries. The result is a staggering flight time of 55+ minutes, with enough still in the tank to return and land safely.
Even more impressive, is a flight time of 45+ minutes with a 1.5Kg payload. This makes the qD Gen 2 an extremely capable aircraft when paired with a Yellowscan LiDAR, Workswell WIRIS sensor or a Viewpro camera payload to name a few examples.

All of our Dark Matter platforms now come single band RTK ready too, meaning surveys can be completed with extremely high accuracy.

But it doesn't stop there, if the job covers an even larger area, the aircraft can be landed and the batteries 'hotswapped' to allow mission continuity.

Cover more ground

The qD is available with different drive train options and it can also be flown with one or two batteries. The result is a staggering flight time of 55+ minutes, with enough still in the tank to return and land safely.
Even more impressive, is the flight time is around 42 minutes with a 1.5KG payload. This makes the Yellowscan range of UAV based LiDAR systems and qD Gen 2 an extremely capable combination.

All of our Dark Matter platforms now come single band RTK ready too, meaning surveys can be completed with extremely high accuracy.

But it doesn't stop there, if the job covers an even larger area, the aircraft can be landed and the batteries 'hotswapped' to allow mission continuity.

GCS flexibility

Our Dark Matter aircraft are now Ardupilot based, harnessing the potential of an open source platform being developed by a global community.
With this, comes maximum flexibility for our pilots, as some of the most popular GCS platforms are now supported by our aircraft. Our two most popular controller options are also android based, meaning the GCS application (if available) can be downloaded and installed.

Safety as a top priority

Whilst we have pushed the envelope in terms of performance and reliability, we have also but a huge focus on safety for the qD.
The lenses for the navigational lighting have been redeveloped to make the aircraft more conspicuous by cleverly dispersing the light.
All our aircraft now also come with dual GPS modules as standard, ensuring the aircraft knows exactly where it is at all times. It has also been programmed to select the other GPS module in the event that one starts providing erroneous data.
The autopilot module also has three temperature controlled IMU's, two of which are mechanically vibration dampened to reduce the effect of frame vibration to state estimation. There are also two onboard barometers.
The entire system from airframe to each individual component has been intentionally over-engineered to ensure our platforms can be as safe and reliable as possible for our pilots.
ADS-B options are now available for our aircraft too. This, along with the improved lighting, allows the aircraft to be as conspicuous and as visible as possible to both local aircraft and ATC.

Safety as a top priority

Whilst we have pushed the envelope in terms of performance and reliability, we have also but a huge focus on safety for the qD.
The lenses for the navigational lighting have been redeveloped to make the aircraft more conspicuous by cleverly dispersing the light.
All our aircraft now also come with dual GPS modules as standard, ensuring the aircraft knows exactly where it is at all times. It has also been programmed to select the other GPS module in the event that one starts providing erroneous data.
The autopilot module also has three temperature controlled IMU's, two of which are mechanically vibration dampened to reduce the effect of frame vibration to state estimation. There are also two onboard barometers.
The entire system from air-frame to each individual component has been intentionally over-engineered to ensure our platforms can be as safe and reliable as possible for our pilots.
ADS-B options are now available for our aircraft too. This, along with the improved lighting allows the aircraft to be as conspicuous and as visible as possible to both local aircraft and ATC.

Customization from the ground up

At Clogwor ks, we are committed to so much more than just manufacturing aircraft as an 'off the shelf' solution. We have various configurations available for our aircraft. But we also develop tailored solutions to meet our customers' exact requirements.
We work with our customers from the initial idea, right the way through to the final, delivered solution.

Looking for something specific? Something that isn't readily available? Then get in touch with us! We will be able to assist.

Want to know more?

At Clogworks we pride ourselves on being able to deliver bespoke solutions for our customers.

Want to see what we can do for your operation? Do you have any specific questions around our products?

Email us at info@clogworks.com or call us on 01484 687989 and one of the team members will be more than happy to help.

Clogworks Take Part in a UNWFP Search & Rescue Project

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 14:33:43 GMT

We collaborated with partners from around the world to take part in the UN WFP search and rescue research project funded by ECHO.

From the 9th through the 14th of June, the skies above Chilmark, Wiltshire, saw a flurry of activity above the former RAF base. But this time, with a wide range of drones, operated by experts from around the world.
The University of Portsmouth and the United Nations World Food Project are investigating how different types of drones, combined with artificial intelligence, can aid in search and rescue operations.

The purpose of this ECHO ( European civil protection and humanitarian aid operations ) funded research project is to ultimately replace the sometimes limited availability of helicopters during a search and rescue mission following a natural disaster.
The drones will be used to identify and locate people in need of help, so that a helicopter can focus on collecting them in time-sensitive situations.

However, drones represent a relatively new technology in comparison to traditional rescue methods. So each UAV at the event was put through its paces to evaluate aspects such as battery life and sensor capability as well as a whole host of other tests.

Workswell Payloads

The Dark Matter hX Gen 2 was equipped with a Workswell WIRIS Security. This payload features a 800 x 600px IR 25 Hz frame rate camera. It also filters noise from the image for clearer results in low light conditions using its "Advanced Noise Reduction Technology".
On top of this, it features a 30X optical zoom camera.
The two cameras combined allow the operator to obtain a high level of situational analysis from a safe distance.
Below is a short video highlighting the effectiveness of the IR camera on the Workswell payload in full darkness.

This project illuminates the Dark Matter's potential for search and rescue operations

When combined with our in-house-built 100W spotlight and loudspeaker, a Dark Matter UAV fitted with WIRIS infrared and 30X optical zoom will provide an extremely effective search and rescue solution.
With a dual controller configuration, a camera operator can focus on the search area while the pilot directs the aircraft.
In combination with Dark Matters' increased flight times, a much wider area can be covered in a shorter period of time.
Furthermore, when used in conjunction with the AI platform being developed by Artificial Intelligence solution provider Synthetaic ( https://www.synthetaic.com ), a wide range of drone video data can be processed, allowing for stranded people to be located at an extremely fast pace.

Watch the BBC news Article here

About the United Nations World Food Programme

About ECHO

The main mission of the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) is to preserve lives, prevent and alleviate human suffering and safeguard the integrity and dignity of populations affected by natural disasters and man-made crises. Headquartered in Brussels with a global network of field offices, DG ECHO ensures rapid and effective delivery of EU relief assistance.

About the University of Portsmouth

The University of Portsmouth has been part of an international collaboration into the effectiveness of drones for post-disaster search and rescue missions and have assisted in developing an application for faster interpretation of drone images.

About Clogworks Technologies

Dark Matter Gen 2 has just landed!

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 11:57:16 GMT

Improved Reliability - Increased Safety - Optimised Performance

Six years has passed since the first Dark Matter UAV took to the skies to perform aerial operations.
In that time, we are proud to look back on the achievements our in house designed, precision engineered, Carbon Fibre range of UAV's have accomplished.
From arduous tethered endurance tests, right the way through to partnering with the World Food Programme ( read story here ) to help provide aerial solutions in disaster areas. The Dark Matters' construction and endurance characteristics have allowed it to become the UAV of choice for many pilots around the world.

But time marches on and six years is a very long period in this industry. Technology has advanced and although pilots' capabilities have increased with new sensors, applications and other equipment, their need remains the same. They want a stable, reliable and Proven aircraft.

So, What's New?

On the exterior, our striking design bares a lot of resemblance to the first generation with a few little modifications and additions (Fixed antenna and dual GPS modules). We have also kept the modular aspects too, providing better flexibility and future-proofing for our customers. But don't let that fool you in to thinking that's all we have changed. Although little has changed on the outside, ALOT has changed on the inside.

Improved Reliability

All new hardware eco-system
The 2nd Generation Dark Matter UAV's are now controlled by Cube auto-pilot. Allowing for far greater flexibility around payloads, sensors, GCS compatibility and additional options.
This has also added even greater refinement and stability, further raising the bar in terms of flight characteristics.

NDAA Compliant
The chipsets in all of our 2nd generation aircraft complies with all the current NDAA regulations.

A More Robust Landing Gear Retraction System
We have refined our landing gear retraction system to ensure flawless results for our pilots who require flawless 360 degree views right after take-off. We also offer a variety of landing gear options, should you require something specific for your application.

Increased Safety

An additional GPS module
As the value of payloads increases and safety and reliability are two of our major priorities, we have now integrated a second GPS module on to the aircraft providing more redundancy.

With the two modules now positioned on top of the aircraft to deliver the best results, this has freed up space on the rear of the aircraft for more 3rd party options like parachutes. As well as providing our pilots with more peace of mind.

Better visibility both physically and digitally
ADSB options are also now available across the range. Allowing the Remote Pilot, aircraft in the vicinity and local air traffic control to easily locate and track each other, further mitigating risk during the flight operations.
We have also worked to make our aircraft more physically conspicuous by refining our navigation lighting to distribute the light better whilst maintaining overall brightness. Flashing green status lights and also GPS status lights for each GPS module all work together to ensure the 2nd generation can be easily spotted in all conditions.

Optimised Performance

Lighter
Our precision engineered, carbon fibre airframe has also been refined, resulting in a 30% lighter and stronger airframe without compromising the aircraft's performance or structural integrity.

RTK ready
All of our second generation aircraft now come RTK ready. Simply pair up with a ground station to deliver highly accurate results for surveying and mapping missions.

Carry more equipment – for longer

thanks to our new on-board eco-system, it is now possible to mount a payload to both the top and bottom of the aircraft. Along with our weight saving measures and newer battery type, the 2nd Generation can now stay airborne for up to 55 minutes.

Want to know more?

At Clogworks we pride ourselves on being able to deliver bespoke solutions for our customers. Want to see what we can do for your operation? Do you have any specific questions around our products? Email us at info@clogworks.com or call us on 01484 687989 and one of the team members will be more than happy to help.

Demonstration of R2C2 Comms Project at WFP HQ

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Tethered drone comms solution for UNWFP

We are proud of playing a part in this WFP project where, following a successful first field testing in Lyon, Peter Opdam, our CEO, went to Rome for a demonstration at WFP HQ of an emergency connectivity restoration system with a tailored Dark Matter hX tethered drone.

The Wifi signal can cover a 3sq km area when flown at 100m altitude, increasing the communication coverage area significantly.

The capacity of a high-res dual sensor payload for security purposes was also demonstrated.

You can read more about the disaster relief project R2C2 (Rapid Response Connectivity Carrier) in the link below.

C lick here to read WFP article.

The United Nations World Food Programme R2C2 project was funded by the WFP Innovation Accelerator and allowed us to collaborate with Elistair and Ericsson Response.

About the United Nations World Food Programme

About WFP Innovation Accelerator

Based in Munich, Germany, the WFP Innovation Accelerator sources, supports and scales bold new solutions to achieve Zero Hunger. It provides WFP operations, entrepreneurs and start-ups with funding, hands-on support and access to WFP’s global operations.

About Elistair

About Ericsson Response

Ericsson Response, the company’s humanitarian relief program, provides communications expertise, equipment and resources in times of a disaster by installing and maintaining temporary internet connectivity until local services have sufficiently recovered.

About Clogworks Technologies

Collaboration on Disaster Relief Project

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 10:39:36 GMT

Tethered drone comms solution for UNWFP

We're delighted to share a couple of pictures from an exciting, and successful week of collaboration held at Elistair HQ in France with our friends from the United Nations World Food Programme, Elistair and Ericsson Response.

The objective was to bring together a wide range of expertise to provide the UNWFP with a reliable, mobile, and easy to deploy emergency communications solution which can be launched in the event of natural disaster or emergency.

The result:

A tailored Clogworks Dark Matter hX drone on a Safe-T tether with an Ericsson Wi-Fi payload that will provide essential, and potentially lifesaving, connectivity in an area of over 3km² to vulnerable members of the affected population during a crisis.

A big thank you to United Nations World Food Programme, WFP Innovation Accelerator, Elistair and Ericsson Response for making this project happen.

We are proud to work with you on this "drones for good" application.

About the United Nations World Food Program me

About WFP Innovation Accelerator

About Elistair

About Ericsson Response

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks Feature in Aerial Uptake Video

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Aerial Uptake focus on key benefits and challenges of innovation and commercialisation of UAS

The commercial UAS/ drone industry is a rapidly expanding sector with incredible potential to create jobs and growth at European level, as well as worldwide.

PwC research from 2018 estimates there will be more than 76,000 drones in use across UK skies by 2030 and this represents a huge opportunity for the industry.

Clogworks are delighted to be featured in the new Aerial Uptake 2021 video, with focus on exploring some key benefits and challenges of innovation and commercialisation of UAS.

Aerial Uptake brings together local / regional public authorities and key players of the UAS sector from 6 European regions.

The research & innovation project is running from August 2019 to January 2023 and has two partners in the UK: Preston City Council and University of Lancashire (UCLAN).

The lead partner is the municipality of Enschede in the Netherlands.

One of the aims of the project is to create a favourable environment at regional level to allow experimentation, demonstration and facilitate widespread uptake of drone technology.

The video in the link below is a media to showcase positive examples and social impacts of drone technology.

https://lnkd.in/dEyPk8R

Clogworks’ CEO, Peter Opdam, talks about the company’s challenges and successes since its debut in 2014 and its interest to conduct routine BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) trials. Collaborations benefits are also highlighted in the video and some “drone for good” use examples are given, with positive outcomes more and more recognised by the public.

We would like to thank Preston City Council, UCLAN, Media Innovation Studio and Carys Kaiser for making this film happen and inviting us to contribute.

Congratulations to everyone involved!

About Aerial Uptake

Aerial Uptake brings together local / regional public authorities and key players of the UAS sector from 6 European regions, being pioneers in the creation of a single European drone market. They exchange and transfer knowledge to unleash the potentials of UAS technology for civil and commercial usages. Besides exploring and addressing the key needs and bottlenecks of innovation and commercialisation of UAS, partners investigate tailored solutions for increasing societal acceptance by enhancing and articulating positive social impacts of drone technology.

About Clogworks Technologies Limited

Clogworks Technologies Limited is a UAV manufacturer offering modular and adaptable highly efficient carbon fibre multi-rotor aerial drones. We specialise in integrating different sensors/ payloads and developing solutions to meet the most demanding customers' needs in sectors such as drone deliveries, inspection and security.
We design, manufacture, assemble and fully test all our products in-house to maximise quality and precision.

Clogworks to Lead an InnovateUK R&D Project

Tue, 25 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT

InnovateUK R&D project to develop UAV and AI solution for tunnel inspection

As part of UK Research and Innovation’s robots for a safer world challenge, 38 business-led projects will receive funding to accelerate their robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies backed by £7 million of government support.

Science Minister Amanda Solloway announced the winning projects on Tuesday 25 May at the 2021 Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Industry Showcase (KTN website).

Clogworks Technologies Limited is delighted to announce that it is the lead partner of a consortium working on a RAI project for principal sewer tunnel inspections, along with University of Hertfordshire, Intenttech Limited and Sewer Surveys UK Ltd.

The project will develop a holistic tunnel-sewer survey system (HS3) that includes:
·a tunnel survey-specific unmanned aerial vehicle (T-suv) – UAV
·an artificial intelligence classification models (AI-CM) to analyse T-suv's videos for fault-classification
·a solution to conduct sewers inspections and produce survey reports safer and faster.

Introducing UKRI

Launched in April 2018, UKRI is a non-departmental public body sponsored by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).

The organisation brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England, which is responsible for supporting research and knowledge exchange at higher education institutions in England, and the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK.

About the Robots for a safer world challenge

This challenge, with an investment of up to £112 million, focuses on research and innovation in advanced robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) to create a safer working world.

Many of these new technologies are operating in extreme and challenging environments which can be dangerous to work in or hard to reach.

Some of the funding is being invested in collaborative research and development demonstrator projects designed and led by UK companies, to encourage business growth by improving robotics and AI capabilities, and testing their ideas in real-world extreme environments

About Clogworks Technologies Limited

Clogworks Technologies Limited is a UAV manufacturer offering modular and adaptable highly efficient carbon fibre multi-rotor aerial drones.

We specialise in integrating different sensors/ payloads and developing solutions to meet the most demanding customers' needs in sectors such as drone deliveries, inspection and security.
We design, manufacture, assemble and fully test all our products in-house to maximise quality and precision.

About University of Hertfordshire

University of Hertfordshire has an outstanding reputation for its user-led research applicable to real world problems – It’s one of only a few UK HEIs to have been awarded a ‘European Commission HR Excellence in Research’ badge. The university provides a world-leading environment that enables collaborative and partnering research across both academics and industry to address current needs and future challenges.

It has a Big Data Technologies and Innovation laboratory, chaired by Dr Hafiz, which focuses on application of contemporary technologies (big data, artificial intelligence/machine learning, blockchain, IoT, etc.) to construction, infrastructure, business/finance, and agriculture, among others.

About Intenttech Limited

Intenttech is a software company that develops bespoke software applications that center around data analytics and applied artificial intelligence across various sectors which include petroleum engineering, building construction, e-commerce and health sector.

Intenttech Limited bridges the gap between orthodox research and industrial operations, helping in commercialization of research outcomes.

About Sewers Surveys UK Ltd

Established in 2012 and now working throughout the UK, Sewer Surveys UK Ltd provide high quality drainage services at exceptionally low costs without compromising health and safety.

We are committed to carrying out all our contracts with minimal effect on the environment.

The company was formed by Andrew Froggatt and Simon Bennett who with 37 years of experience between them have a wealth of knowledge and experience within the industry and with the backing of a highly qualified workforce and specialist equipment are able to demonstrate an excellent quality of drainage service which can be tailored to meet our clients’ needs.

Clogworks increase use of 3D Printing

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Demonstrating how Clogworks make use of 3D printing technology.

As a UK manufacturer of precision engineered carbon fibre unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV/Drones) and accessories, the organisation constantly invest in innovation. Clogworks Technologies recently purchased a high end filament 3D printer to allow us to design, rapid-prototype and conduct small batch manufacture of plastic and reinforced carbon parts we use on the Dark Matter® products range. We also use it to facilitate all kind of payloads integration, as required by customers.

Peter Opdam, Clogworks CEO & Founder, is a firm believer that the use of 3D printing helps our constant pursuit for high quality while choosing the best materials and embracing new technologies.

3D Printing has been used in the company since 2017 and a video was released in 2018 in conjunction with KTN (Knowledge Transfer Network) to showcase how additive manufacturing can benefit companies of all sizes.

Link: KTN-Clogworks 3D printing video

Clogworks Technologies Feature in YPO Drone Framework Agreement

Wed, 08 Jan 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Clogworks Technologies part of a consortium in YPO drone framework agreement

The Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation (YPO) is a publicly owned procurement arm of the UK government that supplies products and services to a wide range of customers including emergency services. It recently ran an £8m framework tender designed specifically to select companies able to provide tailored drone hardware and services for the Emergency Services and Blue Light sector in the UK.

C logworks Technologies is proud to announce that we have been accepted as part of a consortium (led by Skyports and also featuring Wingcopter) on this YPO framework agreement.

Our consortium is one of few companies selected able to offer solutions to the four lots required, namely: Drones purchases, associated products and repairs, maintenance and services of hardware products, as well as associated flying services.

In particular, Clogworks Technologies is well placed to offer hardware and supporting packages for sub 20kg multirotor drones for surveillance and reconnaissance applications and delivery applications.

Blue Light surveillance would typically require a dual sensor payload with a daylight camera and 30x optical zoom and a high performance infrared camera.

Emergency deliveries would typically include blood and/or medicines and drones would require sufficient payload capacity and flight time to deliver this reliably to location.

Drone applications within the Blue Light sector are increasing all the time and in order to maximise return on investment (ROI), it makes a lot of sense to acquire a multicopter with variable payload configurations that can be upgraded to allow for flexible use in line with emergency services evolving needs.

Cloqworks Dark Matter range of products is uniquely placed to cater for this need.

Clogworks Technologies Expands Production Capacity

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Clogworks Technologies expands the team and moves into bigger premises

As a direct result of a surge in demand for our aircraft, Clogworks Technologies have moved to bigger premises to allow us to expand the team further and increase our production capacity.

Our UAVs are used in various applications ranging from defense training, search&rescue, humanitarian relief, TV broadcast and logistics.

Many more applications are also possible due to the large range of payloads that both drones are compatible with.

Clogworks Technologies remains dedicated to its R&D core values and its beliefs that each customer should get a solution tailored to their evolving needs.

Precision engineering is the key differentiator that explains the success of our brand of products: the Dark Matter® range. Strong of many in-house capabilities for design, rapid prototyping, payload integration, communication links redundancy, software tailoring in conjunction with our strategic partner and production and testing of the final systems, our team can build the perfect solution for a variety of customers' requirements.

Institution of Engineering Designers interview

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 18:47:00 GMT

iED speaks to Clogworks Technologies CEO about Dark Matter designs

Following on from an additive manufacturing video filmed in cooperation with KTN last year, Peter Opdam, Clogworks Technologies’ CEO, featured in the summer edition of the Engineering Designer magazine (iED).

In the 3-page iED article, he explains the different steps he takes to create the Dark Matter UAV designs, the company’s trademark. The role the drone has to perform plays an important part, however the designs come from the knowledge of equipment capabilities as well as required attributes, such as great flight performance, weather-resistance, modularity, ruggedness, strength, ease of transportation and maintenance friendliness.

Peter also briefly expresses his views on where the drone industry is and its scope for the future. The number of drone uses increase everyday and at Clogworks Technologies we want them to benefit society!

About the Institution of Engineering Designers (IED)

The Institution of Engineering Designers (IED) is a British professional engineering institution founded in 1945, chartered in 2012 with members worldwide. It is the premier membership body representing engineering and product designers. The IED publishes six issues of the journal 'Engineering Designer' each year. The journal is available in printed format or electronically as part of the subscription to IED members. For more information, please visit: www.ied.org.uk

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks Technologies is a UK manufacturer of high quality precision engineered carbon fibre unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and accessories. The organisation specialises in delivering UAV solutions to professional UAV operators involved in industrial, security and commercial applications, strive for great customer relations and constantly invest in innovation. For more information, please visit: www.clogworks.com

Three Counties Defence & Security Expo 2019

Sat, 20 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Dark Matter hX at 3CDSE, Malvern

The third Three Counties Defence and Security Expo (3CDSE) took place in July 2019 in Malvern and had Innovation for theme, with a focus on cyber security, hardware and vehicles, UAV and counter-UAV, technology and communications.

The Three Counties of Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire comprise the hub of the UK’s defence and security industry. The event was originally a networking forum to introduce SME’s to procurement decision-makers and influencers in the MoD and Law Enforcement agencies.

Thanks to Level Peak Associates, the main sponsor 3CDSE 2019, a Clogworks® Dark Matter®hX multirotor was displayed at the event along with Elistair's Safe-T tether solution.

The Dark Matter®hX with its large payload capacity can accommodate a range of sensors such as EOx30 or dual sensor EO/IR payload for free flight or tethered application up to 100m altitude.

Since its launch in 2016, the Dark Matter®hX has been used for demonstrations and aerial footage delivery on some UK MoD and USMC grounds and some Dark Matter®qD, Clogworks' quadcopter released in 2019, have been purchased by the UK police.

About Level Peak Associates

Level Peaks Associates is a Veteran owned and managed Defence SME that focuses on the design, sourcing, integration, supply and support of soldier systems capabilities. They supply world class systems to the UK Ministry of Defence, UK Police Forces, a range of NATO military forces and specialists who demand the best capability, ranging from integrated combat clothing systems to Unmanned Air Systems.

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks Makes the "Drone Market Environment Map 2019" List.

Wed, 19 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Drone Market Environment Map 2019

We are delighted that Clogworks Technologies Limited was selected this year again to be listed on the "Drone Market Environment Map" produced by Drone Industry Insights showing 1000 companies that are set to have the biggest impact on the drone market in 2019.

Clogworks at the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Industry Showcase Event

Sat, 16 Mar 2019 14:30:51 GMT

Manchester, Audacious Church

Clogworks Technologies were exhibiting at the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Industry Showcase organised by Innovate UK's network partner , KTN, and with Tharsus as main sponsor. It was the first industry focussed event designed to accelerate the adoption of RAI technologies to boost UK productivity and economic growth.

The event held on 12th March 2019 in Manchester was very successful with 500 delegates and more than an extra 100 delegates on the waiting list, 37 exhibitors and 60 speakers.

As well as the newly released Dark Matter® qD, our quadcopter, we showcased a carbon finish and duotone Dark Matter® hX, our hexacopter. The quadcopter is a proven platform despite being a new aircraft, as it benefits from sharing most of the Clogworks® Dark Matter® hX parts. Both platforms benefit from the world-class SmartAP-Clogworks autopilot and very intuitive user-friendly ground control station software, displayed on a rugged ground control pilot station at the event. We had a lot of interest from universities and companies looking to collaborate on robotics and AI research and applications opportunities and are looking forward to getting involved in some of them!

Thank you from the team to all who came to visit our booth, no 25, during the #RAI19 event!

New Dark Matter® Product Launch!!!

Sun, 10 Mar 2019 19:17:29 GMT

Dark Matter® qD Release

The Latest Addition to the Clogworks® Dark Matter® Range

The Clogworks® Dark Matter® UAV range has been specifically designed to suit the needs of commercial operators. They are modular heavy-lift drones capable of carrying a variety of payloads and displaying several configurations. Paired with bespoke accessories, finished are the times when operators needed to buy a UAV per payload or application!

Clogworks Technologies have designed their Dark Matter® UAV range to be versatile, efficient and powerful through a unique innovative modular approach that allows for a wide range of professional applications. As a bonus not to be overlooked, all current Dark Matter® UAV configurations are upgradable!

They are compatible with a wide range of third-party payloads and batteries for peace of mind. They both can be fitted with a retract system and/ or a fixed landing gear, and the leg height can be adjusted with a short version or long version currently available to give a choice of payload clearances. All arms display navigation lights that could be switched off if needed for stealth mode operation. Lights on top of the aircraft are also visible to help with collision avoidance. Another great safety feature is the integrated FPV camera.

The Dark Matter® hX, the hexacopter, is capable of carrying payloads up to 7.5kg and benefits from increased stability and redundancy due to its 6 motors and thrust points.

The Dark Matter® qD, the quadcopter, has an improved flight time compared to the DMhX and can be configured with propellers up to 28" in diameter.

Both the DMhX and the DMqD are made of sculpted carbon fibre & aircraft grade aluminium and offer excellent performance and efficiency. The interchangeable configurations cater for ever-changing pilot needs.

They can be fitted with different payloads due to a quick exchange payload attachment system. Camera payloads come with a damper plate to reduce vibrations. A range of sensors fitted on a 3-axis gimbal are available and offer excellent image stabilisation. Other payloads can be fitted for communication or logistics application, for example, and may not require any damping. Flexibility of the platform is paramount!

The aircraft can be assembled quickly and can take off from a small flat area. Their operating window is large, with wind resistance of up to 12m/s, temperature of -20°C to +40°C as standard or +45°C with a duotone (white on top) paint job and the UAV can be operated in light precipitation, making it a perfect option for BVLOS flight.

Both Clogworks DMhX and DMqD are compatible with the impressive Tattu lithium polymer batteries, offering an outstanding power to weight ratio and well-known for their reliability and long lasting performance. Up to two 22000mAh batteries can be fitted in the battery cage to protect them from the elements and possible rough landing.

For more permanent operations, both Dark Matter UAVs can be tethered up to 100m altitude.

Last but not least, the SmartAP-Clogworks autopilot offers redundancy with 3 temperature controlled IMUs, peace of mind with battery telemetry reading in real-time the actual current being drawn out, accurate positioning thanks to GPS/GLONASS satellites detection, as well as barometer and altimeter information.

The Dark Matter UAV range can be flown on different modes: Stabilised, Altitude Hold, Loiter, Return-to-Home, GPS waypoint navigation (with auto land and take-off), Fly here and Tether mode.

The new and intuitive user interface (SmartAP GCS) is compatible with many platforms (phone, tablet, pc) and allows for mission planning even without internet connectivity and payload control.

Both the DMhX and the newly released DMqD will be exhibited at the InnovateUK RAI industry showcase event in Manchester on the 12th of March.

Future proof your hardware with the Dark Matter range and maximize your return on investment!

Configure your Dark Matter® platform now!

ARPAS-UK North Members Meeting

Sat, 19 Jan 2019 12:28:00 GMT

Clogworks Technologies was pleased to attend the ARPAS-UK North Members Meeting on 15th of January in Huddersfield, very close by from our premises in Holmfirth.

The event was organised by ARPAS-UK, the professional body and trade association for the RPAS industry in the UK, and Drones on Demand who successfully put together an agenda with examples of drones used for good by Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, drone research based at the University of Leeds for their future use in smart cities and an update on Operation Zenith from NATS to summarise recent advancements on unmanned air traffic management (UTM or U-Space).

There was a useful update from the ARPAS-UK chair too, given by Graham Brown.

This was a great opportunity to network with commercial drone operators from the North of England and look at different drone offerings. A few more people now have a better understanding of the capabilities of the Dark Matter hX, its size and vast payload compatibility.

It was lovely to meet you all, hear about your operations and get involved in discussions on where the industry is heading.

Commercial Drone Professional - 10 TO WATCH: Drone Organisations Tipped to Scale New Heights in 2019

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 12:53:16 GMT

It's official - Clogworks is one to watch!

We are delighted and honoured that Clogworks Technologies Limited has captured Commercial Drone Professional's attention and was selected as one of 10 drone organisations to watch in 2019 .

Peter Opdam, CEO Clogworks: "We are delighted to have been recognised and included in CDP's list. It is a testament to all the hard work of all the people and parties involved. I would like to take a moment to thank all our friends and partners for their current and future support. Without their help & support this would not have been achievable. It is not possible to thank everyone individually here but you all know who you are and we are very grateful! I would like to take this opportunity to mention our strategic partner Sky-Drones for their fantastic and unlimited support to our partnership. Thank you all and let's have a fantastic "Dark Matter" 2019 together!"

About Commercial Drone Professional

Commercial Drone Professional (CDP) is the daily-updated website for the fast-growing market for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) used in a commercial environment. Created to provide breaking news and in-depth analysis of the trends and developments shaping this vibrant sector, CDP is the UK’s only dedicated information source for professionals operating in the commercial drone industry.

Through its popular daily news alert service, CDP reaches thousands of industry professionals working throughout the commercial drone market place and helps to connect manufacturers, suppliers, components makers, technology providers, installers, buyers and users.

CDP is owned by Promedia Publishing, the UK’s leading B2B publisher and producer of leading news websites and monthly print magazines for the retail, hospitality and healthcare industries.

For more information, please visit: www.commercialdroneprofessional.com

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks at the Commercial UAV Show 2018

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 21:04:11 GMT

London, Excel

Clogworks Technologies Limited and our partner Sky-Drones were exhibiting once again at the Commercial UAV Show this year. The event held on 14-15th November 2018 in London, Excel, was very successful and it was fantastic to see so many people visit our booth, no 27.

As well as a duotone Dark Matter hX especially suitable for high temperature environments, we showcased the latest user-friendly ground control station software on a variety of platforms and an example of the new ground control station rugged case. The new GCS software integrates both Airmap and Altitude Angel drone safety maps for improved operators' awareness.

As ever, we took this opportunity to discuss exciting developments amongst the Clogworks and Sky-drones teams, as well as with international partners and suppliers present at the Show.

It was a very positive couple of days with lots of requests and queries about our tailored solutions that could benefit many operators involved in different UAV applications from security, mapping, inspections, environment monitoring and deliveries to name a few!

Kirill Shilov, CEO of Sky-Drones, gave a presentation at the seminar theatre 3 on Thursday morning entitled " The Technology behind Sky-Drones Clogworks Professional Unmanned Aerial Solutions for Enterprise". It discussed the capability of the SmartAP-Clogworks flight controller with optimal integration in our Dark Matter platform and showcased some customers' applications.

Thank you from the teams to all who came to listen to the talk and/ or visit our booth during the Commercial UAV Show! It was lovely to meet you all and hear about your operations, development projects and challenges!

Tethered Endurance Testing

Fri, 07 Sep 2018 16:58:36 GMT

Demonstrating how the Dark Matter® hX can stay airborne for hours

As a UK manufacturer of high quality precision engineered carbon fibre unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV/Drones) and accessories, we pride ourselves in fine tuning our products to give our customers the most of what is currently achievable.

Since the start of 2018 we have been busy conducting tether testing with Dark Matter® hX in different operating and challenging conditions. Recently we completed tethered endurance tests to demonstrate some of Dark Matter® hX capabilities and specifically the ruggedness of our systems. Firstly, Dark Matter® hX was deployed for 5+ hours. This was quickly followed by another test of more than 8 hours continuous flight just a few days later, both recorded as a time lapse video.

We are pleased to share these videos of the endurance testing in the links below.

click here for 5+ hrs tether endurance video.

click here for 8+ hrs tether endurance video.

Examples of specific tether drone applications:

Surveillance - For example: Events, Airports, Harbours, Border patrol.
Pop-up Telecommunications (4G, WI-FI, radio…)
Traffic Management (camera or radar based)
Police, Fire or rescue services
Industrial Inspection: Oil & Gas, Energy utilities, civil engineering
Air quality monitoring
TV Broadcast : Persistent live aerial coverage
Lighting systems
Anti-drone systems (drone detectors or jamming systems)

More information about tethered applications can be found in the 'Tether' section of our website .

The Dark Matter® hX comes fitted with a SmartAP-Clogworks autopilot, developed in partnership between Clogworks Technologies and Sky-Drones, and can be controlled by a ground control station with intuitive pilot interface or RC transmitter.

A unique & intuitive tether mode in the SmartAP Ground Control Software offers built-in functionality such as auto-takeoff, auto-landing, heading/altitude adjustments, as shown during the video.

During the test, the Dark Matter® hX was powered by a Safe-T tether station from Elistair which can feature an automatic tether up to 100mtr. The tether provides power as well as a 100% secure data-link that is used to communicate with the aircraft as well as a video link. The tether air module is protected inside the core of the Dark Matter® hX and has an emergency backup flight battery in case of a power failure.

The retract system allows for an unobstructed 360° view from the payload and thanks to the aircraft's excellent efficiency and quick-release railing system, custom & sizeable payloads can be fitted while operating on tether, offering fantastic flexibility of the system.

The integrated forward facing FPV camera, its video feed is shown during take-off along with telemetry data, can also be used to quickly check the heading and status of the Dark Matter® hX at all times.

The Dark Matter® hX is a very efficient & versatile system whatever the use and aircraft configuration. In standard battery operated conditions it also offers world-class performance with a long flight time (up to 45 minutes), operation in wind speed of up to 12m/s (26.8mph, 23.3knots, 43.2km/h) and flight speeds up to 20m/s (44.5mph, 38.9knots, 72km/h).

About Sky-Drones

Sky-Drones creates professional UAV flight control system solutions including autopilot hardware, onboard flight control software, mobile software and cloud services. The company helps its global customers to build and operate commercial drones for security, inspections, mapping, media production and agriculture.
The flagship product of the company is SmartAP Autopilot - powerful flight controller for any type of drones with fully autonomous capabilities. SmartAP provides excellent flight performance along with high level of redundancy and flexible payload integration. Sky-Drones also offers SmartAP GCS - intuitive mission planning and drone operations management software with integrated airspace awareness services available for any platforms and operating systems. For more information, please visit: www.sky-drones.com .

About Elistair

Elistair designs and manufactures autonomous tethered drone systems for persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities as well as high-bandwidth communications. Their products can fly for days, and are being used by major industrial companies and governments all over the world. For more information, please visit: www.elistair.com

About Clogworks Technologies

Clogworks Technologies designs and manufactures high quality precision engineered carbon fibre unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and accessories. The organisation specialises in delivering UAV solutions to professional UAV operators involved in industrial, security and commercial applications, strive for great customer relations and constantly invest in innovation. For more information, please visit: www.clogworks.com .

KTN-Clogworks 3D Printing Video

Sun, 02 Sep 2018 13:18:35 GMT

Demonstrating how Clogworks makes use of 3D printing technology.

KTN (Knowledge Transfer Network) approached us to demonstrate how Clogworks Technologies is using 3D printing and be a case study on how additive manufacturing can benefit companies of all sizes.

As a UK manufacturer of high quality precision engineered carbon fibre unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV/Drones) and accessories, the organisation constantly invest in innovation. In July 2017, Clogworks Technologies purchased a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer to allow us to design, rapid-prototype and conduct small batch manufacture of plastic and rubber parts we use on the Dark Matter® products range. We also use it to facilitate all kind of payloads integration, as required by customers.

Two Clogworks® Dark Matter® hX multirotors were used for the video shoot and the aerial footage was captured using a GH4 Panasonic DSLR camera in a 3-axis gimbal. While using a single 22000mAh lithium polymer battery, this payload configuration allows for 25+ minutes of flight time. The Dark Matter® hX can accommodate up to two 22000mAh batteries when longer flight times are required.

We thoroughly enjoyed the 2 days video shoot with SVS Multimedia and OxyFire Media Creative. We are now pleased to announce the release of the official video in which Peter Opdam, Clogworks CEO & Founder, talks about our use of 3D printing and how it helps our constant pursuit for high quality while choosing the best materials and embracing new technologies.

Click to view the full video

Standard Operations

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) applications range from the film industry to building inspections, wildlife research, agriculture, airborne delivery and security.

The Dark Matter® hX offers world-class performance with a long flight time (up to 45 minutes), operation in wind speed of up to 12m/s (26.8mph, 23.3knots, 43.2km/h) and flight speeds up to 20m/s (44.5mph, 38.9knots, 72km/h).

For aerial photography and video, the retract system allows for an unobstructed 360° view from the payload. Payloads of up to 7.5kg can be fitted thanks to a quick-release railing system, so the system offers excellent flexibility.

About Knowledge Transfer Network (KTN)

KTN has an Additive Manufacturing Special Interest Group (SIG) which aims to create and promote new knowledge and knowledge transfer in the area of additive manufacturing and 3D printing (AM/3DP), primarily for the benefit of UK business and economic growth and the Emerging Technology and Industries Team.

Knowledge Transfer Network is InnovateUK’s network partner and also provides innovation networking for other funders in line with its mission to drive UK growth. InnovateUK is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), an executive non-departmental public body and the national funding agency investing in science and research in the UK.

About Clogworks Technologies

COTEC 2018

Thu, 12 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Dark Matter hX Demonstrations at Shrivenham Close Combat Symposium

Amongst many exciting Defence and Security innovations, Clogworks Technologies and Cubic Defence UK LVC team were pleased to have the opportunity to demonstrate the capability of their unmanned aerial vehicles use at COTEC during the Shrivenham Close Combat Symposium 9-11th July 2018 due to their ever increasing possible applications.

COTEC (Cranfield Ordnance Test & Evaluation Centre) is situated on the edge of Salisbury Plain at Gore Cross near to West Lavington in Wiltshire, England and is one of the five Centres within the Department of Engineering and Applied Science (DEAS) at Cranfield University’s Shrivenham Campus.

Cranfield is an exclusively postgraduate university, creating leaders in technology and management. The university has two campuses, Cranfield and Shrivenham, and the latter deals with Defense and Security applications and research. Symposia at Shrivenham provides a forum to Government agencies, military and civilian, industry and research establishments for the exploration and exchange of experience and knowledge, leading to constructive questioning and a synthesis of ideas in a relaxed but professional environment.

The capability of the Clogworks® Dark Matter® hX multirotor was demonstrated on and off tether with its dual sensor payload (EOx30 and IR) during the range day on 10th of July.

Standard Operations

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) applications range from the film industry to building inspections, wildlife research, agriculture, airborne delivery. The Dark Matter® hX is especially well suited for search & rescue and applications where a heavy payload (up to 7.5kg) is required to be used or transported. Ideal applications are reconnaissance, police, fire and search & rescue operations.

Long flight time (up to 45 minutes), conspicuousness and wide operational conditions are important. The Dark Matter® hX can be operated in wind speed of up to 12m/s (26.8mph, 23.3knots, 43.2km/h) and can be flown at speeds up to 20m/s (44.5mph, 38.9knots, 72km/h).

For application where security is of utmost importance, a secure bi-directional datalink can be integrated with encryption of the UAV command & control, telemetry and camera feeds.

Tethered Operations

Airborne tethered solutions are especially well suited for persistent aerial surveillance, pop-up telecommunications, traffic management, air quality monitoring and live broadcasting. They can be a very efficient tool for reconnaissance, police, fire and rescue services.

Thanks to its efficiency the Dark Matter® hX can be flown on tether at up to 100 metres altitude with a variety of payloads including an emergency battery even in challenging weather conditions. Operating at a lower maximum altitude (e.g. 80 metres) increases capability to lift heavier payloads and/or operate in stronger wind conditions.

The SmartAP Ground Control Software has dedicated intuitive tether mode functionality making it easy to get a tethered Dark Matter flying. Built-in functionality such as auto-takeoff, auto-landing, heading/altitude adjustments along with built-in safety features can all be controlled through the software without the use of traditional pilot controllers at location or remotely.

With Cranfield's (COTEC) site being on the edge of Salisbury Plain Training Area (SPTA), specific requirements are needed from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO-SPTA) in order to fly UAV legally there. As well as a Permission for Commercial Operation (PfCO) granted by the UK CAA (Civil Aviation Authority), in place for both Clogworks Technologies and Cubic Defence (UK), up-to-date insurance and permission from the land owner is required. When live firing takes place, extra measures need to be considered. Cubic Defence (UK) LVC team have been operating on Salisbury Plain for many years and arrange for such permission.

Peter Opdam, CEO Clogworks, "This was a fantastic opportunity to demonstrate the capability of the Dark Matter® hX in front of a wide spectrum of people involved in the Defence and Security sector. Thanks to the Cubic Defence UK LVC team for organising this. We look forward to continuing working with them and tailoring their Clogworks Dark Matter aircraft further to their applications."

About Clogworks Technologies

About Cubic Defence UK

Cubic Defence UK is a leading provider of specialist training solutions to military, law enforcement and security organisations around the globe. Cubic Defence (UK) LVC team have a team of UAV military experts and have 6 fully trained and highly competent pilots on call for their aerial commercial operations. For more information, enquiries can be sent to: info@clogworks.com.

Dark Matter® hX at 29 Palms USMC Training Site

Thu, 24 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Cubic LVC took delivery of their two custom duotone Dark Matter® hX systems and a rental UAV for a month long demonstrations including surveillance, airborne communications and other to the US Marine Corps training area at 29 Palms in the Southern Californian desert. With ambient temperatures edging towards 40°C most days in May and winds upto 25 knots, it was an extreme testing environment with heat, dust and wind that demonstrated the performance of the Dark Matter® hX. Cubic LVC's UAV team leader Ben McNiff commented "We used the Dark Matter® system as a surveillance system off-tether and a communication 'mast' on-tether for extended periods of time. The Dark Matter® system proved ultra-stable and performed flawlessly, both on-tether and off-tether. Our customer was extremely impressed with the system's imagery, stability, lift-capacity and adaptability."

Images courtesy of Cubic Corporation.

Additive Manufacturing Video

Fri, 18 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

KTN (Knowledge Transfer Network) approached us to show how Clogworks Technologies is using 3D printing and be a case study on how additive manufacturing can benefit companies of all sizes. We thoroughly enjoyed the 2 days video shoot with SVS Multimedia and OxyFire Media Creative. Thanks to all those involved and can't wait to see the final cut!

Clogworks Makes the "Drone Market Environment Map 2018" List.

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Drone Market Environment Map 2018

We are delighted that Clogworks Technologies Limited was selected to be listed on the "Drone Market Environment Map 2018" produced by Drone Industry Insights showing 1000 "companies and people that are set to have the biggest impact on the drone market" in 2018.