MUM-T Image Orientation Stabilization for UAV Video
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Solution Overview
Problem
In manned unmanned teaming (MUM-T) systems, the continuous rotation and changing orientation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) video streams on the multi-function display (MFD) of manually operated aircraft increase aircrew workload and reduce situational awareness due to misalignment with the aircraft's heading.
Innovation Solution
An electronic image transformation module in the manually operated vehicle (MOV) transforms the UAV image data into a stable orientation matching the MOV's heading, allowing intuitive sensor control and maintaining a constant display orientation independent of the UAV's heading, using algorithms like Hough transformation and Mercator-based projection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the UAV continuously rotates to maintain coverage of the area of interest, then the sensor coverage and periphery capability are enhanced, but the video orientation on the MFD becomes unstable and misaligned with the aircraft heading
Solution Approach 1:
An electronic image transformation module acts as an intermediary between the rotating UAV video feed and the MOV's display system. This module receives video data with first orientation metadata from the UAV, transforms the video orientation using algorithms like Hough transformation and Mercator-based projection, and outputs stabilized video with second orientation metadata aligned to the MOV's heading, thereby decoupling the rotational movement from the display stability
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the orientation parameter of the video data through mathematical transformation. By applying coordinate transformation algorithms that convert video orientation from the UAV's reference frame to the MOV's reference frame, the system maintains stable display orientation while the UAV continues its rotational movement to cover the area of interest
2Adaptability or versatility
If the UAV flight path is offset from the area of interest at prescribed radii, then the periphery and weapons capabilities are enhanced, but the video requires continuous rotation and movement to maintain target tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic image transformation module serves as a mediator that automatically handles the complex task of video stabilization and orientation alignment. This eliminates the need for aircrew to manually compensate for UAV rotation and movement, significantly reducing the workload for target tracking while maintaining the UAV's offset flight path for enhanced weapons capability
Solution Approach 2:
The video transformation system performs self-service by automatically detecting the orientation mismatch between UAV and MOV, calculating the required transformation, and applying the correction without human intervention. This autonomous operation maintains stable video display and simplifies target tracking for the aircrew
3Adaptability or versatility
If the video orientation continuously changes to match the UAV heading, then the UAV's sensor coverage is maximized, but the aircrew workload increases significantly to maintain target tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic image transformation module acts as an intermediary that absorbs the complexity of coordinate transformations and orientation adjustments. By handling all video stabilization computations automatically, it protects the aircrew from the complexity of managing rotating video feeds, thereby maximizing sensor coverage while minimizing aircrew workload
Data Source
AI summary
A manned unmanned teaming (MUM-T) image system includes an unmanned vehicle (UV) configured to travel in a first heading and includes at least one sensor configured to capture at least one image having a first visual orientation pursuant to the first heading. The MUM-T image system generates image data indicative of the at least one image. A manually operated vehicle (MOV) in signal communication with the UV is configured to travel in a second heading. The MOV comprises an electronic image transformation module configured to receive the image data and to transform the image data into a second orientation different from the first orientation based on the second heading. An electronic display unit is configured to receive the transformed image data and to display the at least one image according to the second orientation.