Helicopter Search Light Automatic Target Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Helicopter search lights face challenges in maintaining a focused light beam on moving targets due to the movement of the helicopter and target objects, leading to potential loss of visibility under adverse conditions.
Innovation Solution
A helicopter search light system equipped with a movable light head featuring two radiation sensors (one for visible light and one for infrared light) that detect electromagnetic radiation, an image processing module to generate enhanced image data, and a controller to automatically adjust the light head's movement, ensuring the beam remains focused on the target despite relative movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation of the search light is used, then the structure remains simple, but the light beam cannot be kept focused on moving targets
Solution Approach 1:
The search light system performs automatic tracking of targets without requiring manual intervention. The radiation sensors continuously detect target position, the image processing module generates enhanced image data, and the controller automatically adjusts the light head movement to maintain focus on moving targets, enabling the system to serve itself in the tracking task.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated system combining radiation sensors, image processing modules, and electronic controllers. This substitution eliminates the need for manual operation while achieving reliable target tracking through electronic detection and automated response.
2Reliability
If the light head is fixed, then the structure is simple, but the light beam deviates from moving targets
Solution Approach 1:
The light head is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position and orientation. The controller receives enhanced image data from the radiation sensors and automatically commands the light head to move and orient itself toward detected targets, ensuring continuous illumination despite target movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback loop where radiation sensors continuously monitor the target position, the image processing module analyzes the sensor signals to generate enhanced image data, and the controller uses this feedback information to adjust the light head position, maintaining accurate tracking of moving targets.
3Measurement precision
If single radiation sensor is used, then the device complexity is low, but the image data quality is insufficient for accurate tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple radiation sensors (first and second radiation sensors) to detect electromagnetic radiation in different ranges. The image processing module merges the sensor signals to generate enhanced image data that provides superior target detection precision compared to a single sensor, leveraging the complementary strengths of each sensor type.
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
This solution enhances the reliability of illuminating moving targets by automatically tracking them, reducing the risk of the helicopter crew losing sight, even in poor visibility conditions.
Implementation Method 1
at least two radiation sensors arranged in a preset distance from each other, the radiation sensors being configured for detecting electromagnetic radiation and providing corresponding sensor signals
Data Source
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AI summary
A helicopter search light (2) comprises a movable light head (4) comprising: at least one light source (48) and at least one optical element (50), which are configured for emitting a search light beam (62); at least two radiation sensors (44, 46) arranged in a preset distance (d) from each other, the radiation sensors (44, 46) being configured for detecting electromagnetic radiation and providing corresponding sensor signals; an image processing module (57) configured for receiving the sensor signals provided by the at least two radiation sensors (44, 46) and generating enhanced image data from said sensor signals; and a controller (60) configured for controlling movement of the movable light head (4) depending on said enhanced image data.