Tag: autonomous vehicles

American Aerospace granted FAA waiver for BVLOS operation

Photo: American Aerospace Technologies (AATI)

American Aerospace, an Iridium partner, has received a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to conduct UAV surveillance of critical infrastructure in California’s San Joaquin Valley for Chevron, an oil and gas company.

Enabled by Iridium’s global L-Band satellite connectivity, AATI’s AiRanger UAV will conduct remote aerial surveillance of the energy company’s pipeline and production facilities. Iridium’s network offers beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) connectivity, including remote command and control (C2) and detect and avoid (DAA) capabilities. The UAV will send information via Iridium satellites to conduct routine inspections.

Iridium partner Blue Sky Network customized and integrated its SkyLink 7100 voice, data and BVLOS terminal on the UAVs. The SkyLink 7100 offers continuous tracking and C2 capabilities for aviation and UAV operations.

The AiRanger is the first UAV to comply with industry standards for the DAA system and meet FAA BVLOS operation requirements. This achievement aims to pave the way for broader use of BVLOS UAVs to enhance situational awareness, reduce inspection costs and maximize value.

May 28, 2024
US Navy establishes USV squadron

Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Vice Adm. Brendan McLane is rung in upon his arrival to the establishment ceremony for Unmanned Surface Vessel Squadron 3 (USVRON 3) on Naval Amphibious Base Coronado May 17, 2024. The squadron is comprised of unmanned Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Crafts (GARCs). The 16-foot GARCs built by Maritime Applied Physics Corporation enable research, testing, and operations that will allow integration throughout the surface, expeditionary, and joint maritime forces. (Photo: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Claire M. DuBois)

The U.S. Navy has created Unmanned Surface Vessel Squadron (USVRON) Three at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. The squadron, equipped with Global Autonomous Reconnaissance Crafts (GARCs), aims to enhance the Navy’s capabilities by integrating unmanned systems into surface and joint maritime operations.

GARCs, developed by the Maritime Applied Physics Corporation, facilitate research, testing and operations for seamless integration across surface, expeditionary and joint maritime forces. These crafts will be used for various missions, including operations with carrier strike groups and surface action groups. Additionally, the squadron will introduce a new robotics warfare specialist rating to oversee and operate these systems.

The mission of USVRON Three is to provide the most powerful unmanned platforms in the maritime domain. The squadron will play a key role in establishing the knowledge needed to operate and maintain sUSV. It will develop tactics, techniques and procedures for small unmanned surface vessel (sUSV) operations and sustainment. USVRON Three’s motto is “Victory Through Ferocity.”

May 27, 2024
Innovation Insights: GNSS jamming and spoofing

Click to read the full Innovation article, “Recent GPS jamming in regions of geospatial conflict.”

Innovation Insights with Richard Langley

“Hey, let’s be careful out there.”

Some of us will remember that was how Sgt. Phil Esterhaus ended the morning roll call on the classic TV show “Hill Street Blues.” Although this warning was directed at police officers in carrying out their sometimes dangerous duties, it is good advice to anyone relying on GPS or any of the global navigation satellite systems (GNSS). Why? Although GPS and the other systems work very well in many environments, there are situations where the surroundings, such as those in natural and urban canyons, can block and reflect signals degrading or even denying positioning and navigation capabilities. And that’s not all. Space weather can also occasionally affect GPS and the other systems, limiting their use.

On top of such environmental concerns, we must worry about accidental and intentional disruptions of GNSS by radio frequency interference (RFI). GNSS signals received on or near Earth’s surface are fairly weak — much weaker than, say, cell phone signals — and so can be easily overpowered by nearby stronger radio signals. This is commonly referred to as jamming and there have been many instances of deliberate interference with GPS signal reception in North America and elsewhere. In fact, although its use by civilians is illegal, GPS jamming equipment is available that can stop a GPS-based tracking system from working.

On the other hand, GNSS signal jamming has become a common military tactic and its use is now widespread across the globe. While users might be aware that their navigation equipment is not working due to jamming, there is also the more insidious technique of spoofing, in which false GPS-like signals attempt to trick a receiver into using them rather than the true signals, resulting in an erroneous position report perhaps hundreds of kilometers away from the receiver’s true position.

While the use of GNSS jamming and spoofing can be detected on the ground and by aircraft overflying locations where the activity is taking place, these signals can be more comprehensively studied from space using satellites carrying receivers with appropriate spectrum coverage. In this quarter’s “Innovation” column, a researcher with NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center reports on studies of GPS signal interference he has conducted using observations from a constellation of low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites that use onboard GNSS receivers to provide data for use in operational meteorology and the study of space weather and climate. However, the receivers also intercept jamming and spoofing signals as the satellites pass over conflict zones multiple times per day. It is in these zones and surrounding areas that all users relying on GNSS must be extra careful out there.

May 24, 2024
NYPD to use UAVs for 911 calls

Photo: aerogondo / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

The NYPD will soon improve its crime-fighting efforts with the Drone as First Responder (DFR) pilot program. Announced by New York Police Department (NYPD) Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry, the program will deploy UAVs in response to specific 911 calls for serious crimes in progress, such as shootings, robberies, and missing persons.

UAVs will launch from five precincts: the 48th Precinct in the Bronx, the 67th, 71st and 75th Precincts in Brooklyn, and Central Park, New York. The UAVs will provide real-time video and telemetry to officers to enhance situational awareness and safety.

“The information provided by DFR will be shared with responding officers. It will enhance officers’ situational awareness as they arrive on scene, promote officer safety, and help us deploy resources more effectively,” Daughtry said.

The NYPD uses 85 UAVs for various tasks, including monitoring major events and inspecting structural stability after accidents. Despite a 400% increase in UAV use last year, Daughtry emphasized they cannot be used for “warrantless surveillance” or “traffic enforcement.”

According to the NYPD, these UAVs will be deployed in response to 911 calls for service within the next few months. The program will start with four precincts in Brooklyn and the Bronx, chosen “based on recent crime trends.”

May 22, 2024
Swift Navigation, SK Telecom collaborate for location-based technologies in Korea

Photo: Swift Navigation

Swift Navigation has partnered with SK Telecom (SKT) to accelerate the deployment of AI-driven location-based products in South Korea.

Under the collaboration, SK Telecom and Swift Navigation are jointly operating a carrier-grade network to deliver Swift’s Skylark precise positioning service across South Korea, enhancing GNSS accuracy from meters to centimeters.

Skylark, a cloud-based solution, is designed to improve the accuracy of standard GNSS positioning, reducing it from meters to centimeters. This service plays a role in more than 8 million autonomous vehicles and devices, including ADAS-enabled cars, UAVs, vehicle tracking systems and robotic equipment.

Skylark is being used in more than 8 million autonomous and connected devices and will be introduced to SK Telecom’s customer base, including the Korea Forest Service. The partnership aims to improve positioning accuracy for various mobility platforms and is backed by stringent safety and cybersecurity standards.

May 21, 2024
Unmanned systems updates

Have you been to the gas station this week?

The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel, along with the unrest in various universities across the United States in support of Gaza Palestinians, and the continued aggression by the Houthi rebels in Yemen against shipping, are impacting several aspects of our lives, including the rising cost of gasoline.

Since the United States began seeking out Houthi strongholds, it is now being reported that another MQ-9 Reaper drone has been shot down – making an apparent total of five such expensive U.S. UAVs lost over and around Yemen, according to US military reports.

Screenshot of a Houthi-released video of the downing of the MQ-9 Reaper drone (Photo: UAS Vision)

At $30 million each, compared to about $2 million for a surface-to-air missile, the Houthis are apparently ahead on cost. With a 50,000 ft ceiling, the Reaper is capable of avoiding short-range surface-to-air missiles. However, more visual or infra-red (IR) low-level detail may have been sought on this mission. In response, the U.S. military reported the downing of five Houthi UAVs over the Red Sea.

According to a Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) report, Iran is supplying the Houthis with attack UAVs and longer-range missiles, which are often, if not always, re-assembled, repainted and re-named locally. The DIA said that one of the favorite Kamikaze UAVs used is the Iranian Shahed-136/Houthi Waid-2, which is reported to have a range of almost 1,600 miles. Neither side has yet acknowledged which drones were brought down by the United States.

Shahed-136 (Photo: bbsferrari / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images)

However, around the same time, it was reported that perhaps two Houthi missiles hit the MV Andromeda Star oil tanker with reportedly little damage — no casualties were reported on the ship as it continued towards its destination Vadinar, India. Another ship, the MV Maisha, avoided a third missile. The missile landed nearby in the water, but the vessel put some distance between itself and the MV Andromeda, continuing safely.
The US/UK forces operating in the Red Sea have countered the more than 100 Houthi attacks on shipping with several airborne strikes on Houthi facilities. This renewed Houthi action over the weekend is thought to have been possible because they were restocked with weapons following the US/UK airstrikes, which slowed their attacks on shipping.

Hence the renewed threat to oil tanker traffic in the Red Sea has raised the already high threat level, and increased oil and gas prices at the pump are one of the consequences.

Meanwhile, Pakistan has bought 10 additional Chinese Caihong-4, which reportedly look and perform very similarly to the MQ-9 Reaper.

Caihong-4 looks very similar to the General Atomics MQ-9 Reaper
(Photo: OE Data Integration Network (ODIN))

The CH-4 can be used for both attack and reconnaissance. It features a flight endurance of 30 to 40 hours, a range of 2,200 to 3,100 miles and can carry up to six weapons.

This brings Pakistan’s complement to 20 CH-4 UAVs. The new purchase may be to offset India’s purchase of 31 General Atomics MQ-9s, which is included in a huge, recently approved $3.99 billion weapons purchase from the United States. The two countries continue to feud over the contested Kashmir region.

AeroVironment (AV) has developed an add-on for fielded Puma class hand-launched reconnaissance UAVs, which brings autonomy and machine-learning to a worldwide, mostly military fleet of thousands of air vehicles. Referred to as the Autonomy Retrofit Kit (ARK), with AVACORE software, the new update allows operators to command and control one or more vehicles autonomously. This provides computer vision capabilities and enables connection to a distributed, mobile comms network to access data for several separated operating groups.

ARK retrofit kit for Puma 3AE and LE UAVs (Photo: AV)

According to AV, autonomous operating tasking is possible when communications are jammed and the UAV is then still able to execute its mission without manual input. Updated computer vision allows finding, classifying, positioning and daylight or nighttime tracking of objects such as people, vehicles, aircraft and ships. AVACORE includes several software interfaces for different autopilots, sensors and radios to provide integration flexibility.

A neat way to provide significantly enhanced capability for already fielded airborne vehicles when they have some downtime.

Finally, we have a short introduction to a new transport UAV being put together by a California company called MightyFly. The company is led by a woman who was highly instrumental in the success of the flight controls for the Zipline UAV, which is still blazing drone delivery trails overseas and now in North America — with more than one million deliveries. With advisory input from a retired FedEx exec, the team at MightyFly seems well on their way with both a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved Part 135 application and a 20 mile ‘point-to-point’ flight corridor approval for test flights.

Cento gen 3 cargo drone (Photo: MightyFly)

The MF-100 prototype made its first flight and demonstration delivery in April 2021, while the third-generation Cento flew for the first time in December 2022. Cento has a 6’ x 1’ x 1’ cargo hold that can accommodate 96 small USPS packages, weighing up to 100lb and Cento and later models are expected to have a range of 600 miles at up to 150 mph. While their UAVs are currently all-electric, the plan is to add a gas/rotary engine to charge batteries to achieve this forecast range for the drone.

MightyFly has significant support from the U.S. Air Force Agility Prime program and the Air Mobility Command, who continue to invest in autonomous cargo developments as an alternative to leasing helicopters to transport parts, medical supplies and more. MightyFly came up with an auto-loading capability, which resolves the issue of a potentially changing weight and balance of a last-mile cargo drone.

May 15, 2024
NOAA, Verizon Frontline enhance storm damage assessment

Photo: Verizon

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has entered into a three-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with Verizon Frontline to refine the use of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) for assessing storm damage. This initiative aims to provide rapid and accurate damage assessments following severe weather events such as tornadoes and hurricanes.

Verizon Frontline will deploy its UAV technology to capture high-resolution imagery of areas affected by storms, providing crucial data to NOAA’s National Weather Service (NWS) and the National Severe Storms Laboratory. This imagery will assist in post-storm damage assessments and contribute to research aimed at understanding tornado behavior and improving severe weather warnings.

“Following a crisis, the initial imagery available is often from satellites, which may not offer the best resolution. Our goal with NOAA is to provide high-resolution imagery much faster, enhancing the support to emergency management and public safety agencies,” said Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team member, Chris Sanders.

The collaboration represents a step forward in integrating modern technology into traditional environmental and emergency management practices, aiming to improve outcomes after natural disasters.

May 14, 2024
Edge Autonomy upgrades UAS

Photo: VXE30 VTOL UAS

Edge Autonomy has released significant upgrades to its VXE30 Stalker unmanned aerial system (UAS) through the new “Havoc” configuration, designed to double the system’s flight endurance and payload capacity.

With the Havoc upgrades, the VXE30 can now support the complex demands of both small tactical units and larger brigade-level operations without the need for extensive reconfiguration. The upgrades are designed to make the UAS more versatile across various military applications.

The VXE30 Stalker UAS has silent, vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities and is payload agnostic with the Havoc configuration. It supports easy integration of third-party payloads and subsystems through a Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA), requiring no additional training for current operators.

May 14, 2024
Spirent launches PNT simulation system

Photo: Spirent Communications

Spirent has released PNT X, a positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) simulation system. The platform is designed to meet the escalating demands of testing complex PNT systems, which are crucial in autonomy, safety, efficiency and precision.

PNT X integrates a variety of signal sources including L-band, S-band and alternative navigation signals, along with Regional Military Protection (RMP) support. The system allows for the concurrent operation of multiple signals from different sources, which enhances the flexibility and efficiency of PNT testing.

It is tailored for future mission-critical systems including patented I/Q spatial awareness capability, an upgraded interface for controlled reception pattern antenna (CRPA) testing — the highest available continuous dynamic range for assessing jamming impacts — and a standard update rate of 2 kHz suitable for hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations and high-dynamics vehicle testing.

May 4, 2024
Shift5 launches GPS integrity module

Shift5 — an onboard operational data company — has released the Shift5 GPS integrity module, a platform-agnostic solution for military, aviation, rail, maritime and space applications.

With real-time access and analysis of onboard data, the module assesses changes in navigational position through multi-faceted anomaly detection methods, which alert operators to GPS spoofing attacks as they happen.

Using data collected from onboard systems, the module uses algorithmic position analysis to identify significant position deviations and GPS data validation to verify GPS information accuracy. Discrepancies or deviations that indicate tampering trigger an immediate notification, allowing operators to initiate standard operating procedures (SOPs) rapidly and accurately.

The Shift5 GPS Integrity Module is designed for cross-platform deployment, across commercial and military planes, locomotives, vessels and aircraft, as well as on other critical systems such as radar, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and weapon guidance systems. It seamlessly integrates with existing platforms and can deploy directly to onboard hardware.

GPS spoofing poses significant threats to national defense and commercial transportation systems, from navigational errors to compromised operational safety — especially in contested or congested environments.

“We are in an era of electronic warfare, defined by the use of hybrid threats on the battlefield,” said Egon Rinderer, CTO, Shift5. “The use of cyber-physical weaponry isn’t restricted to one particular theater of conflict and isn’t aimed toward military targets alone…The answer to how we combat these types of GPS attacks comes down to data. Observability into onboard data quantifies the risk posed by GPS spoofing.”

This technology offers multi-faceted detection and alerts for GPS spoofing attempts, designed to improve the safety and reliability of navigation systems. It uses physics-based spoofing detection to determine if changes in position are physically possible to provide an effective method for initial spoofing detection. The system analyzes data from all sources to detect subtle, sophisticated spoofing attempts, which is essential for identifying more complex spoofing strategies that may evade traditional detection spoofing techniques.

Shift5 alerts can be integrated into existing SOPs to help preempt contamination of other positioning and navigation data, such as inertial navigation calibration against false GPS data. Metadata about the time, location, duration and estimated position of the attack can be passed for inclusion in threat mapping and other geospatial systems for future route avoidance.

May 1, 2024
RapidFlight launches Mobile Production System

Photo: RapidFlight

RapidFlight has released its Mobile Production System (MPS), designed for the manufacturing and deployment of UAVs from forward locations.

MPS can be owned and operated by RapidFlight or used by the US Department of Defense (DOD), its allies and defense contractors as an effective way to mass manufacture UAVs across the globe.

A single MPS can produce 28 Group 3 aircraft per month — or much higher quantities for Group 2 and/or Group 1. Each MPS unit can be operated independently or in coordination with other MPS units by two trained technicians.

For example, according to RapidFlight, 2,500 or more Group 3 UAVs of the same or varying designs can be manufactured in a year by deploying as few as eight MPS units. MPS are easily transported by traditional ground, sea or air vehicles.

MPS uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components for ease of global deployment and compliance with DOD requirements. They are powered via any 110v to 240v AC power source and are designed to function in the same environments in which the warfighter is deployed. MPS can handle wet, dry, hot, cold, clean, and dirty environments with operational limits currently set from -20º F to 130º F and high humidity.

RapidFlight engineers have optimized the hardware and software technology stack specifically for MPS capabilities to give users the flexibility to quickly deploy new designs or iteratively add additional aircraft capability for constantly evolving needs.

Additional benefits include a small logistical and operational footprint, a more resilient supply chain and minimized inventory. With multiple MPS units deployed in strategic locations, users can quickly create a distributed and resilient network of UAS production and support even in remote areas and harsh environments.

April 30, 2024
Launchpad: Rotating lasers, antennas and upgraded UAVs

A roundup of recent products in the GNSS and inertial positioning industry from the April 2024 issue of GPS World magazine.

SURVEYING & MAPPING

Rotating Laser
Built for challenging worksites

The Zone40 T one-button rotating laser is designed for all types of grading and leveling jobs. It seeks to address the industry’s need for efficient and accurate alignment solutions.
Its one-touch operation is designed to simplify and increase efficient workflows in a variety of jobs such as grading, paving, excavating, surveying, layout and more. It is ideal for contractors, crew chiefs, supervisors and trade professionals.

GeoMax products are tested and proven to endure the toughest conditions. With an IP67 environmental rating, the Zone40 T accurately delivers in dust, water, wind and extreme temperatures.
GeoMax Positioning, geomax-positioning.com

Hydrographic Surveying Solution
With advanced inertial sensors

The Seapath 385 navigation system is designed to enhance precision in hydrographic surveying by using advanced navigation algorithms and integrating a range of satellite signals, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS, alongside geostationary satellite signals. The Seapath 385 system combines raw inertial sensor data from Kongsberg Discovery’s high-performance motion gyro compass (MGC) or motion reference unit (MRU) with GNSS data and corrections from real-time kinematics (RTK), precise-point positioning (PPP) or Differential Global Navigation Satellite System (DGNSS). The integration offers a robust and accurate navigation solution ideal for hydrographic surveying.

The system’s dead reckoning capabilities are attributed to its advanced inertial sensors and updated navigation algorithms. It uses GNSS antennas for both positioning and heading determination designed to add an extra layer of robustness to the system. The Seapath 385 also introduces a new post-processing format that consolidates all necessary data and system configurations into a single file, which allows for centimeter-level position accuracy through either satellite orbit and clock data or data logged from base stations.

Designed for ease of installation and continuous, reliable operation, the Seapath 385 is a modular system with a processing unit that handles all critical computations independently of the user interface on the HMI Unit. This feature offers precise measurements with a data rate of up to 200 Hz at multiple monitoring points, which makes it an ideal solution for accommodating sensors or systems that depend on motion or position data throughout the vessel.
Kongsberg Discovery, Kongsberg.com

Marine-Grade Sensor
Compatible with USVs

The Optech CL-360 Marine is a 360° long-range laser scanner. It combines a scan speed of 250 lines per second with 2 mm range resolution, a plug-and-play solution and an IP67 marine-grade sensor.The system can be seamlessly integrated with multibeam systems and the CARIS Ping-To-Chart workflow, which allows for full above-and-below-water image capture with survey-grade accuracy in a single workflow.It is ideal for mapping coastal infrastructure and is designed to be used on an uncrewed surface vessel (USV) that provides survey grade range and accuracy.
Teledyne Geospatial, teledyneimaging.com

GNSS Receiver
Designed for centimeter-level and RTK accuracy

The HiPer CR is a compact and lightweight GNSS receiver designed for centimeter-level and RTK accuracy for professionals in a wide range of applications in surveying, construction, engineering, forestry and mining. It joins a portfolio of fuller-featured receivers, including the HiPer HR and VR.

The HiPer CR tracks the GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou and QZSS constellations. It can be used in a variety of configurations, including as a network RTK rover, in base and rover setups and in integrated hybrid use with a robotic total station.

When used as a network rover with Topnet Live — the company’s global GNSS correction service — the HiPer CR will have access to high-quality data corrections to increase efficiency and productivity. Users also can select to use the receiver as part of a hybrid positioning system, which allows users to use a robotic total station for prism measurements. Users also can switch to GNSS measurement with the HiPer CR for obstructed areas such as warehouses, trailers, or buildings.
Topcon Positioning Systems, topconpositioning.com

Handheld SLAM laser scanner
For in the field and indoors

The RS10 is a handheld SLAM lidar laser scanner integrated with a full real-time kinematics (RTK) GNSS receiver.
Designed to improve efficiency across a wide range of mapping and surveying applications, the RS10 seeks to provide professionals with a versatile, all-in-one tool for capturing 3D geospatial data in both outdoor and indoor environments.

The RS10 integrates a GNSS smart antenna for RTK positioning accuracy even in challenging environments. It delivers 5 cm measurement accuracy by fusing high-precision lidar, RTK, laser and visual SLAM using three HD cameras.
The RS10 uses a powerful onboard processor for real-time georeferenced point cloud generation in the field. Users can receive instant feedback, which allows them to adjust while scanning. Large sites up to 13,000 square meters can be mapped in real time.

The integration of high-precision GNSS and SLAM technologies eliminates the need for traditional loop closure, which often complicates the data collection process for handheld scanners. Users can freely scan target areas without having to return to previous locations, which can streamline field data capture and significantly reduce time spent in the field.
CHC Navigation, chcnav.com

Airborne lidar sensor
With scan pattern reconfigurability

The Leica TerrainMapper-3 airborne lidar sensor features a new scan pattern reconfigurability to support a variety of applications and requirements in a single system.

The system offers three scan patterns, which allow users to customize the sensor’s performance to fit specific applications. Its circle scan patterns are designed to improve 3D modeling of urban areas or steep terrains. The ellipse scan patterns use data capture for more traditional mapping applications. Skew ellipse scan patterns are aimed at improving point density for infrastructures and corridor mapping applications.

The sensor has a high scan speed rate and a 60° adjustable field of view to maximize data collection with fewer flight lines. The TerrainMapper-3 is complemented by the Leica MFC150 4-band camera, which operates with the same 60° field of view coverage as the lidar for exact data consistency.

The device’s reduced beam divergence offers more accurate results, while its new multiple pulses in air (MPiA) handling is designed to deliver more consistent data acquisition, even in steep terrain.
The system introduces possibilities for real-time full waveform recording at a maximum pulse rate to open opportunities for advanced and automated point classification.
Leica Geosystems, leica-geosystems.com

Mobile Mapping Solution
Mounted on vehicles or trains

The Trimble MX90 mobile mapping system integrates advanced Trimble GNSS and inertial technology with Trimble field and office software. It offers users a comprehensive field-to-finish mobile mapping solution designed for robust workflows for data capture, processing and analysis.

The MX90, mounted on vehicles or trains, captures detailed laser scans and imagery —panoramic and multi-angle. This data, collected at highway speeds, undergoes rapid processing to produce deliverables for feature detection and inspections.

The mobile mapping system includes immersive 360° panoramic and targeted cameras to capture high-resolution imagery of various details, such as small or distant road and rail signs, telecommunications towers or cracks and holes in roads.

Additionally, it offers high-density colorized point clouds with rich and accurate color projections. These dense point clouds, along with high-resolution imagery — panoramic and planar — and accurate trajectories, provide the basis for a wide range of deliverables, including street scenes, road and rail asset details, elevation models, volume calculations, 3D city models and as-built surveys.

It features a high-end inertial measurement unit (IMU) combined with IN-Fusion+ data processing technology to achieve high-quality data in challenging GNSS environments. The MX90 also comes with reliable office software solutions to support multiple use cases and applications, such as road inspection workflows and integration into cloud-based applications for efficient data sharing.
Trimble Geospatial, geospatial.trimble.com

Collaborative Mapping Tool
With spatial analysis features

Felt 2.0 is a collaborative mapping tool with powerful data transformation tools. Now with spatial analysis features, users can manipulate and analyze geographic data. It has web-based collaboration features designed to make mapping workflows interactive and accessible across organizations.
The software uses artificial intelligence (AI) to deliver faster workflows for geographic information systems (GIS) professionals. Users can utilize Felt’s Upload Anything capabilities to visualize any file format. The system will read, understand and deliver an internet-fast visualization to the users’ workspace. The software is available for download on tablets and other mobile devices.
Felt, felt.com

Automatic Identification System
Available on Android, IOS, PC and Mac

The Over the Horizon (OHA) automatic identification system (AIS) is the newest update to the savvy navvy app. The update uses a phone’s internet connection to stream other vessels’ locations in real-time directly to the app to improve safety on the water.

Traditional AIS received from the transceiver on the boat has a range of a few miles, whereas OHA is designed to show vessels further afield. While OHA does require an internet connection, users do not need additional hardware to see information on vessel movements.

OHA AIS allows users to see vessels directly on the chart with small and large vessel crafts defined by different colors. Users can also check how crowded an anchorage might be — either from onboard or while planning routes at home.

The savvy navvy application highlights when no position has been received for more than 30 seconds, which marks the positional variance area around each vessel and allows users to be extra vigilant when navigating.
Available on Android, IOS, PC and Mac, the savvy navvy app can be used on multiple devices and is available in both free and “premium” options with enhanced access and functionalities.
savvy navvy, savvy-navvy.com

UAV

Real-Time Command and Control System
Supports BVLOS

VigilantHalo is a software-based platform designed for real-time command and control of uncrewed airspace. The system supports a wide range of missions from air traffic control (ATC) to beyond visual line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations and counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS).
VigilantHalo combines radar and multi-sensor surveillance technology into a comprehensive situational awareness solution. It is designed for disaster response and critical infrastructure defense and can be customized for specific mission requirements. The system’s flexibility allows deployment across cloud, mobile or fixed-site installations, which aims to address the evolving threats in national security and the National Airspace System (NAS).

The system features integrated data processing, a fusion tracker and a communications system that enables operators to monitor and manage air traffic under various conditions. It leverages weather analytics from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and other sources to assess flight paths and identify safety risks. VigilantHalo uses a custom sensor data processor (SDP) that integrates data from different sensors and surveillance feeds into a unified display tailored to specific missions such as ATC, BVLOS, air defense and more.
BlueHalo, bluehalo.com

Dynamic Channel Switching
Improves communication in the field

The Skydio X10D UAV features dynamic channel switching to monitor signal interference and move to a clearer channel. This aims to improve wireless transmission signal quality during flights to ensure troops maintain communication with the UAV to accomplish their mission.
Dynamic channel switching allows the X10D to provide adaptable communications between the drone and its accompanying controller in situations where the airspace is congested or under electronic warfare conditions. This feature ensures that reliable command and control is maintained and real-time data feeds are available even in challenging conditions.

The X10D is designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) applications critical to defense and government agencies. It delivers advanced sensor technology, autonomous navigation and a modular, open architecture for military needs.

Skydio’s onboard AI and autonomy for small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) offers obstacle avoidance in zero-light environments and autonomous flight. Skydio X10D delivers enhanced compliance with federal standards, including the Robotics and Autonomous Systems – Air (RAS-A) Interoperability Profile (IoP) and an open, modular platform that supports third-party applications. RAS-A compliance and open MAVLINK protocol enable the use of third-party and government-owned flight application software.
Skydio, skydio.com

Lidar Sensor
Integrates with UAVs

The JoLiDAR-1000 is a new lidar sensor for UAVs. It aims to improve applications in GIS, surveying, and precision inspections of power lines. The JoLiDAR-1000 incorporates advanced lidar technology to improve measurement accuracy for UAV applications.

The sensor features a 1,000 m medium-range laser scanner, using RTK and inertial measurement unit (IMU) fusion technology and laser scanning for enhanced measurement precision. It achieves a measurement accuracy of 5 mm, a repetition accuracy of 10 mm and a line scanning speed ranging from 10 lines to 300 lines per second. It has a 100° field of view and an angular resolution of 0.001 to precisely detect objects at extended distances.

Designed with compact dimensions and weighing only 1.9 kg, the JoLiDAR-1000 is portable and integrates seamlessly with various UAV platforms. It incorporates a suite of technologies, including a GNSS high-precision positioning system, IMU, high-speed data acquisition systems, time synchronization systems and a 26MP RGB camera to enhance its data collection capabilities.
The JoLiDAR-1000 streamlines operational processes by eliminating the need for base station setup and ground control points. It is equipped with high-precision POS solution computation and point cloud fusion capabilities. The sensor is suitable for a wide range of applications such as terrain mapping, power line inspection, mining surveying, coastline measurement, emergency mapping and natural resource surveying.
JOUAV, jouav.com

AI Autopilot
Designed for USVs

The Voyager AI Autopilot converts newly built or retrofitted unmanned surface vessels (USVs) into fully autonomous craft.
The Robosys Autopilot module seamlessly integrates with Robosys’ Voyager AI Survey as part of the Voyager AI software suite. It enables remote and autonomous heading and speed control as well as various other mission modes for navigation and vessel control, specifically for hydrographic and oceanic surveying operations.

The marine autopilot is designed to meet the demands of 3 m to 12 m electric drive surveys. It is easily scalable to full advanced autonomous navigation, which seamlessly integrates with third-party steering, drive and motor control systems to provide optimal vessel functionality for USVs and other craft.
Robosys Automation, robosysautomation.com

OEM

Satellite Positioning Chips
With AEC-Q100 Grade 2 reliability qualification

Designed for automotive applications, the AG3335MA satellite positioning chip series has earned AEC-Q100 Grade 2 reliability qualification. The AEC-Q100 is designed to ensure reliability and safety beyond the requirements for consumer electronics.
The AG3335MA series chips have been certified by a third-party quality management system equipped with an automotive specification laboratory. Achieving Grade 2 certification, these chips are tested for operation in extreme temperatures ranging from -40°C to 105°C, which caters to the demanding environments of automotive applications.
The AG3335MA features ultra-low power consumption, high endurance and dual-frequency capability. It supports the five major global satellite systems and NavIC to ensure reliable operation in a broad temperature range and challenging weather conditions. Its GNSS receiver measurement engine has a satellite tracking sensitivity of -167 dBm and a cold boot positioning time of 25 seconds. This allows it to receive and process signals from all visible satellites simultaneously, offering increased accuracy in positioning.
Airoha Technology, airoha.com

SOM-SMARC Modules
Powered by Qualcomm

The Smart Mobility Architecture (SMARC) System on Modules (SoMs) are based on Qualcomm QCS6490 and Qualcomm QCS5430 application processors. These new SMARC modules are the first results of SECO’s strategic collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies, announced in September 2023.
The SOM-SMARC-QCS6490 is designed to simplify the use of the Qualcomm QCS6490 processor. The chipset offers support for artificial intelligence (AI) and computing, robust performance at low power and expanded interfaces and peripherals catering to diverse industrial use cases.
The Qualcomm Adreno 643 GPU offers enhanced graphics performance and energy efficiency. It supports FHD+ at 120 fps resolution on primary and secondary displays up to 4k Ultra HD at 60 Hz. The SOM-SMARC-QCS6490 supports Microsoft Windows 11 IoT Enterprise, Yocto Linux and Android, with both commercial (0°C to +60°C) and industrial (-30°C to +85°C) temperature variants available.
The SOM-SMARC-QCS5430, powered by the Qualcomm QCS5430, is a mid-tier solution that slightly moderates CPU and GPU performance. This system-on-chip (SoC) combines enhanced connectivity, performance and edge AI-powered camera capabilities. It also provides scope for field software-based upgrades of the CPU and GPU by using the processor’s capabilities.
SECO, seco.com

INS
Featuring FOG-based IMU

The Phins 9 Compact is a high-performance inertial navigation system (INS) designed for all unmanned underwater vehicles. It offers a blend of navigation performance, reliability and size, weight and power (SWAP) efficiency.
The Phins 9 Compact is built around a high-performance fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG)-based IMU with advanced accelerometers. With compact dimensions, a DVL-aided position accuracy of 0.1% TD, and a power consumption of less than 7 W, it is ideal for compact subsea vehicles in demanding applications with low power requirements.

The INS aims to redefine the standards of subsea navigation in a wide range of applications, including survey-grade coastal and offshore seabed mapping, inspection repair and maintenance (IRM), defense and more.
Exail, exail.com

MOBILE

GNSS FR Antennas
Supports a full spectrum of bands

This series of GNSS RF antennas is designed to elevate location-based services with enhanced accuracy and precision. This new lineup aims to outperform conventional GPS technologies by offering faster signal acquisition, improved tracking capabilities and reduced power consumption.
The antennas support a full spectrum of bands, including L1, L2, L5, and L-band data correction services. It can be used in a variety of sectors, such as agriculture, surveying, the Internet of Things (IoT), mapping, defense and aviation.
The technology is designed to meet the rigorous demands for precise location data across various applications. These antennas offer multi-band and multi-constellation support to ensure broad compatibility. With centimeter-level accuracy, these antennas are crucial for aerospace, defense, asset tracking, geolocation, precision agriculture and industrial IoT.
Abracon, abracon.com

Iridium on the Go
Magnetic mount antenna

The 2J7426MPz by 2J antenna is a high-performance magnetic mount antenna that is designed specifically to communicate efficiently with the Iridium satellite communication system. It is manufactured with high-quality polycarbonate (PC) and acrylic-styrene-acrylate terpolymer (ASA), a thermoplastic combination that offers strong resistance to UV, moisture, and heat and enhances mechanical properties.
The antenna housing is waterproof to IP69 standards and designed to operate in extremely harsh environments, including those with frequent exposure to water, dust and debris. It has a recommended operational and storage temperature of -40°C to +85°C. The magnetic mount allows for easy installation and removal between vehicles or assets, and it is easily converted to an adhesive type for greater flexibility.
It is delivered with a standard SMA-male connector and a standard 300 cm long coaxial LL100 cable. Iridium has certified the 2J7426MPz antenna for commercial use in connection with the Iridium communications system.
SparkFun Electronics, sparkfun.com

April 30, 2024