LightPath Tech Launches EdgeIR, Bringing AI to the Frontlines of Infrared Imaging

LightPath Technologies, Inc.has announced the integration of AI capabilities into its infrared camera lineup. The company, a leading manufacturer of optical and infrared technologies, has partnered with Maris-Tech to incorporate hardware and firmware supporting AI software and algorithms across its camera range.

This new feature, branded as EdgeIR, marks a pivotal moment in LightPath’s product evolution. Sam Rubin, President and CEO of LightPath, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “Integration of optical processes with A.I. systems is a critical step forward to enable our current and future users to easily utilize AI created for their specific application.”

Rubin highlighted the limitations of cloud-based systems for AI integration in field applications, citing bandwidth and security concerns. “Adding embedded A.I. hardware within the video pipeline simplifies deployment of A.I. models in the real world and minimizes the need for hardware customization enabling our customer to focus on their core system goal,” he explained.

The EdgeIR cameras will feature an AI accelerator IC, allowing customers to upload and run their trained AI models directly on the camera. This edge computing capability is powered by the Hailo-8 AI Accelerator, promising real-time, low-latency, and high-efficiency AI processing of video streams.

LightPath’s move comes amid growing interest in AI-integrated infrared camera systems, particularly in defense and industrial sectors. The company has seen a significant shift in its revenue composition, with defense sales surging from 8% to 30% of total revenue over the past three years, primarily driven by U.S. defense contracts.

The company has secured potential revenue exceeding $100 million through partnerships with the Department of Defense and Lockheed Martin in major programs. Additionally, LightPath has gained certification as an EU military solutions provider, positioning itself to capitalize on the projected increase in European defense spending.

LightPath is also expanding its industrial offerings, having recently unveiled a new furnace and power plant version of its Mantis camera. The furnace monitoring camera market alone is estimated to be worth over $500 million annually across various industrial applications.

As LightPath Technologies continues to innovate at the intersection of optics and artificial intelligence, its latest AI-enabled infrared cameras could potentially reshape the landscape of defense and industrial imaging technologies.