Helicopter Search Light Automated Tracking System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Helicopter search lights require manual adjustment to track moving objects, which can be hazardous, especially in difficult terrain or adverse weather conditions, as pilots must simultaneously control the light direction and the helicopter.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a search light, camera, and processor with an object detection module that automatically adjusts the search light to track anomalous behavior by comparing images against a pattern database and instructing the light to point towards the object, reducing the need for manual control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual control of search light direction is used, then the crew can adjust the light to track objects, but the crew workload increases and safety decreases due to simultaneous control requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The search light system automatically tracks objects by detecting their positions and movements, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system serves itself by using sensors to detect objects and automatically adjusting the search light direction to follow them, thereby reducing crew workload and improving safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical control system for adjusting search light direction is replaced with an automated electronic control system. Sensors detect object positions and the electronic system automatically adjusts the search light direction, substituting manual mechanical operations with automated electronic control to improve safety and reduce workload.
2Ease of operation
If automated object detection and tracking is implemented, then crew workload is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The search light system is designed to perform multiple functions: object detection, object tracking, and automatic search light direction control. By integrating these functions into a single system, the patent reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate systems for each function, while still providing automated tracking to reduce crew workload.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for detecting and tracking an object that is exhibiting an anomalous behavior from a helicopter is disclosed. The system includes a search light connected to the helicopter; a camera; and a processor including an object detection module coupled to the search light and the camera, the object detection module being configured to receive a plurality of images from the camera, compare the plurality of images against a pattern database, determine the object is exhibiting the anomalous behavior and instruct the search light to point toward the object.