OpenWorks Engineering, a Northumberland-based product development company, has developed the SkyWall100 allowing drones to be physically captured in mid-flight. The system allows the drone to be kept intact without the risk of damage to the drone or the surrounding area. This immediately eliminates the drone threat and its contents can then be analysed and used to as evidence in a prosecution.
The SkyWall100 is a man portable, reusable drone defence system using compressed air to launch a projectile containing a net and optional parachute to capture a drone. At the heart of the system is the easy-to-use SmartScope allowing engagement of static and moving targets using predictive algorithms. When a target is acquired the SmartScope adjusts its bearings to force the operator to redirect their aim to compensate for gravity and drone movement.
Because of their low maintenance and low weight compared to conventional metal roller bearings, igus’ 
iglidur J plain bearings were selected for the pivots in the SmartScope. The iglidur J plain bearings are designed for low coefficients of friction while running dry and their low stick-slip tendency. They are suitable for use with low pressure loads and can operate at high speeds.
To load the projectile, a rear facing breach cap is opened by a 20-degrees rotation. When locked it must seal tightly (using a face O ring) against the air pressure during launch. Again, a solution from igus was used: iglidur tribo-tape A 160 is lubricant and maintenance free and is ideal for use when the allowable space is very small. It offers a low coefficient of friction and is wear-resistant and easy to apply.
