HEX HERE Flow Optical Flow Sensor

Features:

• Integrated optical flow camera.

  
  

• Built-in short-range LiDAR module.

  
  

• Includes 6D IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit).

  
  

• Communicates via robust CAN protocol.

  
  

• Enables GPS-denied position hold.

  
  

• Compact, finger-sized, lightweight design.

  
  

• Enhances indoor drone navigation.

  
  

• Improves stability in confined spaces.

  
  

• Optimized for Pixhawk/ArduPilot.

  
  

• Requires minimum 60 lux lighting.

Technical Specifications:

• Model: HEX HereFlow Optical Flow Sensor

• Optical Flow Sensor: PMW3901 (or similar PixArt sensor)

• Lidar/Rangefinder: Integrated ultra-small LiDAR module (e.g., based on ST FlightSense technology, VL53L1X)

  • Lidar Measuring Frequency: Up to 50 Hz

  • Lidar Longest Distance: Up to 2 meters (note: less effective outdoors above 0.5m)

  • Lidar Accuracy: ±3%

• IMU: Built-in 6D IMU (e.g., ICM20602)

• Communication Interface: CAN Bus (UAVCAN protocol)

• Optical Flow Range: 80 mm to infinity (effective range)

• Optical Flow Field of View (FOV): 42 degrees

• Optical Flow Maximum Movement Speed: 7.4 rad/s

• Minimum Illumination: > 60 lux (infrared emitter: 940 nm invisible light emission, Class 1)

• Operating Voltage: 5V DC

• Operating Temperature: -20°C to +70°C

• Dimensions: Approximately 28.8mm x 9.5mm (very compact)

• Weight: Approximately 1.2g (module only, extremely lightweight)

• Mounting: Underside of copter, camera lens pointing downwards, lens side towards front of vehicle.

• Power Consumption: Low, typically in the range of tens of milliamps.

Additional Details:

• Manufacturer: Holybro

• Brand: HEX / CubePilot

• Generic Name: Optical Flow Sensor || Lidar Sensor || Indoor Navigation Sensor || GPS-Denied Positioning || Drone Flow Sensor || UAV Vision Sensor || IMU Module || Robotics Sensor || Horizontal Position Sensor || CAN Bus Sensor

• Sold By: UAV Marketplace (an authorized seller of drone gear and accessories)

• Ideal For: Indoor Drone Flights || GPS-Denied Environments || Precision Landing || Confined Space Inspections || Autonomous Navigation (without GPS) || Pixhawk Flight Controllers || ArduPilot Systems || Custom Small Drone Builds || Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles || Educational & Research Platforms

Package Details:

Includes:

• 1x HEX HereFlow Optical Flow Sensor

• 1x CAN Cable

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1. What is the primary purpose of the HEX HereFlow Optical Flow Sensor for drones?

Ans. The primary purpose of the HEX HereFlow Optical Flow Sensor is to provide accurate horizontal position estimation and control, especially in environments where GPS signals are weak or unavailable, such as indoors, under bridges, or in dense urban areas. By observing visual patterns on the ground and measuring the drone's movement relative to them, it allows the drone to maintain a stable hover and navigate precisely without relying on satellite positioning.

Q2. Does the integrated LiDAR in the HereFlow replace the need for an external altimeter?

Ans. The HEX HereFlow includes a short-range LiDAR primarily to assist with precision landing detection and very low-altitude operations, with an effective range typically up to 2 meters. While it provides distance data, it is not generally recommended as a replacement for a longer-range external altimeter (like a dedicated LiDAR or ultrasonic sensor) for maintaining higher altitudes or for reliable terrain following outdoors. For robust altitude control above 2 meters, a separate, more powerful rangefinder is often recommended.

Q3. How does the CAN protocol benefit the HereFlow sensor's performance?

Ans. The use of the CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol for communication offers several benefits for the HEX HereFlow sensor. CAN is a robust, differential signaling bus that is highly resistant to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is common in drone environments. This ensures more reliable and stable data transmission between the sensor and the flight controller compared to traditional serial (UART) or I2C connections, leading to more consistent and accurate navigation performance. It also allows for easier integration into the CubePilot/ArduPilot ecosystem.