Engineering Change: How Flash Forest’s Engineering Department is Accelerating the Future of Reforestation
Innovation is key to tackling the global need for accelerated reforestation, and our team is dedicated to developing solutions that make a real impact. In this interview, Engineering Lead Badriveer Thota talks about the innovative technology behind our drone deployment systems. You will learn about the technology and software behind the systems and the challenges and triumphs of environmental engineering.
Can you describe your role and responsibilities as a member of the engineering team at Flash Forest?
My role at Flash Forest encompasses project management to ensure our team aligns with milestones, KPIs and budgets set by our leadership team. My engineering tasks involve CAD design, PCB design, software programming, fabrication, and testing, all essential for developing our innovative seed pod deployer system. Additionally, I serve as a field operator during our tree planting seasons.
What motivated you to work in the field of environmental engineering and specifically with Flash Forest?
The significant advancements in technology and sustainability over the past few years have been incredibly inspiring. Flash Forest offered me the perfect opportunity to leverage my engineering background to make a tangible impact in
What is a typical day like for you as an engineer at Flash Forest?
As an engineer at Flash Forest, my typical day varies with the seasons. During non-operational seasons, my day starts with brainstorming sessions to optimize our drone deployment systems, followed by designing and building prototypes. Next comes the manufacturing season, where we assemble and conduct flight tests on our seed pod deployers in preparation for planting operations. Finally, during the planting season, I serve as a field operator, working on-site with software or directly with the drone and deployer systems to ensure successful tree planting missions.
What are the key projects you’re currently working on?
Seed Pod Deployer System: Developing and optimizing the system that contains and dispenses pods during flight to ensure adequate embedding into the soil.
Pod Pulse: Creating a dashboard software to collect and analyze various operational aspects in real-time, such as flight times, seeding rates, and inventory.
Control Systems: Designing PCBs and developing firmware for the onboard electronics that power our deployment systems.
These projects are crucial to advancing our mission of efficient and effective reforestation.
Can you explain the technology behind the drones used by Flash Forest?
Designing new technology for large-scale reforestation starts with thorough market research and an in-depth study of robotics. It's essential to understand current technologies, identify gaps, and leverage advancements in the field. The key is to strike the right balance between utilizing existing technology and designing new systems that are scalable and fit within budget constraints. Scalability, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability to diverse environments are the most critical factors to consider.
What advice would you give to someone looking to enter the field of environmental engineering?
Solving environmental challenges requires a deep understanding of the challenge itself. While there are numerous environmental challenges and sustainability goals being tackled by various organizations, it’s crucial to define the scope and objectives of your solutions clearly. Additionally, setting success criteria and continuously monitoring the impact of your engineering solutions are essential for making a meaningful impact.
What happens if a drone has a defect during field ops?
If a drone has a defect during field operations, we have an engineer or technician on standby to address the issue immediately. Additionally, we keep a sufficient inventory of spare parts to minimize any disruption to operations.
What’s your favourite tree species?
Jack pine is a great choice! Its relatively fast growth rate indeed makes it ideal for effective post-plant monitoring.
Stay tuned as we highlight some amazing updates from each of our departments over the next few weeks!
