ARK Electronics continues to push the boundaries of drone navigation with optical flow and distance sensor modules, designed to enable precision positioning and stable flight even in GPS-denied environments.
The ARK Flow optical flow sensor provides reliable performance down to 9 lux, ensuring drones and robotics maintain accurate positioning under low-light conditions. Its integrated time-of-flight (ToF) distance measurement and ultra-miniature form factor make it an ideal solution for vehicles of all sizes, with a drop-in module variant offering upgraded optical flow and ToF performance. The NDAA-compliant ARK Flow MR extends sensing range by up to 50 meters while adding only 5 grams of weight.
ARK rangerfinder.
Complementing optical flow, ARK Electronics’ rangefinder modules deliver low-SWaP, high-precision distance sensing for tactical UAVs and defense platforms. Short-range and mid-range variants use a Broadcom ToF sensor paired with onboard lasers and precision optics, maintaining accuracy even in ambient light up to 200k lux.
Designed for rapid integration, these modules support DroneCAN and MAVLink protocols, feature UAVCAN firmware update capability, and include ROS2 support. Connectivity is seamless with Pixhawk Standard CAN, UART, and Debug ports, along with supplied CAN and UART cables. Their compact, lightweight design ensures compatibility across diverse UAV configurations while minimizing power draw.
ARK Electronics currently offers standard and mid-range variants of both optical flow and distance sensors, with an enhanced range version scheduled for release within the next three months.
Looking ahead, the company hints at further performance upgrades and a long-range solution expected in 2026, signaling continued innovation in precision navigation and GPS-denied flight capabilities.
