As the risk of wildfires continues to rise globally, the European research project HiCONNECTS has focused on developing advanced technologies for Public Protection & Disaster Relief (PPDR). Qtechnology plays a central role in this initiative by providing hyperspectral cameras and advanced data processing methods for real-time analysis of vegetation moisture and fire spread.
HiCONNECTS is a large-scale EU-funded project aimed at developing the next generation of electronic components and systems. A crucial part of this project is WP4 (Public Health and Safety Demonstrators), where Qtechnology is involved in Task 4.2: Public Protection & Disaster Relief.
The objective of Task 4.2 is to develop and demonstrate technologies for disaster response, particularly wildfires. This is achieved through the development of drone solutions capable of mapping fire fronts, analyzing vegetation moisture levels, and optimizing firefighting strategies.
Qtechnology contributes to the project by contributing with our advanced hyperspectral camera that collects real-time data on vegetation types and moisture levels in fire-prone areas. The camera integrates both RGB and SWIR (Short-Wave Infrared) sensors, enabling precise Moisture Index (NDMI) calculations. This data is utilized in fire spread models to help firefighting authorities predict and combat wildfires more effectively.
To further enhance real-time data processing and image analysis, a new platform was developed utilizing the IMX95 board from NXP. In close collaboration with NXP, we are integrating the camera onto advanced drones, enabling efficient operations in disaster-stricken areas. This integration allows for more effective data collection and analysis, supporting decision-making in wildfire management.
As part of the project, Qtechnology and NXP-DE have conducted the first test flight with a prototype of the hyperspectral camera. The test included capturing reference images using different IR filters to optimize vegetation moisture analysis. Further test flights are planned to evaluate new IR filters, optics, and software updates to improve image quality and analysis accuracy.
The HiCONNECTS project officially runs from 2023 to 2026, and while final results are yet to be available, preliminary tests show promising outcomes. The first preliminary results are expected to be presented in spring 2025, laying the groundwork for further development and real-world implementation of the technology.
With Qtechnology’s expertise in hyperspectral cameras and real-time data processing, we are a big part in the development of innovative disaster response solutions. HiCONNECTS represents a significant step toward more effective, data-driven strategies for combating wildfires and other natural disasters.
Read more about the HiCONNECTS project here.
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