Camera-Based Obscuration Map Generation for DIRCM Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating obscuration maps for transmitter and receiver systems, such as those used in Directional Infrared Countermeasure systems, are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring extensive manual effort and equipment like laser pointers and metrology tools.
Innovation Solution
The use of cameras, positioned using novel fixtures, to capture image data of the field of regard, which is then processed to determine and map obscurations, reducing the need for labor-intensive laser-based methods and significantly decreasing the time required for data acquisition and processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser-based marking methods are used to create obscuration maps, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming and labor-intensive processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical laser-based marking system with a camera-based optical imaging system. Instead of using lasers to physically mark tangential points on the aircraft surface, the invention uses cameras to capture images of the field of regard, automatically identifying obscuration boundaries through image processing. This substitution dramatically reduces manual labor and time requirements while maintaining measurement accuracy through digital image analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates optical copies (images) of the obscuration features rather than physical marks. By capturing the field of regard with cameras and processing the images to identify tangential points and obscuration boundaries, the system creates a digital representation of the obscuration map without requiring physical marking of the aircraft surface, thereby eliminating the time-consuming manual marking process.
2Measurement precision
If manual laser marking processes are used, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to extensive data acquisition and processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual laser marking and measurement processes with automated camera-based imaging and digital image processing. The camera system captures the entire field of regard in a single shot or rapid sequence, and computer algorithms automatically identify obscuration boundaries and tangential points, eliminating the time-consuming manual measurement and marking process while maintaining precision through automated coordinate transformation and image analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention performs preliminary capture of the entire field of regard using cameras positioned at the transmitter or receiver location. By capturing all necessary visual information in advance through imaging the complete field of regard, the system eliminates the need for sequential manual marking and measurement operations, significantly reducing data acquisition time while preserving measurement accuracy through subsequent automated image processing.
3Measurement precision
If complex laser-based equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes complex laser-based metrology equipment with simpler camera-based imaging systems. Instead of requiring lasers, mirrors, and manual measurement tools, the invention uses cameras to capture images of the field of regard, with computer processing algorithms handling the complex tasks of coordinate transformation, obscuration identification, and map generation. This reduces equipment complexity while maintaining measurement precision through software-based analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses camera imaging to create visual copies of the field of regard and obscuration features, replacing the need for complex physical measurement equipment. By capturing optical images and processing them digitally, the system achieves accurate field of regard mapping without requiring sophisticated laser-based measurement instruments, thereby simplifying the overall device requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A camera is arranged on a transmitter or receiver mount configured to provide a transmitter or receiver with a field of regard. Image data of the field of regard is captured by the camera. A location of an obscuration within the field of regard from the image data is determined from the image data. A map of obscurations within the field of regard is generated based upon the image data and the location of the obscuration within the field of regard.