Sky Cam Vision: All-sky imager for cloud observation

Sky Cam Vision™ is Reuniwatt’s innovative whole-sky visible-range camera, developed for the tracking and forecasting of the cloud cover. The use of the fisheye technology enables a complete observation of the cloud ceiling.

Reuniwatt Sky InSight™ infrared all-sky imager

Advanced cloud observation features

Advanced sky camera cloud observation

With its visible spectrum camera, weatherproof aluminium-sealed housing and embedded computer, Sky Cam Vision is an innovative visible-range sky imager for the tracking and forecasting of the cloud cover.

Combining remote sensing and machine learning

Sky observation using remote sensing and machine learning

Reuniwatt develops several software services enabling advanced analysis of the cloud cover which can be used for solar energy forecasting or meteorological observations.

Adaptable product for various conditions

The whole-sky camera for various conditions

Born under the sun and sea sprays of the coast of Reunion Island, Sky Cam Vision was built for outdoor use under harsh climatic conditions.

Sky Cam Vision methodology

The Sky Cam Vision instrument comprises a visible fisheye camera looking at the sky, providing a full sky coverage, equivalent to a 180° field-of-view. The Sky Cam Vision™ is designed to be dust-tight. Thus, it resists liquid ingress thanks to a weatherproof aluminum-sealed housing.

It is equipped with a mini-PC to locally process the images it takes. When it is located on a site with a poor internet connection, it needs to be coupled with Reuniwatt’s Sky Companion. This is a local server which is integrated in the project’s server room.

As an option, it is possible to add aglobal horizontal irradiance (GHI) sensor.

The equipment is suitable for harsh climatic conditions and withstands temperatures from -20°C to +50°C. As a complementary solution to Sky InSight™, some of Sky Cam Vision’s software services have been specifically developed to get the most of its cloud imaging capability for cloud studies or solar forecasting applications. Moreover, solar irradiance forecasts are provided through Reuniwatt’s InstaCast™ service. InstaCast™ combines image processing with machine learning techniques to guarantee the best adaption to the site’s specific conditions. The forecasts can be computed locally and sent to the SCADA or power plant controller via Modbus, for integration into the plant’s control scheme – completely offline, if necessary, to serve even the most remote projects.

Whole sky in sight: 360° azimuthal high-resolution images of the cloud ceiling thanks to a fisheye lens
Solid hardware: Our reliable hardware has been tested in harsh conditions and requires reduced maintenance, with high resistance to dust, corrosion and rainfall

Scheme with dimensions of the all-sky camera Sky Cam Vision

Features of the whole-sky camera

Visible spectrum camera with a fisheye lens
4.2 Mpx resolution
Access to a Graphical User Interface showcasing historical and live images
New image every 30 seconds
Included data acquisition system and multi-protocol (FTP, HTTP, MODBUS-TCP) transfer system
Possibility of a multi-protocol transfer system (FTP, HTTP, MODBUS-TCP)
Robust and reliable product, resistant to all-weather conditions