The GENIUS Project Demonstrates the Potential of 5G in Enhancing Drone Operations and Public Safety
The future of drone technology hinges on their integration into shared airspace, where they can safely operate alongside manned aviation. This challenge is being tackled by the GENIUS project, a collaboration involving researchers from the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) and the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), along with industry partners like Ericsson, TDC, and HHLA Sky. The project explores how 5G technology can contribute to the safe scaling of drone operations in Denmark.
5G and Drone Integration
The GENIUS project has shown promising results in integrating drones into airspace using 5G technology. By developing drones equipped with 5G capabilities and a comprehensive traffic management system, the project aims to address the challenges of flying drones beyond the visual line of sight (BVLOS) of operators. The traffic management system, provided by HHLA Sky, enables real-time connections to drones, the creation of safe flight corridors, and the ability to temporarily close airspace for emergencies.
Sebastian Törsleff of HHLA Sky highlighted the practical nature of the project, stating, “What has been great about this project is that it wasn’t just a theoretical exercise. We actually tested the systems, conducted the flights, and integrated the solutions from the different partners, both on a technological and operational level.” He also emphasized the value of combining industry and research expertise, noting, “In projects like these, it is always a good idea to bring in different perspectives.”
The Advantages of 5G Technology
5G technology, often recognized by the small icon on mobile phones, offers significant advantages for drone operations. In the GENIUS project, Ericsson developed a method to monitor drone performance in real-time over a live TCC NET network. This advancement is expected to make BVLOS flights more feasible and reliable.
Moreover, 5G technology enhances public safety by enabling accurate drone location tracking and the creation of SIM density maps. These maps provide a dynamic, real-time overview of the number of people in a given area, which can be used for risk assessments and to direct drones away from crowded locations.
Looking Ahead: A New Drone Strategy
As the GENIUS project progresses, the focus will shift to testing these systems in real-world environments beyond the drone center at HCA Airport in Odense. According to Kjeld Jensen, an associate professor at SDU’s drone center, “We have taken some decisive steps in GENIUS towards integrating the drones with manned aviation in the lower airspace. We still have big challenges ahead that we’re working on, and we are actively applying for more funding to be able to continue.”
Jensen also expressed optimism about the upcoming national drone strategy, expected to be released in the autumn. “We also look forward to the new national drone strategy, which will be released in the autumn, and which several partners in the project have helped to develop as part of the expert groups. Hopefully, the new strategy will form the basis for future legislative work in the area,” he added.
The GENIUS project is a step toward the safe integration of drones into shared airspace. By leveraging 5G technology, the project demonstrates the potential for drones to operate alongside manned aviation, offering a glimpse into the future of drone operations in Denmark. As the project continues to evolve, the upcoming national drone strategy will play a crucial role in shaping the legislative framework needed to support this emerging technology.
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