Sky Ranger: Search and Rescue Drone for SES

The problem

Search and rescue operations are some of the most challenging situations for volunteers of the State Emergency Service (SES) due to the unforgiving environment, unknown variables and extreme time pressure to save a life. The use of drones, also known as Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) in search and rescue operations is rapidly being employed within the SES due to their ability to provide aerial reconnaissance, assess damage, and locate missing persons during natural disasters such as floods. There are almost countless problems that drones could solve in search and rescue operations. The three main problems this project focused on was aerial data, lighting at night, and payload delivery to patients/lost individuals. The drones that are currently employed by the SES are not specifically designed to solve these three problems in one package and often have to be modified with third party accessories. Which often sacrifices another feature to accommodate for it.

How might we improve the current drone solution and make it more tailored for ses search and rescue?

THE RESEARCH

Initial research for this project was at first focussed around drones for flood boat wayfinding in the SES. However, after conducting 11 surveys and 4 interviews with SES members and industry experts, it was clear that the applications for drones in the SES go much further than that. Results from the survey indicated that flood boat rescue is only a small part of what SES does, and that land based rescue is actually much more common. These findings shifted the project slightly to focus more on not only flood boat rescue, but also land-based search and rescue scenarios and how drones are utilised there.

One of the individuals interviewed was an active RPAS (Drone) pilot in the Queensland SES. The SES pilot provided invaluable first-hand knowledge as he is the pilot responsible for rescuing an 80 year old man lost in his property, near death at night. One of the only recorded instances of a drone saving a person that is near-death. His experience and technical expertise guided the design choices made in the Sky Ranger Pro. Including recommending the drone have a spotlight, thermal camera, and payload delivery combo. Along with product benchmarking, the research conducted has identified the downfalls of the current drones on the market, as well as features that the SES and search and rescue context requires.

existing product benchmarking

The benchmarking matrix below compares 10 of the most popular drones currently on the market being used for search and rescue. From this benchmarking, several market opportunities were identified. It was found that the majority of drone models did have thermal camera capability, but lacked the ability to mount a spotlight at the same time. All of the drones benchmarked also require third-party modification in order to have payload delivery capability. Additionally, the drones with longer flight times typically scored lower in portability. Therefore, maintaining long flight times and portability would be a good market advantage to have.

initial concepts and ideation

Several initial concepts were explored in the early stages of the project. Ideas were broad and varied ensuring that as many concepts were covered as possible. Initial concepts explored include a tethered drone system, a human size drone capable of lifting patients, a backpack drone, and a ‘taskmaster’ all-rounder drone which is the concept that eventually transformed into the Sky Ranger.

Many weeks of prototyping occurred during the project including rough foam models, 3D printed scale models and clay models. Several iterations were required before arriving at the final prototype.

introducing the sky ranger pro

THE SKY RANGER PRO

In the most challenging moments, when time is critical and lives are on the line, every second counts. Introducing the Sky Ranger Pro – the latest innovation in search and rescue technology. Built for professionals, designed for the unforgiving demands of emergency services. Sky Ranger Pro is engineered to be a lifeline in the skies. Specifically designed to fit the needs of SES search and rescue drone operators, and to work seamlessly with SES and government systems. The Sky Ranger Pro integrates into operations with minimal effort, providing an essential asset for any rescue operation.

Powerful Thermal and Zoom Camera

Equipped with a powerful thermal and colour zoom camera, Sky Ranger Pro can see what others can’t. Through smoke, fog, and the darkest nights, it locates individuals quickly, pinpointing heat signatures with precision. A.I. powered subject recognition ensures you never miss anything. Because when someone’s life is hanging in the balance… every detail matters.

High Power Floodlight

With its high-power floodlight, the Sky Ranger Pro illuminates the darkest of environments, creating a safe path forward. Whether it’s locating a lost hiker or guiding ground teams through hazardous zones, this floodlight provides visibility when you need it most. With dual hot-swappable batteries, downtime is minimised and multiple Sky Ranger drones can be used to provide constant lighting no matter how long the rescue.

Small Package Delivery

Built-in advanced payload dropper, Sky Ranger Pro delivers essential supplies directly to those in need. Medical kits, food, water—anything required to keep people safe until rescue arrives.

Foldable Compact Design

To reduce size and allow for easy transport, the arms fold inwards to create a compact package. Quick-release clips allow for fast deployment and packup.