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Smart Optical Platforms for SWaP-C Optimized Systems

Integrated Motion Control Solutions for Aerospace & Defense

EO/IR Optimization for SWaP-C

New Scale Technologies helps aerospace and defense engineers simplify the design of compact EO/IR payloads through integrated optical platforms. Our miniature piezoelectric technology enables precision focus, beam steering, image protection, calibration and optical switching while minimizing SWaP-C. The result is compact, reliable, high-performance optical subsystems for UAV, ISR payloads, targeting systems and autonomous platforms. Select only the optical functions your application requires and configure them into a single compact Smart Optical Platform.

Why EO/IR Engineers Are Moving to Smart Optical Platforms

  • Simplify optical system integration
  • Reduce SWaP, wiring and controller count
  • Lower development risk with proven piezo technology
  • Zero-power hold and minimal thermal load
  • Configurable multiple optical functions on one platform
  • American-made, production-ready technology

Mix and match these optical components to meet the requirements of your next-generation optical system.

New Product Announcement

Smart Optical Platform

SMART FOCUS + SHUTTER

Type: Focus with Smart Shutter

Focus Move Speed: 5mm/s
Shutter Move Time (90°): 70ms

Focus Positions: 0.5µm steps over a 1500µm range
Shutter Positions: 2 (Open/Closed)

SMART OPTICAL SHUTTER

Type: Rotary Blade

Move Time (90°): 70ms

Positions: 2 (Open / Closed)

Common Aerospace and Defense Use Cases

Aerospace, defense, and UAV manufacturers reduce SWaP-C by using New Scale Technologies’ miniature motion control systems. Our engineers combine and tailor compact actuators, embedded electronics, and precision positioning into integrated platforms for your exact requirements, including: ER/IR payloads, UAV / UGV, ISR, satellites, targeting systems, and medical imaging.

EO/IR Imaging & Intelligence Systems

Improve EO/IR and ISR payload image quality, target tracking with SwaP optimized motion control.

UAS Gimbals and Payloads

Optimized payload performance with gimbal stabilization, positioning, zoom and sensor alignment.

Low Orbit Satellites

Compact control for low-orbit payloads, laser communications and sensor positioning.

Capability Highlight: Optical Functions We Enable

  • Autofocus: Maintain sharp imaging across changing ranges and conditions without a bulky external focus mechanism.
  • Beam Steering: Precisely direct optical or laser paths for targeting, communications, and sensor alignment.
  • Image Protection: Shutter and attenuate incoming light to protect sensitive detectors from damage or saturation.
  • Calibration: Cycle filters, references, or apertures into the optical path for repeatable, closed-loop calibration.
  • Optical Switching: Switch between optical paths, channels, or modes in milliseconds, with no external mechanism—including focus, shutter, filter wheels and future modules—into compact, configurable subsystems for next-generation EO/IR payloads.

FAQs about New Scale Technologies’s Aerospace and Defense Solutions

 What makes New Scale motion control solutions ideal for aerospace, defense, and UAS applications?
New Scale Technologies combines miniature piezoelectric motors, precision position sensors, embedded control electronics, and application expertise to help OEMs reduce SWaP-C. Our integrated motion control solutions enable smaller payloads, lower power consumption, and simpler system integration for aerospace, defense, and UAS platforms.
 Can New Scale motion systems be integrated into custom payload designs?
Yes. New Scale works with OEMs to integrate motion control directly into custom aerospace, defense, and UAS platforms. Our engineering team helps customers select the appropriate actuator, controller, and positioning technology to meet application-specific performance requirements.
 How can the Smart Optical Platform improve aerospace and defense UAS?
The Smart Optical Platform enables precise, fast positioning and control of optical elements used in imaging, sensing, targeting, and communication systems. Its compact architecture helps UAS developers maximize payload performance while minimizing weight, power consumption, and integration effort for mission-critical applications.

Speak with an Application Engineer

Our team can help you identify the right motion control solution for your aerospace and defense programs. Tell us about your application, performance requirements, and SWaP-C goals, and we’ll find the best solution for you.

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Resources to Explore

M3-RS Smart Shutter Datasheet

Space Qualified M3 Modules