UAV Metric Sensor Suite

This SBIR program will design a multi-task EO/IR gimbaled payload system with photogrammetric capability. This capability will provide the user community with advanced integrated Metric function previously not available in mid to high altitude UAVs. SDGoffers an E/O system that features a combination of a highly stabilized platform and step-stare functions. With the addition of the SBIR developed technology a multipurpose UAV or helicopter can perform combined surveillance and mapping missions in realtime, near real time and photogrammetric modes. Sonoma Design Group's ultra-stable gimbal platform fitted with visible and IR capabilities, is the basis for such a Metric Sensor Suite. E/O system features, such as, high step-stare acceleration and slewrates allow quick target re-imaging. The overall benefit is a real time E/O capability that communicates a complete geo-surface information data set including target location, mapping and advanced photogrammetric information. The Metric Sensor Suite'sability to move seamlessly from the metric mode to the surveillance mode and back, will meet the war fighters need for time critical information and perform many of their missions in fully autonomous or semi-autonomous modes. There is also a broadcommercial application for this product ranging from news and sports coverage to various civil engineering functions and civic planning and mapping. Accurate mapping for natural resource management is another critical application throughout the world,especially in developing nations.