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10 Platform one Entner Electronics has developed a software-programmable camera with a remote imaging head for 4K high-resolution applications (writes Nick Flaherty). The UC-200FE is suitable for security and surveillance applications in unmanned systems. Entner designed a processing subsystem that provides a high-quality 16x digital zoom function and a 2.2x lossless zoom. The digital pan-tilt-zoom function allows an operator to zoom into specific regions of interest. To cope with a bright spot, such as when looking towards a sunlit horizon, the camera has a free programmable reference area for the auto-exposure algorithm. The camera provides the most common interfaces, including HDMI, LVDS, USB and Ethernet. Additional interface electronics Michelin and General Motors have developed a prototype airless wheel that does not need a traditional tyre (writes Nick Flaherty). The Uptis (Unique Punctureproof Tyre System) prototype is part of a joint research agreement to validate the design and technology. The aim is to introduce the wheel on passenger cars in 2024. The wheel, built from aluminium with a composite rubber structure and proprietary high-strength resin- embedded fibreglass, is being tested on a fleet of Chevrolet Bolt EVs. The key is a glass multi-filament composite. Seen from the side, the multi-filament strands in the lower part of the sidewall take the place of steel and fibre in a typical radial tyre. The are therefore not required, and multiple interface lines can be used to synchronise the camera head with other system components or external controls. The image sensor uses Sony’s 13 MP EXMOR RS sensor for high sensitivity and low-noise 4K imaging. An industry- standard M12 lens mount allows a wide unsprung weight and amount of material used to create the Uptis is greater than a standard tyre but is comparable to a run-flat tyre, which uses a rigid sidewall to allow a certain distance of travel after losing air. variety of off-the-shelf lenses to be used. The UC-200FE is compatible with the industry-standard VISCA protocol to allow existing imaging systems to be easily upgraded. A free programmable ARM-based processor running Linux allows the camera’s functionality to be extended. The wheel is of particular interest for driverless ride-sharing applications, which cannot afford to have a flat tyre or blow-out during operation. The taxis are also intended to operate for much longer periods than consumer vehicles. Imaging Driverless cars Camera’s remote slant Tyreless airless wheel December/January 2020 | Unmanned Systems Technology Entner’s UC-200FE has a 16x digital zoom and a 2.2x lossless zoom x The Uptis prototype would suit driverless taxis, which cannot afford a flat or blow-out