Headwall Introduces New Sensor Fusion Solution for UAVs

Headwall Photonics, Inc., a provider of spectral imaging solutions, has announced that it has introduced a new data processing unit specifically designed for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) airborne applications requiring sensor fusion. The small size and weight of HyperCore combined with its data processing and high capacity storage connections offers what Headwall claims is the industry’s only processing platform for fusing hyperspectral sensing data with many other sensor payloads on the aircraft.

Utilizing Hyperspec III, Headwall’s spectral imaging application software, HyperCore serves as the central connection point for remote-sensing instruments such as multiple hyperspectral sensors, LiDAR, thermal cameras, RGB instruments, GPS/IMU units, and many more.

Designed for harsh airborne environments, HyperCore stores 500GB of incoming airborne data and features two Gigabit Ethernet connections, one base CameraLink connection, and a multi-purpose I/O port to handle GPS/INS, sensor commands, etc. Depending on the instruments being connected, Headwall supplies HyperCore with the necessary Hyperspec III software modules to provide a comprehensive operational platform.

“Headwall leads the industry in developing hardware and software solutions for remote sensing applications,” said CEO David Bannon. “The convergence of small UAVs and the need for different but complementary instruments such as LiDAR, GPS, thermal, and others led us to develop a single point of fusion for the data streams from each instrument.”

“A precision agriculturalist wants to know if there is an invasive disease posing a threat to his crops,” continued Bannon. “HyperCore gives the user community a processing solution for managing those data streams in a small and light UAV-friendly package.”

Hypercore weighs 1.4 pounds (0.64 kg), measures 3.5″ x 3.0″ x 3.0″, and draws 12W of power. It is designed to work with Headwall’s Hyperspec family of sensors, plus a wide range of instruments by notable third-party vendors.

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