Distributed Single-Pixel Ghost Imaging for Long-Range Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing imaging systems for tactical aircraft face challenges in achieving a wide field of regard and long-range imaging without increasing the size, weight, and power consumption of the host platform, while maintaining high-resolution and dynamic range imaging capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A distributed ghost imaging apparatus using single pixel detectors on a host platform, with a radiation source module and image processing module that employs computational or quantum ghost imaging algorithms to reconstruct three-dimensional images from two-dimensional data, allowing for flexible and efficient imaging without the need for bulky optical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If relatively large optical systems (long focal length and large sensing aperture) are used to achieve long range imaging, then imaging range is improved, but size and weight of the imaging system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is segmented into multiple single-pixel detectors distributed across different surfaces of the host platform. Each detector captures radiation from a specific direction, and the image processing module reconstructs the complete image by combining data from all detectors. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single large optical system while achieving long-range imaging capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional array detectors to a three-dimensional distributed configuration of single-pixel detectors on multiple surfaces of the host platform. This spatial distribution across different dimensions enables long-range imaging without requiring large optical components, as the reconstruction algorithm synthesizes the image from multiple angular perspectives.
2Length of stationary object
If relatively large optical systems are used to achieve long range imaging, then imaging range is improved, but the imaging components become bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the imaging function from complex optical systems and concentrates it into simple single-pixel detectors. Instead of using large lenses, mirrors, and complex optical trains, the system uses minimal optical components at each detector location, relying on computational algorithms to perform the heavy lifting of image formation and processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical optical systems with computational processing. Rather than using physical optical components to focus and form images, the system uses digital reconstruction algorithms to synthesize images from raw detector data. This substitution dramatically simplifies the optical hardware while maintaining or improving imaging performance.
3Length of stationary object
If imaging components are affixed to the host platform to achieve wide field of regard, then field of view is improved, but size and weight of the host platform subsystems increase
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system is divided into multiple single-pixel detectors positioned on different surfaces of the host platform, each detecting radiation from different directions. This segmentation allows the system to achieve a wide field of regard by combining measurements from multiple vantage points without requiring a single large, heavy optical system or gimbal mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The distributed single-pixel detectors serve multiple functions: each detector not only captures radiation from its specific direction but also contributes to the overall three-dimensional image reconstruction. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve wide field of regard and long-range imaging with minimal additional weight, as the same detectors are used for multiple imaging objectives.
4Measurement precision
If traditional imaging devices are used to achieve high resolution, then resolution is improved, but size and weight of the imaging system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical optical systems that would require large apertures and complex lens arrangements with a computational approach. High-resolution images are achieved through sophisticated reconstruction algorithms that process data from multiple single-pixel detectors, substituting computational complexity for mechanical/optical complexity and dramatically reducing system weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves high resolution by adding a temporal and computational dimension to the imaging process. Instead of relying solely on spatial resolution from large optical components, the patent uses time-multiplexed measurements from distributed detectors and reconstructs high-resolution images through algorithms that exploit the spatial and temporal structure of the collected data.
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
Enables real-time acquisition of high-resolution, wide field of regard images with reduced size, weight, and power overhead, enhancing imaging capabilities and sensitivity by utilizing spatially distributed detectors and adaptive radiation sources.
Implementation Method 1
each single pixel detector being configured to receive radiation reflected by an object or region of interest and generate two-dimensional image data representative thereof
Implementation Method 2
an image processing module for receiving said two-dimensional image data from each of a plurality of single pixel detectors and reconstructing a three-dimensional image of said object or region of interest using a ghost imaging algorithm
Implementation Method 3
a radiation source module including a radiation source. The radiation source module may include a control device configured to adjustably direct an output of said radiation source onto an object or region of interest
Data Source
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AI summary
Imaging apparatus on a host platform having an external surface, the external surface comprising a first surface facing a first direction and a second surface facing a second direction, the second direction being different to the first, the apparatus comprising a first and second plurality of single pixel detectors (10) distributed about said external surface such that the first plurality of single pixel detectors are distributed over the first surface and the second plurality of single pixel detectors are distributed over the second surface, each single pixel detector being configured to receive radiation reflected by an object or region of interest (18) and generate two-dimensional image data representative thereof, the apparatus further comprising an image processing module (16) for receiving said two-dimensional image data from each of a plurality of single pixel detectors (10) and reconstructing a three-dimensional image of said object or region of interest (18) using a ghost imaging algorithm.