Tag: product showcase

  • Launchpad: Golfing, augmented reality and flying cameras

    Launchpad: Golfing, augmented reality and flying cameras

    OEM

    Reference Time Clock

    Protects against vulnerabilities

    Microsemi's new TimeSource Enhanced Primary Reference Time Clock protects against serious threats associated with GNSS vulnerabilities.
    Photo: Microsemi

    The TimeSource Enhanced primary reference time clock (TimeSource Enhanced PRTC) is a new system to protect against serious threats associated with GNSS vulnerabilities. It also enables telecommunications and mobile operators to meet the G.8272.1 recommendation from the International Telecommunication Union. The TimeSource Enhanced PRTC “generates time” by producing its own independent time scale aligned with GNSS, while its phase, time and frequency signal outputs remain autonomous, providing a secure infrastructure, reducing dependency on GNSS and enabling network operators to retake control of the timing source used for network synchronization.

    Microsemi, www.microsemi.com

    Helical GNSS Antenna

    Waterproof

    harxon-antenna-ch7603a3-w
    Photo: Harxon

    Harxon’s next-generation triple-frequency Helix Antenna, HX-CH7603A, has excellent performance and high efficiency in a compact form factor. The new design is capable of GPS L1/L2, GLONASS L1/L2 and BDS B1/B2/B3. Though compact, it provides high peak gain (more than 3.5 dBi) and wide beam width to ensure the signal receiving performance at low elevation angles. HX-CH7603A is equipped with an O-ring and gold-plated SMA (sub-miniature version A) connector that makes the antenna waterproof-grade, reaching IP67 once installed on a mating surface. The antenna is designed for applications requiring minimal integration effort or for retrofitting existing products.

    Harxon, www.harxon.com

    Golf Assistance

    Rangefinder wearables use u-blox inside

    u-blox-golf-voicecaddie
    Photo: U-Blox

    U‑blox components are at the core of two new GNSS golf products. The golf rangefinder wearables were launched by Voice Caddie, an international brand of rangefinders and trackers based in South Korea. The T3 Hybrid Golf GPS Watch uses the compact u‑blox UBX‑G7020‑KT professional‑grade GNSS chip, which links with GPS/QZSS or GLONASS satellite systems. The B1 GPS Band uses the u‑blox UBX‑M8030‑KT professional‑grade GNSS chip, which provides navigation sensitivity and low current consumption. It is compatible with GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou satellite systems. The u‑blox GNSS technology enables the T3 Watch and the B1 Band to automatically detect golf courses and holes, and shows the wearer the driving distance and remaining distance to the hole as well as the distance to the front, middle and back of the green. The T3 Watch also measures short distances.

    Voice Caddie, www.voicecaddie.com; u-blox, www.u-blox.com

    PTP Grandmaster

    Built-in GNSS receiver and clock

    Oscilloquartz-OSA5421-W
    Photo: Oscilloquartz

    The OSA 5420 series is a family of cost-effective, mid-scale synchronization distribution and assurance devices. Following a toolbox approach, the OSA 5420 series can be used in a variety of network synchronization applications, including IEEE 1588v2 grandmaster, boundary clock, slave clock and assisted partial timing support (APTS). The built-in GNSS receiver and primary reference time clock (PRTC) capability, together with the redundant power supply option, provide reliable synchronization delivery.

    Oscilloquartz, www.oscilloquartz.com

    NAVWAR Simulation

    with GPS directorate security approval to process Y-code

    Talen-X-combined-W
    Photo: Talen

    BroadSim is a software-defined GNSS simulator that enables users to model true and spoofed signals, with navigation warfare (NAVWAR) testing in mind. BroadSim supports high dynamics, advanced jamming, spoofing and encrypted military codes. Powered by Skydel’s SDX 1000-Hz software simulator engine, BroadSim can simulate multiple constellations including GPS, GLONASS, Galileo and BeiDou. The hardware includes a generator and controller with two radios, an OctoClock-G with GPS-disciplined oscillator, four channels and a UBX-160 RF daughterboard.

    Talen-X, talen-x.com; Skydel, skydelsolutions.com


    UAV

    Smart Drone with Dual-Screen Controller

    XDynamics-Evolve-W
    Photo: XDynamics

    Controller inspired by smartphones and tablets

    The Evolve drone has a dual-screen remote controller, empowering users with industry-grade features and functionality.The remote controller is a smart pilot system (SPS) that combines all required functions for amateur and professional users’ flying and filming needs under a single interface. Functioning as a 7-inch viewfinder and a 5-inch multi-touch control panel, the foldable dual-screen has minimal buttons and sticks, providing an intuitive experience. Both screens are luminously visible and operable in direct sunlight. The controller features a 64-bit quad-core CPU, a dedicated GPU, 4GB DDR3 RAM and Android OS inside. It comes with a GPS module, inertial measurement unit sensors, Micro-SD card slot, USB port and micro HDMI-out port, allowing comprehensive extendibility such as additional storage, FPV goggles and VR headsets.

    XDynamics, www.xdynamics.com

    Survey-Grade UAS

    Also comes in solar-powered version for extended flight time

    C-ASTRAL-ppx-W
    Photo: C-ASTRAL Aerospace

    The Bramor ppX long-endurance small UAS has an all-composite blended-wing body system capable of flying for 3.5 hours. Also available is the variant Bramor ppX-LRS (long-range solar) version, developed in conjunction with Sunnyvale, California, thin-film solar-cell company Alta Devices. The ppX-LRS can fly up to 5.5 hours. Both versions can carry an array of advanced sensors for remote sensing, aero photogrammetry, surveying and agricultural mapping as well as intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. The new ppX is complemented with a C3P (command, control, communications and planning) software package for mission planning and flight control, enabling situational awareness and intuitive systems control. It also has an online fleet management and maintenance support system that will enable current users and operators to share technical data and mission profile and performance parameters advice. Sensors available range from visible light to multispectral, hyperspectral and advanced gas laser sensors capable of detecting 0.05 ppm of methane gas in the air above the areas of interest where leaks could develop.

    C-ASTRAL Aerospace, www.c-astral.com

    AR Glasses

    Three companies join to improve the augmented reality experience

    Pinnalce-AR-glasses-W
    Photo: HiScene

    HiScene, Inuitive and Heptagon have teamed up on HiScene’s next generation of augmented reality (AR) glasses. HiAR Glasses incorporate Inuitive’s NU3000 computer vision processor and Heptagon’s advanced illumination. The companies worked together to develop a complete solution for advanced 3D depth sensing and AR/VR applications that delivers excellent performance even in changing light conditions and outdoors. The glasses’ AR operating system provides stereoscopic interactivity, 3D gesture perception, intelligent speech recognition, natural image recognition and inertial measurement unit (IMU) displayed with an improved 3D graphical user interface.

    HiScene, www.hiscene.com

    Flying Camera System

    Professional image processing embedded in air frame

    DJI-Inspire2-W
    Photo: DJI

    The Inspire 2 improves on the Inspire 1 with a new image-processing system embedded into the airframe, the CineCore 2.0. It records up to 5.2K in CinemaDNG RAW, Apple ProRes and other formats. It flies from 0 to 50 mph (80 kph) in 5 seconds, reaches 58 mph (94 kph) and has a maximum descent speed of 9 m/s. A dual-battery system prolongs the flight time to 27 minutes (with an X4S), while self-heating technology allows it to fly in low temperatures. DJI’s Flight Autonomy provides two directions of obstacle avoidance and sensor redundancy. Increased intelligence adds multiple intelligent flight modes, including Spotlight Pro, giving single pilots the ability to create complex, dramatic shots. An upgraded video-transmission system is capable of dual-signal frequency and dual-channel, streaming video from an onboard first-person-view camera and the main camera simultaneously, for better pilot and camera operator collaboration.

    DJI, dji.com


    SURVEY & MAPPING

    Bluetooth Receiver

    GNSS receiver, datalogger also has barometric sensor

    3300-bad-elf-W
    Photo: Bad Elf

    The Bad Elf GNSS Surveyor delivers ~1-meter positioning out of the box to the iPad or Android device for use in GIS, mapping, agriculture and survey activities. The GNSS Surveyor can record raw data and produce a RINEX file through the Bad Elf application for post-processing. It also supports differential GPS (DGPS) using RTCM 2.3 correction messages. Surveyors can obtain altitude from GPS or from the built-in barometer, which can be calibrated to a known altitude or pressure.

    Bad Elf, bad-elf.com

    Professional App

    Annual subscription includes professional use rights

    Avenza-Maps-Pro-W
    Photo: Avenza

     

    Avenza Maps, Avenza Systems’ mobile mapping app for Android, iOS and Windows, now comes in a Pro version. Avenza Maps Pro is the most powerful version to date of the application. Features of the Pro annual subscription include commercial, government and other professional use rights not available with other versions allowing an unlimited number of maps to be imported as well as Shapefile import and export, data collection and management, and enhanced support. The subscription also allows for enterprise-level management of the Avenza Maps app across mobile devices for organizations, using a new subscription management system.

    Avenza Systems, www.avenza.com

    Laser Scanners

    TX6-App-Urban-Trimble-W
    Photo: App Urban Trimble

    3D data processing in all conditions

    The TX6 and improved TX8 high-performance 3D laser scanners offer an integrated high-dynamic range camera and Wi-Fi remote control. The high-speed 3D laser scanners combine microsecond time-of-flight distance measurement with advanced onboard signal and 3D data processing, designed to provide range and accuracy in all conditions. The TX6 is a medium-range 3D scanner, while the TX8 is for geospatial professionals that require enhanced versatility and longer ranges to effectively support a variety of applications in urban environments, civil infrastructures and challenging terrains.

    Trimble, trimble.com

    Water Navigation

    GPS guidance for mariners

    AquaMap-W
    Photo: AquaMap

    Aqua Map is an iOS and Android app for GPS marine navigation, aimed at boaters and fishermen. The app integrates official nautical charts for many areas in the world, including the NOAA, CHS (Canadian Hydrographic Service), British Admiralty and Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie as well as S-57 and raster cartography. The app provides users with a clear chart using the full power of the Retina display, intuitive realistic symbols and colors. No experience in water navigation is needed. Most of the functions are accessible with simple gestures on the map, and all are clearly described in the Aqua Map Tutorial and Help.

    Aqua Map, www.globalaquamaps.com

    Airborne Lidar Scanner

    With high-performance update

    Optech-Galaxy-LR-W
    Photo: Teledyne Optech

    Galaxy is an airborne laser terrain mapper designed for projects from wide-area mapping to corridor surveys. A universal sensor, it collects ultra-dense data with precision and accuracy. When coupled with Optech’s SwathTRAK and PulseTRAK technologies, collection efficiencies exceeding 70 percent are possible, relative to the traditional fixed field of view dual-beam sensors. The Galaxy can be installed in a tactical UAV, integrated in a helicopter pod for powerline surveying, or gyro-stabilized with an orthometric camera for wide-area mapping. SwathTRAK dynamically modifies the scan field of view during collection to maintain fixed swath widths and even point distribution, even in variable terrain. PulseTRAK enables a continuous operating envelope, solving the multi-pulse challenge of data coverage gaps and density variation in the multi-pulse transition/blind zones. This gives surveyors the ability to use high laserpulse rates and generate high point density in variable terrain, without the need for complex flight planning.

    Teledyne Optech, www.teledyneoptech.com

    Photogrammetry Software

    Supports processing in the cloud

    SimActive-correlator3D-DSM-W
    Photo: SimActive

    Correlator3D software is a patented end-to-end photogrammetry solution for the generation of high-quality geospatial data from satellite and aerial imagery, including UAVs. Correlator3D performs aerial triangulation and produces dense digital surface models, digital terrain models, point clouds, orthomosaics and vectorized 3D features. Powered by GPU technology and multi-core CPUs, Correlator3D’s processing power supports rapid production of large datasets. Benefits include quick processing of thousands of images through GPU powered and multi-core CPU computing; highly automated processes with intuitive manual editing tools for customer-specific requirements; and modular design that offers clients flexibility with respect to budget and easily integrates into a production workflow.

    SimActive, www.simactive.com


    TRANSPORTATION

    Auto Navigation

    Receiver designed for car navigation platforms, devices

    Furuno-Skypine
    Photo: Furuno

    The GV-86 receiver is used by many automotive customers requiring high quality and reliability. Because of its dead-reckoning function, GV-86 achieves high-accuracy performances in deep urban canyons where the accuracy of GNSS-only positions could be reduced. The GV-86 receiver is being installed in car navigation systems designed for major automotive companies, such as Skypine in China and Clarion in Japan. The GV-86 achieves superior performance with fast time to first fix and highly improved noise tolerance. The software can be upgraded to support concurrent multi-GNSS reception with GPS, Galileo, QZSS and SBAS.

    Furuno, www.furuno.com

    Shipping Pallet

    Nikken Lease uses u-blox positioning for trackable pallet

    transeeker-pallet-u-blox
    Photo: u-blox

    Transeeker is a pallet equipped with u-blox’s cellular and positioning technologies for accurate tracking: u-blox cellular UMTS/HSPA(+) module LISA-U200-62S and u-blox 7 standalone GNSS module, EVA-7M. Made of plastic, the pallets are reusable, making them a good ecological alternative to their wooden counterpart. Embedded in Transeeker, the LISA-U200-62S of the LISA-U2 series is equipped with CellLocate, u-blox’s proprietary hybrid positioning technology enabling stand-alone location estimation based on surrounding GSM/UMTS cell information in conjunction with GPS positioning data.
    Nikken Lease, www.nklogi.com;

    u-blox, www.u-blox.com

  • App gives users a virtual safety halo

    App gives users a virtual safety halo

    Virtual Halo is a new personal protection app for the iPhone and Apple Watch, aimed at increasing safety around the world.

    Virtual Halo
    Photo: Virtual Halo.

    The app has three key features.

    SOS is designed as a personal panic button. When pressed in the iPhone app or on the Apple Watch, an emergency notification is sent by the Virtual Halo cloud to the user’s emergency contacts, providing the nearest street address and a link to the user’s location on their map.

    The Check In feature lets emergency contacts know the user is OK; optionally, the user can include a custom message and location.

    With the Going Out feature, adventure sports enthusiasts let the app know their intended destination and when they’ll be back. If they don’t disable the app by their preset time, the Virtual Halo service sends a text to their emergency contacts letting them know the user went out, the activity they were participating in, that they expected to be back by the specific time and that they haven’t returned; it also provides the user’s last known location.

  • Palm-sized selfie drone introduced at CES

    Palm-sized selfie drone introduced at CES

    mola-ufo-drone-w
    Photo: Nine Eagles

    Nine Eagles, an emerging high technologies company that focuses on aerial vehicles developing and manufacturing, launched a selfie drone named MOLA-UFO at the CES 2017 in Las Vegas.

    As an intelligent aerial photographer, MOLA-UFO is palm-sized and UFO-shaped. It has a patented triple axes EIS technology to ensure stability and high quality of the images. It also has and advanced image recognition technology that enables intelligent tracking of the subjects.

    The MOLA-UFO is portable and intuitive, so users can launch the drone from their palms.

    The selfie drone also features a unique recognition technology that can identify the subjects and lock them in frame, to intelligently track them. It can follow the subjects and shoot with a range of 360-degrees with its high-resolution 4K camera. Furthermore, the UAV is equipped with an app that features beauty selfie, time-lapse shooting and instant sharing via social networks.

  • TRAK Microwave offers 50-channel GPS reference clock

    TRAK Microwave has added a GPS time and frequency clock to its product offerings. The 50-channel 8835 GPS reference clock serves satcom, defense and wireless applications.

    The 8835 GPS clock has extreme power and interoperability options while maintaining GPS accuracy and reliability, TRAK Microwave said. While tracking GPS, the clock exhibits a frequency accuracy of <1 x 10-12 and a 1 PPS accuracy with <50 nanoseconds, RMS.

    8835 GPS Clock by TRAK Microwave.
    8835 GPS Clock by TRAK Microwave.

    The proprietary oscillator steering discipline algorithm can enhance the RMS accuracy of either the double oven crystal oscillator or optional enhanced rubidium oscillator for greater depths of accuracy.

    To increase interoperability, the 8835’s 10/100 base-T Ethernet interface can leverage a range of network protocols including NTP, SNMP, Telnet, SSH and FTP for status and control. The unit can also accept a variety of power sources including 24 VDC, 48 VDC or 100-240 VAC with an external AC/DC converter.

    The highly compact and configurable device operates from -30oC to +60oC with a TNC GPS receiver port. A datasheet on the 8835 can be downloaded here.

  • Geneq introduces SXPad 1000P rugged handheld

    Geneq introduces SXPad 1000P rugged handheld

    SXPad 1000P by Geneq.
    SXPad 1000P by Geneq.

    Geneq Inc. has announced the SXPad 1000P, a rugged handheld GPS data collector, which the company says is low-cost.

    The SXPad 1000P is suitable for mobile GIS users in applications ranging from water, electric, gas utilities, transportation, mining, agriculture and forestry.

    The high-performance 1000-megahertz device is designed to give professionals the power needed to work with maps and large data sets in the field. Its waterproof seal (IP67) and surviving 5-foot (1.5-meter) drops to concrete make the SXPad 1000P ideal for the outdoors. Its 3.7-inch color touchscreen (full VGA) is sharp and is sunlight readable.

    Standard features include a battery life of more than 10 hours on a charge, 8-GB internal storage, slots for MicroSD cards and SIM cards as well as Windows Mobile 6.5.

    The SXPad 1000P offers features typically seen in more costly mobile devices, the company said. These include 3.5G cellular modem, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, video capture, a 5-megapixel camera and an internal GPS receiver.

    The SXPad 1000P is optimized for GPS/GIS field data collection using its 1-3 meter accuracy internal GPS receiver or one of Geneq’s high-performance SXBlue GPS receivers for sub-meter and centimeter-level accuracy.

  • Launchpad: Tiny simulator, defense atomic clock

    Launchpad: Tiny simulator, defense atomic clock

    OEM

    Entry-level testing

    Modular approach for developers

    Spirent Communications' GSS 7000 series of multi-frequency GNSS simulators provides an option for entry-level testing.
    Spirent Communications’ GSS 7000 series of multi-frequency GNSS simulators provides an option for entry-level testing.

    The GSS7000 series of multi-frequency, multi-GNSS RF constellation simulators provides an entry to multi-frequency testing, with a modular approach that expands with users’ needs. The GSS7000 system is for receiver, system and application developers who want to take advantage of new satellite navigation systems and the better accuracy offered by civilian, multi-frequency GNSS. It provides faithful emulation of all civil GNSS systems and regional augmentation systems, and allows devices to be tested under a multitude of operating environments and error conditions.

    Spirent Communications, www.spirent.com

    All-signals board

    Machine control, marine survey

    p328-hemisphere-wThe Eclipse P328 is a multi-frequency, multi-GNSS all-signals receiver board that includes Hemisphere’s newest hardware platform and integrates Atlas GNSS Global Corrections. It is designed for land or marine survey, machine control, and any application where high-accuracy positioning is required. With the new hardware platform, the overall cost, size, weight and power consumption of the P328 are reduced. It offers true scalability with centimeter-level accuracy in either single-frequency mode or full performance multi-frequency, multi-GNSS, Atlas-capable mode that supports fast real-time kinematic (RTK) initialization times over long distances. The P328 uses the Athena GNSS engine, as well as Hemisphere’s new aRTK technology powered by Atlas. This feature allows the P328 to operate with RTK accuracies when RTK corrections fail.

    Hemisphere GNSS, hemispheregnss.com

    Upgradeable board

    Increased accuracy services available through software

    onyx-board-wThe Onyx multi-frequency GNSS OEM board offers integrated StarFire/real-time kinematic (RTK) GNSS capabilities. Onyx features 255-channel tracking, including multi-constellation support for GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo. It also provides high performance in GNSS receiver sensitivity and signal tracking as well as patented multi-path mitigation, interference rejection and anti-jamming capabilities. Through software, it can be upgraded from free DGPS signal sources such as WAAS to increased accuracy services with integrated StarFire with Rapid Recovery or RTK with RTK Extend.

    NavCom Technology, www.navcomtech.com

    GPS/GNSS simulator

    The size of a deck of cards

    jackson_labs-claw-wThe CLAW is a self-contained, ruggedized, miniature, real-time hardware GPS simulator. It targets applications that require small, low-power and low-cost GNSS synthesis with repeatable and highly accurate GNSS RF signals such as production testing of GNSS receivers, simulating GNSS anomalies such as leap-second events, 1023 GPS Week rollovers, operation in inaccessible locations, real-time transcoding of different GNSS systems, and testing using dynamically user-configured RF signal levels. The CLAW contains real-time processing hardware to simulate GPS constellations without the need to connect any external equipment other than a USB power source or power supply.

    Jackson Labs Technologies, www.jackson-labs.com

    Defense atomic clock

    For critical applications in dynamic environments

    The Spectratime Force 2020 Rubidium clock is designed for the defense market.
    The Spectratime Force 2020 Rubidium clock is designed for the defense market.

    The Force 2020 is a rugged, anti-vibration, GPS/GNSS-lockable, ultra-low-noise Rubidium atomic clock for highly dynamic defense platform applications. It is designed for next-generation defense airborne radars, drones, helicopters, and secure shipboard and radio communications systems. These systems use high K-band frequencies that require ultra-low-noise performance, which can only be minimally degraded in tactical missions when exposed to dynamic vibration and high-g environments.

    Spectratime, www.spectratime.com


    SURVEY & MAPPING

    Rugged handheld

    Ready for tough field jobs

    SXPad_800H_main-WThe SXPad 800H is a rugged handheld GPS data collector designed for mobile geographic information system (GIS) users in applications such as water, electric and gas utilities; transportation; mining; agriculture; and forestry. The high-performance 800-MHz device is designed to give users the power needed to work with maps and large data sets in the field. It is created for rugged outdoor use, with a waterproof seal (IP65) and ability to survive a five-foot (1.5-meter) drop to concrete. Its 3.7-inch VGA color touchscreen is sharp and sunlight readable. Features include a battery life of 12 hours on a charge, slots for MicroSD and SIM cards, and the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system.

    Geneq, www.geneq.com

    Drone/software

    Partnership for site surveys

    dji-datumate-surveysolution-wThe DJI-Datumate Site Survey Solution is a comprehensive and professional package of imagery and mapping tools that help surveying, construction, inspection and infrastructure companies generate a working model, visualize a site, and create analytics and plans. The drone, software and app package automates and expedites site surveys, infrastructure mapping and inspection. Bundles include a DJI Drone, a DatuFly tablet app for automated aerial photography, and DatuGram 3D photogrammetry software that converts aerial and ground images to high-precision, geo-referenced 2D maps and 3D models. DatuFly software generates a flight and image-taking plan for the drone based on the best-practice requirements of DatuGram 3D photogrammetry, ensuring survey-grade accuracy.

    DJI, www.dji.com; Datumate, datumate.com

    Wearable receiver

    Takes high accuracy into difficult terrain

    asteri-series-xDesigned for geospatial field data collection and inspection applications that require high-accuracy positioning, the Asteri X-Series of receivers are light enough to be mounted to external sensors or worn on the body or arm. The compact receivers were designed for safety and ease of use. Each device weighs 11.3 ounces with a 12-hour lithium battery. Their 2.8-inch by 5.4-inch size allows them to fit safely in shoulder or arm pouches. The three products in the X-Series provide varying levels of accuracy: X-1 provides sub-meter accuracy out of the box; X-2 offers accuracy of 1 meter down to 1 cm with RTK/VRS; X-3 will achieve 1 cm with RTK/VRS, 30 cm with Atlas H30, 4–10 cm with Atlas H10. The integrated design allows users to work in difficult terrain without worrying about equipment and antennas getting snagged or broken.

    Asteri Navigation, asterinav.com


    TRANSPORTATION

    Autonomous navigation module

    Performs dead-reckoning for in-vehicle systems

    telit-jupiter-sl869-3dr-wThe SL869-3DR is a GNSS module for global use that leverages information from internal gyros, accelerometers and a barometric pressure sensor to perform dead-reckoning navigation for application areas such as track and trace and in-vehicle systems. The module delivers accurate position data either directly from its multi-constellation receiver or from a fully autonomous dead-reckoning system, requiring no connections to external devices or components other than an antenna for satellite signal reception and power. The module allows integrators to design zero-installation, in-vehicle navigation and tracking devices for fleets and other commercial or consumer applications that operate perched on the dashboard, connected only to vehicle power. The SL869-3DR is designed to support GPS, QZSS, GLONASS, Beidou and is Galileo ready.

    Telit, www.telit.com

    IMU for aviation

    Soon to be in Boeing 777x

    systron_donner_boeing_777xThe SDI300 aviation-grade inertial measurement unit (IMU) delivers reliable high performance and stability over full temperature and vibration environments. The compact, low-power, high-quality SDI300 IMU enables efficient and smooth aircraft maneuvers through the most complex flight scenarios and challenging environments, while improving total system cost-effectiveness, reduced obsolescence and increased sustainability. In November, Rockwell Collins awarded a contract to Systron Donner Inertial for the SDI300, to be used in the new Boeing 777X Integrated Flight Control Electronics fly-by-wire system.

    Systron Donner Inertial, www.systron.com


    UAV

    Depth finder

    Optimized for UAVs

    riegl_bathycopter_with_bdf-wThe Bathymetric Depth Finder is fully integrated to Riegl’s Bathycopter, enabling the generation of profiles of inland water bodies. The BDF-1 is a compact and lightweight bathymetric depth finder optimized for UAV-borne operation. The topo-bathymetric depth finder comprises tilt compensation, an IMU/GNSS unit with antenna, a control unit and a data storage unit. It can be equipped with two external digital cameras. Riegl’s new hydrographic full waveform processing delivers highly accurate, reliable and informative data; pre-detection averaging allows essential performance in adverse conditions.

    Riegl, www.riegl.com

    Professional drone

    Withstands magnetic interference

    dji-matrice600pro-wThe updated Matrice 600 Pro offers improved flight performance, a more powerful battery charging system and better loading capacity for industrial equipment, cinema cameras and other professional aerial applications. The A3 Pro flight controller comes with triple modular redundancy and diagnostic algorithms that compare sensor data from three sets of GNSS units, enhancing precision control while improving overall safety. Vibration damping balls have been added to the flight controller’s redundant inertial measurement unit module and main controller, absorbing more shake and reducing more noise. Compatibility with D-RTK GNSS makes the A3 Pro withstand magnetic interference and provides centimeter-level accuracy suitable for industrial applications.

    DJI, dji.com

  • Accident locator launched

    Saphibeat Technologies’ new Adventure Monitor PhiPAL can save lives of outdoor enthusiasts by recognizing when an accident has taken place.

    PhiPAL uses a proprietary machine-learning algorithm for accident recognition. If the user is unconscious, PhiPAL automatically sends a distress message with GPS coordinates to teammates and first responders through a cellphone or satellite connection.

    PhiPAL uses an activity monitor mounted on or integrated into the user’s sports helmet.

  • Aqua Map app released for water navigation

    aquamap-wAqua Map is an iOS and Android app for GPS marine navigation, aimed at boaters and fishermen.

    The app integrates official nautical charts for many areas in the world, including the NOAA, CHS (Canadian Hydrographic Service), British Admiralty and Bundesamt für Seeschifffahrt und Hydrographie as well as S-57 and raster cartography.

    The app provides users with a clear chart using the full power of the Retina display, intuitive realistic symbols and colors. No experience in water navigation is needed.

    Most of the functions are accessible with simple gestures on the map, and all are clearly described in the Aqua Map Tutorial and Help.

  • Collaborative project delivers glare-resistant augmented reality glasses

    pinnacle-ar-glasses-wHiScene, Inuitive and Heptagon have teamed up to take augmented reality (AR) another step forward with HiAR Glasses, HiScene’s next generation of AR glasses.

    The companies worked together to develop a complete solution for advanced 3D depth sensing and AR/VR applications that delivers excellent performance even in changing light conditions and outdoors.

    HiAR Glasses incorporate Inuitive’s NU3000 Computer Vision Processor and Heptagon’s advanced illumination. The combined technologies provide a superior and seamless user experience, marking a new standard in the current market.

    The glasses’ AR operating system provides stereoscopic interactivity, 3D gesture perception, intelligent speech recognition, natural image recognition and inertial measurement unit (IMU) displayed with an improved 3D graphical user interface.

    “We are committed to providing the best possible user experience to our customers, and for this reason we have partnered with Inuitive and Heptagon to create the most intelligent AR glasses available on the market,” said Chris Liao, CEO of HiScene. “The technologies implemented provide a seamless experience in a robust and compact format, without compromising on battery life.”

    Inuitive’s NU3000 serves AR glasses by providing 3D depth sensing and computer vision capabilities. The solution acts also as a smart sensors hub to accurately time-stamp and synchronize multiple sensors in a manner that off-loads the application processor and shortens the development time.

    “Inuitive’s solution allows Hiscene to provide the reliability, latency and performance its customers expect,” said Shlomo Gadot, CEO of Inuitive. “With Inuitive technology, AR products and applications can now be used outdoors without the sunlight interfering or damaging their efficacy thanks to cameras featuring depth perception.”

    Heptagon provides infrared pattern illuminators, which were chosen to handle changing light conditions and plain surfaces. In addition, the range and field of illumination features of Heptagon’s LIMA stereo pattern projector ensure superior lighting and added texture for higher-quality images.

    “Our wide field of illumination provides better gesture recognition, and our miniaturization technologies enable ultra-small, high-performance, low-power components for 3D AR/VR applications,” said Erik H. Volkerink, Heptagon’s chief business officer.

  • DJI offers large drone Matrice 600 Pro

    DJI offers large drone Matrice 600 Pro

    DJI has updated the capabilities of its largest drone series by introducing the Matrice 600 Pro, which offers improved flight performance, a more powerful battery charging system and better loading capacity for industrial equipment, cinema cameras and other professional aerial applications.

    The M600 Pro’s A3 Pro flight controller comes with triple modular redundancy and diagnostic algorithms that compare sensor data from three sets of GNSS units, which enhances precision control while improving overall safety. Vibration damping balls have been added to the flight controller’s redundant IMU module and main controller, absorbing more shake and reducing more noise.

    Photo: DJI

    The compatibility with D-RTK GNSS makes the A3 Pro withstand magnetic interference and provides centimeter-level accuracy, which makes it suitable for industrial applications.

    “The M600 Pro is DJI’s most advanced platform for aerial cinematographers and commercial users. With its simple and easy setup system, triple redundancy and improved stability, the platform offers an unparalleled experience for professional users,” said Aaron Zhao, Senior Product Manager at DJI.

    Photo: DJI

    DJI’s E2000 Pro dust-proof propulsion system simplifies maintenance and its active cooling motors ensure that operation is reliable for extended periods of time.

    The M600 Pro is compatible with DJI’s Zenmuse camera series, the Ronin-MX gimbal and DJI Focus. It supports a payload of 6 kilograms, meaning it can carry a range of cameras from Micro Four Thirds systems to the RED EPIC.

    The M600 Pro has been optimized for transportation and comes with pre-installed arms and antennas. When folded, the platform is smaller than the standard M600. The M600 Pro comes with an updated battery charging hub, enabling users to charge the six intelligent batteries at the same time and thereby reducing overall charging time.

  • Harxon offers new waterproof helical GNSS antenna

    Harxon offers new waterproof helical GNSS antenna

    Photo: HarxonHarxon has released its next-generation triple-frequency Helix Antenna HX-CH7603A, which has excellent performance and high efficiency in a compact form factor, the company said.

    Harxon’s new-design helical antenna HX-CH7603A is capable of  GPS L1/L2, GLONASS L1/L2 and BDS B1/B2/B3. Though compact, it provides high peak gain (more than 3.5 dBi) and wide beam width to ensure the signal receiving performance of satellite at low elevation angles.

    HX-CH7603A is equipped with an O-ring and gold-plated SMA (sub-miniature version A) connector that makes the antenna waterproof-grade, reaching IP67 once installed on a mating surface. The antenna is designed for applications requiring minimal integration effort or for retrofitting existing products.

    Features

    • High gain (3.5dBi) with superior tracking performance
    • Very low noise figure
    • High stability and high repeatability at phase center
    • Waterproof rubber ring
    • Ultra light weight
    • GIS and RTK applications

    Applications

    • Military and security
    • Aerial photographs
    • Drone navigation
    • High-precision navigation
    • Mining equipment
    • Autonomous Vehicle
  • SketchUp Viewer for Microsoft HoloLens enables users to inhabit designs

    Trimble has launched its SketchUp Viewer for Microsoft HoloLens. The new mixed-reality solution allows users to virtually inhabit and experience their designs to improve quality, communication and efficiency in the design, construction and operation of buildings. SketchUp Viewer is the first extensible commercial HoloLens application available in the Windows Store.

    SketchUp a widely used 3D modeling software for architects, engineers, design and construction professionals as well as members of the global maker community.

    trimble-sketchup-viewer-for-hololens-2-w2The announcement was made at Trimble Dimensions. During the Trimble Dimensions keynote, Trimble, Microsoft and architect Greg Lynn demonstrated how the SketchUp Viewer solution could improve design and construction processes. Using HoloLens, architects were able to experience SketchUp models in mixed reality, as holograms placed in the real world — enabling them to quickly analyze various “what if” design scenarios in the context of the physical environment. The demonstration also illustrated how using Trimble solutions with HoloLens holographic technology enables remote teams to effectively review and collaborate in order to resolve constructability issues in real time.

    Greg Lynn leveraged Trimble’s mixed-reality solution and Microsoft HoloLens to re-imagine the Packard Plant—a historic, abandoned automobile factory in Detroit. The architectural project was commissioned as part of the U.S. Pavilion at the 2016 Venice Biennale exhibition in Italy.

    “Trimble mixed-reality technology and Microsoft HoloLens bring the design to life and bridge the gap between the digital and physical. Using this technology I can make decisions at the moment of inception, shorten the design cycle and improve communication with my clients,” said Greg Lynn.

    trimble-sketchup-viewer-greg-lynn-buildings-oThe emergence of mixed-reality technology is enabling new workflow processes for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) market. Trimble’s mixed-reality solution gives users the ability to understand and communicate complex spatial conditions in one comprehensive and immersive experience. The combination of SketchUp with mixed reality ushers in a new paradigm: Experiential Design Review—the ability to inhabit and experience design and construction projects in the most natural way possible.

    “Empowering people to design and communicate better in 3D is part of our DNA. Across the SketchUp platform, we are dedicated to the idea that technology should get out of the way of our users,” said Chris Keating, general manager of Trimble’s SketchUp. “With SketchUp Viewer, we are taking another big step toward delivering the ultimate experience for designers and their clients—the experience of inhabiting their own work.”

    Microsoft HoloLens is a self-contained, holographic computer that provides a mixed-reality experience for a range of commercial and consumer applications. HoloLens extends interaction with 3D models beyond the confines of a 2D computer screen, creating new ways for the many stakeholders of complex, multi-phase construction projects to visualize, collaborate, share ideas and manage change.

    “We are thrilled to work with Trimble to deliver new innovation to SketchUp, one of the most widely used applications in the architecture, engineering, construction and operations industry,” said Lorraine Bardeen, general manager of Microsoft HoloLens and Windows Experiences. “SketchUp Viewer for Microsoft HoloLens can dramatically improve collaboration, decision making, efficiency, quality, and safety by giving users the unique ability to bring digital content into the real world, real-time as part of their current workflow.”

    With SketchUp Viewer, users can view models that have been published to their HoloLens device via the newly launched AR|VR Extension for SketchUp Desktop; they can browse and download models from Trimble’s 3D Warehouse or they can pull project files down from Trimble Connect, a cloud-based collaboration platform. Users then have the option to place a model within their physical environment.

    In Tabletop mode, models can be scaled as needed to best fit the available space or specific design review requirements. While the experience is intended to mimic viewing a physical scale model, it maintains the flexibility and the dynamic nature of a digital model. Users can re-scale, move and rotate the model as desired. Models can be anchored and re-anchored in the physical environment, so designers and engineers can walk around the project and examine it from any vantage point.

    Users can transition seamlessly to an immersive experience. Mixed reality enables unique opportunities to overlay physical models in real world environments; and as a completely untethered device, HoloLens allows users to move freely as they inhabit their digital surrounds.

    In both Tabletop and Immersive mode, SketchUp Viewer allows users to do more than just look at the model. The application provides access to the most critical pieces of information for making vital project decisions and gaining consensus among project stakeholders. The Entity Info feature gives users access to important Building Information Modeling (BIM) data embedded within project components; and with the Tape Measure functionality, users can pull up dimensional information from the model. Users can also control the visibility of various aspects of the model by toggling layers on and off.

    Real-time, remote and co-located collaboration are key elements to the experiential design review process in SketchUp Viewer. With multiple HoloLens devices, a group of users can load the same model, engaging a “see what I see” collaboration mode. Remote collaborators can communicate via real-time audio and use mixed-reality visualization “sight-guides” to better understand who in the group is looking at what.