Gigabit Ethernet Camera Range Released for ROVs

By Mike Ball / 09 Feb 2019
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Teledyne Bowtech GigE subsea cameraTeledyne Marine has announced the launch of a new range of GigE underwater cameras for ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles), with the first units being provided to Seatronics for standard fit on their new VALOR ROV. The VALOR (Versatile and Lightweight Observation ROV) is the first vehicle in its class to standardize on high performance industrial cameras.

Leveraging the latest in CMOS technology from Teledyne Dalsa, developers of high performance digital imaging and semiconductors, the new range from Teledyne Bowtech brings this next generation of sensors under water.

Using Global Shutter technology, Bowtech’s GigE Vision cameras allow transmission of sharp, high-speed video images and related control data over ethernet networks with almost zero latency. With frame rates of up to 862 frames per second achievable (depending on model selected) video is streamed in the uncompressed RAW format such that each frame can be paused and viewed individually, eliminating the need for a separate digital stills camera & allowing vehicles to move faster, reducing the time taken to complete visual inspections.

The high performance, coupled with a well-documented software development kit, will allow developers to advance applications such as automated control, machine learning and photogrammetry, adding value through enhanced resolution, better control and faster operations.

“With the VALOR, Seatronics’ engineering team took a fresh look at what is important when it comes to an observation class vehicle,” said Scott Gray, UK General Manager at Seatronics. “The VALOR is therefore not only light and powerful but has been designed from the beginning to support the latest sensors and accommodating multiple GigE cameras was a must. Teledyne’s rare blend of expertise in both machine vision and underwater engineering made Bowtech the natural choice and also builds upon many years of close collaboration between Seatronics and the Teledyne team around the world.”

“We are delighted to partner with our colleagues at Teledyne Dalsa to bring this new range of cameras to market,” said Stewart Sim, business manager at Teledyne Bowtech. “The vision of Seatronics to launch their new vehicle with such advanced cameras is truly a testament to the development team’s uncompromising approach to the design of their new ROV. The GigE vision standard opens up new possibilities and we look forward to partnering with Seatronics and other developers to bring enhanced capabilities to the underwater inspection market.”

Posted by Mike Ball Mike Ball is our resident technical editor here at Unmanned Systems Technology. Combining his passion for teaching, advanced engineering and all things unmanned, Mike keeps a watchful eye over everything related to the unmanned technical sector. With over 10 years’ experience in the unmanned field and a degree in engineering, Mike’s been heading up our technical team here for the last 8 years. Connect & Contact
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