New Zealand's Hidden Aerospace Gem
In the dynamic field of aerospace, New Zealand is home to a constellation of groundbreaking companies, among them is SPS Automation. As an associate business of Aerospace New Zealand, SPS Automation exemplifies the spirit of innovation and expertise, yet it remains one of the industry’s best-kept secrets. This hidden gem, with its significant contributions and pioneering projects, is poised to redefine industry standards and expectations.
Founded nearly five years ago, SPS Automation has dedicated itself to pushing the boundaries of aerospace technology. The company provides comprehensive end-to-end services, from proof of concept to the commercialisation of new products, serving as an invaluable resource for startups and established enterprises alike.
Innovative Solutions and Projects
At its core, SPS Automation is driven by innovation, particularly in the realm of drone technology. The company is instrumental in developing drones that not only surpass current performance standards but are also at the forefront of the next generation of unmanned aerial vehicles, with models in development capable of carrying loads from 60 kg to 200 kg, destined to replace conventional helicopters in a range of scenarios such as crop management and emergency response.
Moreover, SPS Automation is pioneering advancements in human-automation collaboration. They develop technologies that enhance safety by enabling machines to operate in busy or hazardous environments, thereby reducing the need for human exposure to danger. This focus on safety is complemented by their groundbreaking work in teleoperations, which will soon allow for the remote management of drone systems from their Christchurch base—a testament to their sophisticated control over complex operations.
Leadership and Vision
Under the leadership of CEO Scott Spooner, SPS Automation embodies a culture of Kiwi ingenuity. From his early days in aerospace, Scott has been at the forefront of modern drone technology. Scott told us "I've been flying radio control aircraft my entire life, and have been involved with designing and building multi-rotors since their early conception. As a home brew inventor, I often would repurpose parts from other electronics such as Nintendo controllers for use in early flight control systems."
Originally an industrial electrician, Scott's deep understanding of manufacturing machinery sparked a realisation: these systems had room for significant improvement and automation. This led him to earn an Engineering degree in Mechatronics from the University of Canterbury. Equipped with this expertise, Scott began designing systems from scratch, concentrating on automation and leveraging aerospace technology to solve big problems.
Scott still champions personal projects among his team, encouraging them to expand their skills and push technological boundaries. This philosophy not only drives SPS Automation’s success but also fosters a work environment where creativity and technical excellence are paramount.
Looking Ahead
As SPS Automation continues to grow and seek out new projects, their goal is not just to be recognized as a leader in New Zealand’s aerospace industry but to be a pivotal part of its sustainable future. With their significant contributions to drone technology and their ongoing projects like teleoperated drones and heavy lift drones, SPS Automation is poised to step out from the shadows and make a substantial impact in Aotearoa’s aerospace scene.
