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Setting a New Altitude World Record with Panasonic TOUGHBOOK
When British adventurers, The Turner Twins, set out to achieve a world altitude record for a tandem electric paramotor flight, they utilised Panasonic TOUGHBOOK rugged devices to plan, execute, and document their journey in the unforgiving French Alps.
written by: Rachael Pugh, European Partner Marketing and Enablement, Panasonic TOUGHBOOK
Breaking new ground with sustainable aviation
Whether it’s crossing the Atlantic, scaling Mount Elbrus, or driving 10,000 miles from the UK to China in an electric sportscar, Hugo and Ross Turner are always looking to push the boundaries of exploration, whilst using innovative and sustainable technologies.
In October 2024, The Turner Twins set out to make history with a new goal: setting an altitude world record for a tandem electric paramotor. Unlike previous records set using petrol-powered paramotors, this was about proving the capabilities of zero-emission aviation.
Rugged reliability in extreme conditions
Achieving such a feat required meticulous planning and execution. With extreme altitudes, temperatures, and winds to consider, The Turner Twins needed rugged, reliable devices that could withstand harsh environments, whilst performing seamlessly when required.
Throughout their journey, from initial test flights in the UK to the final record attempt in Val d’Isère, the Turner Twins relied on the Panasonic TOUGHBOOK 40 rugged notebook and TOUGHBOOK G2 rugged 2-in-1 tablet.
These devices played a pivotal role in flight planning, including real-time weather analysis and 3D geographic modelling, allowing Hugo and Ross to optimise their take-off time and location. The devices were equipped with microSD card slots and hot-swappable batteries for continuous operation, whilst the IP66-rated rugged design and form factor of the TOUGHBOOK devices gave Hugo and Ross complete peace-of-mind that they would withstand the rigours of the project.
A record-setting moment
After rigorous preparation and multiple test flights, the record attempt took place on 30th October 2024. Hugo and Ross launched their tandem electric paramotor from an altitude of 1,917 metres (6,289 ft), with navigating challenging air currents and managing battery performance – as the required propulsion and temperatures were adjusted – a constant challenge throughout their 35-minute flight.
They eventually reached a total altitude of 2,613 metres (8,572 ft), a new world record for a tandem electric paramotor. Upon landing safely, the team immediately transferred flight data and documentation, including GPS coordinates and video footage, to their TOUGHBOOK devices. This was crucial in verifying the record with the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the global world air sports federation.
Beyond performance, key design features of the TOUGHBOOK devices increased usability throughout the entire project. For example, a glove-friendly touchscreen was essential for working in cold temperatures, whilst adjustable red backlighting provided optimal visibility without glare – crucial for looking at data in varying lighting conditions.
Hugo and Ross’ team also took advantage of the G2’s 2-in-1 detachable design, enabling them to take all data, stored in the cloud, wherever they needed to go.
Pushing the limits with TOUGHBOOK
TOUGHBOOK devices are designed and engineered to perform in the toughest environments. Whether it’s in the Alps, a busy warehouse or manufacturing plant, or on the road with field service teams, they enable users to seamlessly and unobtrusively achieve their goals. The Turner Twins have proved invaluable in pushing the envelope in sustainable, emission-free aviation.
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