TOPAZ
Topaz is a licensable feature of Strata, streaming of 360 video referenced to GPS coordinates on tactical networks. Topaz’s 360-degree video technology eliminates the limitations of traditional narrow-field cameras and offers an all-encompassing view of the operational environment. With 360-degree video, commanders and operators can detect threats from any angle, monitor multiple points of interest simultaneously, and achieve a level of situational awareness that was once unattainable. Ideal for unmanned operations or physical security, Topaz is ready for deployments in any environment.
Topaz’s 360-degree video technology eliminates the limitations of traditional narrow-field cameras and offers an all-encompassing view of the operational environment. This eliminates the “soda straw problem” of narrow field of view on unmanned or telephoto surveillance camera systems. In addition to wide field of view, Topaz allows reference with GIS systems for tracking fleets or teams of unmanned vehicles in a theater of operation. This gives drone operators the high level overview and the detailed first person point of view at the same time allowing for unprecedented situational awareness for unmanned systems.
USE CASE
Headwall deployed a system during a live test under contract with the US Navy. The Navy wished to view higher field of view video from GPS tracked unmanned systems while conducting maritime operations. Headwall deployed a system that allowed operators to view detailed, high field of view imagery from unmanned surface vessels in a mixed reality headset.
For more information please see the white paper here.
HOW IT WORKS
Topaz takes 360 video streams and references them to GIS data. Simply put, this means an operator of unmanned systems can see where every unmanned asset is on a map. The assets are represented as moving icons on a 3D ArcGIS map.
When an operator selects a pin on the map they are brought into a 360 video perspective of that unmanned vehicle. This means an operator can view the entire surrounding area and perspective of the vehicle from a remote location.
In addition to GIS and 360 Topaz includes several network architecture and interface accommodations with the tactical operator in mind.