The Future of Edge AI Computing – Neousys Technology IP66 Rated System

In this article:

  1. Introduction - NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series
  2. Unmatched AI Computing Power
  3. Suitable Applications and Industries
  4. Key Features - NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series
  5. Application - In Depth Example
  6. Summary NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series

Introduction - NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series

In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries, Neousys Technology stands at the forefront with its groundbreaking NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series. This IP66 waterproof edge AI computing platform, powered by the NVIDIA® Jetson AGX Orin module, is revolutionising real-time video streaming and AI applications in harsh environments. As the first IP66-rated Jetson computer on the market, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series sets a new standard for rugged edge AI solutions, offering unparalleled performance and versatility for various industrial applications.

Unmatched AI Computing Power

At the heart of the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series is the NVIDIA® Jetson AGX Orin module, delivering up to 275 sparse TOPS (INT8) AI inference. This immense computing power enables the platform to transcode up to twenty-two 1080P video streams simultaneously, making it ideal for high-density video processing. The Jetson AGX Orin’s advanced AI capabilities ensure rapid and accurate data analysis, crucial for autonomous systems and AI-driven decision-making processes.

Robust Design for Harsh Environments

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series’ IP66 rating ensures complete protection against dust and powerful water jets, making it suitable for deployment in the harshest environments. Whether in roadside installations, food and chemical factories, mining sites, construction zones, agricultural fields, or harbours, this platform thrives where other systems fail. Its rugged design is complemented by a streamlined mechanical structure, standardised cable kit, and carefully selected waterproof connectors, providing a durable and reliable solution at an affordable cost.

Seamless Integration with Automotive Cameras

One of the standout features of the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series is its integration with GSML2 automotive cameras through eight FAKRA Z connectors. This setup enables real-time video streaming with minimal latency, essential for 5G teleoperated driving applications. The platform’s ability to support diverse camera configurations makes it an excellent choice for advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), and other vision-based AI applications.

Versatile Connectivity Options

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series is equipped with an array of connectivity options to meet the demands of various industrial applications. It features four waterproof M12 PoE+ GbE ports for industrial GigE cameras or IP cameras, eight waterproof GMSL2 FAKRA ports for automotive cameras, and a waterproof Type-C connector providing 4K DisplayPort output. Additionally, a waterproof 10GbE port ensures high-speed data communication, crucial for real-time data transfer and processing.

Optimised for In-Vehicle Deployment

Designed with in-vehicle deployment in mind, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series supports an 8V to 48V wide DC input range, and ignition power control, and includes two isolated CAN bus ports, one RS232 port, and one isolated RS485 port. These features make it ideal for deployment in industrial vehicles and outdoor autonomous systems. The platform also includes two mini-PCIe sockets for CAN/ COM/ WiFi modules and one M.2 B-key socket for 4G LTE/ 5G NR mobile communication modules, ensuring seamless connectivity in mobile environments.

Extensive Storage Capabilities

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series provides ample storage options to accommodate extensive data requirements. It includes 64GB eMMC on the Orin module, an M.2 2280 NVMe socket for fast SSD read/write speeds, and two internal 2.5″ SSD slots for storage expansion. These features enable the platform to handle large datasets and support complex AI models, essential for edge AI applications that demand high storage capacity and fast data access.

Enhanced System Monitoring and Safety

To ensure reliable operation in critical applications, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series is equipped with a system monitoring port. This port reports the latest power, thermal, and Jetson status via an onboard automotive-grade MCU, facilitating potential functional safety system design. This feature is particularly valuable in environments where system stability and safety are paramount, such as autonomous driving and industrial automation.

Future-Proof with Intel 14th Generation Processor Support

Neousys Technology has also ensured that the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series is future-proof. The platform supports Intel® 14th generation Core™ i9/i7/i5/i3 processors, allowing users to upgrade from existing Neousys Intel® 13th/12th generation platforms through a simple system BIOS upgrade. This forward compatibility ensures longevity and protects the customer’s investment in AI infrastructure.

Addressing Market Needs

Speaking ahead of the ‘Japan IT Week 2024’ in April this year, Bryan Lan, Neousys Technology Sales Vice President said “Labor shortages and rising operating costs are driving the rapid adoption of AI applications in the Japanese market.  As data analysis moves to the edge, robust computing solutions suitable for harsh outdoor environments are becoming crucial. Neousys understands the importance of product stability and compact size, and our solutions are designed to meet these specific needs and empower edge AI deployment for Japanese customers.”

Neousys Technology’s NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series is designed to meet these specific needs, offering stability, compact size, and powerful edge AI capabilities to empower customers in Japan and beyond.

Applications in Diverse Industries

The versatility and ruggedness of the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series make it suitable for a wide range of applications. In the transportation sector, it enhances ADAS on off-road vehicles, enabling real-time surround-view awareness and teleoperated driving. In industrial settings, it supports robotics, edge inspection, and process automation, driving efficiency and accuracy in operations. The platform’s waterproof and durable design also makes it ideal for deployment in agriculture and harbour environments, where it can withstand harsh conditions and provide reliable performance.

Suitable Applications and Industries

The versatility and ruggedness of the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series make it suitable for a wide range of applications across diverse industries. Here are some examples such an advanced edge AI platform can provide significant benefits:

Transportation

  • Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series enhances ADAS on off-road vehicles, enabling real-time surround-view awareness and teleoperated driving.
  • Public Transport Monitoring: It can be used to monitor public transport vehicles, ensuring safety and efficiency by analysing real-time video feeds and other sensor data.
  • Logistics and Fleet Management: The platform can optimise logistics operations by providing real-time data analysis for route planning, vehicle tracking, and maintenance scheduling.

Industrial Automation

  • Robotics: In industrial settings, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series supports robotics applications, driving efficiency and accuracy in operations such as assembly lines, packaging, and material handling.
  • Edge Inspection: It can be used for edge inspection in manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality and consistency by analysing high-resolution images and videos.
  • Process Automation: The platform supports process automation in factories, optimizing production lines by integrating with various sensors and control systems.

Agriculture

  • Precision Farming: The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can be deployed in agricultural fields for precision farming, using AI to analyse soil conditions, crop health, and environmental factors to optimize yields.
  • Autonomous Machinery: It supports autonomous agricultural machinery, enabling tasks such as planting, harvesting, and spraying with minimal human intervention.

Construction

  • Site Monitoring: The platform can be used for real-time monitoring of construction sites, ensuring safety and compliance by analysing video feeds and sensor data.
  • Equipment Management: It helps in managing construction equipment, optimising usage and maintenance schedules through real-time data analysis.

Mining

  • Equipment Automation: The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can automate mining equipment, enhancing efficiency and safety in operations such as drilling, blasting, and hauling.
  • Environmental Monitoring: It supports environmental monitoring in mining sites, analysing air quality, water levels, and other parameters to ensure compliance with regulations.

Harbor and Marine

  • Vessel Monitoring: The platform can be used for monitoring vessels in harbours, ensuring safety and security by analysing real-time video feeds and sensor data.
  • Autonomous Maritime Operations: It supports autonomous operations in maritime environments, enabling tasks such as navigation, cargo handling, and surveillance with minimal human intervention.

Food and Chemical Factories

  • Quality Control: The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can be deployed in food and chemical factories for quality control, analysing products for defects, contaminants, or inconsistencies.
  • Process Monitoring: It supports process monitoring in these factories, ensuring that production processes are efficient, safe, and compliant with industry standards.

Key Features - NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series

  • Powered by NVIDIA
    Jetson AGX Orin™ SoM bundled with JetPack
  • IP66 waterproof and dustproof
  • -25°C to 70°C fanless operation
  • Support 8x GMSL2 automotive cameras via FAKRA Z connectors (NRU-230V-AWP)
  • 4x PoE+ GbE and 1x 10GBASE-T via M12 X-coded connectors
  • 2x isolated CAN 2.0, 1x RS232, and 1x isolated RS485 via M12 A-coded
    connectors
  • 1x system monitoring port by automotive-grade MCU
  • 8V to 48V wide-range DC input with built-in ignition power control

Application - In Depth Example

The Neousys Technology NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series, with its IP66 waterproof edge AI computing capabilities powered by the NVIDIA® Jetson AGX Orin module, is an ideal solution for enhancing sailboat operations. Its rugged design, extensive connectivity options, and powerful AI processing make it suitable for various applications in the marine environment. Here’s how the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can be utilised on a sailboat:

Enhanced Navigation and Autonomous Sailing

Real-Time Data Analysis

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series’ robust AI capabilities can process real-time data from various sensors on the sailboat, including GPS, wind speed, and direction sensors, gyroscopes, and accelerometers. By analysing this data, the system can provide precise navigation assistance, helping sailors make informed decisions about course adjustments, sail trim, and route optimization.

Collision Avoidance

Integrating with GSML2 automotive cameras and other marine radar systems, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can deliver real-time video streaming and object detection to enhance situational awareness. The AI system can identify and track nearby vessels, floating debris, and other obstacles, providing collision avoidance alerts and automatic manoeuvres if necessary.

Autonomous Sailing

With the ability to process vast amounts of data and execute complex algorithms, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can enable autonomous sailing capabilities. By continuously analysing environmental conditions and the sailboat’s performance, the system can adjust sails, steer the rudder, and manage the engine (if applicable) to optimise sailing efficiency and safety.

Advanced Monitoring and Maintenance

Predictive Maintenance

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can monitor the health of various sailboat systems, such as the engine, rigging, and electrical components. By analysing sensor data for signs of wear and potential failure, the system can predict maintenance needs and alert the crew before issues become critical, reducing downtime and extending the lifespan of equipment.

System Monitoring and Reporting

Equipped with a system monitoring port, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can report real-time power, thermal, and status updates of the Jetson module. This capability ensures that all critical systems are functioning correctly and provides insights for optimising energy consumption and performance.

Communication and Connectivity

High-Speed Data Transfer

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series’ waterproof 10GbE port ensures high-speed data communication, essential for real-time data transfer between the sailboat and shore-based facilities. This capability is crucial for remote monitoring, data logging, and receiving updates or instructions from support teams.

Seamless Integration with Marine Communication Systems

With its support for 4G LTE and 5G NR mobile communication modules through the M.2 B-key socket, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can maintain robust connectivity even in remote marine environments. This connectivity ensures continuous communication with shore-based control centers, other vessels, and emergency services.

Environmental Monitoring and Research

Oceanographic Data Collection

For research and environmental monitoring purposes, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can be integrated with various oceanographic sensors to collect data on water temperature, salinity, pH levels, and other parameters. This data can be processed in real-time to support scientific research, environmental monitoring, and sustainable marine practices.

Wildlife Observation

By integrating with high-resolution cameras and sonar systems, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can be used to observe and monitor marine wildlife. AI algorithms can identify and track species, providing valuable data for conservation efforts and ecological studies.

Security and Surveillance

Perimeter Surveillance

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can support multiple high-definition cameras to provide 360-degree surveillance around the sailboat. AI-driven video analytics can detect unauthorized access or suspicious activities, enhancing the security of the vessel.

Intrusion Detection

Integrating with motion sensors and infrared cameras, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can provide real-time intrusion detection and alerts. This feature is particularly valuable when the sailboat is anchored in remote locations or during night hours.

User Experience and Comfort

Smart Cabin Management

The NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can enhance the onboard experience by integrating with smart cabin systems. It can control lighting, climate, and entertainment systems based on the crew’s preferences and environmental conditions, ensuring comfort and convenience during long voyages.

Voice-Activated Assistance

Leveraging AI-driven voice recognition, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series can provide voice-activated assistance for various functions, such as navigation commands, system status inquiries, and entertainment controls. This hands-free operation enhances safety and usability.

Summary NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240V-AWP Series

The Neousys Technology NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series represents a significant advancement in edge AI computing. Its combination of NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin AI performance, IP66-rated ruggedness, and extensive connectivity options makes it a formidable solution for various industrial applications. Whether deployed in vehicles, harsh industrial environments, or remote outdoor locations, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series delivers exceptional AI computing capabilities, ensuring real-time data processing and decision-making. As industries continue to embrace AI-driven solutions, the NRU-230V-AWP/NRU-240S-AWP Series stands out as a future-proof, reliable, and high-performance platform that meets the demands of modern edge AI applications.

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