One of the key additions in Software Version 2.4.0 is Virtual Cage, a new anti-collision feature designed to make confined-space drone operations safer and easier.
Unlike traditional anti-collision systems that rely only on what the LiDAR can see at any given moment, our Virtual Cage uses the drone’s 3D map of the environment to create a protective safety zone around the Scout 137 drone. Once an area has been scanned, the drone remembers the location of walls, ceilings, floors, structures, and obstacles.
The result is a virtual protective cage that surrounds the drone and prevents accidental contact with previously mapped objects.
Why is this useful?
Confined spaces often contain beams, ledges, corners, and structures that can fall into LiDAR blind zones during flight. Traditional anti-collision systems may lose awareness of these obstacles when they are no longer visible to the sensor.
Virtual Cage solves this problem by using the accumulated 3D scan of the environment. If the drone has seen an obstacle before, it can continue to avoid it even when it is temporarily outside the LiDAR’s field of view.
This gives pilots an additional layer of protection when operating close to structures, navigating tight spaces, or inspecting complex assets.
Adjustable Safety Margin
The size of the Virtual Cage can be adjusted to match the application. A larger clearance provides a more conservative safety buffer, while a smaller clearance allows operation in tighter areas where access is critical.
The drone will automatically resist pilot commands that would result in contact with mapped obstacles, helping maintain safe separation from surrounding structures.
Best Practice
To get the best performance from Virtual Cage, operators should perform a quick scan of the inspection area before beginning detailed work. A simple rotation or short flight around the workspace allows the drone to build a complete 3D understanding of its surroundings.
Once mapped, the environment becomes part of the drone’s protective awareness, helping reduce collision risk throughout the inspection.
Watch the demonstration video above to see Virtual Cage in action!
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