Cameras and Vision Technology for Remotely Operated Vehicles

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) include many types of automated machines, such as Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV), Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). They can be remotely controlled or include a degree of autonomy to move around factories, warehouses, battlefields and even underwater environments.

Because ROVs are used in so many different situations, their imaging needs can vary widely. We offer advanced, highly reliable imaging products to meet all these demands.

ROVs empowered with industry-leading imaging solutions can be used for

• Moving goods around warehouses and factories
• Defense applications such as bomb detection and disposal
• Pipe and sewer inspection
• Final-mile deliveries
• Marine research
• Subsea exploration
• Underwater inspections and defect detection

AF-Zoom cameras for ROVs

Harrier AF-Zoom cameras are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for ROVs. The powerful zoom options deliver real-time, high-resolution video transmission or image capture.

Our autofocus zoom camera range includes:

• Very compact camera modules
• Global shutter cameras
• Optical zoom options up to 55x
• Multiple video output options (Ethernet IP incl. PoE, USB 3, HDMI, 3G-SDI, LVDS and more)
• 4K video in selected IP and HDMI models

For HD video transmission over extended cable distances, explore Active Silicon’s HD-VLC technology solution.

Board cameras

Our board-level cameras, the Oriole board cameras, offer day and night capability with switchable IR-cut filter. Models with 3G-SDI or Ethernet IP are available.

Frame grabbers for on-vehicle image processing

CoaXPress and Camera Link vision systems provide fast, reliable capture of high-resolution, high-speed images. We supply a range of frame grabber interface cards for these systems.

CoaXPress or Camera Link frame grabbers guarantee smooth real-time image acquisition from high-resolution cameras. The fast transfer of time-critical image data to remote operators provides better situational awareness.

Embedded vision systems offer ultimate customization options

Active Silicon also designs and builds custom embedded vision systems. Our team can modify existing products or create a completely tailored solution for OEMs, optimizing size, performance, connectivity and more.

You can choose features such as:

• High-performance processors
• Multiple video acquisition channels
• Various camera control interfaces
• PC connectivity options

Custom systems allow complex imaging needs to be met while keeping size, weight and power (SWaP) to a minimum.

Read more on our Custom Design Services and contact our team to discuss cameras and other imaging requirements for your ROV project.

Find below examples of products used in ROVs, AUVs or AGVs and other mobile robot platforms and news blog stories with additional information on vision systems in automated and autonomous vehicles.