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SONY ILX-LR1 Camera provides exceptional imaging for next generation drone
Sky Mantis 2 platform from Evolve Dynamics benefits from a 61-megapixel camera that allows 30X optical zoom
The Sky Mantis 2 from UK-based Evolve Dynamics is one of the world's most technically capable uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAV). This four-rotor, highly manoeuvrable drone boasts incredible features that make it ideal for multiple intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance tasks.
The battery-powered or tether-operated Sky Mantis 2 can be used to provide immediate overwatch and awareness of large areas, carry out security perimeter inspections, or find missing persons or suspects. Carried in a backpack and rapidly deployed in around 60 seconds, the drone can hover at 120m while being 300m away and yet still zoom in close enough to read a car registration plate while identifying the vehicle make, model, and colour from more than 1 kilometre.
This performance capability can be attributed to next-level imaging based upon the ultra-high resolution Sony ILX-LR1, a 61-megapixel camera that allows 30X optical zoom. Evolve Dynamics and Sony have worked together previously on UAV programmes and are pushing new boundaries in surveillance and reconnaissance applications.
"We have a successful history of collaboration with Sony ISS, having previously integrated a 20-megapixel camera into a gimbal on one of our aerial platforms," says Mike Dewhirst, Principal Engineering Advisor and Founder of Evolve Dynamics. "Now, the ILX-LR1 takes our vision capabilities to the next step, providing exceptional imaging in any weather condition."
Innovative Design: Compact and Lightweight
The Sony ISS ILX-LR1 is a state-of-the-art professional camera with 61 megapixels and a 35 mm full-frame Exmor R™ CMOS image sensor. The extremely high resolution is complemented by an ultra-lightweight and compact body that measures 74mm (height) x 100 mm (width) and 42.5 mm (depth) and weighs just 243g. It has a powerful BIONZ XR image processor and multiple connectivity options, including USB 3.2 / HDMI type D / Wi-Fi / Ethernet. These resolution, size and connectivity characteristics make it ideal for UAV applications where long-duration shooting is required.
“Drones have become a reliable and versatile tool for surveillance and reconnaissance tasks while also finding a role in mapping, surveying, and inspection activities across various industrial sectors,” says Arnaud Destruels, European Product Marketing and Communication Manager, Sony ISS. “The proliferation of use cases has been driven by the availability of rugged and ultra-lightweight cameras such as the ILX-LR1, which provide exceptional imaging quality in any weather condition.”
Evolve Dynamics has been hugely impressed by the quality of images and video provided by Sony’s ILX-LR1. At the same time, its lightweight design means the drone can stay in the sky for extended periods of time. "The 61-megapixel camera offers the highest resolution imagery of all of Sky Mantis 2's payloads, optimising the detection of objects and targets over long distances for the purposes of surveillance and reconnaissance, supporting mapping of large areas in detail," continues Mike Dewhirst, Evolve Dynamics. "The camera's lightweight design is essential to optimise the platform's flight time and maintain our position as a leader in our class. Meanwhile, the compact design allowed us to house it in a gimbal that matches the rest of our payload catalogue."
Seamless Integration: Enhancing UAV Performance
The ILX-LR1 has been fully integrated into the all-weather Sky Mantis 2 platform. It can be triggered by Evolve Dynamics' proprietary software, allowing it to be operated remotely via radio from a ground controller. This optimises the mission's efficiency, as there is a single set of controls for the operator, reducing their cognitive burden and allowing them to focus more on the task at hand.
The camera came with pre-drilled holes for secure mounting, in any suitable location, on its six sides. This configuration meant it was simple for Evolve Dynamics to design bracketry to secure it into its gimbal without additional research and development resources. Stabilisation is managed through a two-axis, pitch and roll, with mechanical and digital functionality.
Sony believes its camera solutions will continue to drive innovation in drone applications. "As the capability of drones has increased, so has the scope of their use cases, too," continues Arnaud, Sony ISS. “Many companies and organisations now use drones to gather large amounts of data over vast geographic areas, streamlining operations and boosting efficiencies.”
“It is an exciting and fast-moving industry, and Sony ISS is delighted to have established partnerships with forward-looking organisations such as Evolve Dynamics." concludes Arnaud.
For more information on Sony ISS’ ILX-LR1 camera, *click here*
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