Flash LIDAR Super-Resolution for Spacecraft Landing DEM
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LIDAR technologies are insufficient in generating a Digital Elevation Map (DEM) with acceptable spatial resolution and precision for safe and precise spacecraft landings, as a single frame or mosaic of flash LIDAR data is not sufficient to meet the required quality and size for landing site identification.
Innovation Solution
A super-resolution algorithm is applied to flash LIDAR range data to enhance the generation of a DEM, utilizing sub-pixel shifts between multiple low-resolution images to improve spatial resolution and accuracy, and is integrated with a gimbal system for simulated spacecraft landings to provide real-time navigation and hazard detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single frame or mosaic of flash LIDAR data is used, then the data processing is simple and fast, but the spatial resolution and precision of the DEM are insufficient for safe spacecraft landings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple low-resolution flash LIDAR frames into a single high-resolution DEM through super-resolution algorithms. By merging information from multiple frames captured at different positions and orientations, the system achieves enhanced spatial resolution and precision that exceeds what any single frame could provide, while systematically processing the combined data through established algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from processing individual 2D frames to constructing a 3D DEM by incorporating elevation information and spatial relationships across multiple frames. This dimensional transformation allows the system to leverage temporal and spatial variations in the captured data to reconstruct terrain features with higher precision than any single 2D frame could achieve.
2Measurement precision
If multiple frames of flash LIDAR data are processed using super-resolution algorithms, then the accuracy and precision of DEM generation is improved, but the processing time and computational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple frames during the spacecraft's descent before the critical landing moment. By collecting and pre-processing this data during the approach phase, the system prepares the information needed for high-precision DEM generation in advance, allowing faster processing when time is critical for landing decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously captures LIDAR frames throughout the descent trajectory, maintaining a continuous stream of useful data. This continuous acquisition allows the super-resolution algorithm to work with a steady flow of information, improving efficiency by processing data as it becomes available rather than waiting for complete datasets, thus reducing overall processing time.
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 super-resolution algorithm significantly improves the accuracy and precision of DEM generation, enabling effective detection of hazardous terrain features and identification of safe landing areas, facilitating safe and precise landings for both robotic and crewed missions.
Implementation Method 1
an apparatus relying on Light Detection and Ranging ('LIDAR') technology to generate the data
Implementation Method 2
flash LIDARs are able to generate, in real-time, range data
Data Source
AI summary
A method for enhancing a three dimensional image from frames of flash LIDAR data includes generating a first distance Ri from a first detector i to a first point on a surface Si. After defining a map with a mesh Θ having cells k, a first array S(k), a second array M(k), and a third array D(k) are initialized. The first array corresponds to the surface, the second array corresponds to the elevation map, and the third array D(k) receives an output for the DEM. The surface is projected onto the mesh Θ, so that a second distance Rk from a second point on the mesh Θ to the detector can be found. From this, a height may be calculated, which permits the generation of a digital elevation map. Also, using sequential frames of flash LIDAR data, vehicle control is possible using an offset between successive frames.