EOIR gimbals

Stabilised EOIR payloads for mobile and airborne platforms

EOIR gimbals are designed to keep your imaging stable when the platform itself is moving. By continuously compensating for vibration, acceleration and changes in orientation, they maintain a steady line of sight and consistent image quality in dynamic operating environments.

Unlike PTZ cameras, which rely on a stable mounting platform, gimbals actively stabilise the payload while in motion. This makes them well suited to drones, vehicles, aircraft and marine platforms where smooth, reliable imaging and accurate tracking are essential.

Key engineering considerations include stabilisation performance, axis configuration, payload balance, sensor integration and overall size and power requirements.

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Why our portfolio is right for you

Our EOIR gimbal portfolio is designed for applications where stable, high-quality imaging is required from a moving platform. Combining visible and infrared sensing with precise multi-axis stabilisation, our systems help maintain a clear, consistent line of sight even in demanding operating conditions.

Our range supports a variety of mobile and airborne applications, from drones and vehicles to manned aircraft and marine platforms. Different sensor, optical and stabilisation configurations allow you to select a solution that matches your platform, payload and operational requirements.

With in-house technical expertise supporting the selection and integration process, we can help you identify the right combination of sensor performance, stabilisation, size, weight, power and interfaces for your application — helping you move from payload selection to a robust, field-ready EOIR system.

Key selection factors

  • Platform dynamics: The first consideration is how the system will move. EOIR gimbals are designed for mobile platforms such as drones, vehicles, aircraft and marine systems, while PTZ cameras are generally better suited to stable, fixed installations.

  • Stabilisation performance: The number of axes and the accuracy of the stabilisation system determine how effectively platform movement can be compensated. The right configuration depends on the type and severity of motion the payload will experience.

  • Payload capacity and balance: The gimbal needs to support the complete sensor payload while maintaining the correct centre of gravity. Poor balance can increase the demands on the motors and affect stabilisation performance.

  • Control system complexity: Continuous stabilisation relies on real-time sensing, control and feedback. Integration requirements can therefore be greater than with a conventional PTZ system, particularly when the gimbal needs to interface with the wider platform.

  • Sensor integration and alignment: Visible and thermal channels need to remain accurately aligned while the payload is moving. Mechanical design, calibration and environmental stability all contribute to maintaining this alignment over time.

  • Power and size constraints: Weight, power consumption and available space are especially important on airborne and other size-constrained platforms. Sensor capability and stabilisation performance need to be balanced against the platform’s payload and power budget.

Technical overview

EOIR gimbals combine visible and LWIR thermal sensors with a multi-axis stabilisation system. Brushless motors, inertial measurement units (IMUs) and real-time control systems work together to compensate for platform movement and maintain a stable line of sight.

The gimbal continuously responds to vibration, acceleration and changes in platform orientation, adjusting the sensor position to keep the image steady. This is fundamentally different from EOIR PTZ cameras, which are designed for controlled positioning from a stable mounting point.

Visible and thermal sensors typically use separate optical paths, with synchronisation and alignment mechanisms ensuring that both channels remain coordinated during operation. IMU data is processed in real time by the stabilisation system, allowing the motors to make continuous corrections as the platform moves.

Depending on the configuration, gimbals can support functions such as target tracking, point-of-interest positioning and coordinated sensor control. This combination of stabilisation, sensing and precise pointing makes EOIR gimbals well suited to observation and tracking in dynamic environments.

Integration notes

EOIR gimbals require close integration between the mechanical, electrical and control systems. The platform needs to provide appropriate mechanical support, power and communications, while the gimbal manages stabilisation, sensor operation and pointing in real time.

Mechanical integration starts with a secure, rigid mounting interface and careful attention to payload balance and vibration. The gimbal’s centre of gravity and mounting arrangement can have a significant impact on stabilisation performance, so these should be considered early in the system design.

Interfaces typically provide video, power and control connections, with additional signals available for orientation, tracking and platform integration depending on the system. Calibration is also an important part of the integration process, particularly where accurate alignment between visible and LWIR channels is required during dynamic operation.

FAQ’s

They are used in applications requiring stabilised imaging on moving platforms, such as drones, vehicles, and marine systems. They enable clear imaging despite motion and vibration. This is essential for tracking and observation tasks.

The key difference is stabilisation: • EOIR gimbals: active stabilisation on moving platforms • EOIR PTZ cameras: controlled positioning on fixed mounts The choice depends on whether the system is mobile or stationary.

Most systems use 2-axis or 3-axis stabilisation. Three-axis gimbals provide better compensation for complex motion. The number of axes affects performance and system complexity.

Typical challenges include: • Balancing the payload • Implementing stabilisation algorithms • Managing power and thermal constraints These factors directly impact performance.

Yes, but size, weight, and power consumption must be carefully managed. Lightweight designs are critical for airborne systems. Integration must consider platform limitations.

Typical issues include: • Underestimating stabilisation requirements • Ignoring payload balance • Overlooking power constraints These can lead to poor system performance if not addressed early.