3D Reference Model Target Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for determining the position of a target object from a distance lack precision, especially in densely built-up areas, leading to potential collateral damage due to inaccuracies in geographic position data, and active illumination methods risk exposing the observer.

Innovation Solution

A method using a three-dimensional reference model of the target's surroundings, matched with images from an observation position, allows for precise determination of relative position data, enabling clear identification and targeting without requiring absolute geographical data, using image acquisition devices and computer processing to correlate images with the reference model.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If active illumination is used to guide a missile to a target, then the missile can be guided to the target, but the observer's identity is revealed and they are exposed to danger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemissile guidance reliabilityVSAvoidobserver exposure to danger
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a three-dimensional reference model as an intermediary between the observer and the target. The observer defines the target's position within this reference model rather than directly illuminating the target. The missile then uses this reference model to locate and engage the target, eliminating the need for the observer to actively illuminate the target and thus protecting the observer's identity while maintaining reliable missile guidance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If geographic positioning devices are used to determine target position, then the target can be located, but the precision is insufficient to prevent collateral damage in densely populated areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetarget location capabilityVSAvoidtarget position accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional geographic coordinates to a three-dimensional reference model that incorporates spatial relationships and structural features of the target environment. By defining the target's position within this 3D model using relative position data rather than absolute geographic coordinates, the system achieves higher precision in identifying the specific target location, enabling accurate engagement while minimizing collateral damage in densely populated areas.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If the observer is close to the target to obtain precise location data, then the position data accuracy improves, but the observer is at greater risk

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetarget position data accuracyVSAvoidobserver danger from enemy forces
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a three-dimensional reference model that copies or represents the target environment and spatial relationships. The observer defines the target's position within this reference model from a safe distance, rather than needing to be physically close to the target. This copied representation preserves the geometric and spatial information needed for precise target identification while allowing the observer to remain at a safe distance from enemy forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentEP2381208B1Method for determining positional data of a target object in a reference system
Publication Date: 2019.09.11 MBDA DEUTSCHIAND GMBH
  • EP2381208B1 patent drawingFigure 1

AI summary

The method involves providing a three dimensional reference model of a surrounding object of a target object (Z) with geographical location data. Target object images that are produced from an observation position of an observer, and a surrounding area of the target object are compared with the reference model. A position data of the focusing target object is determined as the position data that is related to a location data of the reference model. The reference model is obtained from radar measurement of the target object and/or surrounding area of the object. An independent claim is also included for a method for guiding the flying weapon system to the target object and for alignment of the weapon to the target object.