RIBE

RIBE is a leading provider of engineering and manufacturing services that enhance UAV (unmanned aerial vehicles) platforms and ground infrastructure with system-level improvements in functionality, weight, aerodynamics, thermal management, environmental protection and more.

Based in Germany and with over 110 years of experience in developing high-precision components and lightweight structures, we support our clients through the full project lifecycle, from initial concept through to series production and ongoing service.

Pushing UAV designs to the limit

We help UAV and UAS OEMs optimize their platforms by making them lighter, cooler, more robust and easier to assemble. Thanks to our deep pedigree in material science and manufacturing, we can redesign structural and functional components, reduce part counts, and apply robust coatings and surface treatments for resistance against the harshest environmental conditions.

Our unique co-engineering approach links mechanical design, thermal management and assembly concepts into a single workflow. We analyze weight and aerodynamic losses, hotspots in batteries and electronics, environmental stressors, and assembly bottlenecks, and deliver integrated solutions that holistically improve the entire platform.

Backed by a comprehensive partner network, we can also utilize additional technologies, disciplines and application domains, allowing us to create cutting-edge solutions to virtually any challenge. Pain points we can solve include:

• High power consumption & poor flight times and payload capacities due to excess weight and suboptimal aerodynamics
• Long assembly times, quality issues, and poor modularity due to large numbers of components
• Performance limitations and safety risks caused by overheated batteries and electronics & thermal stress
• Environmental damage caused by moisture, corrosion, weather, dust & sand, UV radiation & more

Our Workflow

1. Initial Contact – We arrange a meeting to get to know our customers, discuss concerns and challenges, and examine whether RIBE can offer possible solutions.
2. System Analysis & Requirements Definition – We begin with a structured technical analysis to thoroughly understand the target UAV platform, mission profiles, and constraints. Together with the customer’s engineering team, we analyze pain points and define clear optimization targets.
3. Concept Phase – Based on the above, we get to work on developing solutions while thinking outside of the box. After considering benefits and added value for each potential approach, a joint decision is made on which solution to pursue, test and validate.
4. Evaluation, Testing & Prototyping – We evaluate concepts with cutting-edge methods, manufacturing prototypes both in-house and through our carefully-selected partners. Complete findings are presented to the customer.
5. Production & Continuous Improvement – Once the final design is locked in, RIBE can scale up to production with automotive-grade processes and quality standards. We also support engineering changes and platform upgrades over the product lifecycle. Modular designs and standardized sub-assemblies make it easier to adapt to new payloads, use cases or UAV generations.
6. Servicing & Maintenance – We can also define full service and maintenance programs, including replacement of worn parts and emergency standby procedures, in order to maximize operational readiness.

Case Study – Weight & Thermal Optimization

RIBE was selected by a leading European UAV manufacturer to optimize a professional drone platform used for critical communication and inspection tasks. The requirements included a significant reduction in weight, improved thermal performance of batteries and electronics, smart connection and module concepts for more efficient assembly processes, and technical optimization of the UAS’ docking station.

We redesigned several assemblies, achieving a weight reduction of approximately 30% for the most important of these. This created additional payload reserves and longer endurance, while maintaining structural integrity. At the same time, we developed compact and thermally optimized concepts for electronic modules, and applied rugged coating and protection for reliable outdoor operation.

The system’s existing docking station was enhanced with further functionality, and upgraded to meet high industrial standards and to make individual assemblies easier to maintain. Interlocking optimizations between the drone and station were also undertaken.