Berlin-based start-up Skycharge aims to provide ground infrastructure for scalable, economically sustainable BVLOS missions in 24/7 operation with its new “Skycharge Hangar”. At the core of the concept is a contact-based, CE-certified charging solution designed to be manufacturer-independent. This ensures that centrally located “drone garages” can be used by multiple companies and approached by heterogeneous UAS fleets.
As a key infrastructure component for the decentralised operation of unmanned aircraft, drone hangars are increasingly becoming central to future-proof business models. However, building a comprehensive network is cost-intensive and only becomes economically viable if the investment costs can be distributed across a large number of individual missions through high utilisation rates. Skycharge therefore pursues a platform-agnostic approach that enables the shared use of docking solutions or, in the long term, even supports the establishment of a network of “power refuelling stations” as an independent business model. Municipalities could use such charging infrastructure to promote business development and attract companies. For example in large industrial zones or at hubs where the flight routes of different UAS types operated by multiple stakeholders intersect.
Testing Under Real-World Conditions
Together with its cooperation partner HHLA Sky, the “Skycharge Hangar” was extensively tested prior to its official market launch – under the demanding conditions of the Port of Hamburg. Here, the drone hangar not only had to handle numerous charging cycles, but also withstand challenging environmental conditions. These included heavy rainfall, significant temperature fluctuations and partially unstable power supply, as can realistically occur in ports and other large industrial facilities.
From a technological perspective, Skycharge deliberately relies on a contact-based charging system that can be used with retrofittable connector pins. This allows UAS to be adapted quickly and cost-effectively – unlike inductive charging solutions or battery swap concepts, for example. Nevertheless, the manufacturer promises high efficiency and robust power transmission, which is particularly crucial for continuous UAS operations in 24/7 scenarios.
This article was produced in cooperation with Drones, the specialist magazine providing Insights for the Uncrewed Future.
