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Cloud Cap Technology has completed our initial trade show planning for 2009. Please plan on visiting our booths at the following tradeshows:
- Paris Air Show: Paris France, June 15 - 21, 2009 N
- National Sheriffs Assoc: Fort Lauderdale, FL, June 20 - 25, 2009
- Airborne Law Enforcement: Savannah, GA July 22 - 25, 2009
- AUVSI North America: Washington DC, August 10 - 13, 2009
We will be attending but will not be exhibiting at the following trade shows:
- 2009 Homeland Security-West: Seattle, WA Feb 23 - 26, 2009
- Aerial Firefighting: Anaheim, CA Feb 19 - 20, 2009
- Heli Expo International: Anaheim, CA Feb 22 - 24, 2009
- Shephard Search and Rescue SAR: Washington DC March 30 - 31, 2009
- NAB: Las Vegas, NV April 18 - 23, 2009
- DoJ/NiJ: San Diego, CA May 3 - 7, 2009
- Sensors Expo: Rosemount, IL June 8-10, 2009
- Computers In Agriculture: Reno, NV June 22 - 24, 2009
June 22, 2009 – VPS Product Release
The Vision Processing System (VPS) has been released to provide advanced gimbal image processing functionality for the TASE and TASE Duo gimbals. This stand alone unit (0.81in x 3.7in x 4.25in, 6.55oz) provides object tracking, scene steering, image stabilization, and data overlays. The control interface is via the TASE gimbal, providing a clean integration. Image processing functionality is the same as that integrated into the T2 gimbal and allows system performance benefits over using the Gimbal UI - Object Tracking plug-in in many cases. Please contact Cloud Cap Technology to discuss the benefits of including a VPS in your gimbal system.
May 1, 2009 – Goodrich Corporation aquires Cloud Cap Technology
On May 1, 2009, the Goodrich Corporation completed the acquisition of Cloud Cap Technology, Inc. CCT is now a part of Goodrich's ISR Systems business unit. We will continue to provide the same focus on customers with our product development and technical support - enhanced by the additional support of Goodrich and its wide range of technical expertise.
"This acquisition provides Goodrich with an increased presence in the rapidly growing small military UAV market, and also expands our ability to offer complete ISR imaging solutions for these platforms," said Curtis Reusser, Segment President, Electronic Systems at Goodrich. "CCT's experience in providing powerful integrated solutions can dramatically reduce the time required to implement new unmanned aircraft systems, and we are pleased to have their advanced proprietary products join our broad portfolio of high-tech systems."
Ross Hoag, President of CCT, said, "We have had a very successful run in building Cloud Cap Technology to its current size and capabilities with customer-focused technologies that are second to none. In joining Goodrich, we can gain the support needed to grow the business while maintaining our entrepreneurial drive for increasingly innovative technical solutions."
February 3-4, 2009 – ACR Test Flies Manta UAV with T2 Gimbal
The ACR Manta unmanned aircraft system, equipped with Cloud Cap Technology’s T2 Gimbal and Piccolo II Autopilot, recently flew a series of successful test flights demonstrating the ability of the T2 to identify targets at ranges of 3,000 to 4,000 feet. The T2 Gimbal, weighing just 5 lbs, was setup with the standard integrated image processing with object tracking, Sony FCB-EX980 and the FLIR Photon 640 IR camera (14 deg FOV) configuration. The Manta integration of the T2 gimbal was smoothly achieved and the gimbal performance was excellent. ACR program manager Chris Troudt stated that “…the T2 is an excellent match for the Manta. Together they provide a powerful combination.” Test flights also included a series of autonomous takeoff and landings in 15 to 30 kt winds utilizing the DGPS auto-land and take off software feature available on all Cloud Cap Technology’s Piccolo Autopilots. The Manta provides a 6+ hrs of flight with 40-90 kt cruise speeds.
January 6, 2009 – The MLB Company announces the Piccolo and Gimbal Hardware Equipped Bat 3 CC
The MLB Company announces the Bat 3 CC, the latest version of the popular Bat 3 series with Cloud Cap Technology’s autopilot and gimbal hardware. The MLB Company was founded in 1987 and specializes in complete ready-to-fly UAV systems. The Bat 3CC, a low-cost UAV system with 6 hours of duration, is now available from MLB with the Piccolo II autopilot and TASE or TASE Duo gimbal system. Initial units have been delivered to the Air Force Research Labs and have performed successfully in flight trials. Prices start at around $80,000 for a complete ready to fly system including all support equipment. For further information please contact , (650) 966-1022.
Nov 20, 2008 T2 Stabilized Gimbal Now in Production
Cloud Cap Technology announces the production release of the T2 stabilized camera gimbal with the first units being delivered in December. Leveraging the inertial stabilization technology developed in the smaller TASE products, the T2 increases payload volume and enhances stabilization performance. The T2 is designed for airborne law enforcement, search and rescue, aerial mapping, and fire observation missions. The T2 is also designed to support the STUAS/TIER II payload requirements and a wide range of other unmanned system applications.
The T2 includes a full GPS/INS engine for standalone “bolt on and go” operation. Utilizing direct drive brushless motors, the T2 offers agile, smooth and steady video collection. The initial baseline payload configuration includes a Sony 26 X optical zoom daylight camera, the FLIR Photon 640 LWIR camera, and an NVG Wavelength IR Pointer.
Standard onboard video processing adds video stabilization, object tracking, and Geo-location capabilities. Video from multiple cameras can be switched on board or viewed simultaneously. Communications are compatible with existing TASE options, simplifying updates from applications with other Cloud Cap gimbals and the open communication specification allows customer developed and third party application development. Cloud Cap’s Gimbal UI application provides full featured control, video/telemetry recording, and playback.
See full performance specifications for the T2 gimbal and sample videos here.
Contact for more information.
Nov 18, 2008 Successful On-Board Video Processing Flight Test
Cloud Cap recently flight tested new onboard video processing on the TASE single camera (Sony FCB 480- 16 x zoom) gimbal mounted on a RV7 aircraft. On board video processing allows from improved vehicle tracking as well as the much anticipated scene stabilization. These two features will allow users to engage and continue tracking objects over time with greater ease. On board video processing is part of the baseline configuration for the T2 and will be available as an add-on feature for all of TASE family products. See the latest flight test video.
Nov 7, 2008 Manned Aircraft Flight Testing
In October and November, the Cloud Cap Technology team participated in two manned aircraft test exercises using the TASE family of gimbals. The Department of Justice (DoJ) tested the TASE Duo on a Light Sport Aircraft, the Tecnam Eaglet and the Redlands Police Department (RPD) tested the T2 on a 
Cessna 172. The team mounted the TASE gimbals the strut of each aircraft using a new manned aircraft mounting system designed by Cloud Cap. The Department of Justice contractor Tim Adelman was impressed with both the short setup time (less than 1 hour from start to finish) and system performance, adding, "We are excited to continue testing the system for the air borne law enforcement market."
With the RPD, the team completed three day flights and two night flights including air support missions. RPD has taken a leadership position in employing the use of low-cost assets to create air support for small and rural police departments. Cloud Cap and RPD will continue to work together in developing a complete air support solution, which can be rolled out to police departments across the country.
For more information on the use of Cloud Cap gimbals for the law enforcement market please use the following contacts:
Cloud Cap Technology
Pierce Louis. 541.387.2120 x 245.
Department of Justice
Mike O’Shea. 202.305.7954.
Redlands Police Department
Jim Bueermann. 909. 335-4744.
October 5th, 2008 - Cross country glider flight with Piccolo Autopilot unofficially breaks FAI World Record!
Dan Edwards, a Graduate Student in the Aerospace Engineering Program at North Carolina State University, and his team broke new ground in autonomous non-powered flight on October 5th, 2008. The ALOFT (Autonomous Locator of Thermals) glider traveled 30.2 miles of a goal-and-return flight (60.4 miles round trip) in approximately 3 hours and 42 minutes. This beats the FAI record of 24.3 miles (set in 2005 by Gary Fogel) by over 5 miles! The ALOFT is autonomously controlled by the Piccolo II Autopilot. For more information about this historic flight, visit soaring.goosetechnologies.com.
August 8, 2008 - 2.1.0 Software Release!
The long awaited Piccolo software version 2.1.0 has been released! Version 2.1.0 adds many improvements and features to the Piccolo System:
- Support for rotary wing applications though a partnership with Guided Systems Technologies. Piccolo now provides a full featured VTOL solution that has been field proven, combining the full range of Piccolo benefits and the adaptive controller and VTOL experience of GST.
- INS and control loops running at 50Hz (up from 20 in 2.0.4)
- Support for landing into moving nets using the RTK GPS system
- Plug-in architecture for Piccolo Command Center for third party tools
- Terrain awareness and warning system in Piccolo Command Center
- Command Control and Display of TASE gimbals in Piccolo Command Center
Additionally, advanced features are available on a tiered license fee so that integrators can purchase only the advanced features they require. Contact for more information.
July 28, 2008 - Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) Finishes Third Overall in the 2008 International Aerial Robotics Competition
We are pleased to announce that ERAU, based in Daytona Beach, FL has finished third place overall for the 2008 International Aerial Robotics Competition (IARC). The IARC is a multiyear competition, developed to challenge student teams and advance the state of the art in unmanned aerial systems. ERAU, a latecomer to the competition has joined on the final and most difficult year of the competition. Using a Piccolo autopilot, enabled by Guided Systems Technologies’ (GST) patented Adaptive Neural Network controls technology, ERAU was able to achieve fully autonomous operations of their rotary wing UAV. GST engineers provided rotary craft training and technical support.
Charles Reinholtz, Professor and Chair of the Department of Mechanical Engineering had this to say about the Piccolo and GST support:
"The performance of the autopilot freed us to work on other aspects of the competition, from the first time we turned it on IT JUST WORKED! Exceptional support, thorough documentation and a knowledgeable, responsive staff"
For more information, contact:
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Ph: 386.323.8848
This excellent result, combined with Piccolo use by the winning teams of the AUVSI student competition in both 2007 and 2008 (see Mississippi State winning news update on this page) is a remarkable reflection on the power and ease of use of Piccolo autopilot systems.
July 21, 2008 - Cloud Cap Technology Expands Production Facility
The new expansion will house all of the necessary production and testing equipment along with parts and raw materials storage. It will also provide more space for shipping and receiving. "We are very pleased with this added capacity," stated Ross Hoag Chief Executive officer. "Not only have we added more space, we are also acquiring new and more efficient equipment."
July 9, 2008 - TASE LT Development Update
TASE LT design work is continuing with three prototypes built in June. They were shown at the AUVSI trade show supporting three different camera designs. The design concept and prototype fit within the 4.5 inch dome and tube envelope meeting the NAVAIR SBIR Phase II requirement. The TASE LT design will allow for mounting on a variety of different vehicle configurations using a standard form factor payload. Flight testing will begin in July with a target production date of Q1, 2009.
June 24, 2008 - Piccolo System Software Access
Piccolo system software is protected under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Customer’s will have access to software downloads for Piccolo products through the Cloud Cap Technology website after receiving a password. To receive a password, go to the customer registration page and fill out the on-line form. To find out more about export control issues, visit the US Department of State, Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) office web site.
June 18, 2008 - AUVSI Student Competition Winners Use Piccolo LT Avionics
Cloud Cap Technology is proud sponsor of the recently completed AUVSI Student UAS competition held at Webster Field, June 18th - 22nd, 2008. The Mississippi State University XIPITER team, using the Piccolo LT avionics system won first place in the mission performance as well as overall competition categories. A number of the participants were using Piccolo autopilots to successfully complete the competition goals. Initial results are available at the AUVSI competition website. Congratulations to all student teams for their outstanding efforts.
June 14, 2008 - Cross country glider flight with Piccolo Autopilot brings graduate student one step closer to an FAI world record!
Dan Edwards, Graduate Student, Aerospace Engineering Program North Carolina State University and his team and his team broke new ground in autonomous non-powered flight on June 14th, 2008. The ALOFT (Autonomous Locator of Thermals) glider completed a 39.44 mile cross-country trek lasting 207 minutes, completing over half of the old distance-to-goal-and-return record of 50.6 miles. The team's ultimate goal is to break the 140.7 mile FAI world record for cross country flight set in 1988. The ALOFT glider, flown autonomously with a Piccolo autopilot, has a 14.2 ft wing span and weighs just under 12.25 lbs. For more information about this historic project visit soaring.goosetechnologies.com
April 24, 2008 - T2 Gimbal Flight Test Successfully Completed
Hood River, OR - The first flight test of the T2 gimbal was successfully conducted on April 24, 2008. The test was executed using a prototype gimbal mounted on the strut of an Air Commander Darter under wind conditions gusting to 31 knots. The primary goals of the test were to exercise the new drive system and to assess the stabilization performance of the gimbal. The results were outstanding; the stabilization and object tracking performance allowed repeatable hands-off autonomous tracking of moving vehicles for over one minute even at a 2 degree field of view during significant aircraft motion. The progress shown with this sustained tracking capability was due to new software developments by Cloud Cap Technology’s partner company Solution Engineering Inc.
Infrared imaging using the new Flir 640 Photon with a 35mm f/1.4 lens was also successful; the production T2 will feature the 640 Photon with a 62mm f/1.25, delivering 14 degree FOV imagery. T2 qualification testing continues with successful environmental testing from -50°C to +80°C and shock, vibration, and additional flight testing planned in the near future.
April 7, 2008 - Cloud Cap Technology launches the new Piccolo Configuration Wizard!
Need help defining your Piccolo autopilot system? The Piccolo Configuration Wizard is the answer! Building a full avionics solution, complete with an autopilot, ground station, and developer’s kit, can be very complex given the number of configuration options.
The Piccolo Configuration Wizard is a new web based system configuration tool designed to help customers define and tailor Piccolo system elements to best meet the needs of their project. The wizard conveniently matches radios, ground stations, and advanced features, which simplifies the system building process.
At the end of the wizard you can print a complete configuration list, and if desired, have the list sent to Cloud Cap to get a formal quotation via e-mail. Take a tour of the Piccolo Configuration Wizard and let us know what you think!
April 1, 2008 - T2 Gimbal Initial Testing a Success!
Hood River, OR - Cloud Cap Technology has been very pleased with the initial testing of the newest Tier II gimbal, the T2 over the last few weeks. Senior Engineering Technician, Dan Underwood stated, “It’s been very successful so far. We wanted to test the current levels created by wind loading on the motors. We are very pleased with the results.” Lead Engineer Rob Gilchrist added, “Wind load generated large power draw was our biggest concern on this product, and we’re happy to see it perform so well during these initial tests.”
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The T2 is the newest gimbal in the TASE family of gimbals, building on inertial stabilization technology developed in the TASE and TASE Duo products. T2 has been in development for the past six months and is set to debut at this year’s AUVSI tradeshow in June.
April 1, 2008 - Cloud Cap Technology Celebrates Nine Year Anniversary!
Piccolo
refers to “a small instrument an octave higher than others”; a fitting description of Cloud Cap Technology’s cornerstone product.It has been nine years since founders Ross Hoag and Bill Vaglienti, veterans of the Aerosonde UAV development program, set out with a goal of developing an avionics system for small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). They knew that the avionics system had to be small, low cost, and low power. This concept evolved for the first two years of the company’s existence until a core set of autopilot requirements were worked out. In the fall of 2001 all of these requirements came together to produce the first Piccolo avionics system and ground station.
Since then the Piccolo family of products has grown to include an expanded line of autopilots, payloads, and sensors.
From its humble beginnings of two innovative engineers, the Cloud Cap team has grown to more than twenty engineers, technicians, and support personnel with over 70 years of combined experience in the UAV field.
Cloud Cap Technology looks forward to many more years of serving our customers by continuing to provide powerful low cost integrated solutions to the UAV market.
November 26, 2007 - Cloud Cap Technology and Guided Systems Technologies form Alliance
Hood River, OR - Cloud Cap Technology, Inc. is pleased to announce a new partnership with Guided Systems Technologies to provide Piccolo autopilot solutions for helicopter and other rotary wing unmanned vehicles. Guided Systems Technologies, leveraging more than 18 years of experience in guidance and control, offers advanced flight control technology that has been proven on a wide variety of unmanned rotary wing vehicles, including single main rotor and coaxial helicopters, tilt rotors, ducted fans, tail sitters and airplanes that can hover on the propeller.
Piccolo autopilot products are now capable of full-envelope automated helicopter flight operations, including take-off and landing, precision hover, automated path following and autopilot assisted manual steering modes. Additionally, Guided Systems will provide comprehensive customer support from initial project requirements definition through qualification flight testing.
Dr. Eric Corban, Guided System’s Founder and CTO says, “The helicopter and rotary wing UAV market will benefit greatly from affordable access to a complete helicopter control solution proven over a number of flight test programs that is made relatively easy to integrate through the combination of advanced technology, integrated hardware, quality documentation, and support that is tailored to the needs of the rotorcraft community.”
The Cloud Cap Technology family of Piccolo autopilots have become the standard for fixed wing UAV integrators. All of the Piccolo options provide a complete, off-the-shelf avionics system solution including the core autopilot, flight sensors, navigation, wireless communication, and payload interfaces, all in a small, highly-integrated, and inexpensive package. Over 1,500 autopilots have been delivered to date. The Piccolo autopilot is currently in service on a wide range of vehicles including the ACR Silver Fox, the Raytheon Cobra and the NAVAIR Tiger Shark UAV. Detailed information and system documentation for the Piccolo autopilots can be found at www.cloudcaptech.com.
For additional information contact:
| Young Kim Guided Systems Technologies (770) 898-9100 x895 |
Mark Zanmiller Cloud Cap Technology (541) 387-2120 x 27 |
Moving Net Precision Recovery Success
November 7-8, 2007 Tucson AZ – Today Advanced Ceramics Research (ACR) and Cloud Cap Technology (CCT) demonstrated moving capture precision recovery using a Piccolo II equipped Silver Fox UAV with the latest 2.X autopilot software. During the two days of testing the team was ten for ten on autonomous recovery attempts, which included a variety of moving net scenarios. This was the first flight test of the moving capture algorithms and demonstrated the capability required for autonomous shipboard recovery. Shipboard testing will follow early next year. The flight test marks the culmination of a one-year development effort led by Bill Vaglienti, CCT’s co-founder and CTO, and builds upon the initial release of the 2.X branch of Piccolo autopilot code which supported fixed position precision recovery. With the addition of moving capture precision recovery the Piccolo System now supports options for autonomous rolling takeoff, catapult, balloon and tube launching; as well as wheeled, belly, shipboard or land based precision net recovery.
Background
Advanced Ceramics Research
(ACR) is a leading developer of small UAS systems
for the Department of Defense. Their Silver Fox UAV is currently deployed
in Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. ACR provided the Silver Fox
UAV, ground infrastructure, flight operations crew, as well as designed and
implemented the moving net system used during the testing. ACR is one of
CCT most valued customers; historically they have been a driver as well as
an early adopter of new Piccolo technology. A special thanks goes out to
the ACR team who were instrumental in making this flight test possible.
Cloud Cap Technology (CCT) is the world leader in end user programmable UAV autopilots systems, payloads, and sensors. The Piccolo family of autopilots, Piccolo II, Piccolo Plus, and Piccolo LT, provide unparalleled performance, reliability, and flexibility at an affordable price. The Piccolo system offers a complete solution including modeling and simulation tools, documentation and support as well as a new full-featured user interface called Piccolo Command Center (PCC).
For additional information contact:
| Mark Zanmiller Cloud Cap Technology (541) 387-2120 x 27 |
Matt Pobloske Advanced Ceramics Research (520)-573-6300 |
For past news items, see our News Archive...
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