Multi-Drone Sensor Deployment for Target Identification Under Weight Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Moving platforms, such as drones, are limited in their sensor configurations due to weight and cost constraints, which hinders their ability to perform tasks like information gathering, photography, surveillance, and surveying across various scenarios and conditions.
Innovation Solution
The system involves deploying multiple moving platforms with different sensor types to an area, allowing them to switch roles based on the initial platform's limitations, using a central system to coordinate and deploy additional platforms with suitable sensors to enhance data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a moving platform is configured with multiple sensor types to perform various tasks, then the operational versatility is improved, but the weight and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sensing functionality across multiple moving platforms, each carrying only the sensor types needed for specific tasks. Instead of one platform having all sensors, the sensing capability is segmented and distributed across several lighter platforms that can be deployed selectively based on mission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Each moving platform is designed with multi-functionality to perform various tasks including information gathering, aerial photography, videography, surveillance, and surveying using its equipped sensors. The platforms can be universally deployed for different missions by selecting appropriate sensor configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a moving platform is configured with multiple sensor types to perform various tasks, then the operational versatility is improved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the expensive multi-sensor configuration into multiple smaller, more affordable platforms. Each platform carries only the sensors required for its specific function, reducing individual platform cost while maintaining overall system versatility through the collective capability of multiple platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multiple relatively inexpensive moving platforms that can be deployed and retrieved, with sensors selected based on specific mission needs. This approach replaces the need for one expensive, heavily-equipped platform with several more affordable units that collectively provide the same operational capabilities.
3Device complexity
If a single moving platform is used for all tasks, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and data quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Each moving platform is equipped with sensors optimized for its specific function and operating conditions. For example, platforms performing aerial photography carry high-resolution cameras, while surveillance platforms carry appropriate detection sensors. This localized optimization of sensor quality for specific tasks improves measurement precision without requiring every platform to have all sensor types.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for operating a moving platform to determine an identity of an unidentified target are disclosed. In an example method to determine the identity of the unidentified target, a first moving platform, configured with a first type of sensor, is caused to move to an area associated with the target. An attempt is made to determine, via the first moving platform and the first type of sensor, the identity of the target. Based on the attempt, a second moving platform, configured with a second type of sensor, is caused to move to the area. The identity of the target is determined via the second moving platform and the second type of sensor.