11.25.2015

Choosing the Right Sensor For Your Application

With so many sensor models available and various options even within those, selecting the right sensor for your business needs can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here!

Every sensor we offer easily connects with the PrecisionHawk Lancaster, so swapping out one for another is effortless. Our range of sensors and comprehensive data analysis tools are unparalleled in today’s UAV market.

The best way to begin is to identify your specific needs by first determining the result that you want. What are you hoping to achieve? Once you have established your goals, selecting the best-suited sensor will come easily. Below is a brief overview of each sensor available, its industry applications and use cases.

The Sensor Applications Matrix is an easy-to-use guide that simplifies sensor selection for your industry needs. It represents a sampling of our top applications, though the possibilities are virtually limitless. Click on the image to enhance.

sensor-applications-matrix
Hyperspectral

The completely integrated visible and near infrared Hyperspectral Sensor is perfect for small UAV applications. Hyperspectral provides more detailed information content with a capability to see the unseen in comparison to a visual camera. The line scanning (push broom) type sensor is perfect for research applications to measure the spectrography of the ground.

LiDAR

LiDAR is a more traditional surveying tool used for creating point clouds and digital elevation models of the ground. The data can be used for plant height measurement by comparing the first return from the laser when it hits the top of the plant to the last return when it hits the ground.The ability to penetrate foliage makes LiDAR unique compared to passive optical imagers that provide height data only from the canopy. The digital elevation models can be more accurate compared to visual sensor based digital elevation models, depending on the application.

LiDAR

Multispectral

The Multispectral Sensor is one of the most commonly used scanning systems. Like the Hyperspectral Sensor it’s able to see visible light, infrared radiation and ultraviolet light. We offer a 5 Channel Multispectral Sensor and a High Resolution Multispectral Imager. They range in the number of bands and resolutions, topping out at sub one centimeter per pixel. 

Multispectral

Thermal Infrared (TIR)

Thermal Infrared Sensors have the ability to measure and read the surface temperature of land or objects beyond the scope of human vision. We offer two Thermal Infrared Sensor options, a High Resolution TIR-H and Radiometric High Resolution Thermal Sensor. Although the two sensors are very similar, a key difference is the High Resolution TIR-H sensor output is linear with temperature.

Visual

Both the Visual Sensor and Enhanced Resolution Visual Sensor are high-resolution, low-distortion RGB cameras which produces color imagery. A major advantage of visual imagery captured by a UAV is the aerial perspective of a specific area. You’re able to get a birds-eye-view high-res picture without putting in extra effort for the vantage point.

Visual

In a results driven climate, having a multitude of solutions available in one location eases the pressure when selecting the perfect sensor. We are constantly exploring advancements with the range of sensors we currently offer and creating innovative solutions to add more sensors to our existing line.

To find out more information about each sensor listed above, including tech specs, visit www.precisionhawk.com. If you’re interested in which sensor is perfect for your needs and how aerial data collection can become an integral part of your operation, please contact info@precisionhawk.com.