In recent years, drones have become invaluable tools in search and rescue (SAR) operations, offering quick deployment, real-time data, and access to remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible. One notable example of the importance of drones in SAR is the successful rescue of two hikers in Dutchess County, where advanced drone technology played a crucial part. This incident highlights the significant impact that innovative technologies can have on enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of rescue missions.

The Stissing Mountain Rescue: A Case Study

In June 2023, two hikers became lost at night on Stissing Mountain in the Pine Plains area of Dutchess County, New York. With their phone batteries running low, they were unable to communicate their exact location, making their rescue a challenge. The Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Unit responded by deploying a drone equipped with a thermal camera. With this technology, the rescuers were able to detect the hikers’ heat signatures in the dense forest, enabling rescuers to locate them quickly. 

This rescue mission not only proved the critical role drones play in SAR operations but also highlighted the need for reliable and long-lasting drone recharging technology. A major factor in the Stissing Mountain rescue’s success was the fact that the drone was able to find the hikers quickly. 

In many remote rescue operations, SAR teams were called several days after hikers were reported missing, causing SAR efforts to be spread over a much larger area. Larger areas mean longer searches, running the risk of damage due to overheating and requiring repeated recharging of drone batteries. Atlanta-based Premergy, Inc.’s patented battery recharging technology is gaining attention from the SAR community because it claims to solve both issues.

The Role of Premergy’s Technology 

Premergy looks to be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge battery recharging technologies that improve the capabilities of drones in SAR missions. Their innovations address key limitations of traditional drone battery systems, such as slow recharging times and unreliable performance due to overheating. Both of these problems lead to increased time spent on the ground, where drones are not helpful. Premergy addresses both problems. Its patented rapid charging technology has been proven by third-party testing to recharge multi-cell batteries up to 3 times faster than traditional methods and its dual management technology prevents overheating.

Impact on Search and Rescue Operations 

Premery believes this technology can enhance the effectiveness of drones in SAR operations by providing reliable and extended operational capabilities. In scenarios similar to the Stissing Mountain rescue, drones integrated with Premergy’s dual battery management technology can cover larger areas without overheating, and the ability to recharge three times faster means those drones can remain in the air for longer durations, increasing the likelihood of locating individuals quickly and safely.

Advantages of SAR:

Longer Deployment: With extended flight times due to dual battery management, and rapid recharging means drones can remain in the air longer, covering larger search areas, and providing real-time data and reducing the time it takes to locate missing persons.

Improved Safety: By providing extended aerial surveillance and thermal imaging, drones can reliably identify and assess risks from a safe distance, allowing rescue teams to plan safer and more efficient approaches to reach those in need.

Cost Efficiency: The ability to cover large areas quickly and prevent damage to the drones suffered through overheating, Premergy’s technology can reduce the overall cost of SAR operations, as fewer resources and personnel are required compared to traditional search methods.

“Premergy’s technology solves two fundamental problems with using drones in search and rescue. The first is charging time, and the second is range. Our rapid recharging technology could mean that a drone is back in the air three times faster than using traditional battery charging methods. Our dual management technology could increase range by 20%, allowing for longer flight times. During a rescue operation, a drone on the ground is of no help. But a drone in the air can allow SAR teams to go where no other vehicle can reach,” said Botts, Premergy’s Chief Technology Officer.

Published by: Holy Minoza