CONTROP’s D-STAMP Stabilized Miniature Payload Provides a Technological Breakthrough for the SUAV Industry
28 September 2005 11:48
Many large and small companies have developed SUAVs (Small UAVs), and are operating them with success.
However, some say that Small UAVs have not been declared “fully operational”, because most military forces have not yet began operating them on regular basis. This is primarily due to the fact that - till now- there has been a major problem with the quality of the images that the operating soldier receives.
The SUAV was designed to be operated by a soldier, after short training of few days. The image is transferred to the warriors, commanders and others who have interest in the information.
The major problem is that the video image received is unstable and shaky, especially when a Zoom Lens is in use. In addition, there is a problem controlling the LOS (Line of Sight), and - as a result- tracking the targets.
To achieve a quality video picture from a SUAV is a great challenge due to the fact that the SUAV vibrates and shakes during flight. The low level flight that is used during military operations requires sharp turns and fast motion of the Line Of Sight (LOS) to track a target. The weight constraints on the SUAV make the challenge even greater.
CONTROP has challenged these problems/issues and developed the first and only small-stabilized payload for SUAVs – the D-STAMP. The D-STAMP is a daylight stabilized miniature payload weighing only 650 grams! This mini stabilized payload has the capabilities of a large EO payload: Stabilized LOS, high quality picture in full zoom without vibrations, point to coordinate and INS target tracking capabilities and more. In addition, the D-STAMP features a unique scanning capability. The System enables supplementary relevant data to the video picture for the operators and all users receiving the video (for example – provision of target coordinates).
CONTROP’s new D-STAMP payload has been flight tested on a variety of SUAVs, with tremendous success and great satisfaction from all operating soldiers, hereby proving that the concept of a quality mini payload is indeed achievable. The D-STAMP is currently as a daytime-only payload, however a night capable payload is planned for the near future, as well.
For more information on this company:
CONTROP - Electro-Optical and Precision Motion Control Systems
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