DAF2 Visual Guidance for UAV Target Tracking
AI Intelligent Module · Product guide
The DAF2 is a compact UAV visual guidance module for operators who need automated target tracking and terminal guidance information. It combines FPGA-accelerated video processing, target tracking, and proportional-navigation logic in a lightweight package. Three models provide different resolution, range, and visible or infrared options, while documented video and flight-control interfaces support integration into selected UAV systems.
Verified specifications
| Model range | DAF2 A, DAF2 HD, and DAF2 DU |
|---|---|
| Video resolution | 720×576 for DAF2 A; 2560×1440 for visible channels in DAF2 HD and DAF2 DU; 640×512 for the DAF2 DU infrared channel |
| Locking range | DAF2 A: 300 m for vehicles and 200 m for people; DAF2 HD: 800 m for vehicles and 400 m for people; DAF2 DU: 800 m visible or 500 m infrared for vehicles, and 400 m visible or 200 m infrared for people |
| Target tracking | 5×5 minimum target pixels, up to 128×128; measured maximum dynamic-target speed of 90 km/h |
| Latency | ≤5 ms locking delay |
| Video interfaces | PAL input and output on DAF2 A; PAL output on DAF2 HD and DAF2 DU |
| Protocols | CRSF, SBUS, and MAVLink v2 |
| Power and size | 9–16 V supply; 2 W for DAF2 A and DAF2 HD, 3 W for DAF2 DU; core module dimensions 38×38×10 mm |
Three Models, Different Optical Configurations
The model choice determines the available imagery, field of view, and stated tracking range. DAF2 A uses a 6 mm lens with 720×576 resolution and a 36°×29° field of view. DAF2 HD raises the visible resolution to 2560×1440 and widens the field of view to 66°×40°.
DAF2 DU provides a visible channel with the same 2560×1440 resolution and 66°×40° field of view, plus a 640×512 infrared channel with a 13 mm lens and 32°×25° field of view. This dual-mode arrangement can be relevant when an operator needs both visible and infrared tracking options.
Tracking and Guidance Processing
DAF2 performs video tracking through an FPGA-based parallel processing architecture. Its documented processing chain includes a low-latency tracking algorithm, a colorless Kalman filter for target-position prediction, and proportional navigation based on the angular velocity of the target line of sight.
The published locking delay is no more than 5 milliseconds, while tracking processing operates at 50 Hz for DAF2 A and 60 Hz for the HD and DU models. The system is designed for center locking and multiple corrections. Its published guidance accuracy figure is a circular error probable of no more than 0.3 meters, although actual results depend on the complete UAV, sensor, installation, and operating conditions.
- Minimum target size is documented as 5×5 pixels.
- Targets may occupy up to 128×128 pixels.
- Dynamic-target tracking speed is stated as 90 km/h.
- Minimum target contrast is documented as 5%.
Interfaces for Flight-Stack Integration
The DAF2 documentation identifies CRSF, SBUS, and MAVLink v2 as supported protocols and lists BetaFlight, INVA, APM, and PX4 as supported firmware. Navigation and positioning information is optional, allowing the system to be used either with position data supplied or without it. These are documented integration paths, not a guarantee that every function or parameter is exposed identically across every flight stack.
Video connectivity also differs by model. DAF2 A provides PAL input and output, while DAF2 HD and DAF2 DU are listed with PAL output. Integrators should confirm the camera signal path, control wiring, protocol settings, and required telemetry fields against their selected autopilot and ground system before installation.
- Confirm whether the selected model needs PAL input, PAL output, or both.
- Verify protocol and firmware support against the intended flight controller.
- Check the camera, lens, power, and telemetry connections during integration.
- Validate guidance behavior in a controlled test environment before operational use.
Choosing for Civilian Operations
Potential civilian uses include search and rescue, infrastructure inspection, wildlife observation, and border surveillance. The infrared option in DAF2 DU may be useful where visible imagery is insufficient, while the HD model offers higher visible resolution for scenes requiring finer image detail. The stated ranges and target conditions should be treated as configuration-specific guidance rather than guaranteed performance in every environment.
DAF2 A is the lower-resolution option and uses less power than DAF2 DU, but it also has shorter stated locking ranges. DAF2 DU adds an infrared channel and a higher lens weight. Buyers should balance the need for range, resolution, day-and-night coverage, aircraft space, electrical capacity, and camera integration rather than treating the three models as interchangeable.
Frequently asked questions
Which DAF2 model supports infrared imaging?
DAF2 DU supports a 640×512 infrared channel with a 13 mm lens and 32°×25° field of view. Its stated infrared locking ranges are 500 meters for vehicles and 200 meters for people. DAF2 A and DAF2 HD are documented as visible configurations.
Does the DAF2 require positioning information to operate?
No. The product documentation states that the system supports operation with or without positioning information. The appropriate integration depends on the selected flight stack, protocol configuration, and guidance workflow, so operators should verify the required data links with their autopilot setup.
What flight-control interfaces are documented?
The DAF2 lists CRSF, SBUS, and MAVLink v2 as supported protocols. Supported firmware is listed as BetaFlight, INVA, APM, and PX4. These listings identify documented connections, but integrators still need to confirm parameter mapping, signal routing, and model-specific video requirements.
How does DAF2 differ from the HD and DU versions?
DAF2 A provides 720×576 visible imagery, 50 Hz processing, 2 W power consumption, and PAL input and output. DAF2 HD increases visible resolution to 2560×1440 and processing to 60 Hz. DAF2 DU combines the HD visible configuration with a separate infrared channel and uses 3 W power.
