Remote-Operated Drone, Robot Systems Designed for Security, Inspections

Xtend, a developer of human-to-machine operating systems, has acquired Performance Rotors, a Singapore-based drone specialist in a deal that will accelerate the company’s development of human-guided, remote-controlled smart devices.

In the deal, Performance Rotors will provide its drone and robotics pipeline. Combined with Xtend’s remote operation platform, XOS, the companies say they can create a new generation of human-operated drones, robots and smart vehicles.

Potential applications of the companies’ combined technologies include industrial inspection, security and search-and-rescue missions, providing remote-operated devices that keep human workers outside of unsafe areas.

 “Our acquisition of Performance Rotors marks the latest step in furthering Xtend’s vision of making remote interactive operations accessible to everyone,” said Aviv Shapira, Xtend’s CEO. 

“Inspection is just one area, among many, where machines, robots and drones can be used to accomplish what people can’t, in a more economical, efficient and safer manner.” 

According to Xtend, its remote operating systems are designed to be used in complex environments with minimal training, allowing a wider scope of workers to use its services.

“Performance Rotors’ mission has always been to develop drones and robotics solutions for data acquisition in GPS-denied and confined space environments, without the risk to human lives,” said Keith Ng, Performance Rotors CEO. “Our client base spans…major oil and gas, maritime and infrastructure projects.

Xtend has a particular focus on projects in APAC and Japan, though the team has a long-term goal of expanding its standing globally.

Xtend has also recently received several contracts from the U.S. Department of Defense and the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s Research & Development Directorate to modernize their use of drone technology. In both cases, XOS is being deployed to give military drone operators increased remote control capabilities, allowing them to control several smart devices at one time.