The Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency’s Pixel Network (PIXNET) aims to create helmet-mounted and clip-on camera systems that combine visible, infrared, and near-infrared sensors into a single system.
The PIXNET Camera System
As soldiers are required to engage in remote locations, they need clear visualisation to identify targets and take images. DARPA’s Dynamic Visualisation program was created to serve this purpose.
The portable camera systems have to be small, lightweight, have minimal power consumption, a low manufacturing cost, be easy to use, have network capabilities, be able to share images with fellow soldiers, and reduce the burden on warfighters.
Android Integration for Faster Processing
To minimise size and energy consumption, PIXNET will interface with an Android smartphone to increase processing speed. Android smartphones will be utilised for fusing multi-band images and providing networking among various units.
Google’s Android OS, which is becoming the most popular mobile operating system, has now found applications in the defence sector. DARPA instructs developers to create Android apps that can be used for PIXNET.
Credits: DARPA
