Unmanned Innovation, a prominent player in the unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) growth sector, has joined forces with VectorNav Technologies to incorporate the VN-100 inertial measurement unit (IMU) into it’s os-Series Autopilots.
Innovative Autopilot Solutions
The os-Series Autopilots from Unmanned Innovation provide a versatile platform that facilitates swift prototyping and economical production for various UAS types, including fixed-wing, helicopters, multi-rotors, and custom configurations. By integrating VectorNav’s VN-100, a compact and calibrated MEMS-based IMU, customers gain access to a thoroughly tested and fully calibrated inertial measurement solution.
Modular Design and Open Architecture
Launched in November 2012, the os-Series Autopilots combine modular hardware with an open architecture, transforming each unit into a robust Development Platform. These autopilots are available in various configurations, tailored to meet the specific needs of different vehicles, payloads, and applications. Each unit is a thorough solution, featuring an INS/GPS system with air data that incorporates the VectorNav VN-100, a datalink radio, payload interfaces, and a Linux computer, all within a compact package weighing as little as 32 grams. Additionally, Unmanned Innovation provides professionally developed flight control and mission software under a royalty-free license, allowing for straightforward modifications and integration into proprietary systems.
Strategic Partnership and Enhanced capabilities
The collaboration between Unmanned Innovation and VectorNav was initiated at the AUVSI’s Unmanned Systems north America 2012 conference in August.During this event, Unmanned Innovation discovered the VN-100 and identified it as a compelling choice to thier existing inertial measurement solutions, thanks to its compact size, affordability, and high-precision calibration. The adaptable architecture of Unmanned Innovation enabled the swift integration of the VN-100, while VectorNav supplied custom firmware with an accelerated update rate to meet Unmanned Innovation’s specifications. The VN-100 IMU, calibrated for bias, scale factor, and misalignment errors across its thermal operating range, substantially enhanced the navigation accuracy of the os-Series Autopilot. Following a brief development phase, testing, and validation, the VN-100 IMUs are now seamlessly integrated into the os-Series Autopilots, which are currently being shipped to clients both domestically and internationally, free from ITAR restrictions.
Industry Perspectives
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Unmanned Innovation on their os-Series Autopilot, which we believe is a distinctive and high-value offering that addresses a notable gap in the market,” stated John Brashear, President of VectorNav. “We anticipate that the VN-100 will enhance this value, enabling Unmanned Innovation to concentrate on refining the os-Series while establishing a reliable, long-term sensing solution and partnership with us.”
“Our partnership with VectorNav is incredibly exciting, as their well-calibrated hardware has significantly improved the accuracy of our os-Series Autopilots,” remarked Jonathan Downey, CEO of Unmanned Innovation.
