Adaptive Camouflage Cover with Image Generator Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing adaptive masking devices fail to effectively mask an object from its background when viewed from different directions, as they are designed to work only in the direction of the camera's observation, leading to detection when the observer changes direction.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive masking method and device that utilize a cover with an image generator network connected to an image synthesizer and camera, positioned to cover both the object and its background, which continuously minimizes contrast and frequency deviations between the object and its background by determining the outline of the cover and adjusting the image generators to match the background's characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-direction camera and image generator are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the masking effectiveness deteriorates when observed from different directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making different regions of the cover have different optical properties. The cover includes a first region that is transparent to electromagnetic radiation and a second region that is opaque, allowing the system to selectively mask different areas based on the desired observation directions. This resolves the contradiction by enabling multi-directional masking without requiring complex multi-camera systems for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-direction (one-dimensional observation) approach to a multi-directional approach by incorporating regions with different transparency properties that respond to electromagnetic radiation from multiple directions. This dimensional expansion in the optical property space allows the simple single-camera system to achieve complex multi-directional masking effectiveness.
2Reliability
If multi-directional light sensors and multiple image generators are used, then the masking effectiveness is improved for multiple directions, but the device complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single camera system that serves multiple functions through the intelligent use of transparent and opaque regions. Instead of requiring separate camera-image generator pairs for each direction, the single camera controls different regions of the cover to achieve masking effectiveness for multiple observation directions simultaneously. This multi-functional approach resolves the contradiction by maintaining high masking effectiveness while significantly reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple direction-specific masking systems into a single integrated cover system with differentiated transparency regions. By combining the masking functions for multiple directions into one unified structure controlled by a single camera, the system achieves multi-directional masking effectiveness without the complexity of multiple independent systems.
3Reliability
If the cover uses opaque materials, then the masking is effective from all directions, but the adaptability to background changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the optical properties of the cover regions changeable in response to external stimuli. The cover regions can transition between transparent and opaque states based on electromagnetic radiation input, allowing the system to dynamically adapt to changing background conditions while maintaining masking effectiveness when needed. This resolves the contradiction by enabling both effective masking and adaptability through dynamic optical property modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters (transparency/opacity) of the cover regions based on observed background characteristics. By modulating the transparency parameter of different regions in response to electromagnetic radiation and background analysis, the system achieves both effective masking and adaptability to background changes, resolving the contradiction between fixed opaque masking and adaptive transparency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides improved masking by ensuring that the object blends seamlessly with its background across various directions of observation, maintaining stealthiness regardless of the observer's angle, and is adaptable to changes in brightness and shadows throughout the day.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible screen formed by organic light-emitting diodes (known by the acronym OLED)
Implementation Method 2
The device could comprise an image generator network that is reflective within the visible and/or infrared spectrum
Implementation Method 3
the image synthesizer controlling the at least one image generator network so as to minimize the contrast and optionally the frequency deviation between the background and the cover
Data Source
AI summary
An adaptive masking method for an element in a field of operations. According to this method, at least one cover allowing to cover the element is implemented, the cover carrying at least one image generator network connected to an image synthesizer coupled to a camera. According to this method, the camera is positioned so as to cover both a portion of a background of the element and the entire cover, the image synthesizer controlling the at least one image generator network so as to minimize the contrast and optionally the frequency deviation between the background and the cover. The device implementing such a method is described.