The FUTURE IS HERE: A new generation of unmanned systems from ZALA AERO
THE FUTURE IS ALREADY HERE:
NEW GENERATION OF UNMANNED SYSTEMS FROM ZALA AERO
ZALA AERO, a leading Russian manufacturer of unmanned systems, presented a new generation of unmanned systems, which are unparalleled in Russia in terms of their capabilities. The new unmanned systems are capable of real-time video transmission to a ground control station in HD quality via a secure communication channel at a distance of over 70 kilometres.
HIGH-QUALITY HD VIDEO TRANSMISSION
ZALA's new-generation UAVs are equipped with a powerful on-board computer, which enables the transmission of a greater amount of information during flight. The computer processes and stores data on board in Full HD, and transmits HD video images in visible and thermal imaging via three video channels. The operator can now simultaneously see an overview, a close-up image and an infrared image while observing the object. The data transmitted is fully protected by encryption.
MINIMUM SIGNAL DELAY
In addition to high video resolution, video latency is one of the main criteria for operator comfort. This is the amount of time that passes between the actual capture of a frame and its display on the operator's monitor, and on ZALA unmanned aerial systems the delay is imperceptible to the operator. In conditions of observing a fast-moving object, tracking a moving target, the signal delay time can become a critical parameter.
BILEVEL STABILISATION
Video image stabilisation is one of the most important tasks for developers. The slightest camera shake is critical when shooting at maximum zoom, as the object may move out of the frame. In addition, it is simply uncomfortable for the operator to see a bouncing picture on the monitor.
Many other companies use only digital stabilisation - this is when camera movement is compensated for by "moving the frame in the opposite direction". That is, the "jumping" edges of the video image are cropped and the picture is more stabilised. But in this case the frame is cut and the visible area is reduced, say, the operator sees 60-70 per cent of what is in the camera lens.
ZALA target loads are stabilised and have two levels of stabilisation - mechanical and digital. They have gyro-stabilised three-axis platforms that allow the camera to remain stationary during vibrations of the aircraft board, for example, during strong winds. It is mechanical stabilisation that ensures that valuable image pixels are not lost and that the video image is seen on the screen at maximum resolution.
This approach allows us to install those types of equipment that cannot be stabilised by software methods.
ZALA AERO has also expanded its range of target payloads. Especially for the new unmanned systems, modern target payloads with video cameras and thermal imaging cameras have been developed to cover all customer needs.
HD VIDEO CAMERA WITH 60X MAGNIFICATIONand a high-sensitivity mode.
The smart video camera takes detection-recognition-identification standards to a whole new level.
Now from a height of 2,000 metres it is possible not only to detect a person, but also to identify him or her by gender and age: to distinguish an adult from a child, a man from a woman.
High sensitivity mode will allow the operator to work comfortably in light twilight - when the day range camera no longer transmits a clear video image.
HD 20x zoom HD video camera with thermal imager capable of simultaneously transmitting visible and thermal images.
Application of the new thermal imager will allow to carry out full-fledged thermal reconnaissance - to measure the temperature of objects with an accuracy of up to 2°С in the range from -60 to +60°С.
In the past, this process was much more time-consuming and labour-intensive as it was carried out manually using portable equipment.
It is now possible to detect in minutes any hidden problems related to energy efficiency and heat loss on large facilities - construction sites, oil and gas pipelines and power lines.
HD thermal imager with video camera is a new and unique thermal imaging module that broadcasts thermal images in HD format (1024×768).
Large resolution of the matrix, high sensitivity, digital noise filtering allow you to clearly see the details in the infrared image, to examine the defect in the smallest detail, to see temperature differences of the investigated objects.
The image from the video camera and thermal imager can be simultaneously transmitted to the ground station. The target payload is functionally integrated with the automatic target tracking module and the terrain coordinates module.
The detailed and clear video image greatly simplifies the operator's work. The use of new unmanned systems will provide advantages in aerial surveillance of dynamic objects during special operations, search and rescue operations and in situations where rapid response is required.
The functionality of ZALA unmanned systems is continuously expanding: the company's specialists introduce the latest industry technologies, developers create their own unique solutions, and adapt global technical innovations to the needs of customers. Being in the light class of UAVs (up to 30 kg), ZALA unmanned systems are able to better fulfil tasks that traditionally belonged to heavy class UAVs, but unlike them, require much less resources.
