Teledyne FLIR and ACSL: Advancing UAS Capabilities through Thermal Imaging Integration

Strategic Collaboration to Enhance Drone Surveillance

The collaboration between Teledyne FLIR OEM and ACSL marks a significant advancement in the thermal imaging landscape for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, recognized as a forerunner in thermal imaging solutions, has enlisted Japan’s premier drone manufacturer, ACSL, to enhance its Thermal by FLIR® initiative. This partnership aims to facilitate the seamless integration of advanced thermal camera modules into next-generation drones, thereby streamlining market entry for these innovative products.

Cutting-Edge Payload Technology

ACSL’s latest thermal payload, the SAMO, is engineered with the compliance standards of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and is free from International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Central to this payload is the Hadron™ 640R dual thermal-visible camera module, featuring a remarkable 64MP visible camera alongside a 640×512 radiometric thermal imaging module known as the Boson®.

Additionally, the integration of FLIR’s proprietary MSX® Multi-Spectral Dynamic Imaging technology allows operators to produce high-fidelity thermal images with enriched detail. As a result, users benefit from real-time visual enhancements, crucial for operations requiring immediate situational awareness.

Enhanced Operational Readiness

Cynthia Huang, CEO of ACSL Inc., emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “Working with Teledyne FLIR OEM represents a pivotal move for ACSL. As the U.S. drone market continues to evolve, our focus is unwavering in providing field-ready solutions. The SAMO payload equips operators with proven imaging capabilities, thereby enhancing mission success rates.”

When paired with ACSL’s new TAITEN smart controller and the upgraded SOTEN platform, operators are empowered to conduct operations more efficiently and confidently, adapting swiftly to emerging challenges.

SOTEN: A Versatile Solution for Diverse Applications

The SOTEN drone, designed with a variety of public safety and industrial applications in mind, stands as a hallmark of ACSL’s design philosophy. Built to meet stringent performance and security standards, including ISO 15408 certification, this compact drone offers:

• NDAA compliance: Ensuring that users meet legal requirements for security.
• Foldable design: Facilitating easy transport and rapid deployment.
• Weather-resistant (IP43) construction: Allowing operations in diverse environmental conditions.
• Flight endurance: Offering a flight time of approximately 25 minutes, which is critical for comprehensive coverage in extended operations.
• Interchangeable payload system: Enabling quick transitions between imaging tasks to maintain operational efficiency.

These features collectively position the SOTEN as a reliable tool for emergency response, disaster relief, and infrastructure assessments, addressing the complexities of modern aerial mission profiles.

Security and Compliance in Focus

Amid rising concerns over drone security, ACSL’s offerings present a robust solution tailored for diverse mission requirements. Mike Walters, Vice President of Product Development at Teledyne FLIR OEM, commended ACSL’s rapid innovation cycle, underscoring the importance of secure and efficient drone operations for public safety and industrial applications. He noted, “The versatility of ACSL’s payload options is tailored to meet the diverse needs of mission-critical operations, allowing for quick adaptation in a fast-paced environment.”

A Framework for Future Innovations

The Thermal by FLIR program serves as an essential framework for the collaborative development of cutting-edge drone technology. By supporting Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) in their product development, this initiative underscores the commitment to enhancing operational capability through the integration of advanced thermal imaging solutions.

As military and security landscapes continually evolve, partnerships such as the one between Teledyne FLIR and ACSL become crucial for delivering the innovative technologies required to navigate complex operational environments effectively. This collaboration not only enhances the existing suite of drone capabilities but also sets a precedent for future advancements in thermal imaging applications within defense and public safety sectors.