Method and system for simulating an aerial target using a drone provided with at least two signal generators

Abstract

- Method and system for simulating an aerial target using a drone provided with at least two signal generators. - The system (1) for simulating at least one aerial target comprises at least one drone (3), the drone (3) being equipped with a first signal generator (10) of a first type, which is able to emit a signal (S1B) representative of an aerial target (2) to be simulated, and with at least a second signal generator (11) of a second type different from the first type, which is also able to emit a signal (S2) representative of the aerial target (2) to be simulated, the system (1) thus making it possible to test, in a simple, efficient and inexpensive manner, using a single drone (3), sensors (12, 13) of different types of a monitoring system (8), the system (1) thus being particularly suitable for forming part of a test system (9) intended to test a heterogeneous multi-sensor monitoring system (8).

Description

Method and system for simulating an aerial target using a drone equipped with at least two signal generators.

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and system for simulating an aerial target using at least one drone equipped with at least two signal generators.

[0002] Although not exclusively, such an aerial target simulation system can be used to test the ability of the systems specified below to detect and track aerial targets as specified below. State of the art

[0003] Document EP3 296 760 B1 discloses a method and system for testing radar systems. This test system comprises a drone flown near the radar system under test. The drone is equipped with means capable of receiving radar signals from the radar system, processing the received radar signals, generating a radar response signal, and transmitting this radar response signal back to the radar. This radar response signal is configured to simulate a radar echo from a fictitious moving target. This fictitious moving target can represent a ballistic missile.

[0004] This test system has the disadvantage of only being able to test radar systems.

[0005] However, a protection system, designed in particular to protect a site or ships against potential air attacks, generally includes various means (or sensors) for detecting enemy targets, and not just radar systems. The aforementioned standard test system is therefore not capable of testing a surveillance system, such as those currently in use, particularly heterogeneous multi-sensor systems.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need to have a system available to help test a surveillance system, including means (or sensors) for detecting different types of aerial targets.

[0007] The present invention aims to satisfy this need. It relates to a system for simulating at least one aerial target, which includes at least one drone, said drone being equipped with a first signal generator of a first type, which is mounted on the drone and which is capable of emitting a signal representative of an aerial target to be simulated.

[0008] According to the invention, said drone is also equipped with at least one second signal generator of a second type different from said first type, which is also mounted on the drone and which is also capable of emitting a signal representative of said aerial target to be simulated.

[0009] Thus, thanks to the invention, the aerial target simulation system is able to generate and transmit, via at least two different signal generators mounted on a single drone, signals of different types (e.g., infrared, radio frequency, visible, cooperative) as specified below. This solution is simple, efficient, and inexpensive since it allows, with the use of a single drone, the generation of at least two different types of target simulation signals.

[0010] Thus, if this air target simulation system is used to test a system, particularly a surveillance system and / or the various components of a weapon system, it can simultaneously test different sensors (or detection means), for example, a radar and an infrared sensor, of that system, provided these sensors are located in the same place or close to each other, as specified below. These sensors can be mounted in a fixed position (permanently) or deployed on vehicles or ships (not permanently), for example, by being mounted on tripods.

[0011] The air target simulation system is therefore particularly suitable to be part of a test system intended to test a heterogeneous multi-sensor system (in particular, but not exclusively, for surveillance) (i.e., comprising a plurality of sensors (or detectors) employing different technologies).

[0012] The simulation system is capable of simulating an aerial target that is simulated to be located at a given distance using a drone flying at a shorter distance. The simulation system is thus able to simulate an aerial target that is simulated to be located at a much greater distance from the surveillance system than the actual distance of the drone.

[0013] Furthermore, advantageously, said first type and / or said second type correspond to at least one of the following types of signal generator: - a radio frequency signal generator; - an infrared signal generator; - a visible signal generator; - a cooperative signal generator.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the simulation system includes a single computer which is mounted on the drone and which participates in the control of all the signal generators equipping the drone.

[0015] More specifically, although not exclusively, an aerial target suitable for simulation by the simulation system may correspond to one of the following flying machines: - an aircraft, for example a fighter jet, an airliner or a tourist aircraft; - a glider, in particular a hypersonic glider, or an ultralight aircraft, and more generally any flying object of an aerobic type; - a missile, for example ballistic (maneuvering or not) or hypersonic or subsonic or supersonic; - a rocket.

[0016] In another particular embodiment, the aerial target can also be a moving object traveling at low speed and at a height (relative to the ground) close to 0 meters. Such a moving object could, in particular, be a ship.

[0017] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, the simulation system comprises a plurality of drones, at least some of which are equipped with at least two signal generators of different types, each drone being configured to simulate a different aerial target than that simulated by another drone. This preferred embodiment thus makes it possible to simultaneously simulate a plurality of different aerial targets, such a situation corresponding, for example, to an attack scenario in which numerous enemy aerial targets (or threats) are sent simultaneously to attack an area to be monitored and protected.

[0018] In a particular embodiment, the simulation system comprises at least two drones equipped with signal generators, at least one of which is equipped with at least two signal generators of different types, the drones forming a drone array, and the system includes a synchronization device configured to synchronize all the drones in the drone array so that they simulate a single target. Advantageously, the synchronization device is configured to synchronize the drones in the drone array both: - in time (temporally); - in space (spatially, i.e., in position and attitude); and - to be consistent with respect to the aerial target they simulate and to avoid the risk of collision (between the drones and elements external to the system).

[0019] Furthermore, and advantageously, the simulation system also includes a mission management device configured to be able to communicate with the drone(s).

[0020] Advantageously, the mission management system includes at least one of the following units: - at least one mission preparation unit; - at least one mission execution unit; - at least one mission control unit.

[0021] Furthermore, advantageously, the simulation system also includes at least one trajectory modification device configured to modify (in real time) the trajectory of at least one drone. Advantageously, the simulation system includes: - at least one trajectory modification device that is part of the mission management system and configured to issue trajectory correction commands to the drone, generated automatically and / or by an operator; and / or - at least one trajectory modification device mounted on the drone and configured to modify the drone's trajectory.

[0022] In a particular embodiment, said drone(s) are multicopter drones, which are very maneuverable.

[0023] The present invention also relates to a method for simulating at least one aerial target, said method using at least one drone, said method comprising a first emission step during which a first signal generator of a first type, which is mounted on said drone, emits a first signal representative of an aerial target to be simulated.

[0024] According to the invention, said method comprises at least a second emission step during which a second signal generator of a second type different from said first type, which is also mounted on said drone, emits a second signal representative of said aerial target to be simulated, said first signal and said second signal being of different types.

[0025] In a particular embodiment, the method uses at least two drones equipped with a signal generator, at least one of which is equipped with at least two signal generators of different types, said drones forming a set of drones, and in that all the drones in the set of drones are synchronized to simulate a single target, the drones in the set of drones being synchronized both: - in time; - in space; and - to be consistent with respect to the aerial target they simulate, and to avoid risks of collision (between the drones and elements external to the system).

[0026] The present invention further relates to a test system for testing a surveillance system, in particular of a heterogeneous multi-sensor weapon system, which includes said surveillance system and at least one simulation system such as that described above.

[0027] Advantageously, sensors of the surveillance system, intended to receive signals from two signal generators equipping the same drone, are spaced apart by a distance such that the error in locating an aerial target that results from this distance and the distance between the sensors and the drone remains less than the margins of error or location (for example the aperture for a radar or a camera) of said sensors.

[0028] Advantageously, the surveillance system includes as sensors at least some of the following: - one or more radars; - one or more optical sensors (infrared, TV or other), and for example a goniometer; - one or more cooperative sensors (part of an identification friend or foe device, for example of the IFF (for "Identification Friend or Foe" type) or infodrone, ADSB, …; - one or more passive sensors (goniometer, ELINT (part of a communication simulation system, SIGINT, …).

[0029] The present invention further relates to a heterogeneous multi-sensor weapon system comprising at least one test system as mentioned above.

[0030] The said air target simulation system and / or said test system can be used in many different applications, and in particular: - for training, in particular of operators of the surveillance system and / or the weapon system; - for training, in particular of operators of the surveillance system and / or the weapon system; - for calibration of the surveillance system and / or the weapon system; - for testing of the surveillance system and / or the weapon system; - for validation of the surveillance system and / or the weapon system; and - for demonstration.

[0031] The present invention generally allows testing of the complete chain of a weapon system, from detection to engagement (excluding missiles in flight), and thus at least one of the following characteristics: - the surveillance, detection and tracking capability of sensors; - the proper behavior of the weapon system algorithms that perform data fusion, data processing for threat assessment, engagement planning, etc.; and - the engagement chain with the proper functioning of the algorithms and sensors during this phase. Brief description of the figures

[0032] The accompanying figures will clearly illustrate how the invention can be implemented. In these figures, identical reference numerals designate similar elements.

[0033] Lare represents schematically a particular embodiment of an aerial target simulation system.

[0034] This is the synoptic diagram of a drone including a signal generation device according to a first embodiment.

[0035] This is the synoptic diagram of a drone including a signal generation device according to a second embodiment.

[0036] This is the synoptic diagram of a mission management device that is part of the air target simulation system.

[0037] This is a graph that explains the minimum distance between two sensors detecting signals from two signal generators mounted on the same drone.

[0038] Lare represents schematically a particular embodiment of a simulation system for a plurality of aerial targets.

[0039] This is the synoptic diagram of an aerial target simulation process. Detailed description

[0040] System 1 (for simulating an aerial target) which illustrates the invention and is schematically represented in particular embodiments in Figures 1 and 6, is intended to simulate one or more aerial targets 2.

[0041] Although not exclusively, this system 1 (airborne target simulation system) can be part of a test system 9 intended to test a surveillance system 8. The surveillance system 8 is preferably a heterogeneous multi-sensor surveillance system, that is, one that includes a plurality of heterogeneous (i.e., different types) sensors (or detectors). In the example shown, the surveillance system 8 includes, in particular, a radar 12 and an infrared sensor (or imager) 13. The surveillance system 8 may also include other sensors, as specified below.

[0042] System 1 comprises, as shown in the figure, at least one drone 3 and a signal generation device 4 mounted on the drone 3.

[0043] Figures 2 and 3 schematically represent, by way of non-limiting illustration, a drone 3, that is, an unmanned aerial vehicle, forming part of system 1. The drone or all drones of system 1 may correspond to a drone 3 of either of Figures 2 or 3. The drone 3 comprises common means 5 (in particular means of lift (rotating wings 6), …) and means of generating a forward force), which are schematically represented in Figures 2 and 3 and which are configured to enable the drone 3 to fly. The drone 3 is preferably of the multicopter or multirotor type. The drone 3 also includes other equipment specified below.

[0044] According to the invention, as shown in Figures 1 to 3, the drone 3 is equipped with at least: - a signal generator 10 of a first type, for example a radio frequency signal generator, which is part of the signal generation device 4 (as shown in Figure 1) and which is capable of emitting a signal S1B representative of an aerial target 2 to be simulated; and - a signal generator 11 of a second type (different from said first type), for example an infrared signal generator, which is also part of the signal generation device 4 (as shown in Figure 1) and which is also capable of emitting a signal S2 representative of the same aerial target 2 to be simulated.

[0045] Drone 3 has two signal generators of different types (such as signal generators 11 and 12 for example) or more than two signal generators of different types, for example three or four signal generators, all of which are capable of emitting a signal representative of a single aerial target to be simulated.

[0046] In the context of the present invention, "simulating an aerial target" means generating and emitting signals, specified below, which make a surveillance system, such as surveillance system 8, believe that these signals come from a real aerial target.

[0047] System 1 is thus capable of simulating an aerial target which is simulated as being located at a high distance from the surveillance system 8 from a drone 3 flying at a much shorter distance from the surveillance system 8.

[0048] By way of non-limiting illustration: - the drone 3 of system 1 can be located at a distance from the surveillance system 3, such as the distance D1 on the, which is between 50 meters and 2 kilometers; and - the system 1 can simulate an aerial target 2 which is located (virtually) at a distance from the surveillance system 8, such as the distance D2 on the, which is between 1 kilometer (or, at a minimum, a distance close to the distance between the drone and the surveillance system 8) and several hundred kilometers.

[0049] In the very schematic figures 1 and 6, the drones and aerial targets, as well as their distances from the surveillance system 8, are not represented at the same scale for reasons of clarity in these figures.

[0050] Furthermore, the aerial targets to be simulated (identified by a reference number 2, to which the letters A and B have been added to differentiate them) are represented by hatched lines in Figures 1 and 6 to clearly highlight that they are simulated and therefore virtual, and do not correspond to a real aerial object. These aerial targets 2 can represent any flying object that one wishes to simulate, and in particular a hostile (or enemy) object or aircraft. This could notably be a military aircraft, as in the example in Figures 1 and 6.

[0051] More generally, within the framework of the present invention, an aerial target 2 may correspond to at least one of the following flying machines: - an aircraft, for example a fighter jet, an airliner or a tourist aircraft; - a glider, in particular a hypersonic glider, or an ultralight aircraft, and more generally any flying object of the aerobic type; - a missile, for example ballistic (maneuvering or not) or hypersonic or subsonic or supersonic; - a rocket.

[0052] In one particular embodiment, the aerial target can also be a moving object traveling at low speed and at a height (relative to the ground) close to 0 meters. Such a moving object could, in particular, be a ship.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the device 4 of the drone 3 is provided with a central unit 7 (or computer), as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0054] The central unit 7 is specifically capable of automatically determining guidance commands used by the means 5 to guide the drone 3. The drone 3 can thus be guided automatically without (or with limited) operator intervention, for example, to avoid a collision with another drone and simply to fulfill its mission, since it is the central unit 7 that periodically sends commands to the means 5 to ensure the simulated trajectory is correct. More precisely, the central unit 7 sends commands to an autopilot (which is installed on the drone's flight control computer), and the autopilot then sends the commands to the means 5. The drone 3 can therefore fly autonomously in this particular embodiment.

[0055] The central unit 7 is also configured to generate and transmit commands: - via a link 14, to the signal generator 10 (of radio frequency type) so that it emits an appropriate S1B signal, as also specified below; and - via a link 15, to the signal generator 11 (of infrared type) so that it emits an appropriate S2 signal, as specified below.

[0056] System 1 also includes a mission management device 24, shown very schematically on the diagram, which is part of system 1 and is capable of communicating with the drone(s) 3 of system 1. The mission management device 24 is preferably installed on the ground or on a land vehicle (or on a ship).

[0057] To achieve this, the device 24 includes a transmitting / receiving unit 23 ( ) which cooperates with a transmitting / receiving unit 22 (Figures 2 and 3) of the drone 3 with which it wishes to communicate. The transmitting / receiving unit 22 is connected via a link 19 to the computer 7 of the device 4. The transmitting / receiving units 22 and 23 are capable of exchanging information, via the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves, as illustrated by double arrows 25 in Figures 1 to 4 and 6.

[0058] Each drone 3 of system 1 and all signal generators 10 and 11 mounted on the drone 3 are controlled by the central unit 7, which is an onboard computer. Furthermore, the drones 3 are: - either connected to the mission management device 24 (located, for example, on the ground), via a dedicated link, as illustrated by the double arrows 25; - or autonomous. In this case, it is provided that a pilot can take over if necessary.

[0059] The system 1 further comprises at least one of the following trajectory modification devices: - a trajectory modification device 20 which is part of a control unit 28 of the mission management device 24 () and which is configured to issue trajectory correction commands to the drone 3, which are generated automatically and / or by an operator; and - a trajectory modification device 21 which is mounted on the drone 3 and integrated into the computer 7 (Figures 2 and 3) and which is configured to modify the trajectory of said drone 3.

[0060] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, the drone 3 also includes a transmitter / receiver 16 which is connected via a link 17 to the computer 7 (Figures 2 and 3) and which cooperates with a similar transmitter / receiver 16 of another drone 3 with which it can communicate. The transmitter / receiver 16 of two drones 3 are thus capable of exchanging information, via the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves, as illustrated by double arrows 18 in Figures 2, 3, and 6.

[0061] The transmitting / receiving unit 22 and the transmitting / receiving device 16 of device 4 can be two different physical entities or one and the same physical entity.

[0062] In the illustrative and non-limiting examples shown in Figures 1 and 6, radio frequency signal generators 10 and infrared signal generators 11 are shown, associated respectively with radars 12 and infrared sensors (or imagers) 13. As a non-limiting example, in Figures 1 and 6, a radar 12 and an infrared sensor 13 are mounted on the same platform 32.

[0063] However, within the scope of the present invention, system 1: - may include, in addition to or instead of one or more radio frequency signal generators and / or one or more infrared signal generators, one or more visible signal generators and / or one or more cooperative signal generators (such as an identification friend signal generator and / or a communication signal generator (for direction finding, but also electronic intelligence gathering of the ELINT type)); and - may be associated with many types of sensors, and in particular with: · radars, such as radar 2 for example; · optical sensors, of the infrared type (such as infrared sensor 13 for example), TV or other, and also with direction finders; · cooperative sensors (part of an identification friend or foe device for example of the IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) or infodrone type, or ADSB;· passive sensors (goniometer (radio frequency system and acoustic system), ELINT (part of a communication simulation system), SIGINT, …).;

[0064] The operation of some main signal generators that may be part of system 1 is described below.

[0065] The radio frequency signal generator 10 comprises, for example: - a detector (not shown) to detect an initial radio frequency signal emitted by the radar 12, as illustrated by dashed arrows S1A in Figures 1 and 6. The detector can also attenuate the received signal; - a processing unit (not shown) to determine and generate a reply radio frequency signal, based on the initial radio frequency signal detected by the detector and the characteristics (distance from the radar, speed) of the aerial target to be simulated. To do this, the processing unit first converts the received signal into a digital signal, processes it, and recreates a radio frequency signal (digital-to-analog conversion); and - a transmitter (not shown) to transmit this reply radio frequency signal to the radar 12, as illustrated by arrows S1B in Figures 1, 2, 3, and 6.The transmitter can also amplify or attenuate the signal as needed.

[0066] When it detects this radio frequency (reply) signal, radar 12 believes it has detected the echo of an aerial target and thus identifies an aerial target that has the characteristics (particularly distance and speed) taken into account by the processing unit to determine the radio frequency (reply) signal. The characteristics taken into account by the processing unit may correspond to mission parameters that are defined during mission preparation.

[0067] Furthermore, the infrared signal generator 11 is an infrared illuminator, that is, a standard device capable of emitting an infrared signal, as illustrated by arrow S2 in Figures 1, 2, 3, and 6. The characteristics of this infrared signal, and in particular its amplitude, are determined so that the infrared signal is similar to an infrared signal (or hot spot) emitted by a real aerial target, for example, an airplane, helicopter, drone, missile, or other mobile object that one wishes to simulate. In a particular variant, the infrared signal generator 11 generates several bright spots to be as representative as possible of the target's shape. In this case, the amplitude of each bright spot is controlled.

[0068] This infrared signal, when emitted by the infrared signal generator 11 of the drone, is detected by an infrared sensor 13 of the surveillance system 8. The infrared sensor 13 of the surveillance system 8 thus grows, by detecting this infrared signal S2 emitted from the drone 3, to detect a hot area of ​​a real aerial target (for example its engines or another part having a characteristic and known infrared signature) and therefore to detect this real aerial target.

[0069] Device 4 of system 1 may also include a generator capable of generating a cooperative signal relating to a so-called cooperative system.The cooperative system may correspond to one of the following systems: - an Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system; - an Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) system for air traffic control, in which a device mounted on an aircraft periodically sends, as a cooperative signal, a signal including aircraft identification; - a FLARM system for small aircraft and flying machines that emits, as a cooperative signal, a signal providing information about the flying machine, particularly to avoid the risk of collision; - an Automatic Identification System (AIS) system in which a device mounted on a ship periodically sends, as a cooperative signal, a signal containing information (position, heading, speed, etc.).) on the ship ;- ….

[0070] Thus, the aerial target simulation system 1 is capable of generating and transmitting, via at least two different signal generators, such as signal generators 10 and 11, mounted on a single drone, signals of different types (e.g., infrared, radio frequency, visible, cooperative). This system 1 is simple, efficient, and inexpensive since it allows, with the use of a single drone, the generation of at least two different types of target simulation signals, thereby limiting the number of drones required, and consequently the need for equipment and remote pilots (with slightly simpler deployment and lower costs).

[0071] Moreover, this system 1 is particularly well suited to testing in a confined space and it simplifies target simulation for multi-sensor platforms (i.e. with several sensors on the same platform (vehicle, small ship, …)).

[0072] Thus, if this air target simulation system 1 is used to test a system, in particular a surveillance system 8 and / or the different chains of a weapon system 30, it is able to test, at the same time, different sensors (or means of detection), for example a radar and an infrared sensor, of that system, as long as these sensors are located in the same place or close to each other.

[0073] In this particular embodiment, the system 8 comprises two sensors (in this case, the radar 12 and the infrared sensor 13) which are mounted on the same platform 32 (for example, a vehicle, a small vessel, etc.). In this particular embodiment, the system 8 may also comprise more than two different sensors, for example, three, four, etc., sensors.

[0074] Furthermore, in the particular embodiment of the, the system 8 comprises two sensors (in this case the radar 12 and the infrared sensor 13) which are mounted on different platforms.

[0075] More specifically, in this particular embodiment, the sensors of the surveillance system 8, such as the radar 12 and the infrared sensor 13, which are intended to receive signals from two signal generators equipping the same drone 3, such as the signal generators 10 and 11, are spaced apart from each other, on the surveillance system 8, by a distance d0 which is less than a maximum distance.

[0076] This distance d0 (figures 3 and 5) is such that the error in locating the aerial target resulting from this distance d0 and the distance D1 between the sensors (such as the radar 12 and the infrared sensor 13) and the drone 3, remains less than the (known) error margins of the sensors 12 and 13. The locating error is illustrated on the diagram by an angle α. This angle α corresponds to the angle, seen from the sensor 13 (at a position P1), between: - on the one hand, the simulated position 2C of the aerial target (as a function of the position P2 of the sensor 12), illustrated by a line F1 (connecting the positions 2C and P1), and - on the other hand, the simulated position 2D of the aerial target (as a function of the position P1 of the sensor 13), illustrated by a line F2 (connecting the positions 2D and P1).

[0077] Preferably, the distance d0 between the sensors is on the order of a few meters, and the distance D1 between the drone and the sensors is several hundred meters in order to limit the position error of the simulated target.

[0078] Furthermore, in another embodiment (not shown), the surveillance system 8 is a combination of the embodiments of Figures 2 and 3, with one or more platforms comprising at least two different sensors and one or more platforms comprising a single sensor. These different platforms are spaced apart from each other in such a way as to meet the aforementioned conditions (so that an error in locating an aerial target remains less than the error margins of the sensors).

[0079] System 1, as described above, is capable of implementing a method (not shown) for simulating at least one aerial target, said method using at least one drone and comprising at least: - a first emission stage during which a first signal generator of a first type, equipping said drone, emits a first signal representative of an aerial target to be simulated; and - a second emission stage during which a second signal generator of a second type different from said first type, also equipping said drone, emits a second signal representative of said aerial target to be simulated, said first signal and said second signal being of different types.

[0080] Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, shown in Figure 1, the system 1 comprises at least one set 31A, 31B of drones. Each set 31A, 31B comprises a plurality of drones 3. To differentiate the drones 3 from each other, the letters A, B, C and D have been added to the reference 3 in Figure 1.

[0081] In the embodiment of the, system 1 comprises two sets 31A and 31B of drones.

[0082] In this particular embodiment, each set 31A, 31B of drones comprises a pair of drones, namely two drones 3A and 3B for set 31A and two drones 3C and 3D for set 31B.

[0083] Of course, it is also conceivable that one or more sets of drones may include more than two drones, for example three or four drones.

[0084] In the particular embodiment shown in the figure: - the drone set 31A therefore includes drones 3A and 3B which are intended to simulate the same aerial target 2A, drones 3A and 3B each being equipped with a radio frequency type signal generator 10 and an infrared type signal generator 11; and - a drone set 31B therefore includes drones 3C and 3D which are intended to simulate the same aerial target 2B, drones 3C and 3D each being equipped with a radio frequency type signal generator 10 and an infrared type signal generator 11.

[0085] In this particular embodiment, drones 3A and 3B of assembly 31A are synchronized to simulate aerial target 2A and drones 3C and 3D of assembly 31B are synchronized to simulate aerial target 2B, as specified below.

[0086] System 1 is thus capable of simultaneously simulating two different aerial targets, 2A and 2B. In the example shown, aerial targets 2A and 2B are represented as airplanes. Of course, aerial targets 2A and 2B could correspond to two different types of aircraft.

[0087] Each of the drones 3 of the assembly 31A, 31B of system 1 is equipped with at least one signal generator capable of emitting a signal representative of an aerial target 2 to be simulated, and preferably with a plurality of signal generators, and for each assembly 31A, 31B, at least one of the drones 3 is equipped with at least two signal generators.

[0088] In a particular embodiment, at least one of the drones in a set of drones may include two identical signal generators.

[0089] Furthermore, system 1 also includes a synchronization device 29 configured to synchronize the drones 3 of the drone set 31A, 31B so that they simulate a single aerial target. More specifically, the synchronization device 29 is configured to synchronize the drones of the drone set 31A, 31B both: - in time (temporally); - in space (spatially); and - to ensure consistency with respect to the aerial target they are simulating, and to avoid the risk of collisions between the drones and with elements external to system 1.

[0090] The synchronization device 29 also synchronizes the payloads so that they are synchronized in time and in terms of parameters (which are linked to each type of payload). In addition, the drones are synchronized so that signals of different types can be used to simulate a single aerial target.

[0091] Furthermore, the transmitting / receiving units 16 (Figures 2 and 3) of two drones 3 (or of all the drones 3 of the system 1) are capable of exchanging information, via the transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves, as illustrated by double dashed arrows 18 on the.

[0092] Exchanges between two drones 3 can be implemented in two ways: - either directly between the drones 3 via their transmit / receive units 16. In this case, exchanges can also be carried out with the device 24 on the ground (if it is provided); - or by going through the device 24 on the ground (which serves as a router).

[0093] Ideally, the information exchanged aims to prevent a collision between the two drones. To do this, the drones inform each other of their actual positioning.

[0094] This positioning information can also be used to correct the positioning of the drones 3 in real time so that they remain representative of a target. Thus, for example, if drone 3A (of assembly 31A) deviates from its trajectory, for example due to wind, the computer 7 of drone 3B will correct the trajectory of drone 3B to maintain consistent target behavior.

[0095] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, at least one of the drones 3 of system 1, and preferably all of the drones 3 of system 1, are multicopter or multirotor drones, i.e. drones with more than two rotating wings 6 ( ), i.e. more than two lift-generating rotors, and for example four, six or eight rotating wings 6. This makes use of highly maneuverable drones 3, which are able to follow all desired trajectories, including complex trajectories.

[0096] As for the mission management device 24, it is preferably installed on the ground. In one embodiment, it can also be installed on a ship or vehicle. Therefore, the actions described below, which are performed by an operator on the ground, could also be performed by an operator on a ship.

[0097] The mission management system 24, and in particular one or more mission execution units 27, can be used by one or more operators to control the drones from the ground or from a ship during a mission execution phase, as specified below. Preferably, though not exclusively, a single operator is planned. However, one operator per drone of system 1 may also be provided.

[0098] The mission management system 24 includes, as shown in the diagram: - at least one mission preparation unit 26; - at least one mission execution unit 27; - at least one mission control unit 28.

[0099] The mission preparation unit 26 of the mission management device 24 is used by an operator to prepare the mission (for aerial target simulation and more generally for testing) and in particular to define the trajectory of the drone(s) 3, the trajectory of the aerial target(s), and the characteristics of the signal emitted by the signal generator(s) 10, 11 of the drone(s) 3.

[0100] Unit 26 also carries out a phase of positioning the sensors (on fixed ground), defining the flight zones, verifying the consistency of the drone trajectories, and fine-tuning the trajectory of the aerial targets relative to the position of the sensors.

[0101] Mission execution unit 27 of mission management system 24 is intended for the implementation of the mission (air target simulation and more generally testing).

[0102] As for the mission control unit 28 of the mission management device 24, its purpose is to control the mission during its execution. To this end, the mission control unit 28 includes (or is associated with) at least one trajectory modification device 20, which is configured to modify the trajectory of at least one drone 3, as specified below. If the trajectory modification device 20 is used to modify the trajectory of the simulated target, it must modify the trajectory of all drones 3 (simulating this target) and all corresponding signal generators in order to continue to simulate the target correctly.

[0103] Although not exclusively, said air target simulation system 1, as described above, may be part of a test system 9 which is intended to test a surveillance system 8. The surveillance system 8 is preferably a heterogeneous multi-sensor type surveillance system, that is to say, one which includes a plurality of heterogeneous (i.e., of different types) sensors (or detectors).

[0104] In the example of the, the surveillance system 8 includes, in particular, a plurality of radars 12 and infrared sensors 13. The surveillance system 8 may also include other sensors as mentioned above.

[0105] The surveillance system 8 is designed to monitor a specific geographical area around its installation. This geographical area is preferably a land-based area, but can also be, at least partially, a maritime area. It may include, for example, a site, a building, or one or more ships or vehicles in a convoy.

[0106] In one particular embodiment, the surveillance system 8 is part of a weapon system 30, which is intended, for example, to protect this geographical area, and which includes, in addition to the surveillance system 8, weapons (not shown) enabling, in particular, the neutralization of hostile aircraft (especially hostile aircraft detected by the surveillance system 8). In this case, the test system 9 is intended to test the surveillance system 8 and / or the various components of the weapon system 30.

[0107] The 8 surveillance system can therefore be deployed on land (at a fixed location, or mobilely on a land vehicle), or at sea (on a ship, military or civilian). It can also be used for non-military systems, for example an anti-drone system for a sensitive civilian site such as a power plant, an airport sensor network, etc.

[0108] If system 1 is part of a test system 9, it is thus able to test detection means (or sensors) of different types.

[0109] System 1, as described above, allows the implementation of a method M for simulating aerial targets. This method M includes, as shown in the diagram, a mission preparation step E1 and a mission execution step E2, during which a mission control substep E2A is implemented.

[0110] During the E1 mission preparation stage, an operator uses the mission preparation unit 26 to define mission parameters, and in particular to define: - the characteristics enabling unit 26 to determine the trajectory to be followed by each drone 3 of system 1, which will be used during the execution of the mission; and - the characteristics of the signal that will be emitted by the signal generator(s) of each drone 3 of system 1.

[0111] The mission parameters, and in particular the trajectory and characteristics of the signal to be emitted, determined during mission preparation, are recorded in a database of device 24, and for example of unit 27 and / or in a database of computer 7 of drone 3.

[0112] These mission parameters are transmitted to the means 5 and the signal generators either as such (if they are usable as such) by passing through the computer 7, or if necessary after processing by the computer 7 to adapt them to orders usable by the means 5 and the signal generators.

[0113] During mission execution step E2, each drone 3 from the drone array(s) 31A, 31B of system 1 is flown in close proximity (generally within 2 kilometers) to the surveillance system 8. More specifically, each drone 3 flies (autonomously or under the control of a ground operator) along its corresponding predetermined trajectory (defined by the mission parameters). Furthermore, during this flight, the signal generators of the drones 3 emit the corresponding signals (defined by the mission parameters).

[0114] The trajectory followed and the signals emitted by each drone 3 are such that a sensor in the surveillance system 8 believes it has detected a flying object (i.e., an aerial target 2) flying at a greater distance from the surveillance system 8, and considers this flying object to be real. The drone 3 thus simulates an aerial target 2.

[0115] Furthermore, all drones in each set 31A, 31B are synchronized to simulate a single aerial target. For example, in embodiment A, drones 3A and 3B in set 31A are synchronized to simulate aerial target 2A, and drones 3C and 3D in set 31B are synchronized to simulate aerial target 2B.

[0116] The drones in assembly 31A and 31B are controlled to fly and transmit signals in order to achieve this synchronization. This synchronization of all the drones in assembly 31A and 31B is achieved both: - spatially. The drones in assembly 31A and 31B are controlled to move in space to follow prescribed trajectories so as to be at a prescribed position (on the corresponding prescribed trajectory); - temporally. The drones in assembly 31A and 31B are controlled to move in space to follow prescribed trajectories so as to be at the prescribed position at a given time; and - to maintain coherence with respect to the aerial target 2 that they simulate and avoid the risk of collision.

[0117] Through this (triple) synchronization, the drones of the 31A, 31B set of drones are controlled to effectively simulate a single aerial target.

[0118] During the E2 stage of mission execution, the computer 7 of each drone 3 therefore uses the trajectory (or prescribed trajectory) determined in mission preparation to send orders to the means 5 so that they fly the drone 3 as close as possible to this prescribed trajectory.

[0119] During mission execution phase E2, mission control is performed (sub-phase E2A), notably from the ground using mission control unit 28. This mission control allows, in particular, the detection of when the drone deviates from the prescribed trajectory (which it must follow).

[0120] In this case, the drone's trajectory is corrected (in real time) by the trajectory modification device 20, 21 so that the drone returns to the prescribed trajectory and follows it again.

[0121] Within the framework of the present invention, the sensors of system 1 can be installed in a fixed position on the ground. They can also be mounted on a mobile device, for example a land vehicle, a ship or a static flying device such as a balloon attached to the ground by a wire.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, the surveillance system 8 and the weapon system 30 (which includes the surveillance system 8) are installed on the ground (not shown) and represent ground-to-air (defense) systems.

[0123] In a first embodiment variant, the surveillance system 8 and the weapon system 30 comprising the surveillance system 8 can be installed (or mounted) on one or more ships (not shown) and represent sea-to-air (defense) systems or on one or more fixed or mobile vehicles (not shown).

[0124] In addition, in a second embodiment variant, for example at a port, part of the surveillance system 8 and / or the weapon system 30 can be installed on the ground (not shown) and the rest of the surveillance system 8 and / or the weapon system 30 can be installed on one or more ships (not shown).

[0125] System 1, as described above, offers numerous advantages. In particular, this system 1 is capable of: - simultaneously simulating many aerial targets; - simulating the same aerial target to simultaneously stimulate a plurality of sensors, and more specifically sensors of different types; - simulating any type of aerial target (or flying machine), such as, for example, an airplane, a helicopter, a drone, a missile, etc., or even ships (which move at low speed and at a height close to 0 meters); and - simulating aerial targets flying along any type of trajectory.

[0126] Test system 9 is thus able to test the complete chain of weapon system 30, from detection to engagement (excluding missiles in flight), and thus at least one of the following characteristics: - the surveillance, detection and tracking capability of sensors; - the proper behavior of the weapon system algorithms which perform data fusion, data processing for threat assessment, engagement plan, etc.; and - the engagement chain with the proper functioning of the algorithms and sensors during this phase.

[0127] System 1 and / or test system 9 can be used in many different applications, and in particular: - for training, especially of operators of the surveillance system 8 and / or weapon system 30; - for training, especially of operators of the surveillance system 8 and / or weapon system 30; - for calibration of the surveillance system 8 and / or weapon system 30; - for testing of the surveillance system 8 and / or weapon system 30; - for validation of the surveillance system 8 and / or weapon system 30; and - for demonstration.

Claims

A simulation system for at least one aerial target, said system (1) comprising at least one drone (3, 3A to 3D), said drone (3, 3A to 3D) being equipped with a first signal generator (10) of a first type, which is mounted on the drone (3, 3A to 3D) and which is capable of emitting a signal (S1B) representative of an aerial target (2, 2A, 2B) to be simulated, said drone (3, 3A to 3D) also being equipped with at least one second signal generator (11) of a second type different from said first type, which is also mounted on the drone (3, 3A to 3D) and which is also capable of emitting a signal (S2) representative of said aerial target (2, 2A, 2B) to be simulated, said simulation system (1) comprising a single computer (7) which participates in the control of all the signal generators (11, 12) mounted on the drone (3), said simulation system (1) being capable of simulating an aerial target (2, 2A, 2B) which is simulated as being located at a given distance using the drone (3,(3A to 3D) flying at a shorter distance. System according to claim 1, characterized in that said first type and / or said second type correspond to at least one of the following types of signal generator: a radio frequency signal generator (10); an infrared signal generator (11); a visible signal generator; a cooperative signal generator. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a plurality of drones, at least some of which are equipped with at least two signal generators of different types, each of said drones being configured to simulate an aerial target different from that simulated by another drone. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least two drones (3A to 3D) equipped with a signal generator, at least one of which is equipped with at least two signal generators of different types, said drones (3A to 3D) forming a set (31A, 31B) of drones, and in that said system (1) comprises a synchronization device (29) configured to synchronize the drones of the set (31A, 31B) of drones so that they simulate a single target (2A, 2B), the synchronization device (29) being configured to synchronize the drones (3A to 3D) of the set (31A, 31B) of drones, both: - in time; - in space; and- to be consistent with the aerial target (2A, 2B) that they simulate and to avoid risks of collision. System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a mission management device (24) configured to be able to communicate with the drone(s). System according to claim 5, characterized in that the mission management device (24) comprises at least one of the following units: - at least one mission preparation unit (26); - at least one mission execution unit (27); - at least one mission control unit (28). System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one trajectory modification device (20, 21) which is configured to modify the trajectory of the drone(s). System according to claim 5, characterized in that it comprises at least one trajectory modification device (20) which is part of the mission management device (24) and which is configured to issue trajectory correction commands to the drone (3), which are generated automatically and / or by an operator. System according to any one of claims 7 and 8, characterized in that it comprises at least one trajectory modification device (21) which is mounted on the drone (3) and which is configured to modify the trajectory of said drone (3). A method for simulating at least one aerial target, said method using at least one drone (3, 3A to 3D), said method comprising a first transmission step in which a first signal generator (10) of a first type, mounted on said drone (3, 3A to 3D), emits a first signal (S1B) representative of an aerial target (2A, 2B) to be simulated, and at least a second transmission step in which a second signal generator (11) of a second type different from said first type, also mounted on said drone (3, 3A to 3D), emits a second signal (S2) representative of said aerial target (2A, 2B) to be simulated, said first signal (S1B) and said second signal (S2) being of different types, all the signal generators (11, 12) mounted on the drone (3) being controlled by means of a single computer (7), said simulation method being capable of simulate an aerial target (2, 2A,2B) which is simulated as being located at a given distance using the drone (3, 3A to 3D) flying at a shorter distance. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that it uses at least two drones (3A to 3D) equipped with a signal generator, of which at least one is equipped with at least two signal generators of different types, said drones forming a set (31A, 31B) of drones, and in that all the drones (3A to 3D) of the set of drones are synchronized to simulate a single target (2A, 2B), the drones (3A to 3D) of the set (31A, 31B) of drones being synchronized both: - in time; - in space; and - to be coherent with respect to the aerial target (2A, 2B) which they simulate and to avoid risks of collision. Test system for testing a surveillance system, in particular a heterogeneous multi-sensor weapon system, characterized in that it comprises said surveillance system (8) and at least one air target simulation system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9. System according to claim 12, characterized in that sensors (12, 13) of the surveillance system (8), intended to receive signals from two signal generators (10, 11) equipping the same drone (3), are spaced apart from each other by a distance (d0) such that the error in locating an aerial target which results from this distance (d0) and the distance (D1) between the sensors (12, 13) and the drone (3), remains less than the margins of error or location of said sensors (12, 13). System according to any one of claims 12 and 13, characterized in that the surveillance system (8) comprises as sensors, at least some of the following: one or more radars (12); one or more optical sensors (13); one or more cooperative sensors; one or more passive sensors.

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