Display system, display method, and program

Abstract

A display system according to the present invention obtains data indicating an orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data related to the artificial satellite. The display system performs 3D graphics display of the orbit of the artificial satellite and a graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite matches the time axis of the graph of the time-series data.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure covers display systems, display methods, and program Regarding. [Background technology]

[0002] In some cases, the orbit of a satellite and time-series data related to that satellite may be displayed. For example, the satellite design support device described in Patent Document 1 displays the orbit of a satellite as a three-dimensional model animation in a graphical editing window, and displays graphs such as power balance in a time chart window in a manner in which time progresses from left to right. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-086092 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] When displaying a satellite's orbit and time-series data related to that satellite simultaneously, it is preferable that users viewing the image can easily understand the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data.

[0005] One example of the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a display system, display method, and that can solve the above-mentioned problems. program The objective is to provide. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, the display system includes data acquisition means for acquiring data indicating the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data relating to the artificial satellite, and display means for performing a three-dimensional graphical display of the orbit of the artificial satellite and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite and the time axis of the graph of the time-series data coincide.

[0007] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, the display method includes a display system acquiring data indicating the orbit of a satellite and time-series data relating to the satellite, and performing a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and the graph of the time-series data such that the time axis of the graph of the time-series data coincides with the orbit of the satellite.

[0008] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, program This refers to a program that causes a computer controlling the display system to perform the following actions: acquire data indicating the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data relating to the artificial satellite; and perform a three-dimensional graphical display of the artificial satellite's orbit and the graph of the time-series data so that the time axis of the graph of the time-series data matches the orbit of the artificial satellite. That is . [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, when the orbit of a satellite and time-series data related to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to relatively easily grasp the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows the configuration of a display system according to some embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of displaying a satellite orbit and a time-series data graph using a display system according to some embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 3]FIG. is a diagram showing an example of display when the orbit of a satellite and a graph of time-series data related to the satellite are displayed in separate windows. [Figure 4] FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a vector indicating the direction of a value axis in some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in which a display system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure generates and displays a three-dimensional graphics image related to a satellite. [Figure 6] FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a configuration when a display system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is configured as one device. [Figure 7] FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a configuration when a display system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is configured with a plurality of devices. [Figure 8] FIG. is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of a display system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. is a diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in a display method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described. However, the following embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims. Also, not all combinations of features described in the embodiments are essential for the solution means of the invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a display system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the display system 100 includes a communication unit 110, a display unit 120, an operation input unit 130, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The control unit 190 includes a data acquisition unit 191, a coordinate conversion unit 192, and a display processing unit 193.

[0012] The display system 100 acquires data indicating the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data related to that satellite, and performs a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and a graph of the time-series data. The time-series data related to the artificial satellite is also simply referred to as time-series data. The display system 100 displays an image of the Earth, the orbit of a satellite, and a graph of time-series data related to the satellite in such a way that (1) the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph coincide, (2) the time on the time axis of the time-series data graph coincides with the time the satellite passes through its orbit, (3) the satellite's orbit in three-dimensional space and the value axis of the time-series data graph (an axis other than the time axis) are orthogonal, and (4) the satellite's orbit is positioned around the Earth in the displayed image, and the orientation of the value axis of the time-series data graph is outward relative to the Earth. The value axis of the time-series data graph is an axis of the time-series data graph other than the time axis. The display system 100 may include, for example, a computer such as a workstation (WS) or a personal computer (PC).

[0013] Figure 2 shows an example of the display system 100 showing a graph of the satellite's orbit and time-series data. In the example in Figure 2, M11 is an image of the Earth. Line L11 represents the orbit of the artificial satellite. Line L11 also represents the time axis of the time-series data graph related to that satellite.

[0014] Points P11-1, P11-2, P11-3, ... each indicate the position of the artificial satellite on the orbit indicated by line L11 at a given time. Points P11-1, P11-2, P11-3, ... are collectively referred to as point P11. In the following, the position of the artificial satellite on the orbit indicated by line L11 will also be simply referred to as the position of the artificial satellite.

[0015] Lines L12-1, L12-2, L12-3, ... each represent the value axis of the time-series data graph. Lines L12-1, L12-2, L12-3, ... are collectively referred to as line L12. Furthermore, the display system 100 displays line L12-1 such that point P11-1 is one of the endpoints of line L12-1. Line L12-1 also corresponds to the line representing the time when the artificial satellite is at the position of point P11-1.

[0016] Furthermore, the display system 100 displays line L12-2 such that point P11-2 is one of the endpoints of line L12-2. Line L12-2 also corresponds to the line representing the time when the artificial satellite is at the position of point P11-2. Furthermore, the display system 100 displays line L12-3 such that point P11-3 is one of its endpoints. Line L12-3 also corresponds to the line representing the time when the artificial satellite is at the position of point P11-3.

[0017] Thus, lines L12-1, L12-2, L12-3, ... also correspond to lines representing a certain time. The display system 100 may display lines L12-1, L12-2, L12-3, ... so that they represent equally spaced times.

[0018] Line L13 shows the time-series data for each time point. Line L14 indicates a certain value in the time series data, such as the upper limit of the time series data. The display system 100 may choose not to display the line indicating the upper limit of the time series data value. Alternatively, the upper limit of the time series data may not be determined.

[0019] M12 is an image from a satellite. The display system 100 displays the satellite image at the satellite's position at a given time. In addition, to make the satellite image easier to understand, the display system 100 displays the satellite image larger than the actual ratio of the satellite's size to the Earth's size.

[0020] The position at which the display system 100 displays satellite images is not limited to the satellite's position at a specific time. The display system 100 may display satellite images in real time. That is, the display system 100 may display satellite images at the satellite's position at the current time. The display system 100 may also display an image of the satellite at its position at a certain point in the past. Alternatively, the display system 100 may display an image of the satellite at its position at a certain point in the future.

[0021] Furthermore, the display system 100 may display an image of the satellite at the satellite's position at each of several time points. Therefore, the display system 100 may display multiple images of the satellite. Alternatively, the display system 100 may choose not to display any images of the satellite.

[0022] Furthermore, the display system 100 may change the time of the object to be displayed and display the image accordingly. For example, as the time of the object to be displayed progresses, the display system 100 may change information about the Earth's surface, such as the positions of oceans and continents shown in the Earth image M11, in accordance with the Earth's rotation, and also change the position of the satellite image M12.

[0023] Furthermore, the display system 100 may change the viewing direction in the three-dimensional graphics display to show the image. For example, the display system 100 may change the position of the Earth's surface information, such as the positions of oceans and continents shown in the Earth image M11, and the position of the satellite image M12, according to the viewing direction specified by the user.

[0024] V11 is an arrow (vector) indicating the direction of the sun as seen from a satellite. Figure 2 also shows an example of a satellite imaging a portion of the Earth's surface. Region A101 indicates the region imaged by the satellite from its position shown in image M12. However, the satellites displayed by the display system 100 are not limited to satellites for specific purposes. Furthermore, the display system 100 may choose not to display region A101. The display system 100 may choose not to display certain parts of the image illustrated in Figure 2. For example, the display system 100 may choose not to display arrow V11.

[0025] In the example shown in Figure 2, the display system 100 displays the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph so that the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph related to that satellite coincide (as described in (1) above). Both the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph are represented by line L11.

[0026] This makes it easier for users viewing the three-dimensional graphics image shown in Figure 2 (for example, satellite operators) to understand that the graph from line L11 to L14 is a graph of time-series data relating to a satellite that follows the orbit indicated by line L11. Thus, with the display system 100, when the orbit of a satellite and the time-series data relating to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to understand the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data relatively easily.

[0027] Furthermore, in the example in Figure 2, the display system 100 displays the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph such that the time on the time axis of the time-series data graph related to the satellite matches the time of the satellite's passage in its orbit (see (2) above). The time indicated by line L12-1 in the graph and the time of the satellite's passage indicated by point P11-1, which is one endpoint of line L12-1 in the satellite's orbit, are the same time. Similarly, for each combination of line L12-2 and point P11-2, line L12-3 and point P11-3, ..., the line and point represent the same time.

[0028] This makes it easier for users viewing the three-dimensional graphics image shown in Figure 2 to grasp the correspondence between the time in the graph drawn by lines L11 to L14 and the time of passage of the satellite in the orbit shown by line L11. Thus, with the display system 100, when the orbit of a satellite and time-series data related to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to grasp the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data relatively easily.

[0029] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 2, the display system 100 displays the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph so that the satellite's orbit in three-dimensional space and the value axis of the time-series data graph are orthogonal to each other (see (3) above). The satellite's orbit is shown by line L11. The value axis of the graph is shown by line L12. Line L12 is displayed so as to be orthogonal to line L11 in three-dimensional space. This is expected to make it easier for users viewing the three-dimensional graphics image shown in Figure 2 to read time-series data values ​​from the graph.

[0030] Furthermore, in the example in Figure 2, the display system 100 displays the satellite orbit around the Earth in the displayed image, and the orientation of the value axis of the time-series data graph is outward relative to the Earth (see (4) above). The line L12 representing the value axis is displayed outward from the perspective of the Earth shown in image M11.

[0031] As a result, the display system 100 displays a graph of time-series data related to the satellite outside the Earth, as shown in image M11. In particular, for time periods when the satellite's orbit is in front of the Earth (on the side of the viewpoint assumed in the three-dimensional graphics display), the display system 100 can display the graph without it being obscured by the Earth. According to the display system 100, in this respect, it is expected that users viewing the image will find the graph easier to see.

[0032] Furthermore, the display system 100 may also display a graph of time-series data during periods when the satellite's orbit is on the opposite side of the Earth, for example, by displaying the Earth's image M11 semi-transparently. Furthermore, if a user wishes to view a graph of time-series data for a period when the satellite's orbit is on the opposite side of the Earth, the display system 100 may, in accordance with the user's instructions, change the viewing direction in the three-dimensional graphics display so that the graph of time-series data for the period the user wishes to view is displayed in front of the Earth. Furthermore, in addition to displaying a graph of time-series data at a position corresponding to the orbit of the artificial satellite as illustrated in Figure 2, or alternatively, the display system 100 may display a graph of time-series data separately from the display of the artificial satellite's orbit, as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0033] Figure 3 shows an example of how to display the orbit of a satellite and a graph of time-series data related to that satellite in separate windows. In the example shown in Figure 3, a display system for showing data related to artificial satellites displays a three-dimensional graphics display window and a time-series data graph display window on the screen.

[0034] This display system displays the orbit of an artificial satellite in three dimensions in area A201 of the three-dimensional graphics display window. In the example in Figure 3, M21 is an image of the Earth. Line L21 is the orbit of the artificial satellite. M22 is an image of the artificial satellite. V21 is an arrow (vector) indicating the direction of the sun as seen from the artificial satellite. Area A201 indicates the area that the artificial satellite images from the position of the artificial satellite shown in image M22.

[0035] Furthermore, this display system displays one graph of different time-series data in each of the areas A202, A203, and A204 of the time-series data graph display window. The time-series data displayed as graphs in the time-series data graph display window are all time-series data relating to artificial satellites whose orbits are displayed as line L21 in the three-dimensional graphics display window.

[0036] In area A202, the display system shows time-series data as a line graph with the horizontal axis representing time and the vertical axis representing value. In area A203, the display system shows time-series data representing values ​​for each time period as a bar graph with the horizontal axis representing time and the vertical axis representing value. In area A204, the display system shows binary time-series data for each of the three items, "A," "B," and "C," in a graph with the horizontal axis representing time and the vertical axis representing the item.

[0037] Comparing the display examples in Figure 2 and Figure 3, Figure 2 is expected to make it easier to understand the relationship between the orbit and the graph because the orbit and graph are displayed together, compared to Figure 3 where the orbit and graph are displayed separately. For example, even when displaying the orbits and time-series data graphs of multiple satellites, the display method exemplified in Figure 2 makes it easier to understand the relationship between the orbit and the graph because the orbit and graph are displayed together. Furthermore, the display method illustrated in Figure 2 shows the trajectory and graph as a single integrated display, which reduces the amount of eye movement required by the user when referring to the trajectory and graph, thereby reducing the burden on the user.

[0038] The display system 100 may be configured to switch between an integrated display of the satellite's orbit and a time-series data graph, as exemplified in Figure 2, and a separate display of the satellite's orbit and a time-series data graph, as exemplified in Figure 3, in response to user operation. The integrated display of the satellite's orbit and a time-series data graph, as exemplified in Figure 2, is also referred to as the integrated display. The separate display of the satellite's orbit and a time-series data graph, as exemplified in Figure 3, is also referred to as the individual display.

[0039] As described above, an integrated display is expected to make it easier for users to understand the relationship between satellite orbits and time-series data. On the other hand, with individual displays, the time axis can be represented as a straight line in the graph, which is expected to make the graph easier for users to read. For example, a user can use the integrated display to identify the time period for which they want to read the time-series data, then switch to the individual display to read the time-series data value at that specific time.

[0040] The time-series data graphs displayed by the display system 100, which show the satellite's orbit as the time axis, are not limited to the line graph exemplified in Figure 2, but can be of various types. For example, the display system 100 can display various types of graphs, such as a bar graph exemplified in area A203 of Figure 3, a graph showing binary data exemplified in area A204, a Gantt chart, or a step graph, using the satellite's orbit as the time axis.

[0041] In the configuration of the display system 100 shown in Figure 1, the communication unit 110 communicates with other devices. For example, it may receive various data related to the satellite from other devices, including data showing the satellite's orbit and time-series data related to the satellite. However, the method by which the display system 100 acquires data indicating the orbit of a satellite and time-series data related to that satellite is not limited to a specific method. For example, the display system 100 may include a simulator to calculate the satellite's orbit and time-series data through simulation.

[0042] The display unit 120 includes a display screen such as a liquid crystal panel or an LED (Light Emitting Diode) panel, and displays various images according to the control of the control unit 190. In particular, the display unit 120 performs an integrated display of the satellite's orbit and time-series data related to that satellite, as explained with reference to Figure 2. Furthermore, as described above for the display system 100, the display unit 120 may also perform separate displays of the satellite's orbit and a graph of the time-series data, as illustrated in Figure 3. As described above for the display system 100, the display unit 120 may switch between integrated display and individual display in response to user operation. The display unit 120 is an example of a display means.

[0043] The operation input unit 130 includes, for example, input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse, and accepts user operations. The operation input unit 130 may also accept user operations to instruct the display of the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data related to that satellite. The operation input unit 130 may also accept user operations to specify the artificial satellite for which the orbit and time-series data are to be displayed. If there are multiple time-series data, the operation input unit 130 may also accept user operations to specify the time-series data to be displayed. If the display unit 120 is capable of both integrated display and individual display, the operation input unit 130 may also accept user operations to instruct the switching between integrated display and individual display.

[0044] The memory unit 180 stores various types of data. For example, the memory unit 180 stores data indicating the orbit of a satellite and time-series data related to that satellite. The memory unit 180 may also store various types of data related to the satellite that the communication unit 110 has received from other devices. The memory unit 180 is configured using the memory devices provided by the display system 100.

[0045] The control unit 190 controls various parts of the display system 100 to perform various processes. The functions of the control unit 190 may also be performed by the CPU (Central Processing Unit) of the display system 100 reading a program from the storage unit 180 and executing it.

[0046] The data acquisition unit 191 acquires data indicating the orbit of the artificial satellite and time-series data related to that artificial satellite. For example, the data acquisition unit 191 may extract various data, such as data indicating the orbit of the artificial satellite and time-series data related to that artificial satellite, from data received from other devices by the communication unit 110. The data acquisition unit 191 may then store the extracted data in the storage unit 180 and read it from the storage unit 180 when the data is needed.

[0047] The following explanation will describe an example in which the data acquisition unit 191 acquires satellite orbit data, satellite attitude data, imaging location data, satellite telemetry information, and celestial body position data from other devices via the communication unit 110. Satellite orbit data is data that shows the position of an artificial satellite's orbit in real space. In the example in Figure 2, the satellite orbit data is data that shows the position in real space of the satellite's orbit indicated by line L11. The data acquisition unit 191 acquires satellite orbit data that shows the position of the artificial satellite at each time point.

[0048] Satellite attitude data is data that shows the attitude (orientation and tilt) of an artificial satellite in real space. In the example in Figure 2, the satellite attitude data is data that shows the orientation of the artificial satellite represented by image M12 in real space. The data acquisition unit 191 acquires satellite attitude data that shows the attitude of the artificial satellite at each time point.

[0049] The imaging location data is data that indicates the area of ​​the Earth's surface that is imaged by the satellite in real space. In the example in Figure 2, the imaging location data is data that indicates the area imaged by the satellite, indicated by area A101. The data acquisition unit 191 acquires imaging location data that indicates the imaging location (the area imaged by the satellite) for each imaging time.

[0050] Satellite telemetry information is information obtained through communication with artificial satellites. Satellite telemetry information includes time-series data about the satellite, or the data that forms the basis of the time-series data. In the example in Figure 2, the time-series data obtained from satellite telemetry information is shown by line L13, which represents the data values ​​for each time point.

[0051] For example, the satellite telemetry information acquired by the data acquisition unit 191 may include information on the power consumption and heat generation of the satellite at the time of transmission of the satellite telemetry information. However, the time-series data included in the satellite telemetry information, or the data that forms the basis of the time-series data, is not limited to any specific data.

[0052] Celestial position data is data that indicates the position of a celestial body. In the example in Figure 2, the celestial position data is data used to calculate the direction of the sun as seen from the artificial satellite, indicated by arrow V11. For example, the data acquisition unit 191 acquires celestial position data that shows the position of the sun as seen from Earth at each time point in time.

[0053] However, the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 191 is not limited to a specific type of data, and can include various types of information, such as the orbit of the satellite and time-series data related to that satellite. Furthermore, the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 191 may be measured values ​​(actual data) or calculated values ​​obtained through simulations, etc. Alternatively, the data acquisition unit 191 may acquire both measured data and calculated data. For example, the data acquisition unit 191 may acquire measured values ​​for each data up to the present (at the time of data acquisition) and predicted or planned values ​​for each data in the future.

[0054] If it is difficult to predict time-series data, the data acquisition unit 191 may acquire data up to the present and data for the future regarding the satellite's orbit, and acquire only data up to the present for the time-series data. In that case, the display unit 120 may display both the satellite's orbit up to the present and the future orbit, and display only the graph up to the present for the time-series data.

[0055] The method by which the data acquisition unit 191 acquires data is not limited to acquiring it from other devices via the communication unit 110. For example, the display system 100 may include a simulator, and the data acquisition unit 191 may acquire data from the simulator in addition to, or instead of, acquiring data from other devices. Alternatively, the storage unit 180 may pre-store some or all of the data to be acquired by the data acquisition unit 191. The data acquisition unit 191 may then acquire the data by reading it from the storage unit 180.

[0056] The coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates the coordinate values ​​of each object to be displayed in the three-dimensional graphics display. Here, an object refers to a component in the displayed image. For example, the coordinate transformation unit 192 obtains the coordinate values ​​for the satellite orbit, the position and orientation of the satellite's 3D (three-dimensional) model, the imaging location, and the solar direction vector from the satellite orbit data, satellite attitude data, imaging location data, and celestial body position data. In the example in Figure 2, the satellite orbit is shown by line L11. The satellite's 3D model is shown in image M12. The imaging location is shown in area A101. The solar direction vector is shown by arrow V11.

[0057] The method by which the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates the coordinate values ​​of each object in the three-dimensional graphics display is not limited to a specific method. For example, the coordinate transformation unit 192 may calculate the coordinate values ​​using a known coordinate transformation method in three-dimensional graphics.

[0058] Furthermore, the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates the plotting position of the time-series data graph related to the artificial satellite based on the satellite orbit data and satellite telemetry information. In the example shown in Figure 2, the coordinate values ​​in the three-dimensional graph display of line L11, which the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates as the plotting position of the satellite's orbit, also correspond to the plotting position on the time axis of the time series graph.

[0059] Furthermore, the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates the coordinate values ​​of the line L12, which represents the value axis, in the three-dimensional graph display so that in three-dimensional space, line L12 is orthogonal to line L11 and points outward from line L11 towards the Earth.

[0060] Furthermore, the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates the coordinate values ​​in the three-dimensional graph display of line L13, which shows the time-series data values ​​for each time, so that they are positioned on the value axis to represent the time-series data values ​​at that time. The coordinate transformation unit 192 also plots points representing the time-series data values ​​in three-dimensional space, in the same way as when the value axis is explicitly shown, at positions orthogonal to line L11 and outside the Earth from line L11, relative to the position of the corresponding time on line L11.

[0061] Furthermore, the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates the coordinate values ​​of line L14, which indicates the maximum value of the time series data, in the three-dimensional graph display, so that line L14 is shown in three-dimensional space at a position shifted from line L11 in the direction of the value axis by a distance equivalent to the maximum value.

[0062] The coordinate transformation unit 192 may calculate the direction of the value axis using a method for calculating the cross product of vectors in three-dimensional space. Figure 4 shows an example of a vector indicating the direction of the value axis. In the example of FIG. 4, line L31 indicates the orbit of the artificial satellite. Point P31 indicates a point on the orbit of the artificial satellite. Vector V g is a vector from point P31 in the direction of the center of the Earth. Vector V s is a vector indicating the traveling direction of the artificial satellite at point P31.

[0063] In the example of FIG. 4, the coordinate conversion unit 192 calculates the vector V g of the cross product of vectors V s and V c as shown in Equation (1).

[0064]

Equation

[0065] Here, "×" represents the cross product of vectors. Vector V c is orthogonal to both vectors V g and V s . Then, the coordinate conversion unit 192 calculates the vector V c of the cross product of vectors V s and V y as shown in Equation (2) as the vector indicating the direction of the value axis at point P31.

[0066]

Equation

[0067] Vector V y is orthogonal to both vectors V c and V s . Also, according to Equations (1) and (2), vector V y is outward with respect to the Earth. Thus, the coordinate conversion unit 192 can calculate the direction of the value axis so as to be orthogonal to the orbit of the artificial satellite and outward with respect to the Earth by using the method of calculating the cross product of vectors.

[0068] If the time interval of the time-series data is large, the coordinate transformation unit 192 may interpolate the data. In that case, the coordinate transformation unit 192 may interpolate the data at time intervals determined according to the time it takes for the satellite to orbit the Earth. For example, in the case of a satellite that orbits the Earth once in 90 minutes, the coordinate transformation unit 192 may interpolate the data at 10-second intervals.

[0069] Here, as illustrated in Figure 2, in the three-dimensional graphics image displayed by the display unit 120, the curve representing the orbit of the artificial satellite is used as the time axis of the time-series data graph. Therefore, the time axis is represented by a curve. When the time interval of the time-series data is large, if the coordinate transformation unit 192 draws lines representing the data values ​​without considering the curvature of the time axis, such as by connecting the points representing the time-series data with straight lines, the accuracy of the graph will be low at times far from the time when the time-series data exists.

[0070] In contrast, the coordinate transformation unit 192 interpolates the time-series data, thereby improving the accuracy of the graph displayed by the display unit 120 to a graph that follows a curve representing the time axis. In this respect, the graph displayed by the display unit 120 can be made more accurate. Furthermore, the coordinate transformation unit 192 interpolates the data at time intervals determined according to the time it takes for the satellite to orbit the Earth. This allows the interpolation interval to be determined in relation to the curvature of the curve representing the time axis, thus enabling a trade-off between graph accuracy and the processing load of data interpolation.

[0071] The display processing unit 193 generates image data of a three-dimensional graphics image based on the coordinate values ​​acquired by the coordinate transformation unit 192, and displays the generated image data on the display unit 120. The method by which the display processing unit 193 generates image data of a three-dimensional graphics image and displays the generated image data on the display unit 120 is not limited to a specific method. For example, the display processing unit 193 may use an existing computer graphics library to generate image data of a three-dimensional graphics image and display the generated image data on the display unit 120.

[0072] The display system 100 shows vector V in Figure 4. c Alternatively, a third coordinate axis can be added in that direction to display a graph of three-dimensional time-series data. Furthermore, the display system 100 shows the vector V in Figure 4. y In addition to the graph of time series data with the value axis in the direction of the vector V in Figure 4, c You may also display multiple graphs that use the satellite's orbit as the time axis, such as a graph of time-series data with the value axis in the direction of the time axis.

[0073] Figure 5 shows an example of the processing procedure by which the display system 100 generates and displays a three-dimensional graphics image related to an artificial satellite. In the process shown in Figure 5, the data acquisition unit 191 acquires satellite orbit data, satellite attitude data, imaging location data, satellite telemetry information, and celestial body position data (step S101).

[0074] Next, the coordinate transformation unit 192 calculates coordinate values ​​for displaying a three-dimensional graphics image using the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 191 (step S102). Specifically, the coordinate transformation unit 192 converts the positional information in real space shown in the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 191 into coordinate values ​​in a three-dimensional graphics image.

[0075] Next, the display processing unit 193 generates a three-dimensional graphics image based on the coordinate values ​​calculated by the coordinate transformation unit 192, and controls the display unit 120 to display the generated three-dimensional graphics image (step S103). After step S103, the display system 100 terminates the series of processes. The display system 100 may execute the process shown in Figure 5 each time it acquires measurement data from another device. Alternatively, the display system 100 may execute the process shown in Figure 5 each time it receives a user input specifying the time to be displayed as the current time.

[0076] The display system 100 may be configured as a single device. Figure 6 shows an example of the configuration when the display system 100 is configured as a single device. As shown in Figure 6, the display system 100 includes a satellite data display device 200. The satellite data display device 200 includes a communication unit 110, a display unit 120, an operation input unit 130, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The control unit 190 includes a data acquisition unit 191, a coordinate transformation unit 192, and a display processing unit 193.

[0077] Each part of the satellite data display device 200 is the same as the parts of the display system 100 in Figure 1, and is denoted by the same reference numerals (110, 120, 130, 180, 190, 191, 192, 193). Detailed explanations are omitted here. The satellite data display device 200 performs the functions of the display system 100 in Figure 1. The satellite data display device 200 may be configured by including a computer that performs the functions of a communication unit 110, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190, a display screen that performs the functions of a display unit 120, and an operation input device that performs the functions of an operation input unit 130, all in a single housing.

[0078] The display system 100 may be composed of multiple devices. Figure 7 shows an example of a configuration when the display system 100 is composed of multiple devices. As shown in Figure 7, the display system 100 comprises a display control device 310, a display device 320, and an input device 330. The display control device 310 comprises a communication unit 110, a storage unit 180, and a control unit 190. The control unit 190 comprises a data acquisition unit 191, a coordinate transformation unit 192, and a display processing unit 193.

[0079] The communication unit 110, storage unit 180, control unit 190, and their respective components of the display control device 310 are the same as those of the display system 100 in Figure 1, and are denoted by the same reference numerals (110, 180, 190, 191, 192, 193). A detailed explanation is omitted here. The display control device 310 performs the functions of the communication unit 110, the storage unit 180, and the control unit 190 shown in Figure 1. The display control device 310 may be configured using a computer.

[0080] The display device 320 has a display screen and displays various images according to the control of the display control device 310. The display device 320 corresponds to the example of the display unit 120 in Figure 1. The input device 330 accepts user input. The input device 330 corresponds to the example of the operation input unit 130 in Figure 1.

[0081] As described above, the data acquisition unit 191 acquires data indicating the orbit of the artificial satellite and time-series data related to that artificial satellite. The display unit 120 performs a three-dimensional graphic display of the artificial satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph so that the orbit of the artificial satellite and the time axis of the time-series data graph related to that artificial satellite coincide.

[0082] According to the display system 100, it is expected that users viewing the three-dimensional graphics image displayed by the display unit 120 (for example, satellite operators) will be able to easily understand that the time-series data graph is a graph of time-series data relating to a satellite passing through the orbit indicated by the time axis of the graph. Thus, according to the display system 100, when the orbit of a satellite and the time-series data relating to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to relatively easily understand the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data.

[0083] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 2, the display system 100 integrates the satellite's orbit with a graph of time-series data related to that satellite, minimizing the user's eye movement when viewing the three-dimensional graphics image. In this respect, it is expected that the user's burden will be relatively low.

[0084] Furthermore, since the display system 100 displays the satellite's orbit and time-series data graph in three-dimensional graphics, the viewpoint and image size (object size) can be freely changed, allowing the user to view images from any direction. Furthermore, the display system 100 can move the time forward or backward on the display, which changes the position of the satellite along its orbit and also changes the direction of the solar vector. The user can view images at various times.

[0085] Furthermore, the display unit 120 displays the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph so as to align the time on the time axis of the time-series data graph related to the satellite with the time the satellite passes through its orbit. According to the display system 100, it is expected that users viewing the displayed three-dimensional graphics image will be able to easily grasp the correspondence between the time in the time-series data graph and the time of the satellite's passage in its orbit. Thus, according to the display system 100, when the orbit of a satellite and the time-series data related to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to relatively easily grasp the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data.

[0086] Furthermore, the display unit 120 displays the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph so that the satellite's orbit in three-dimensional space and the value axis (an axis other than the time axis) of the time-series data graph related to the satellite are orthogonal to each other. This is expected to make it easier for users viewing three-dimensional graphics images to read time-series data values ​​from graphs.

[0087] Furthermore, the display unit 120 displays an image of the Earth, an image of the satellite's orbit, and a graph of time-series data, such that the satellite's orbit is positioned around the Earth in the displayed image, and the direction of the value axis of the graph of time-series data related to the satellite is outward relative to the Earth.

[0088] This allows the display system 100 to display time-series data graphs related to artificial satellites outside the Earth's field of view. In particular, for time periods when the satellite's orbit is in front of the Earth (on the side of the viewpoint assumed in the three-dimensional graphics display), the display system 100 can display the graphs without them being obscured by the Earth. According to the display system 100, in this respect, it is expected that users viewing the images will find the graphs easier to see.

[0089] As mentioned above, the display system 100 may also display a graph of time-series data for time periods when the satellite's orbit is on the opposite side of the Earth, for example, by displaying the Earth's image M11 semi-transparently. Furthermore, if a user wishes to view a graph of time-series data for a period when the satellite's orbit is on the opposite side of the Earth, the display system 100 may, in accordance with the user's instructions, change the viewing direction in the three-dimensional graphics display so that the graph of time-series data for the period the user wishes to view is displayed in front of the Earth. Furthermore, in addition to displaying a graph of time-series data at a position corresponding to the orbit of the artificial satellite as illustrated in Figure 2, or alternatively, the display system 100 may display a graph of time-series data separately from the display of the artificial satellite's orbit, as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0090] Figure 8 shows another example of the configuration of a display system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. In the configuration shown in Figure 8, the display system 610 comprises a data acquisition unit 611 and a display unit 612. In this configuration, the data acquisition unit 611 acquires data indicating the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data relating to the artificial satellite. The display unit 612 performs a three-dimensional graphical display of the artificial satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph such that the time axis of the artificial satellite's orbit coincides with the time axis of the time-series data graph relating to the artificial satellite. The data acquisition unit 611 is an example of a data acquisition means. The display unit 612 is an example of a display means.

[0091] According to the display system 610, it is expected that users viewing the three-dimensional graphics image displayed by the display unit 612 (for example, satellite operators) will be able to easily understand that the time-series data graph is a graph of time-series data relating to a satellite passing through the orbit indicated by the time axis of the graph. Thus, according to the display system 610, when the orbit of a satellite and the time-series data relating to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to relatively easily understand the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data.

[0092] Furthermore, since the display system 610 displays the satellite's orbit and a graph of time-series data related to that satellite in an integrated manner, the user's eye movement while viewing the three-dimensional graphics image will be reduced, and in this respect, the user's burden is expected to be relatively low.

[0093] Figure 9 shows an example of the processing steps in a display method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The display method shown in Figure 9 includes acquiring data (step S611) and displaying the data (step S612). In acquiring data (step S611), the display system acquires data indicating the orbit of the artificial satellite and time-series data relating to the artificial satellite. In the display step (S612), the display system performs a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph so that the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph related to the satellite coincide.

[0094] According to the display method shown in Figure 9, it is expected that users viewing the three-dimensional graphics image displayed by the display system (for example, satellite operators) will easily understand that the time-series data graph is a graph of time-series data relating to a satellite passing through the orbit indicated by the time axis of the graph. Thus, according to the display method shown in Figure 9, when the orbit of a satellite and the time-series data relating to that satellite are displayed simultaneously, it is expected that users viewing the image will be able to relatively easily understand the relationship between the satellite's orbit and the time-series data.

[0095] Furthermore, the display method shown in Figure 9 integrates the satellite's orbit with a graph of its time-series data, reducing the user's eye movement required to view the three-dimensional graphics image. In this respect, it is expected to be relatively less burdensome for the user.

[0096] Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the configuration of a computer according to at least one embodiment. In the configuration shown in Figure 10, the computer 700 comprises a CPU 710, a main memory 720, an auxiliary memory 730, an interface 740, and a non-volatile recording medium 750.

[0097] One or more of the above-mentioned display system 100, satellite data display device 200, display control device 310, and display system 610, or a part thereof, may be implemented in the computer 700. In that case, the operation of these devices is stored in auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from auxiliary storage device 730, expands it in main memory device 720, and executes the above processing according to the program. The CPU 710 also reserves memory area in main memory device 720 for these devices to perform processing according to the program. Communication between each device and other devices is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and communicating according to the control of the CPU 710. The interface 740 also has a port for the non-volatile recording medium 750 and reads information from and writes information to the non-volatile recording medium 750.

[0098] When the display system 100 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the control unit 190 and each of its components is stored in auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main memory device 720, and executes the above processing according to the program.

[0099] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates the storage area of ​​the storage unit 180 in the main memory 720 according to the program. Communication with other devices by the communication unit 110 is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating under the control of the CPU 710. Display of various images by the display unit 120 is performed by the interface 740 having a display device and displaying various images under the control of the CPU 710. Reception of user operations by the operation input unit 130 is performed by the interface 740 having an input device and accepting user operations under the control of the CPU 710.

[0100] When the satellite data display device 200 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the control unit 190 and its various components is stored in the auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main memory 720, and executes the above processing according to the program.

[0101] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates the storage area of ​​the storage unit 180 in the main memory 720 according to the program. Communication with other devices by the communication unit 110 is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating under the control of the CPU 710. Display of various images by the display unit 120 is performed by the interface 740 having a display device and displaying various images under the control of the CPU 710. Reception of user operations by the operation input unit 130 is performed by the interface 740 having an input device and accepting user operations under the control of the CPU 710.

[0102] When the display control device 310 is implemented in the computer 700, the operation of the control unit 190 and its various components is stored in the auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into the main memory 720, and executes the above processing according to the program.

[0103] Furthermore, the CPU 710 allocates the storage area of ​​the storage unit 180 in the main memory 720 according to the program. Communication with other devices by the communication unit 110 is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating according to the control of the CPU 710. Interaction between the display control device 310 and the user is performed by the interface 740 equipped with a display device and an input device, displaying various images according to the control of the CPU 710 and accepting user operations.

[0104] When the display system 610 is implemented in the computer 700, its operation is stored in auxiliary storage device 730 in the form of a program. The CPU 710 reads the program from auxiliary storage device 730, loads it into main memory 720, and executes the above process according to the program.

[0105] Furthermore, the CPU 710 reserves memory in the main memory 720 for the display system 610 to process according to the program. Communication between the display system 610 and other devices is performed by the interface 740 having a communication function and operating under the control of the CPU 710.

[0106] One or more of the above-mentioned programs may be recorded on the non-volatile recording medium 750. In this case, the interface 740 may read the program from the non-volatile recording medium 750. The CPU 710 may then either directly execute the program read by the interface 740, or temporarily save it in the main memory 720 or auxiliary memory 730 before executing it.

[0107] Alternatively, programs for executing all or part of the processing performed by the display system 100, satellite data display device 200, display control device 310, and display system 610 may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the programs recorded on this recording medium may be loaded into a computer system and executed to perform the processing of each part. The term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an operating system (OS) and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording media" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs (Read Only Memory), CD-ROMs (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. The above-mentioned program may be intended to implement only a part of the functions described above, and may also be able to implement the above-mentioned functions in combination with programs already recorded in the computer system.

[0108] While embodiments of this invention have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configurations are not limited to these embodiments and include designs and the like that do not depart from the spirit of this invention.

[0109] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following:

[0110] (Note 1) A data acquisition means for acquiring data indicating the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data relating to the said artificial satellite, A display means for performing a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph such that the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph coincide, A display system equipped with the following features.

[0111] (Note 2) The display means displays the orbit of the artificial satellite and the graph of the time series data such that the time on the time axis of the graph of the time series data matches the time of passage of the artificial satellite in the orbit of the artificial satellite. The display system described in Appendix 1.

[0112] (Note 3) The display means displays the orbit of the artificial satellite and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite in three-dimensional space and the value axis, which is an axis other than the time axis of the graph of the time-series data, are orthogonal to each other. The display system described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0113] (Note 4) The display means displays the image of the Earth, the orbit of the artificial satellite, and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite is positioned around the Earth in the display image, and the orientation of the value axis of the graph of the time-series data is outward relative to the Earth. The display system described in Appendix 3.

[0114] (Note 5) The display system We acquire data showing the orbit of the artificial satellite and time-series data related to the said artificial satellite. The orbit of the artificial satellite and the time series data graph are displayed in three dimensions so that they coincide with the time axis of the time series data graph. A method of display that includes the following.

[0115] (Note 6) The computer that controls the display system, To acquire data showing the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data related to the said artificial satellite, To perform a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph such that the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph coincide, A recording medium that stores a program to execute.

[0116] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-170492, filed on 25 October 2022, and incorporates all of its disclosures herein. [Industrial applicability]

[0117] This disclosure may be applied to display systems, display methods, and recording media. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0118] 100, 610 Display System 110 Communications Department 120, 612 Display section 130 Operation Input Section 180 Storage section 190 Control Unit 191, 611 Data acquisition unit 192 Coordinate Transformation Unit 193 Display Processing Unit 200 Satellite Data Display Devices 310 Display control device 320 display device 330 Input Device

Claims

1. A data acquisition means for acquiring data indicating the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data relating to the said artificial satellite, A display means for performing a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph such that the orbit of the satellite and the time axis of the time-series data graph coincide, A display system equipped with the following features.

2. The display means displays the orbit of the artificial satellite and the graph of the time series data such that the time on the time axis of the graph of the time series data matches the time of passage of the artificial satellite in the orbit of the artificial satellite. The display system according to claim 1.

3. The display means displays the orbit of the artificial satellite and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite in three-dimensional space and the value axis, which is an axis other than the time axis of the graph of the time-series data, are orthogonal to each other. The display system according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The display means displays the image of the Earth, the orbit of the artificial satellite, and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite is positioned around the Earth in the display image, and the orientation of the value axis of the graph of the time-series data is outward relative to the Earth. The display system according to claim 3.

5. The display system We acquire data showing the orbit of the artificial satellite and time-series data related to the said artificial satellite. The orbit of the artificial satellite and the time series data graph are displayed in three dimensions so that they coincide with the time axis of the time series data graph. A method of display that includes the following.

6. The three-dimensional graphics display is performed such that the display system displays the orbit of the satellite and the graph of the time-series data such that the time on the time axis of the graph of the time-series data matches the time of passage of the satellite in the orbit of the satellite. The display method according to claim 5, including the following:

7. The three-dimensional graphics display is performed such that the display system displays the orbit of the artificial satellite and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite in three-dimensional space and the value axis, which is an axis other than the time axis of the graph of the time-series data, are orthogonal to each other. A display method according to claim 5 or claim 6, including the following:

8. The three-dimensional graphics display is performed such that the display system displays an image of the Earth, the orbit of the artificial satellite, and the graph of the time-series data such that the orbit of the artificial satellite is positioned around the Earth in the displayed image, and the orientation of the value axis of the graph of the time-series data is outward relative to the Earth. The display method according to claim 7, including the following:

9. The computer that controls the display system, To acquire data showing the orbit of an artificial satellite and time-series data related to the said artificial satellite, To perform a three-dimensional graphical display of the satellite's orbit and the time-series data graph such that the satellite's orbit and the time axis of the time-series data graph coincide, A program to execute.

Images