Harxon has launched a ruggedized GNSS antenna for applications subject to high shock and vibration environments such as i-construction machining applications. Integrated with reliable signal tracking and strong anti-interference performance, the IP69K ruggedized HX-CVX600A antenna provides end users with millimeter accuracy, durability and productivity, the company said.
I-construction promotes the use of automated machines on construction sites to improve productivity and provide support to workers.
The Harxon HX-CVX600A offers full support for reliable and consistent satellite signals tracking, including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and Beidou, QZSS, IRNSS and SBAS, as well as L-band correction services.
By exhibiting a very stable phase center that adopts multipoint feeding technology, exceptional low elevation satellite tracking with symmetric radiation patterns, high gain with ultra-low signal loss, as well as outstanding wide-angle circular polarization (WACP), the Harxon HX-CVX600A performs with remarkable positioning accuracy and provides end users with full control of the job site, performing tasks more productively, meeting tighter positioning specifications, and avoiding rework caused by inaccurate positioning.
The HX-CVX600A GNSS antenna of Harxon also provides superior anti-interference performance. Its advanced low noise amplifier (LNA) excels in improved signal filtering and out-of-band rejection and restrains electromagnetic interference. It also provides strong multipath reduction capacity over all GNSS frequency bands for consistent and reliable GNSS signals, even under complicated environments such as congested urban areas or communication base stations.
The Harxon HX-CVX600A compact and low-profile antenna is Harxon’s first antenna with exceptionally firmness for hash operation environment as construction industry. The upper cover of the antenna is made of material with excellent chemical and high heat resistance. Its aerodynamic enclosure withstands exposure against dust, rain, splash or sunlight. Screws and pole mounts are both available, offering flexible installation.
The Harxon HX-CVX600A ruggedized antenna is now open for pre-sale; contact [email protected].
Fast-growing European transport telematics company Ruptela has expanded its global presence to the United States with a tailored ready-to-use telematics solution, the Trace 5 GPS tracker and multifunctional fleet management platform TrustTrack.
The Trace 5 plug-and-play GPS-based automatic vehicle location (AVL) tracker has LTE Cat M1 (4G) connectivity and an integrated battery. It is fully certified according to North American requirements and has a two-year warranty.
TrustTrack is an advanced telematics platform that helps businesses manage their transport resources more efficiently. It connects dispatchers and drivers and enables real-time monitoring and drivers’ management. It also generates trip reports.
To create the North American solutions, Ruptela’s research and development team analyzed the needs of prospective clients and ran product tests on various roads in the United States.
Andrius Rupsys, founder and CEO of Ruptela, calls the release of a telematics solution tailored to the U.S. market a significant milestone in the further expansion of the company. “We are entering the U.S. market confident about our solution for businesses eager to improve their efficiency, whether these are delivery, service fleets, vehicle leasing and financing (BHPH) or car rental companies.
“As a customer-centric company, we always seek to reduce our clients’ efforts by accelerating ease of use, prediction and automation. We believe that with the right measures, less effort can lead to more growth,” Rupsys said.
“Beyond that, our goal is to provide clients with solutions to the issues they are not even aware of yet. To do so, we offer the full solution including hardware and software manufactured and developed in the European Union, which is completed by cellular connectivity and the highest European quality support valued by Ruptela’s clients across the globe,” Rupsys said.
Ruptela also offers individual onboarding (covering software and hardware) and free technical support, which ensures that clients can start using the product instantly. Depending on the expressed need, their manufactured hardware can be bought separately.
For a limited time, first-time users are entitled to a special offer saving them software activation fee and gifting valuable extras.
New Matrice 300 RTK and Zenmuse H20 series cameras ready for new generation of work, including digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI)
DJI has unveiled its most advanced commercial drone platform, the Matrice 300 RTK (M300 RTK), along with the Zenmuse H20 Series, a hybrid, multi-sensor camera.
The Matrice 300 RTK UAV from DJI is designed for the next level in data collection and site inspection. (Photo: DJI)
DJI engineered the all-in-one, high-tech solution for areas of work never explored before in precise aerial inspections and data-collection missions.
“With the M300 RTK flying platform and the Zenmuse H20 camera series, we are providing a safer and smarter solution to our enterprise customers” said Christina Zhang, senior director, Corporate Strategy at DJI. “This solution sets an entirely new standard for industrial UAV solutions, significantly enhancing operations across public safety, law enforcement, energy, surveying and mapping as well as critical infrastructure inspections.”
The M300 RTK is the first DJI product that integrates modern aviation features, advanced AI capabilities, six directional sensing and positioning system, a UAV health management system, and 55 minutes’ flight time.
The drone platform has AES-256 encryption and an IP45 weather-resistant enclosure. It has a built-in all-new OcuSync Enterprise transmission system that provides a triple-channel 1080p video transmission signal reaching up to 15 km away.
The M300 RTK can support up to 3 payloads simultaneously and has a maximum payload capability of up to 2.7 kg.
“For our teams working in the oil & gas industry, performance and safety are not optional,” said customer Adam Serblowski, Robotics Theme Lead at Shell. “We cannot compromise on our pursuit of utilizing the best and most efficient tools available. The DJI Matrice 300 RTK proves to be an ideal upgrade over the existing DJI product line, and it helps us to further enhance the benefits of our drone programs. Our productive partnership with DJI will continue to help elevate safety in the world’s largest industry.”
With the Zenmuse H20 Series Camera
Combined, the M300 RTK and Zenmuse H20 Series solution offers users two intelligent ways to collect data:
Smart Pin & Track. Intelligent functions that enhance synchronization of aerial intelligence in coordinated missions. It includes PinPoint, a function that allows users to mark the subject of interest and instantly share the precise location data to a second operator or if necessary to ground teams via DJI FlightHub; and Smart Track, which allows users to automatically detect and track a moving object, even at extreme distances, while synchronising the subject’s dynamic location in real time.
Smart Inspection. A new set of features developed to optimize routine data collection missions such as power lines, railway and oil and gas inspections. It consists of Live Mission Recording for recording sample automated missions in real time; AI-Spot Check, which enables data collection from exactly the same location every time, greatly improving the accuracy of automated missions. After photos from a sample waypoint inspection mission have been recorded, operators are able to mark the subject of interest. During subsequent automated flight missions, AI algorithms perform a comparison between the marked subject and current live view, thus correcting the camera orientation accordingly to deliver accurate and consistent results; and Waypoints 2.0 — an improved mission planning system offering up to 65,535 waypoints, while supporting an array of consecutive actions, 3rd party payloads, and more.
Aviation-Grade Situational Awareness. Inspired by today’s modern aircraft, the M300 RTK features a Primary Flight Display (PFD) that merges real-time flight and navigation data into one integrated display. Besides standard telemetry data like altitude and speed, the M300 RTK PFD provides obstacle data for visualising nearby obstacles during flight, enabling pilots to adjust flight trajectory if needed. These enhancements allow users to keep track of the aircraft while further enhancing the pilot’s situational awareness.
Dual-operator mode. New to DJI’s commercial drone platforms and exclusive to the M300 RTK, is Advanced Dual Operator Mode – multi-pilot control protocols that enable the execution of missions with enhanced safety, reliability and flexibility.
The M300 RTK, when controlled by two pilots, gives each pilot equal access to gain flight-control priority, the transfer of which is displayed by a series of icons on the DJI Smart Controller Enterprise. If one pilot becomes compromised or their controller loses battery or connection, the other pilot gains full control over the M300 RTK and its payloads.
When training new pilots, the teacher/main pilot can safely take over flight control if necessary.
Improved safety and reliability
The M300 RTK comes with new and improved safety and reliability enhancements, including:
AES-256 Encryption: for secure data transmission of the command & control uplink and video transmission downlink.
AirSense (ADS-B technology): for enhanced airspace safety.
Anti-Collision Beacon: for increased aircraft visibility, especially in low-light conditions.
IP45 Protection Rating & Self-Heating Battery: for adverse weather conditions (-20 to 50° C).
6 Directional Sensing and Positioning System: offers a maximum detection range of up to 40 m horizontally, with options to customize the aircraft sensing behavior via DJI Pilot.
As with modern-day jetliners, the M300 RTK offers an integrated UAV Health Management System (UHMS) to optimize fleet maintenance. It records the aircraft’s flight data throughout its entire lifecycle, and utilizes the drone’s hardware and software systems to understand current aircraft performance and determine when it should be serviced. Taking advantage of this new system, users can get a quick overview of all critical aircraft systems, manage firmware updates across an entire fleet, track pilot hours and review flight missions.
DJI Zenmuse H20 Series
The new camera payloads are designed to improve mission efficiency. The Zenmuse H20 series offers DJI’s first Hybrid multi-sensor solution, allowing capture of any kind of images for industrial applications and public-safety missions where efficient time management and immediate access to multiple layers of visions are paramount.
The H20 Series is IP44 rated, which protects enclosures from splashes of water from any direction.
The H20 series comes in two versions:
The H20, a triple sensor with a 20-MP, 23x hybrid optical zoom camera, a 12-MP wide camera, and a laser range finder covering distances from 3 to 1200 meters
The H20T, a quad sensor that adds a 640 x 512 radiometric thermal camera, allowing operators to see what is invisible to the human eye using high thermal sensitivity at 30 frames per second video definition.
Integrated user interface
To enable pilots to operate so many sensors at once, the accompanying DJI Pilot app interface was redesigned. The new user interface lets pilots quickly switch between cameras and simplifies the process of zooming in and out by letting pilots preview the zoom field of view on top of the wide angle or thermal camera footage.
With a multi-sensor integrated user interface, the Zenmuse H20 series allows users to smoothly switch between wide, zoom or thermal cameras. It also includes features for maximum flexibility when used on time-sensitive missions.
High-Res Grid Photo: Captures in one snap detailed imagery of defined subjects with the help of a custom grid. The images can be stored for later detailed inspection.
One-Click Capture: Captures videos or photos of up to three cameras simultaneously without having to manually switch between camera views or repeat a mission.
Night Scene: Gains clearer visibility when lighting conditions are not optimal.
The M300 RTK and Zenmuse H20 series are available for pre-order from official DJI Enterprise dealers and will start shipping in Q2 2020.
Xsens, manufacturer of motion-tracking modules, has launched real-time-kinematic (RTK)-compatible motion trackers. The development is designed to bring centimeter-accurate positioning within reach of a new generation of affordable commercial devices.
The RTK extension to conventional satellite positioning signals reduces the maximum positioning error from around ±1 meter in standard commercial GNSS receivers to typically ±2 centimeters. Companies developing innovative new products in non-military markets such as smart farming, autonomous vehicles and coastal maritime equipment have been keen to take advantage of high-precision RTK capability to enable new applications and more automated functions, according to an Xsens press release.
The MTi-680G is a new product in the Xsens MTi 600-series. The MTi-680G, an integrated GNSS/inertial navigation system (INS) module, features an integrated RTK GNSS receiver, as well as providing synchronized 3D attitude (tilt, inclination) and heading outputs.
The new MTi-680G also features upgraded firmware that substantially accelerates the module’s internal signal processing compared to non-RTK modules. Synchronizing the global position coordinates with the module’s attitude, heading and velocity outputs, the MTi-680G can provide a comprehensive positioning and navigation output for any carrier device, including of devices such as drones that move at high speed, at a maximum output data rate of 400 Hz.
The RTK-enabled module also offers these features:
Precise factory calibration of every production unit
High immunity to magnetic interference
Adaptive firmware operation to optimize performance in various types of scenario
Easy-to-use, free MT Software Suite developer tools to accelerate integration into end-product designs
Out-of-the-box operation with Xsens’ MTi development kits
“Centimeter-accurate positioning at an affordable price for commercial applications — this is the promise of the new RTK-compatible MTi-680G product,” said Boele de Bie, Xsens CEO. “From seed-sowing agricultural robots to autonomous cargo ships, a whole new generation of applications is now possible thanks to the centimeter-level accuracy of the MTi-680G’s position measurements.”
Next-generation phase noise instrument combines timing technologies in a smaller, higher performance measurement instrument
Photo: Microchip Technology
To help research and manufacturing engineers make precise and accurate measurement of frequency signals, including those generated by atomic clocks and other high-performance frequency reference modules and subsystems, Microchip Technology Inc. has announced the availability of the new 53100A Phase Noise Analyzer, a next-generation phase noise test instrument.
The 53100A Phase Noise Analyzer is designed for engineers and scientists who rely on precise and accurate measurement of frequency signals generated for 5G networks, data centers, commercial and military aircraft systems, space vehicles, communication satellites and metrology applications.
Capable of measuring radio frequency (RF) signals up to 200 MHz, the new test instrument rapidly acquires frequency signals and characterizes the phase noise, jitter, Allan deviation (ADEV) and time deviation (TDEV) quickly and precisely. All attributes of a frequency reference can be completely characterized with a single instrument within minutes.
The 53100A Phase Noise Analyzer enables a variety of configurations by allowing up to three separate devices to be tested simultaneously using a single reference, enabling higher capacity for stability measurements. At 344 x 215 x 91mm (13.5 x 8.5 x 3.6 inches), the phase noise test instrument is small enough for integration into manufacturing automated test equipment (ATE) systems, yet powerful enough for laboratory-grade metrology. Its interface provides backward compatibility with Microchip’s 51xxA test sets’ command and data stream, reducing the need to redesign existing ATE infrastructure.
The 53100A Phase Noise Analyzer provides flexibility by allowing an input reference device to be connected through the front panel at a different nominal frequency than the device under test — allowing a single reference to characterize a variety of oscillator products. Rubidium frequency standards such as Microchip’s 8040C-LN or a quartz oscillator such as Microchip’s 1000C Ovenized Crystal Oscillator (OCXO) could be used as a reference as well as other manufacturers’ precise oscillators.
The 53100A Phase Noise Analyzer is available now. Microchip supports the 53100A Phase Noise Analyzer with technical support services as well as an extended warranty.
UAVOS has successfully tested its new two-stage parachute system. The new parachute system provides slow descent of a UAS at high speed. It includes two parachutes — the pilot chute and a main chute used to slow and stabilize the UAS.
The decrease in the load speed on the UAS occurs due to the main chute opening delay function, when the pilot chute opens first. The parachute system is designed for UAS with speeds of up to 280 mph (450 kph) and weight of up to 110 lb (50 kg).
Watch the parachute in action:
The pilot chute allows safe, slow descent of the UAV during the main parachute deployment, as well as to open up the main chute at a minimum altitude.
After landing, the group of the main parachute lines is automatically unfastened to collapse the canopy of the main chute and releases after touchdown to avoid dragging the aircraft along the ground. Unfastening is carried out by the lock of a three-step release:
Stage 1: Opening the pilot chute
Stage 2: Opening the main chute
Stage 3: Release of the group of lines of the main parachute
“In the aircraft safety developments, saving an entire aircraft through a deployable parachute system is a crucial thing,” said Aliaksei Stratsilatau, CEO and lead developer of UAVOS. These trials have generated an amount of data that allows us to quantify the performance of parachute system for future missions. Computer modeling cannot capture all the complexities. Parachutes encounter turbulent and dynamic airflow, which is almost impossible to replicate with computers. The only way to get a handle on all the possibilities is test.”
Emcore is offering two inertial measurement units (IMUs) suitable for the defense market.
SDI500 Tactical Grade IMU. Emcore’s Systron Donner Inertial SDI500 is a high-performance MEMS-based IMU that demonstrates true tactical grade performance with 1°/hour gyro bias and 1-mg accelerometer bias stability with very low 0.02°/hr angle random walk. Its performance is based on Emcore’s quartz MEMS inertial sensor technology. The SDI500 is designed to achieve the demanding performance levels required in sophisticated systems applications. Packaged in a highly miniaturized, cylindrical configuration with a volume of 19 cubic inches, it is suitable for use by integrators and OEMs.
The SDI500 is a compact IMU constructed with SDI’s next generation quartz gyros, quartz accelerometers, and high-speed signal processing that achieves tactical grade performance. The SDI500 IMU is rated for rugged military environments.
EN-300 Precision Fiber Optic IMU/INS. The EN-300 inertial system is designed to be compatible in form, fit and function with a legacy equivalent, but with the higher accuracy and performance needed for GPS-denied navigation, precise targeting and line-of-sight stabilization.
It features navigational-grade performance with 0.04°/hr gyro bias and 0.1-mg accelerometer bias stability with ultra-low 0.007°/hr angle random walk.
Internal signal processing provides full stand-alone or aided navigation, and as an option can provide standard IMU delta velocity and delta theta.
PCTEL has launched its Trooper TRP-20INT platform, featuring models with a purpose-designed footprint to allow seamless installation on the leading 2020 police sports utility vehicles.
Photo: PCTEL
The Trooper TRP-20INT antenna platform supports the high-speed requirements of complex RF communication systems used for critical communications in FirstNet public safety and intelligent transportation systems (ITS).
These antennas feature two 5G elements compatible with leading cellular routers supporting 600-MHz to 6-GHz frequencies. In addition, PCTEL’s proprietary high-rejection multi-GNSS technology is included for high-precision tracking and asset management.
“In order to meet the communication demands of law enforcement, our Trooper TRP-20INT platform was specifically designed for installation on the raised ridges of police vehicle roofs. This method makes installation easier and optimizes RF performance,” said Rishi Bharadwaj, PCTEL’s chief operating officer.
“PCTEL brings strong RF and mechanical design capabilities to develop high-performance antenna systems for deployments in harsh environments in mission critical applications,” added Bharadwaj.
PCTEL also announced its new and improved PCTWSLMR-2 full-spectrum LMR mobile antenna, designed to support the leading OEM multi-band land mobile radios that enable interoperability among emergency management and response personnel. The new antenna incorporates a strong and ultra-flexible spring structure designed for maximum impact shock absorption, providing solid installation integrity even in low overhead-clearance situations.
PCTEL will showcase its new antenna platforms at IWCE, Aug. 24-28, at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, booth 1215. Contact PCTEL for more details on product specifications and availability.
Honeywell is providing Leonardo’s helicopter division with a significant cockpit upgrade — Honeywell’s innovative Primus Epic 2.0 — for its AW139 helicopters. Primus Epic 2.0 will deliver better maps, improved situational awareness at night and in marginal weather, and easier access through wireless connectivity, improving safety and saving time. It is track based, meaning navigation follows the actual path of the helicopter and accounts for wind and other environmental factors.
The “synthetic vision” system enables pilots to fly a variety of challenging approaches. Helicopter-specific missions supported include corporate VIP transport, emergency medical services, oil and gas, and search and rescue.
The SmartView synthetic vision system is usable all the way down into the hover, helping pilots navigate during low-visibility conditions. These missions can include steep 9-degree descents into landing areas in challenging terrain and oil-rig approaches. Flight crews will also benefit from a more user-friendly, iNAV map visual interface with easy-to-use displays and an improved cursor that makes map manipulation and menu navigation more comfortable.
“Technology innovations are crucial to reducing pilot workload and making flights safer for crew and passengers,” said Mike Ingram, vice president and general manager, Cockpit Systems, Honeywell Aerospace. “With the Epic 2.0 Phase 8 upgrade, AW139 pilots will not only reduce the time and cost of some operations, especially those in weather and around challenging terrain, they will also experience some of the best safety features available anywhere in the helicopter market.”
The Phase 8 upgrade also increases connectivity capabilities, with Wireless Data Loading that lets pilots access data at high speeds remotely without a hardwire connection, transferring flight plans wirelessly and accelerating preflight actions.
Hexagon | NovAtel launched the GAJT-410ML GPS anti-jam system in 2019. The compact design of the new, smaller version of NovAtel’s GPS Anti-Jam Technology (GAJT) can be rapidly integrated into space-constrained military vehicles (see photo). The system is easy to use while protecting GPS-based navigation and precise timing receivers (including M-code) from intentional jamming and accidental interference, according to NovAtel.
Spoofing, or the ability to give false data to a receiver, is a different challenge from jamming, with potentially even graver consequences. The GAJT portfolio provides protection from both jamming and spoofing to best defend military systems.
Spoofing Detection. As a trusted partner for guidance, navigation and control, NovAtel is developing robust spoofing detection technology that will be available in the company’s product portfolio soon. The additional spoofing information empowers users to make informed decisions about the radio frequency environment they are operating in, alerting them if malicious actors are present. This provides actionable intelligence as part of a layered approach to defend against jamming and spoofing.
NAVWAR Support. NovAtel OEM components and military off-the-shelf items are engineered to deliver precise, assured positioning and timing. Deep GNSS expertise and lean manufacturing capabilities enable the effective delivery of high-performance products in large volumes with minimal production and delivery times. This approach is combined with a high level of support to achieve low product return rates.
Parker LORD has launched the 3DM-GQ7 dual-antenna RTK inertial navigation system with multiple integrated aiding sensors and support for external aiding.
It has two integrated real-time kinematic (RTK)-capable multi-band multi-constellation GNSS receivers, integrated barometric pressure sensor, magnetometer, and hardware support for wheel odometry. It also has an application programming interface (API) for external sensor measurements.
The 3DM-GQ7 offers advanced sensor fusion for accurate measurements in challenging environments. It provides seamless operation during temporary GNSS signal outages and online tracking of inertial measurement unit (IMU) error sources for superior dead-reckoning.
An optional network RTK receiver, the 3DM-RTK, allows users to connect and communicate to the company’s SensorCloud RTK Connection network. This makes for an all-in-one solution (GNSS-INS + RTK + SensorCloud RTK).
3DM-GQ7 Features
High quality position, velocity and attitude estimates at rates up to 1 kHz
2-cm position accuracy (in good conditions with RTK corrections available)
0.1 degree roll/pitch accuracy; 0.25 degree heading accuracy with dual-antenna GNSS, depending on conditions
All-in-one system solution (GNSS-INS + RTK + SensorCloud RTK)
Applications include drones, autonomous vehicles and legged robots
New sensor provides easy-to-integrate, cost-effective, triple-redundant IMU hardware and software for guidance and navigation solutions in autonomous machines and vehicles
Photo: Aceinna
Aceinna has launched a new high-accuracy inertial measurement unit (IMU), the IMU383ZA. The sensor integrates triple-redundant, 3-axis micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) accelerometer and gyroscope sensors.
The IMU383ZA is an improved, pin-compatible version of Aceinna’s IMU381ZA. It offers high performance (1.3 deg/hr, 0.08 deg/root-hr) and a triple-redundant sensor architecture for ultra-high reliability.
The miniature module is factory-calibrated over the -40° C to +85° C industrial temperature range to provide consistent performance through extreme operating environments for a wide variety of applications.
Applications include automotive advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous systems, drones, robotics, agricultural, construction and other industrial machines.
The IMU383ZA provides a standard SPI bus for cost-effective board-to-board communications. Other features include advanced synchronization and a bootloader for field upgradeability.
Measuring 24 x 37 x 9.5 millimeters, the IMU383ZA integrates a triple-redundant architecture that — combined with the small, low-cost packaging — meet the challenging performance, reliability and cost requirements of the automotive market including the areas of autonomous vehicles, self-driving taxis/delivery vehicles, ADAS systems, electronic stability control and lane-keep assist applications.
The triple-redundant sensor architecture consists of three independent, 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis gyros for excellent accuracy and reliability. By embedding a triple-redundant sensor array, the IMU383ZA uses Aceinna’s proprietary voting scheme to utilize only valid sensor data. Any defective sensor output or errant dataset will be ignored or de-rated in importance.
