ModalAI VOXL 2

The ModalAI VOXL 2 (USA) combines autopilot and AI mission computer on a Qualcomm QRB5165 and is a component of the Blue UAS Framework. It is meant for mid-size multicopters that unite flight, cameras and image processing on a very light board.

The processor has eight cores at up to 3.091 GHz, and PX4 runs on the chip's sensor DSP instead of a separate microcontroller. Two TDK ICM-42688-P IMUs and one barometer (ICP-10100 or ICP-10111) form the sensor set. The interfaces are built for perception: six MIPI camera inputs, extensions for WLAN, 5G, LTE and Microhard, and FLIR Boson and Lepton for thermal cameras. The board measures 70 × 36 mm and weighs 16 g at a power consumption of 0.1 to 7 W. PX4 and ArduPilot are supported.

ModalAI declares the VOXL 2 as conforming with Section 848 of the 2020 NDAA and assembles it in the USA, which counts for contracts with US federal authorities. In the EU the finished drone decides on class and duties; on small platforms take-off mass decides whether C1, below 900 g, is reached.

When selecting, the power supply is planned from the power consumption and the manufacturer's accessories, and the processor heat calls for airflow or a heat sink. The compact form makes the camera cables and connectors the wear point under vibration. Flight controller and Linux environment are updated separately; after every modification the IMU and camera alignment must be checked again.