Active video system for a miniature reconnaissance robot

In this paper we present an active video module that consists of a miniature video sensor, a wireless video transmitter and a pan-tilt mechanism driven by micromotors. The video module is part of a miniature mobile robot that is projected to areas of the environment to be surveyed. A single-chip CMOS video sensor and miniature brushless D.C. gearmotors are used to comply with restrictions imposed by the robotic system in terms of payload weight, volume and power consumption. Different types of actuation are analyzed for compatibility with a mesoscale robotic system. Applications of an active video module are discussed.