Multi-spectral Boresight Alignment via FPGA Centroid Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for aligning and correcting optical misalignments and distortions in multi-spectral electro-optical systems are time-consuming and inefficient, often requiring external test equipment and disassembly of the optical system, making real-time implementation during deployment unfeasible.
Innovation Solution
A multi-sensor boresight alignment method and system that uses a field programmable gate array (FPGA) to rapidly track the centroid of a pattern of apertures in image frames from multiple sensors, correcting optical alignment and distortion in real-time by comparing light intensity levels and adjusting sensor positions within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional alignment techniques are used, then alignment accuracy can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires external test equipment and system disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-alignment by using its own imaging sensors to capture images of the alignment target and process the data through centroid calculation algorithms. The FPGA-based processing unit enables the system to autonomously determine misalignment parameters and generate correction commands without external intervention, thereby achieving accurate alignment while eliminating the need for external test equipment and reducing alignment time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical alignment methods with an optical-electronic system. Instead of using mechanical fixtures and manual adjustment tools, the system uses imaging sensors to capture optical images of the alignment target, processes the images electronically to calculate centroids, and uses software algorithms to determine alignment parameters. This substitution of mechanical systems with optical-electronic systems enables real-time alignment correction without disassembly
2Measurement precision
If traditional alignment techniques are used, then alignment can be performed, but external test equipment and system disassembly are required
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging sensors in the system serve dual purposes: they are used for both normal operational imaging and for alignment verification. The same sensors that capture operational scenes are also used to image the alignment target, eliminating the need for separate alignment-specific equipment. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining alignment accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own internal resources (imaging sensors and processing units) to perform alignment verification and correction. By leveraging existing system components for alignment functions, the patent avoids adding external test equipment, thereby reducing overall system complexity while achieving precise alignment
3Measurement precision
If real-time alignment correction is implemented, then targeting accuracy improves, but processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential features needed for alignment correction from the full image data. Instead of processing entire high-resolution images, the system identifies and processes only the alignment target region, calculating centroids of specific features (apertures or patterns) on the alignment target. This selective extraction of necessary information reduces processing power requirements while maintaining targeting accuracy
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 rapid and efficient real-time optical sensor alignment and distortion correction within the multi-spectral electro-optical system, improving targeting accuracy and navigational precision without the need for external equipment or system disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
different imaging sensors within the system are receptive to different spectral bands of electromagnetic radiation or light
Implementation Method 2
comparing light intensity levels and adjusting sensor positions
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects are generally directed to multi-sensor boresight alignment methods and systems for a multi-spectral reimaging optical system. In one example, a multi-sensor boresight alignment system includes a system interface to receive a first image frame from a first sensor and a second image frame from a second sensor, the first image frame having a contrast within a first spectral band and including a first image of a plate having a pattern of apertures, and the second image frame having a contrast within a second spectral band and including a second image of the plate. The system includes a field programmable gate array (FPGA) coupled to the system interface, the FPGA configured to spot track each image frame to identify a corresponding centroid of the pattern of apertures and correct an optical alignment between the first and second sensors based on a position of the corresponding centroids.