ZenaTech Inc.’s project based on drones is an emblematic example of how artificial intelligence and electric propulsion technologies can work together to address one of the most pressing environmental emergencies of our time.
The drone becomes sensor, analyst and first responder, and its effectiveness could soon redefine fire prevention standards in global settings. It is a new system for early detection of forest fires, the technological heart of which is the ZenaDrone 1000, a VTOL (Vertical Takeoff and Landing) drone with eight rotors on two fixed wings, measuring 12×7 feet, designed for operations in harsh environments. Thanks to its foldable wings, it can be conveniently transported in the back of a truck. Its load capacity is up to 40 kg, making it suitable even for complex missions with multiple loads of sensors and instruments.
“Equipped with artificial intelligence, thermal imaging and LiDAR, the drones are designed to detect abnormal thermal signals and smoke at an early stage, operate autonomously over long distances, drastically reduce costs associated with manual inspections, and provide real-time data for timely intervention by emergency teams,” the manufacturer explains.
The test will be done in California, a choice that is not random. With fire seasons becoming longer and more intense, as demonstrated by the Los Angeles area wildfires earlier this year, demand for proactive technology solutions is growing exponentially. According to Business Research Insights, the global fire prevention market will grow from $9.68 billion in 2024 to more than $22 billion by 2032, a CAGR of 12.6 percent. The United States accounts for a sizable portion of this market.
