BaySpec’s OCI-UAV Aerial Hyperspectral Imager
Hyperspectral imaging involves the collection and processing of information from across the electromagnetic spectrum. This technique employs bulky optics such as prism, movable gratings for wavelength dispersion and complex imaging detectors to capture the data cube.
Hyperspectral imaging devices are not only employed for industrial applications but also used widely in research laboratories. However, their applications have been limited due to the lack of robust designs and rapid, inexpensive model imagers.
BaySpec’s imaging solution has overcome these limitations by combining spectral dispersion elements with the image sensor so as to eliminate the need of bulky and expensive optics.
BaySpec’s hyperspectral imagers are compact, easy-to-use, high-performance hyperspectral cameras used for small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to investigate spatial, temporal, and spectral orientation of ground objects. They come in both snapshot and push-broom models with a wavelength range between 400 and 1000nm, ideal for aerial spectroscopic imaging applications like precision agriculture.
The spectral detection range of the system provide a wide range of information such as level of hydration, plant type and their physiological state, and soil constituents. Upon integration with UAVs used in automatic terrestrial surveys, the system facilitates critical vegetation development stages. The system also features a multi-motor UAV platform with an active vibration-isolation gimbal system and GPS/IMU autopilot.
All the parts of the OCI systems are protected from electromagnetic interference and shock-resistant to avoid interference with UAV’s GPS/autopilot system. This makes the system ideal for operations under different flight conditions.
BaySpec is on the verge of miniaturized hyperspectral cameras in short-wavelength infrared (SWIR), mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR), and long-wavelength infrared (LWIR) range.
Its in-depth knowledge in hyperspectral imaging technology enables it to produce highly reliable optical spectrometers e.g. SuperGamut™ series UV-SWIR spectrometer with a spectral range of 190 to 2500nm.
The OCI-UAV-1000, rated at a TRL7 level is now available for commercial applications in the field of forensics, biomedical diagnostics and precision agriculture.
BaySpec hopes to expand the potential applications of OCI-UAV-1000 in validation of natural flora and chemical agents in the liquid or vapor phase using its next generation LWIR and MWIR instruments.
