|
The
Casper 200 miniature UAV was designed to meet an Israel defense
Forces requirement for backpackable aerial surveillance, operated
by a single soldier, in support of infantry operations. The 1.3
meter long MAV weighs 2.3 kg, and is constructed of composite
materials. The Casper 200 is assembled in the field without any
tools. The 2m' span wing is optimized for low speed, and a 1:15
glide ratio.
A larger version, Caster 250 was displayed at the Paris Airshow.
This MAV is equipped with an improved
LEV-2 payload with daylight CCD or IIR optronics, x3
stabilization and x25 zoom.
The ground component comprises an antennae group and a compact ground
control station. The gimbaled payload is snapped on to the fore
section. Casper 200 uses a lightweight (240gr.) payload, specially designed
for small platforms, it accommodates a high resolution video
camera with a x2 zoom or other sensors as required.
The
Casper MAV is powered by an electric motor, which maintains a
velocity of 21 to 80 km/h and rate of climb of 7 m/sec to an
operating altitude of 70 - 250 m' above ground level. Casper
is hand launched and recovered automatically at a pre-designated
point, utilizing a special wing structure that enables low speed
soft landing even over difficult terrain.
The mini UAV demonstrated excellent
handling and mission performance in open area as well as in urban
reconnaissance, where it's autopilot uses special obstacle
avoidance algorithm. TopiVision claims the new system has superior
performance compared to most of the mini UAVs of its class, due to
the use of specific design, construction, particularly in the
efficient aerodynamic design and telescopic, collapsible tail
which effectively absorbs the landing impact. An innovative
landing concept uses a wing flap to perform rapid but soft
descent. Other features include improved communications, which
contribute to significant power savings and cleaner aerodynamics,
leaving more capacity for batteries and payload.

|