BFi OPTiLAS Extends Its Machine Vision Solutions with ProPhotonix InViso™ Micro

BFi OPTiLAS, European partner of ProPhotonix Ltd, is pleased to announce the launch of InViso™ Micro, an extension to its highly successful InViso laser diode module product line.

InViso combines a flat form factor with a "no tools required" external focus to produce an extremely uniform laser line. Its unique form factor provides instant alignment and expedites integration while ensuring a high-degree of repeatability.

InViso Micro incorporates all the existing InViso features while delivering fine line widths down to 16 µm at 120 mm working distance. Both InViso models are available in a range of wavelengths and power levels up to 100mW.

DRS Technologies, Inc. a Finmeccanica Company, today announced that it has entered into an international reseller agreement with Acal BFi - a division of Acal plc (FTSE:ACL) - to distribute its family of advanced military and commercial thermal imaging systems to security and surveillance Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Integrators throughout Europe.

The relationship with Acal BFi represents the first significant reseller programme in Europe for these DRS systems. They are developed by the Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA) Group, which has a rich history of leadership with high-quality and cost-effective thermal imaging systems. Acal BFi is a pan-European technical distributor providing specialist design support, manufacturing and test services across a range of products which includes semiconductors, RF and wireless, frequency control, electromechanical, power management and board-level systems for the electronic and photonic markets.

DRS Technologies’ RSTA thermal imaging systems produce sharp, high-quality images through smoke, dust, haze, light fog and in complete darkness. Rather than relying on light, they detect the infrared (heat) waves emitted by every person, object and structure, at any temperature. Among the RSTA products which Acal BFi will support are:

• Tamarisk™320: The world’s smallest and lightest full-featured thermal camera. Smaller than a golf ball, it occupies less than 30 cubic centimeters, weighs as little as 30 grams and consumes less than one watt of power. The excellent 320 x 240 resolution of the Tamarisk™320 is unmatched in a package of that compact size. Its small size makes the Tamarisk™320 particularly attractive to manufacturers for integration into their own products.
• UC640-17-LW: A miniature thermal imaging camera that employs vanadium oxide (VOx) detector technology to produce a clear, 640 x 480 image. This device is available in two configuration formats, OEM housed and split configuration, for maximum integrator flexibility.
• WatchMaster™ IP Elite: A very compact, Open Network Video Interface Forum (ONVIF™) compliant system that weighs less than 1500 grams. Providing a sharp 320 x 240 thermal image, it operates with Internet protocols and is easily networked.
• WatchMaster™ Pro: A powerful thermal imaging system in a small package that produces high-resolution 640 x 480 images with unparalleled clarity. The dual-camera device can be operated in a networked or standalone configuration.

“We welcome our new partnership with Acal BFi, and we are confident that the relationship will provide RSTA with a strong international presence as we introduce our industry-leading thermal technology to Europe’s military and commercial markets,” said RSTA President Terry Murphy. “Acal BFi’s presence throughout Europe, combined with their specialist engineers teams, in-house manufacturing and test services, will be important resources for OEMs and integrators who want to incorporate the latest imaging technology into their products.”

“The addition of advanced technologies, from one of the world’s leading manufacturers of thermal infrared imaging systems, allows Acal BFi to offer customers greater flexibility and choice, and strengthens our ability to support customers in developing next-generation imaging systems for the military and security markets,” explains Philippe Gruson, President Electronics Division, Acal BFi.

EMCCD technology. Enables single photon sensitivity
Peltier cooled CCD. maximizes low light imaging performance
10µm x 10µm pixel size. Provides best s/n during short exposures
Interline frame transfer. No mechanical shutter required, vibration-less CCD readout
10 bit USB 2.0 output. Provides plug & play operations
Ultra compact. Enables easy integration

EMCCD technology. Enables high sensitivity imaging (< 100 microLux scene illuminiation)

No image intensifier. Optimum B/W image sharpness in ALL light conditions

Interline frame transfer. No mechanical shutter required, vibrationless CCD readout

Ultra low power (< 4 W): Ideal for OEM integration into EO system

Ultra compact. Easy integration into UAV, handheld or robotic systems

RS485 interface. Easy remote control communication

No fan: ideal for integration and discrete low light surveillance