FluxGrip FG40: A Solid-State Solution for Drone Payloads
Zubax Robotics has announced the release of its newest innovation, the FluxGrip FG40, an electropermanent magnet designed for secure and efficient payload attachment in both commercial and military drones. This new system offers a significant departure from traditional electromechanical locks, presenting a more reliable and cost-effective alternative.
Addressing Drone Payload Challenges
Many civilian and defense operations depend on drones being able to attach and release payloads reliably. These operations include switching between cameras for different lighting conditions, delivering packages, and securing payloads for precision strikes. Current attachment methods typically rely on electromechanical locks, which can be fragile due to their intricate moving parts. These systems are prone to failure and are often expensive to maintain.
To address these issues, Zubax Robotics has introduced the FluxGrip FG40. The device is a solid-state electropermanent magnet with no moving parts, eliminating common mechanical failure points. By removing the issues caused by vibration, wear, and material fatigue, FG40 reduces maintenance costs while increasing reliability.
Key Features of FluxGrip FG40
The FluxGrip FG40 is not only strong but also lightweight. Weighing just 70 grams, it is capable of holding up to 250 newtons (25 kilogram-forces), which is over 350 times its own weight. This performance rivals traditional electromechanical locks, but without their complexity and disadvantages.
One of the standout features of the FG40 is its energy efficiency. Unlike electromechanical solutions, FG40 requires no power to maintain its state once a payload is attached or released. Power is only needed to transition between the on-state and off-state. This design makes it resistant to power failures, ensuring payload security even during energy disruptions.
The device is also built to withstand extreme environments. Sealed with heavy-duty polymer, it resists exposure to seawater, salts, acids, dust, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for use in harsh conditions. For customers requiring redundancy or greater holding power, multiple FG40 units can be used together.
Built for Quality and Safety
FluxGrip FG40 is engineered with AEC-Q-qualified components, adhering to the safety and reliability standards of the automotive industry. Each unit undergoes rigorous automatic testing, and traceability reports are available for customers seeking safety certification.
“FluxGrip represents a shift towards mechanically simpler solutions,” said Pavel Kirienko, CEO of Zubax Robotics. “Much like SSDs have replaced HDDs, phased array antennas replaced gimbaled ones, and electric motors are replacing internal combustion engines, FluxGrip is set to obsolete electromechanical locks in drones and robotics.”
Expansion Plans
Zubax Robotics is already developing additional models to meet a wider range of needs, from cost-sensitive applications to those requiring a holding force of hundreds of kilogram-forces. FluxGrip FG40, researched, designed, and manufactured in the European Union, is available for both domestic and international customers, including NATO member states, the Commonwealth of Nations, and Israel.
The FluxGrip FG40 marks a new step in drone technology, offering a reliable and efficient solution for payload attachment. With this innovation, Zubax Robotics aims to provide both commercial and military operators with a tool that enhances operational efficiency and reduces the risk of mechanical failure.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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