OMNIDIRECTIONAL PROPULSION DRONES

By Clément Picaud, CEO and co-founder of AERIX SYSTEMS

AXS-µ in flight. Credit AERIX SYSTEMS

INTRODUCTION

the innovation presented in this article was awarded the Prix de l'Innovation Air et Espace de l'Aéro-Club de France 2024, in the "Start-Up" sub-categorycategory, presented by Jérôme Jean, GIFAS Public Affairs Director, to William Fiyoh NGnato and Clément Picaud for AERIX SYSTEMS.

In an ever-changing world, mastering flight in complex, cramped or dynamic environments is a critical issue for many industrial, energy, logistics and security sectors. AERIX SYSTEMS has built its ambition on this requirement: to design an aerial platform with an omnidirectional propulsion system, capable of adapting to any scenario, regardless of posture, orientation or environment.

The omnidirectional propulsion system developed by AERIX SYSTEMS relies on an advanced mechatronic architecture, based on the principle of gimbal-mounted thrusters. Each propulsion unit is designed in a forked configuration, incorporating two synchronized motors which control the direction of thrust generated by a brushless motor with extreme finesse. This dual motorization makes it possible to control thrust orientation down to the degree, by dynamically adjusting the angle of the thruster in space, independently of the overall position of the air vector. This approach enables complete vector control of the forces generated by each thruster, guaranteeing active stability on all three axes of rotation (pitch, roll and yaw), while enabling the drone to fly, maneuver or maintain a fixed position in any spatial orientation. This mechatronic innovation was made possible by the development of novel electro-mechanical components to power the Brushless despite rotation, and all with no limit to the number of revolutions. The innovation of omnidirectional propulsion is not just hardware, but also software, with numerous algorithms (the entire guidance, navigation and control system is proprietary) enabling centimetric and sub-degree servo-control. The steerable propulsion is controlled in real time by an on-board control system developed by the company.

Diagram of omnidirectional propulsion.

Credit AERIX SYSTEMS

Driven by disruptive innovation, this technology makes possible a new form of agile, stable and ultra-precise air mobility, designed for high-value-added civil and defense applications.

The omnidirectional propulsion developed by AERIX SYSTEMS breaks with conventional flight patterns. Whereas most conventional UAVs depend on their orientation to perform a maneuver, AERIX SYSTEMS vectors can move freely on all three axes of translation and rotation (pitch, roll and 360° yaw) with sub-degree precision. This means they can maintain a perfectly stableposition , move upside down, make instantaneous orientation changes and maintain a constant heading, even in the presence of wind or turbulence.

This freedom of movement makes it possible to operate in complex environments, such as under metal structures, between pylons, inside buildings, or along curved surfaces, while maintaining a high level of safety and precision.

By positioning itself as an equipment and platform supplier, AERIX SYSTEMS offers an industrial solution designed to respond to concrete problems in the field: accessibility, safety, responsiveness, reduced human costs, optimized lead times. For example, when inspecting a wind turbine blade, the drone can follow the curves of the structure without ever losing its line of sight, even in strong winds. This ability to "stick" to the relief or geometry of an object, while maintaining optical stability, enables finer, more exploitable and more reproducible data collection.

Omnidirectional inspection rendering

of a pipeline by omnidirectional AXS-µ drone.

Credit AERIX SYSTEMS

AERIX SYSTEMS technology isn't just about freedom of movement. It redefines the very notion of tactical flight. Thanks to its ability to move freely in all three dimensions, the platform can execute optimized terminal maneuvers in confined environments, follow terrain at very high speeds, or adjust its position while in flight.s, follow terrain at very high speed, or adjust its position in real time to maintain a stable line of sight or engagement solution.

Unlike traditional platforms, which require specific configurations depending on the scenario, the AERIX system stands out for its inverted philosophy: adapt to the terrain, don't constrain it. The AXS-µ1 UAV's modular architecture, comprising 32 mechanical attachment points, enables the integration of sensors, optics, payloads or communication modules according to mission requirements.

This modularity transforms the platform into a true multi-role vector. Long-term surveillance, laser designation, dynamic interception, terminal support or electro-magnetic jamming missions: each module can be deployed according to tactical objectives, without redesigning the carrier system.

The AXS-µ1 is the first aerial platform developed by AERIX SYSTEMS to feature a natively integrated omnidirectional propulsion system.omnidirectional propulsion system, designed to meet the growing needs of players in the field of precision aerial mobility. Compact (40 x 40 cm), lightweight, modular and agile, this new-generation drone stands out for its unique flight capabilities. With a range of 15 minutes in active flight, a top speed of 200 km/h and a payload of up to 1.5 kg, it is a powerful tool for applications requiring responsiveness, reliability and precision. The AXS-µ1 is also designed for immediate integration on different deployment vectors (vehicles, ships, mobile units) without any logistical adjustments, enabling rapid implementation on any type of terrain.

AXS-µ in flight during tests and experiments.

Credit AERIX SYSTEMS.

The system developed is not set in stone. AERIX SYSTEMS' technology is designed to evolve. Its modularity allows for frequent iterations, an

gradual increase in capacity and constant adaptation to customer needs.

Eventually, omnidirectional propulsion could be integrated into larger vectors, collaborative swarm systems, or even highly mobile ground modules.

One of the fundamental pillars of AERIX SYSTEMS' approach is its commitment to design, development and production entirely in France. In a context where technological and industrial dependence on non-European suppliers is a growing risk, the solution proposed by AERIX SYSTEMS represents a genuine sovereign alternative for strategic French and European industries. The AXS-µ1 UAV is assembled, tested and industrialized in France, in a local ecosystem of specialized partners. This choice is not just a question of ethical or economic positioning; it also guarantees maximum control of the value chain. In a world where technological mastery is becoming a key to autonomy and competitiveness, AERIX SYSTEMS offers much more than a drone: it's a tool for technological sovereignty in the service of concrete civil and defense needs.

The omnidirectional propulsion system developed by AERIX SYSTEMS is more than just a technical innovation. It represents a strategic breakthrough, reconfiguring airborne capabilities and redefining maneuvers. Thanks to unprecedented flight dynamics, full modularity and multi-support compatibility, it opens up new horizons in all fields where precision flight, projection, etc. are required.

and adaptation to the terrain are essential.