Emesent Cortex is an embedded autonomy software platform powering fully autonomous navigation, mapping, and data capture for drones and ground robots equipped with Emesent Hovermap. Cortex leverages advanced SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), LiDAR, and AI-driven algorithms to enable reliable operation in GPS-denied, hazardous, and complex environments. The software supports multiple autonomy modes, from pilot assist to full autonomy, and is rigorously tested for robustness across thousands of deployments. Cortex is pre-installed on all Hovermap units and auto-configures for optimal performance on various platforms, including drones and ground robots. It enables seamless operation in diverse lighting and environmental conditions, and integrates with mission planning tools like Emesent Commander for intuitive control and monitoring. Cortex is designed for use in mining, construction, utilities, and other industries requiring safe, efficient, and high-quality spatial data acquisition in inaccessible or dangerous areas.

Key Features

Fully Autonomous Navigation Enables drones and robots to navigate and map without human intervention.

• Operates in GPS-denied, hazardous, and dark environments
• Supports autonomous waypoint and exploration modes

Advanced SLAM and LiDAR Integration Delivers high-precision mapping and localization.

• Generates survey-grade 3D point clouds
• Real-time onboard data processing and streaming

Omnidirectional Collision Avoidance Minimizes risk of collision in complex spaces.

• Advanced perception for safe movement near obstacles
• Intelligent Return-to-Home and failsafe behaviors

Platform Auto-Detection and Configuration Seamlessly adapts to drones, ground robots, and UGVs.

• Plug-and-play operation across multiple platforms
• Optimized performance for each deployment

Operation in All Lighting and Environmental Conditions Reliable in sunlight, darkness, fog, dust, and wet environments.

• Exceptional dust filtering and robust performance
• Enables mapping in previously inaccessible areas

Intuitive Mission Planning and Control Integrates with Emesent Commander for easy setup and monitoring.

• Define areas of interest with 3D bounding boxes
• Real-time progress monitoring and annotation

Benefits

Enhanced Safety Reduces human exposure to hazardous environments.

• Autonomous exploration keeps personnel out of harm’s way
• Reliable operation in dangerous, GPS-denied areas

Operational Efficiency Accelerates data capture and analysis.

• Rapid mapping of complex or inaccessible spaces
• Reduces need for pilot expertise and manual intervention

Superior Data Quality Delivers high-resolution, survey-grade results.

• Real-time point cloud generation and streaming
• Enables actionable insights for site managers and engineers

Versatility and Scalability Supports diverse missions and industries.

• Adaptable to underground, above ground, urban, and indoor environments
• Scalable for small to enterprise-level deployments