EcoCAM - a new 4K camera from ecoSUB Robotics

EcoCAM is a new 4K camera developed by ecoSUB Robotics. It is integrated into the ecoSUBm5-Power+ AUV system. The camera uses a 1.1-inch Sony IMX267 CMOS sensor with a global shutter, which eliminates the rolling shutter effect, resulting in sharper images of moving objects and improved color reproduction. The camera also features a fixed Computar 8mm lens and can output video at 8.85 megapixels (4096 x 2160) at 33 frames per second.

The camera connects to the AUV using a Subsea USBC connector from Blue Logic AS, which is waterproof, corrosion-resistant, and low-power.

Data from the camera is collected by the Jetson Orin Nano single-board computer, which is also included in the system. This allows the EcoCAM to be used in computer vision applications, as the Jetson Orin can also be used for edge computing. For example, it can be used to develop autonomous docking systems.

The EcoCAM module can be used at depths of up to 2,500 meters on ecoSUBm-series AUVs. The camera is mounted in a nose cone that allows it to be oriented forward or downward.

The EcoCAM camera can be complemented by a side-scan sonar, DVL, acoustic modem for underwater communications, and USBL (underwater sound beacon locator).  

Source: ecosub.uk

Saronic raises $55M to develop drones for the US Navy

American company Saronic has raised funding of about $55 million to develop marine drones Corsair and scale the production of Spyglass and Cutlass. These drones are equipped with remotely updateable software and can carry a variety of payloads in environments where there is no communication or GPS. The drones are designed for autonomous navigation and decision-making in real time in the marine environment, as well as for other actions in swarm groups.

Spyglass is equipped with sensors and a compartment for a customizable payload. The drone is designed for reconnaissance and the execution of specific missions. The range of the drone reaches 30 nautical miles, the maximum speed is about 15 knots.

Cutlass is ready to move away from the carrier ship at a distance of up to 300 nautical miles with a maximum speed of up to 20 knots. The drone carries payloads weighing up to 90 kg and can act as a reconnaissance vehicle, a repeater, and even a platform for launching loitering munitions.

The key advantages of the drones are the minimal costs at all stages of the life cycle and the serious potential for scalability. The drones are designed to eliminate the bottlenecks and weaknesses of traditional American shipbuilding.

Source: therobotreport.com; image source: saronic.com