IP Review Winter 2019/20

15 upon almost reaching the target opens up releasing a weighted net to capture it. A winch is then actuated pulling the captured drone back to the harpoon launcher. This rather medieval device is a clear example of a company adapting known technology for 21st century applications to create new and innovative solutions. In terms of RF disrupting technologies, Airbus has recently developed a jamming device which can be fixed to a plane or helicopter (EP3352399). The device, which fixes to an aircraft, jams the radio signal that a drone needs to receive in order to operate. In effect the device creates a jamming ‘force-field’ into which a drone cannot enter. The device has a number of other advantages, it can be retrofitted to aircraft, and it provides protection for aircraft when they are not within the safety of an airport drone defence system. XIDRONE Systems have developed an integrated multi-sensor system to detect and counter commercially available drones (US9715009). The system initially identifies and tracks a threat, then makes an assessment as to the threat level the drone poses. The system can then direct the drone away from the location in a non-destructive manner or disable the device using RF, LASER or munitions and a military grade tracking system. Drones have the potential to be a world improving technology, but can also be an extremely disruptive and destructive one if used maliciously. Fortunately a number of large and small companies are developing devices and systems to counteract this threat. It is clear that the adaption of known technologies for application in a new field, such as combating drones, can result in lucrative monopoly rights especially in the Defence sector. With a rise in the number of patents relating to the technology prove it is a lucrative airspace to move into allowing companies to protect and monopolise their inventions. So hopefully, come the end of 2019, we will all be able to fly home for Christmas without the threat of a drone spoiling our plans. To find out more contact Josh Miller jmiller@withersrogers.com Drones have the potential to be a world improving technology, but can also be an extremely disruptive and destructive one if used maliciously.