Image Stream Processing for Windowless Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for processing multiple image streams in vehicles, such as UAVs and armored personnel carriers, face challenges in efficiently routing and processing diverse image streams in real-time, particularly in windowless vehicles where traditional visual feedback is limited due to environmental conditions or design constraints.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for simultaneously switching multiple input image streams to multiple output devices, utilizing a reconfigurable array of image processing circuit cards that apply preprogrammed algorithms, allowing dynamic selection and routing of image streams based on source, content, or processing results, enabling panoramic views, image enhancement, and efficient bandwidth use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate data streams are transmitted from UAV sensors to ground control station using different protocols and formats, then each data stream can be processed according to its specific source sensor device, but the ground control station must devote separate resources to each separate data stream
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate data streams into a single unified image stream by capturing sensor data at the source, processing it through image processing algorithms, and encoding it into a common format before transmission. This consolidation reduces the number of separate data streams from multiple sensors to a single integrated stream, thereby reducing the resources required at the ground control station while maintaining the ability to process different sensor types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal image stream that can carry information from multiple different sensor types (visible light, infrared, synthetic aperture radar) using a single protocol and format. This multi-functional image stream can be routed to multiple output devices and processed by the same ground control station resources, eliminating the need for separate processing paths for each sensor type.
2Strength
If a windowless vehicle design is used to provide greater protection against impact, then vehicle and occupant protection is improved, but visibility is reduced due to lack of windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image capture devices (cameras) mounted on the vehicle to capture external visual scenes and creates image streams that serve as visual copies of the external environment. These captured images are then displayed on internal display screens within the vehicle, providing occupants with visibility of the outside world without requiring physical windows, thereby maintaining both protection and visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces image processing systems and display devices as intermediaries between the external environment and the vehicle occupants. Instead of direct visual access through windows, the system captures, processes, and presents visual information through electronic displays, serving as a mediator that provides visibility while maintaining the windowless protective design.
3Adaptability or versatility
If image streams are processed through multiple processing functions with iterative routing, then image enhancement and routing flexibility are improved, but processing time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies image processing algorithms and functions in advance during the image stream processing stage, before the data needs to be transmitted or routed. By pre-processing the images with enhancement algorithms, the system reduces the need for additional processing during transmission and routing, thereby minimizing processing time delays while maintaining routing flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic routing capabilities that allow the image stream to be selectively routed to different output devices based on real-time requirements. The system can adaptively direct the processed image stream to various displays or transmission channels without requiring reprocessing, maintaining flexibility while minimizing additional processing time through efficient routing decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments relate to systems and methods for simultaneously switching input image streams to output devices, while providing optional image processing functions on the image streams. Certain embodiments may provide vision systems and methods suitable for use in vehicles, particularly windowless vehicles, such as armored ground vehicles, submerged watercraft, and spacecraft. Some embodiments may enable sharing of image streams (e.g., with one or more other vehicles), generation of panoramic views (e.g., from various camera feeds), intelligent encoding of image streams, and implementation of security features based on image streams.