NN Gimbal for thermal imaging camera

Imagine being able to conduct convenient observations with a thermal imaging camera from the comfort of your car, without the need to step out. Thanks to the gimbal, this is now possible.

Drive and Control

The gimbal is equipped with stepper motors powered by a 12-volt current obtained from the car's cigarette lighter socket. To ensure smooth operation, an Arduino programming chip, a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative to complex controllers, is utilized. Controlling the gimbal is made easy with a classic joystick that determines the direction and speed of rotation (left-right, up-down). The joystick also features a potentiometer with a gradual tilt scale, allowing for proportional pan and tilt speed adjustments.

Auto Scan Mode

One of the gimbal's notable features is its auto-scan function, which eliminates the need for manual joystick operation. In this mode, the gimbal autonomously explores the area from right to left based on a user-defined time. The rotation speed remains constant throughout the predefined scan period. Programming the auto scan is a straightforward process. By pressing and holding the joystick, the gimbal initiates a slow rotation to the left until the joystick is released. This action prompts the computer to save the duration of the joystick press and use it for future auto-scan operations.

Exiting auto scan mode is as simple as briefly pressing the joystick. Another brief press reactivates the auto scan with the pre-programmed scan time. The auto-scanning function is particularly valuable when observing large sections of land, such as crop fields, eliminating the need for manual scanning.

Convenient and Secure Mounting

The gimbal is designed for easy and secure mounting on metal surfaces. It utilizes four strong magnets, each capable of holding up to 4 kg, with a protective rubber coating. These magnets ensure a firm grip on the car's roof and engine compartment lid, minimizing concerns about tipping, sliding, or damaging the paint. To prevent the power cable from twisting, the gimbal base incorporates a rotation stop, restricting 360° rotation in one direction. When mounting the gimbal on the car, position the base so that the rotation stop is on the left side, facing the direction of travel. For personal observations, it is recommended to mount the gimbal on the right side of the vehicle roof. This setup allows the cable to be routed into the cabin through the slightly tilted door window, reducing unnecessary stress on the cable.

Please Note: Driving a vehicle with the gimbal mounted is strictly prohibited and done at the driver's own risk. Overloading while driving may lead to disconnection of the gimbal, resulting in damage to the observation device. The gimbal is intended solely for stationary observations.

Technical Data:

Manufacturer: NN, Poland