Innovative entertainment lighting company AO Technology is taking drone technology to the next level with advanced software that facilitates the display of bespoke, spectacularly choreographed, volumetric images in the sky.

The company’s new division, AO Drones, has developed the complex software which programmes drones to swarm in synchronised patterns, beaming marketing messaging or brand logos above almost any event. Its mission is to enhance all types and sizes of event and provide a marketing toolkit for event organisers who are keen to add a wow-factor and create brand or product awareness.

AO Drones currently serves the Middle East region from its UAE hub and in Europe from Germany. However, with partnerships in America, Asia and Africa, the business is able to deliver shows worldwide. 

“The fact that drones can move freely in three-dimensional space can add another layer of value and meaning to any event – the marketing possibilities are endless,” says AO producer, Marco Niedermeier. “In addition, a drone’s ability to carry payloads including video tiles, lighting and mirrors can bestow a rich storytelling layer to both artistic and corporate endeavours. It’s a very exciting time.”

AO Drones offers clients full-service 3D pre-visualisation using 3D design software and 3D video rendering, plus a global network of trained pilots, creatives and technicians who can work with clients to deliver mind-blowing visual designs in the sky.

Drones can be deployed individually or in small or large groups. Indeed, large numbers of drones can create stunning swarming effects and deliver vibrant volumetric patterns, which in turn can interact and respond to other elements of a production such as audio, lighting and video.

Each drone unit features high-brightness LED surfaces, offering stunning visual impact and a plethora of colours, resulting in visually captivating shows that can now be enjoyed by audiences over much longer distances. 

“Our mission is to craft the very best drone entertainment experiences in the world. Harnessing ever evolving technology, AO Drones can offer flight times of up to 20 minutes, considerably more than other models in the marketplace. Our system can also achieve pinpoint accuracy of formations with up to 1cm tolerance at high speeds. AO Drones is also continuing to work with developers to ensure that the system is robust in wet weather,” states Niedermeier.

The company says the relatively low weight of each unit makes it possible to transport multiple drones in cargo easily and affordably. 

In light of recent issues of drones near airports, AO Drones feature real-time monitoring during operation as standard. Its mission control software allows for the creation of geo-fenced boundaries ensuring drones remain in pre-determined operating territories throughout their flight. The company also offers comprehensive training for drone ‘pilots’. “We believe AO Drones’ new technology heralds the start of an event design revolution,” concludes Niedermeier. “This shift will be similar to how moving lights transformed the show design industry three decades ago. Today we can go higher, faster and brighter than ever before and we can do it so much more efficiently. This is a brand new dimension in creative visual design.”

Kevin and Marco Niedermeier
Adam Parry
Author: Adam Parry

Adam is the co-founder and editor of www.eventindustrynews.com Adam, a technology evangelist also organises Event Tech Live, Europe’s only show dedicated to event technology and the Event Technology Awards. Both events take place in November, London.