Direction Finding Target Selection Automation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing direction finding systems require manual user input to select targets, which may not be suitable in environments where visual presentation is not feasible, and lack flexibility in target selection based on predefined criteria.

Innovation Solution

A method and system where user devices transmit signals that are received by a control system, which identifies active targets and tracking devices based on a predefined rule set, determining target locations and transmitting this information to appropriate devices, allowing for automatic target selection and location determination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual user input interface is used for target selection, then user can select targets, but system complexity and ease of operation are compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetarget selectionVSAvoiduser input interface

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically identifies and selects targets based on predefined rules without requiring manual user input. The processing unit autonomously determines which user devices are targets and which are tracking devices, eliminating the need for complex user interfaces while maintaining operational effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical interaction (user input interfaces, buttons, selections) with automated electronic processing. The system uses signal analysis and rule-based algorithms to automatically perform target selection, substituting human-operated mechanical interfaces with automated computational systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If visual presentation of target location is provided, then user can navigate to target, but system adaptability to different environments is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenavigation to targetVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts its output method based on environmental conditions. Instead of always providing visual presentation, the system can switch between different notification methods (visual, auditory, tactile) depending on the operational environment, making it versatile for both visual-friendly and visual-constrained situations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system is designed to provide multiple types of output notifications beyond just visual presentation. It can deliver target location information through various channels (visual displays, audio cues, haptic feedback), making it universally applicable across different environmental contexts where visual presentation may or may not be appropriate.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2664942B1Methods and systems for use in selecting targets for direction finding systems

Publication Date: 2024.01.03 THE BOEING CO

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AI summary

A first user device transmits a first signal, and a second user device transmits a second signal. A processing unit receives the first signal and the second signal. The processing unit identifies the first user device as an active target and the second user device as an active tracking device based on a predefined rule set including a plurality of selection criteria.