Dronewerx, LLC. Unveils New Prop Shielded UAS Design

DRONEWERX, LLC., has recently developed a groundbreaking prop-shielded V.T.O.L. multicopter known, in its first iteration, as the DWX PG-Y6 Guardian.  The “PG” refers to the patent-pending Prop Guard ™ technology and the “Y6” refers to the frame configuration having three axes (like a letter “Y”) and six motors, two on each axis.  The project was inspired around concerns over the dangerous nature of propellers on multirotor frame configurations, often referred to as “flying lawnmowers.”

The goal of the project was to design a solution that would protect people from injury and the environment, as well as equipment onboard the aircraft, from damage.  The result was the Prop Guard, ™ a slim-profile propeller-shield and truss-mounted motor “pod” system.

“Not only does the design do its job and fly well, its slim profile has the added benefit of greatly reducing parasitic drag, making it superior to existing fixed-boom designs,” said  Matt Mishak, who co-owns Dronewerx with his partner Mike Hanna.

The net result is an aircraft with equal or better flight times as compared with similar configurations.   The design also allows for quick changing of any of the Prop Guard ™ pods with a spare pod in the event of motor failure or other troubles, getting the user back in the air quickly.

The company is currently testing its second prototype. A third prototype is expected soon that will add features such as collapsible booms for easy stow.  According to Hanna, the craft is essentially its own case, but could just as easily be stored in a hard-shell container or bag.  “All-in-all, the Prop Guard ™ will provide for a much safer flying experience,” Hanna said.

Dronewerx is a limited liability company located onsite at the Lorain County Airport near Cleveland, Ohio.  The company’s website, dronewerx.comsells a variety of custom carbon fiber frames, autopilots, brushless motors, electronics and almost everything else involving unmanned aircraft systems (UAS)/drones.  The company is an active member of AUVSI and the Northern Ohio Unmanned Aircraft Systems Association (NOUASA).