Automatic Target Tracking and Beam Steering for Laser Range Finders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laser range finders require manual aiming and calibration, which is time-consuming, prone to human error, and difficult to use accurately, especially in dynamic or stressful conditions, such as military situations, due to the need for precise manual movement and identification of targets.
Innovation Solution
An automatic target tracking and beam steering system integrated with a laser range finder that captures and processes video images to identify and track targets, automatically steering the laser beam to ensure accurate range measurement and alignment, using image stabilization, differencing, and target tracking algorithms to compensate for operator and target movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual aiming and calibration are used in conventional laser range finders, then the device structure remains simple, but the time required for accurate target identification and range measurement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical aiming operations with an automated image processing system that uses video capture, image stabilization, and target tracking algorithms to automatically identify and track targets, thereby eliminating the need for manual calibration and significantly reducing range acquisition time
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-calibration through automatic image processing and target tracking, where the computer automatically processes video images, stabilizes them, identifies targets, and adjusts beam steering without requiring manual intervention or external calibration procedures
2Measurement precision
If manual aiming is used, then the device is easier to operate, but the precision of target identification and range measurement decreases under dynamic conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously captures video images, processes them through image stabilization and target tracking algorithms, and uses the processed information to automatically adjust and steer the laser beam in real-time, providing continuous feedback that maintains high measurement precision even when the operator or target is moving
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary image stabilization and target identification before range measurement, preparing the target position data in advance so that the laser beam can be accurately directed without requiring manual aiming adjustments during the measurement process
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed transmission path is used in conventional range finders, then the device structure is simpler, but the adaptability to track moving targets is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic beam steering system that can adjust the laser transmission path in real-time based on processed image data, allowing the system to track moving targets while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing system serves multiple functions including image stabilization, target identification, target tracking, and beam steering control, allowing a single system to handle both stationary and moving targets without requiring separate dedicated subsystems
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 system significantly reduces the time and effort required for accurate target identification and range measurement, enhances precision, and eliminates the need for mechanical calibration, allowing for faster and more reliable range acquisition even in challenging conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Laser range finders generally operate on the 'time of flight' principle by measuring the time taken for the laser beam to travel to the target and be reflected back to the range finder
Implementation Method 2
measuring the time taken for the laser beam to travel to the target and be reflected back to the range finder
Implementation Method 3
an image capturing system for capturing a series of video images of a distant area containing the target
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic target tracking system and method employ an image capturing system for acquiring a series of images in real time of a distant area containing a remote target, and a processing system for processing the acquired images to identify the target and follow its position across the series of images. An automatic beam steering and method operate in conjunction with a laser source for emitting a laser beam to be transmitted in the form of a transmitted laser beam extending along a steerable beam transmission axis to the remote target. The beam steering system is controlled by the processing system to steer the beam transmission axis to be aimed at the target being tracked by the target tracking system, so that the transmitted laser beam will be transmitted at the appropriate angle and in the appropriate direction to be aimed at the tracked target.